Information on Similan Islands
Similan is a group of islands in the Andaman Sea of Phang Nga province, Thailand. The name of the islands is derived from the Malay term ‘Sembilan’ which means ‘nine’. The Similan Islands consists of nine islands, which are Koh Similan, Koh Bayu, Koh Bon, Koh Payu, Koh Miang (two adjacent islands), Koh Payan, Koh Payang, and Koh Huyong. In 1982, the Similan was established as a National Park.
Koh Similan is the largest Island in Similan Islands. This Island has a long curving bay and sandy beach. Here, the average depth of water is 60 feet. Different types of rock formations, colorful fish, and coral reefs in several shapes and forms like deer, sailboats, brains, and mushrooms are found underwater of Koh Similan. This place is normally the first choice of visitors who are keen to observe the aquatic life closely.
Travel to Similan Islands
Located at only 50 kilometers from Khao Lak, the Similan Islands are easily accessible from Khao Lak, Phang Nga province. It takes only 90 minutes to reach there by a speedboat from Khao Lak. The best time to visit the Similan is from November to May. The white sand beaches, lush rainforest, colorful corals, and tropical fish attract an increasing number of visitors every year to the Similan Islands.
Similan Island as Thailand Top Dive Destination
Being one of the top 10 dive destinations in the world, Similan Islands are best for the visitors who enjoy scuba diving, snorkeling, and islands hopping. Many diving companies operating from Khao Lak offer diving training to the beginners. They also provide diving facilities to the professional divers with all necessary equipments. However, serious divers are advised to come on live aboard trips to take full advantage of all the islands.
Things to Do in Similan Islands
Apart from scuba diving and snorkeling, activities such as hiking, fishing, and bird watching are also popular in these Islands. The underwater landscape of the Similan Islands always fascinate the visitors as it's clearly visible through the blue water of the Islands. There are no hotels or resorts in the Similan Islands National Park. There are only a few bungalows and restaurants operated by the national park authorities.
Similan Islands Tour
For the visitors seeking for suitable Similan Islands accommodations, Bangniang Beach Resort provides various tours from Khao Lak to the Similan Islands with a reasonable price offered. For details of our tours, please Contact Us.
53/10 Moo 5, Khuk-Khak,
Takuapa, Phang Nga 82190 Thailand
Phone: +66 76 443 473 Fax: +66 76 443 475
Email: reservations@bangniangbeach.com