The Similan Islands are a beautiful chain of islands off the coast of Thailand. The islands are surrounded by white sandy beaches and are home to a rich marine biodiversity, which is why they are a popular destination for scuba divers. The diving here is fantastic, with crystal clear waters and more than 50 dive sites that offer something for everyone, from beginner divers to seasoned professionals.
While it is not the easiest place to get to, it is certainly worth it when you arrive, as The Similan Islands is one of the best diving spots in Southeast Asia.
These nine small islands off the western coast of Thailand have hundreds of coral reefs and are home to an abundant variety of marine life, including rainbow-colored fish, sea turtles, and more. It is hard to choose just one island to focus on, but Pinnacles is a great place to start. Especially during the less-crowded off-season months. At Pinnacles, swimmers can access the water via a natural tunnel that connects to the open ocean.
The Similan Islands are made up of 9 islands, with the biggest and most famous island being
- Koh Tachai
Koh Tachai is the most famous island for the sight of its coral reefs, which are home to diverse fish and marine life. Koh Tachai attracts multiple tourists each year and has been rated as one of the best diving sites in the world.
- Koh Bon
The Similan Islands are a group of islands distributed between the Andaman Sea and the Strait of Malacca. The islands are home to some of the most impressive marine life in the world, but you must dive deep to see it – the region attracts divers from around the world thanks to its relatively untouched coral reefs and abundant marine life. If you are planning on visiting the Similan islands, namely, Koh Bon Island, one of the more remote islands, you must plan ahead. Arranging for diving trips, accommodation, and food is an onerous process, and your effort to get there is rewarded by some of the world’s most picturesque diving.
- Koh Ma
Koh Ma is the most southern island in the Similan island group and the smallest – just 2.5 kilometers long and 1 kilometer wide. It is located just 1.7 kilometers from the mainland and is often visited as part of a trip to the Similans.
- Koh Rang
Although Koh Rang is smaller than the nearby islands, it is famous for its colorful coral and marine life. The best time to go is when the weather is clear, as it is during the monsoon season that the island is most popular among tourists, and there are fewer chances to see the sea life.
- Koh Klang
Thailand is a country full of surprises. In the south, you will find the glittering sands of the seaside islands of the Similan Islands. Far from the hustle and bustle of city life, the islands are a refreshing getaway from the world.
- Koh Payu
Similan island Koh Payu is a small island in the Andaman sea in Thailand. It is famous for its scuba diving. It is also a national marine park. It was discovered on October 31, 1982, by a group of Thai marine surveyors. On February 10, 1983, it was announced that the island was a marine reserve.
- Koh Yipun
Though Similan island Koh Yipun is an unknown island in Thailand, it has gained popularity by scuba divers. The corals around the island are in pristine condition and are home to numerous species of fish. The island also features a beautiful white beach, which is perfect for those wishing to escape the crowds. With so many options to choose from when it comes to diving in Thailand, choosing an unknown island may seem like a risky proposition, but the Similan island Koh Yipun is worth the trip.
- Koh Hei
Similan Island Koh Hei is a small island located in the Andaman Sea, about 90 kilometers from the mainland town of Phang Nga. This island is a part of a larger National Park, which includes the famous Similan Islands, known for its pristine and beautiful coral reefs and marine life.
- Koh Hong
The Similan Islands are a group of islands in the Andaman Sea, off the coast of Thailand. There are nine islands, with a total land area of only about 27km2 (The biggest island is only about 4km2), and the highest elevation is about 56m.
To get to the Similan Islands, we flew to Phuket with AirAsia, then took the ferry to Don Sak in the Surin Islands. From Don Sak, we took a longtail boat to Ao Por, the main village on Similan Island.
The water surrounding the island is extremely clear and deep. There is also a cave under the island where you can take a walk. There is a lot to enjoy on the Similan Islands.
