Similan Islands – Andaman Sea Paradise with Crystal-Clear Waters

The Similan Islands are one of the most beautiful archipelagos in Thailand, located in the Andaman Sea, Phang Nga Province, about 70-100 kilometers from Phuket, and are part of the "Similan Islands National Park" which was declared a national park in 1982.

The Similan Islands consist of 11 islands in total and are world-renowned for their stunning beauty, with crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs.

This destination is considered one of the best diving spots in the world, offering both shallow and deep diving experiences, with incredibly clear waters and a diverse array of marine life.


Highlights of Similan Islands

  • World-class crystal-clear waters with excellent visibility
  • Fine white sandy beaches with a pristine atmosphere
  • World-class diving spots for both snorkeling and scuba diving
  • Thriving coral reefs and diverse marine life
  • Large boulders, a unique feature of the Similan Islands
  • Unspoiled nature, thanks to the national park status

Must-Visit Attractions

1. Koh Similan (Island 8)
A landmark with the iconic Sail Rock, offering breathtaking views

2. Koh Miang (Island 4)
A beautiful white sandy beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation

3. Diving Spots around the Islands
Explore vibrant coral reefs, colorful fish, and rare marine life, including manta rays and reef sharks


Unmissable Activities

  • Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, getting up close to marine life
  • Scuba diving at world-class levels
  • Hiking to the Sail Rock viewpoint
  • Enjoying water activities and relaxation on the white sandy beaches
  • Capturing stunning photographs of the natural beauty

Getting There

Most trips to the Similan Islands depart from

  • Thap Lamu Pier (Phang Nga)

Travel options include

  • Speedboat, taking approximately 1.5-2 hours
  • Both Join Trip and Liveaboard (overnight on the boat) options are available

Island Opening Period

  • Open: approximately November – April
  • Closed: approximately May – October

For nature conservation and tourist safety purposes


Estimated Prices

  • Day Trip: approximately 2,500 – 3,500 THB per person
  • Liveaboard: several thousand THB (depending on the program)

Tips before Visiting Similan Islands

  • Book in advance, as the number of tourists is limited
  • Choose the calm sea period (Nov – Apr) for the clearest waters
  • Prepare motion sickness medication, as the journey can be long
  • Avoid touching coral reefs and follow national park rules
  • Check the weather forecast before each trip

The Similan Islands are one of Thailand's most stunning destinations, with world-class crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and unspoiled nature, making it perfect for both diving enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking an unforgettable experience in the Andaman Sea.

Member reviews

Reader reviews Total 5 · Avg. 5.0/5

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Damien ★★★★★

Beautiful ! The beautiful beach I've seen so far. The sand is so soft. We went in March, not too crowded. We went as part of a tour and it was great. The islands are well protected and clean. It was a long and expensive (from Thailand) journey from Krabi but we made the most of it and it was 100% worth it. You need to see it once in your lifetime.

22/01/2026 12:24
Stephen ★★★★★

I joined a 4-day liveaboard to the Similan Islands aboard the Manta Queen 1 with Khao Lak Scuba Adventures back in November—the long trek from Khao Lak was 100% worth it for some of the clearest waters and most stunning islands I’ve ever seen.

Crystal-clear visibility, incredible diving with tons of marine life, and pristine nature everywhere made it pure magic. The boat and crew delivered the best time—relaxed, exciting, and unforgettable.

Totally recommend this trip and visiting the Similans to anyone who loves diving; I’d go back in a heartbeat!

04/03/2026 09:54
alexia ★★★★★

nicest beach I’ve ever been to. crystal blue water, white sands, and amazing snorkelling and view points. have seen some incredible beaches but this is just unreal

16/02/2026 03:28
Nastja Prodanic ★★★★★

Must say and must visit place in Thailand. One of the most beautiful tourist attractions. Prepare yourself for one hour and 30 minutes ride with the speedboat or catamaran to there, but then prepare to enjoy on four places, with two snorkeling points, and two beaches and swimming points. If you are lucky, you’ll see turtles and Nemo fishes.

07/02/2026 13:43
Alex ★★★★★

Pure paradise! Maldives vibes in Thailand!
The Similan Islands are absolutely stunning. The sand is incredibly white and soft, just like in the Maldives, and the water is a crystal-clear turquoise. It’s the perfect mix of superb beaches and wild jungles. Walking through the lush greenery and then stepping out onto that pristine shore was a dream come true. The photos don't even capture half of the beauty. A must-visit if you love untouched nature

28/01/2026 23:00

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Keywords

Similan IslandThe Similan Islands are a group of islands located in the Andaman Seaoff the coast of Phang Nga Province in southern Thailand. The islands are known for their stunning white sandy beachescrystal-clear turquoise watersand vibrant coral reefsmaking them a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. The Similan Islands National Parkwhich covers an area of approximately 140 square kilometersis home to a diverse range of marine lifeincluding manta rayswhale sharksand sea turtles. The islands are also covered in lush tropical forestsand their unique granite formations have been shaped by millions of years of erosion. With their breathtaking natural beauty and incredible biodiversitythe Similan Islands are considered one of Thailand's most beautiful and unspoiled destinations.Similan ReviewDiving in SimilanTraveling to Similan IslandsSimilan Islands National ParkThe Similan Islands are a snorkeler's paradiserenowned for their crystal-clear turquoise watersvibrant coral reefsand diverse marine life. Located off the coast of Phang Nga Province in southern Thailandthis archipelago of nine islands is a protected national parkensuring the preservation of its breathtaking natural beauty. As you dip into the calm and warm watersyou'll be greeted by an incredible array of fish speciesincluding colorful parrotfishangelfishand butterflyfish. The Similan Islands are also home to majestic sea turtlesfriendly dolphinsand even the occasional whale sharkmaking for an unforgettable snorkeling experience. The best time for snorkeling in the Similan Islands is from October to Maywhen the weather is dry and the seas are calmproviding excellent visibility. The islands' coral reefs are shallow and easily accessiblemaking it an ideal destination for snorkelers of all levelsfrom beginners to experienced explorers. With its stunning sceneryincredible marine biodiversityand warm hospitalitythe Similan Islands are a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Thailand's snorkeling. Whether you're looking for adventurerelaxationor simply a chance to connect with naturethe Similan Islands are sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.The Similan Islandslocated off the coast of Phang Nga Province in southern Thailandare renowned for their exceptional diving opportunities. This archipelago of nine islands is often regarded as one of the top diving destinations in the world. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the Similan Islands offer a glimpse into an incredibly diverse marine ecosystemwith an array of coral reefs and an immense variety of marine lifeincluding manta rayswhale sharksand sea turtles. The islands' unique granite formations and white sandy beaches add to their alluremaking them a paradise for divers and snorkelers alike. With dive sites suitable for all levels of experiencethe Similan Islands are a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of Thailand's underwater world. The best time to dive in the Similan Islands is from October to Maywhen the weather is calm and the water is at its clearest. Liveaboard boats are a popular way to experience the islandsallowing divers to explore multiple sites without having to return to the mainland each day. With its incredible marine lifestunning sceneryand excellent diving conditionsthe Similan Islands are an unforgettable destination for any diving enthusiast.