The Similan Islands, an archipelago of eleven islands in the Andaman Sea, are about 1.5 to 2 hours away from Phuket. They are considered to have some of the best dive spots in Thailand.
With its stunning natural beauty, uninhabited islands, gorgeous beaches, and rich marine ecosystems, the Similan Islands offer an exclusive haven for dive and nature enthusiasts.
Are you ready to embark on a unique adventure to discover the Similan Islands on your next holiday to Phuket? Read on to uncover why a day trip to these extraordinary islands is a must-add to your Phuket itinerary.
What are the Similan Islands?
The Similan Islands, a unique archipelago established as a national marine park in 1982, are a must-visit for any nature enthusiast. The name ‘Similan’ originates from the Yawi dialect, meaning ‘nine, ‘which initially referred to the number of islands in the group. However, in 1998, two more islands were added, bringing the total to eleven.
The archipelago is 84 km northwest of Phuket and can only be reached by boat. Unfortunately, no regular ships go to the islands, but there are tour packages, private boat charters, and seasonal ferries during the dry season.
During the dry season, the best time to visit the archipelago is from November to May, when the waters are calm and visibility is best. However, during the monsoon season, the Similan Islands are closed to tourists from June to October.
Commercial fishing is prohibited in its waters as a national marine park, making the marine ecosystem abundant with most of Southeast Asia’s oceanic marine species. Because of this, the archipelago’s dive spots are its main draw, attracting amateur and professional divers worldwide.
Thailand has taken significant steps to preserve the natural beauty of the Similan Islands. One such measure is restricting the number of visitors, with only 3,325 allowed daily. This ensures that each visitor can enjoy the peace, tranquility, and marine adventure that the islands offer without the risk of overcrowding.
To get there, you can take a tour boat from the coastal area of Khao Lak during the dry season. This area is closest to the archipelago, offering the shortest travel time over the waters. But of course, it also depends on the kind of boat, with travel time between 45 minutes for speed boats or yachts to 3 hours for slow ships.
For liveaboards, boats typically leave Chalong Pier or Rassada Pier and travel to several archipelago islands over two to four days.
A private yacht charter can depart from Chalong Pier or the Ao Po Grand Marina for the ultimate luxury. It can also take a custom or tailored route that fits your preferred itinerary.
Why Exploring the Similan Islands is Worth It
Suppose you’re still unsure about visiting the archipelago. In that case, you have three compelling reasons why exploring the Similan Islands is worth your time on your next Phuket vacation.
1. Excellent Dive Spots
As one of Thailand’s best dive destinations, the Similan Islands boast excellent dive spots that offer something different for everyone. Each island has an ideal place for all skill levels, but the East of Eden, West of Eden, Richelieu Rock, and The Anemone Reef are some of the most notable.
On a clear day, water visibility can range from 20 to 40 meters, making these spots the perfect place for divers to experience the stunning ecosystems that thrive in the archipelago’s rich underwater world.
Related article: Exploring Aquatic Wonder: Top Diving and Snorkeling Hotspots in Phuket
2. Diverse Marine Life
The Similan islands boast thriving ecosystems for marine life and wildlife. Over 120 bird species and most of the region’s marine life are found here, including soft and hard corals.
These marine life include manta rays, whale sharks, turtles, blacktip reef sharks, great barracudas, leopard sharks, and spotted eagle rays, among thousands of aquatic species.
Even if you’ve never snorkeled or dived before, the breathing natural beauty of the corals and marine life will make you want to dive into the water and witness nature’s abundant glory.
3. Beautiful Beaches
No permanent infrastructure or human settlements are allowed, meaning the beaches are incredibly pristine. With low-lying rock formations, dense jungles, powdery white beaches, and crystal-clear waters, visiting the Similan Islands is like discovering a slice of tropical paradise away from the crowds and overtourism.
Related article: Phuket’s Best Beaches
Experience the Untouched Beauty of the Similan Islands
If exploring islands and diverse marine ecosystems is on your list of exciting things to do, visit the Similan Islands near Phuket. These uninhibited islands offer stunning beaches, natural beauty, and plenty of spots for scuba diving, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on a quiet and gorgeous beach.
For your next Phuket holiday, consider booking a luxury yacht tour through your private villa concierge. Whether it’s a day trip or a weekend liveaboard, exploring the Similan Islands is an unforgettable adventure. Enhance your experience by staying in Phuket luxury villa rentals, offering the perfect blend of comfort and exclusivity.
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Featured Image by Kampa Tour
