Similan Islands: The Underwater Paradise of the Andaman Sea
The Similan Islands are a national park in the Andaman Sea, 90 km from Phuket. A day trip in 2026 costs from 2,400 THB per adult. The season is strictly limited: the park is open from October 15 to May 15. Snorkeling there is the best in Southeast Asia — visibility over 30 meters, coral gardens, schools of fish. I've been to the Similans six times and consider it a must-do trip for anyone visiting during winter.
What are the Similan Islands
The Similan archipelago consists of 9 islands declared a national park in 1982. They don't have proper names, just numbers — from Ko 1 to Ko 9. Tourists visit four: Ko 4 (Miang), Ko 7 (Hin Pusa), Ko 8 (Hu Yong), and Ko 9 (Similan).
The difference from Phi Phi is fundamental. While Phi Phi means crowds, restaurants, hotels, and hustle — the Similans are almost untouched nature. You can't stay overnight without special permission, there are no shops, no cell service. Just beaches, rocks, and reef.
Excursion prices in 2026
| Type | Adult price | Child price | Included |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group speedboat | 2,400–3,200 THB | 2,100–2,700 THB | Transfer, lunch, park fee, guide |
| VIP catamaran Sweetie | 3,500–4,500 THB | 3,000–3,800 THB | + snacks, drinks, masks |
| 2 days with overnight | 8,000–11,000 THB | 6,800–9,500 THB | + night in tent/guesthouse |
| Dive safari 3 days | from 22,000 THB | — | Diving, meals, cabin |
Why Similans are better than Phi Phi
In short — it's simply cleaner and more beautiful there. But let me break it down:
- Underwater visibility 25–35 m (Phi Phi — 10–15 m)
- Daily visitor limit (3,850 people vs 8,000+ at Phi Phi)
- No hotels, restaurants, or garbage on shore
- Coral gardens are preserved — world-class snorkeling
- Beaches are truly white — no seaweed or sun loungers
A detailed comparison with a table is in the article Similans or Phi Phi: Which to Visit First.
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Message usClassic day trip route
- 05:30 — wake up, hotel pickup
- 07:00 — arrive at Tap Lamu pier (Khao Lak)
- 07:30 — briefing, board the speedboat
- 08:30 — first stop: snorkeling at Ko 9
- 10:00 — beach at Ko 8 (Sail Rock — the famous boulder)
- 11:30 — snorkeling at Ko 7
- 12:30 — lunch on Ko 4 (Miang)
- 14:00 — free time on Ko 4 beach
- 15:00 — departure back
- 16:30 — return to pier
- 18:30–19:30 — return to hotel
What to bring (different from Phi Phi)
On the Similans there are no shops, no cafes, no infrastructure. That means — bring everything you need:
- Your own mask and snorkel (rentals can be foggy)
- Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50 (park checks)
- Long-sleeve rash guard
- Waterproof phone case
- Motion sickness pills (1.5-hour ride over waves)
- Light snacks (energy bars, nuts)
- Warm jacket for the return trip (wind at speed)
Best option: 2 days with overnight stay
If you have the budget and an extra day — go for the two-day trip. It's a completely different Similan experience. When day-trippers leave at 4 PM back to the mainland, about 200 people remain on the islands. Sunset on Ko 8, night sky without light pollution, morning snorkeling before the boats arrive — these are experiences that simply don't exist on a day trip.
Accommodation comes in two types: tents (from 800 THB/night) and Sea Front guesthouses (from 3,500 THB/night). Both options are basic. There's no point coming here for luxury — people come for nature.
When not to go
From May 16 to October 14, the park is closed. No ferries run, there are storms, and operators offer "alternatives" like Surin — different islands, also good, but not the Similans. If you arrive during this period and want snorkeling — go to Surin or local spots near Rawai.
Also be careful in the first two weeks after opening (mid-October) — it may still be stormy, and you'll waste a day.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Similan Islands tour from Phuket cost?
A day trip by speedboat in the 2026 season costs from 2,400 THB per adult and from 2,100 THB per child. The price includes transfer, lunch, park fee of 600 THB, equipment, and insurance.
When are the Similan Islands open?
From October 15 to May 15. It's a national park and is closed during the rainy season. The best time to visit is December–March.
Similans or Phi Phi: which to choose?
Similans are for those who go for snorkeling and pristine nature. Phi Phi is for those who want classic tropical views and don't mind crowds. If you have the choice and don't get seasick — Similans are better.
Can you stay overnight on the Similan Islands?
Yes, there are tents from 800 THB/night and Sea Front guesthouses from 3,500 THB/night on Ko 4. You need to book 1–2 weeks in advance through an operator. Doing it independently is very difficult.
How long does the trip take?
A day trip takes 13–14 hours from hotel pickup to return. Prepare for an early 5:30 AM wake-up and return around 7:30 PM.