Khao Lak to Similan Islands – A Complete Guide

Located just 40+ miles off the coast of Khao Lak, visiting the Similan Islands is a beautiful way to get off of mainland Thailand and explore the pristine nature of the Simlan Islands.  Made up of nine different islands, Similan Islands is known for its white sand beaches, conservatory efforts, snorkeling and diving spots, and crystal clear waters.  The islands are located in the Andaman Sea and are the maritime border between Thailand and India.

 

If you’re visiting Khao Lak, don’t miss:

• What You Need to Know About Visiting Khao Lak, Thailand

 

LOOKING TO VISIT THE SIMILAN ISLANDS?  THIS IS THE TOUR I WOULD RECOMMEND!

 

About Similan Islands

The Similan Islands, located off the west coast of Thailand, are a tropical paradise; truly Mother Nature showing off her best work.  Steeped in history, these islands have long been a haven for divers and beach enthusiasts.  The name “Similan” is derived from the Malay word ‘sembilan’, meaning nine, as originally, there were nine main islands.  Today, the Similan Islands National Park consists of 11 islands, each adorned with pristine white-sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and crystal-clear turquoise waters.  (Although depending on who you talk to, many people still refer to the Similans as being made up of nine islands).

While their natural beauty is the main attraction, the Similan Islands also boast a rich marine life, making them one of the top diving destinations globally.  The islands have been a protected national park since 1982, ensuring the preservation of their unique ecosystem.  If you visit, you can expect breathtaking scenery and encounters with diverse marine species including colorful coral, sea turtles, and an array of exotic fish.  All of the islands are uninhabited, and for conservation reasons, you can only physically visit island four and island eight.

 

Is it Worth Visiting Similan Islands?

The reality is, that there are pros and cons to visiting Similan Islands.  For one, due to their beauty and popularity – the islands see tons of tourists daily.  When you visit, you’ll see many boats pulling up at the same time and tons of people getting out of the boat (either into the water or onto the beach) all at once.  If this is something that would bother you – then maybe it isn’t worth visiting.

However, on the other hand, Similan Islands are some of the most beautiful islands I’ve ever seen.  Even with the crowds, it was hard not to gawk at the sheer beauty of each island.

 

How to Get to Similan Islands from Khao Lak

The only way to reach Similan Islands from Khao Lak is by boat.  The easiest and cheapest way to visit is by joining a tour, however if you’re wanting a more private experience, you can ask your hotel to set you up with a private guide.

 

Tours to Similan Islands from Khao Lak

Here are some popular tours from Khao Lak to Similan Islands…

• Wow Andaman Day Trip to Similan Islands from Khao Lak
• Similan Islands Snorkeling Trip from Khao Lak
• Similan Islands Snorkeling Tour by Speed Catamaran from Khao Lak

 

Snorkeling & Diving in Similan Islands

To snorkel in Similan Islands, again, the best way to is to join a tour (mentioned above) that includes snorkeling.  However, if you want to dive in Similan Islands there are many companies you can sign up with in Khao Lak.

My boyfriend is an avid diver and the company he used to dive was Khao Lak Explorer Dive Center and Resort, and he assured me that he would highly recommend them.  You can also set up a snorkeling trip with them (if you don’t dive), but if you do, you won’t have the opportunity to step foot on the islands.  The snorkeling would probably be better, but if you wan to actually visit the islands, I would recommend joining a tour listed above.

 

Cost of Entry to Similan Islands

Because Similan Islands is a protected area and national park, you will need to pay a fee to enter.  Currently, the price to enter is 500 Baht for adults, and 300 Baht for children.  If you join a tour, some tours include these fees in your tour so make sure to read the fine print.  If your tour does not include the entry fee, make sure to bring cash with you.

 

What to Pack for Similan Islands

When visiting the Similan Islands, I recommend bringing water friendly gear and a light cover up.  Below you’ll find what I recommend bringing with you to the Similan Islands!

• Swimming suit
• Cover up
• Visor
• Water shoes
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen (face and body)
• Waterproof phone case
• Waterproof beach bag
• Lock (if you want to leave your bag on the beach and swim)
• Quick Dry Towel
• Mask & snorkel (if you don’t want to use the one provided on the tour)
• GoPro (for underwater photo/video)
• AirPods (to drown out the loud noise of the boat engine)
• Kindle (if you want to read during the boat ride/on the beach)
• Dramamine (if you get motion sickness)

 

 

For a more in depth packing guide to Thailand, don’t miss:

• The Best Packing List for Thailand

 

Thailand Essentials – What You Need & Need to Know About Visiting Thailand

 

Traveling from Khao Lak to Similan Islands is a great way to spend a day in Thailand.  Similan Islands is breathtakingly beautiful and I hope that you get the opportunity to see the islands for yourself.  If you have any questions about visiting Khao Lak or Similan Islands, let me know in a comment below!

 

If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, don’t miss:

• The Best 3 Day Bangkok Itinerary
• The Ultimate Guide to Phuket, Thailand
• The Most Important Things to Know Before Traveling to Thailand
• The Ultimate Thailand Bucket List

 

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For more information on things to see and do in Thailand, make sure to check out my Instagram page/highlight reel by searching “#ppinthailand” or under my highlights for “Thailand”; alternatively, head to my TikTok and search for the saved “Thailand” highlight

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