Similan Islands
Although this is a group of islands rather than a beach, the individual islands boast some of the most pristine and beautiful beaches in Thailand. They are accessible by boat tours from Khao Lak. Remember that the Similan Islands are often closed to tourists for several months each year (usually from May to October) for ecological recovery.
The Similan Islands are an archipelago of nine islands situated in the Andaman Sea off the coast of Phang Nga Province, Thailand. Their names are Ko Bon, Ko Bayu, Ko Similan, Ko Payu, Ko Miang (two adjoining islands), Ko Payan, Ko Payang, and Ko Huyong. Notably, the word "Similan" is derived from the Malay term 'sembilan,' which means 'nine.' Each island also has a number as well as a name.
The islands are renowned for their crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and some of the best diving spots in the world. Their marine biodiversity is spectacular, with a vast variety of sea life and coral reefs, making it an attractive destination for divers and snorkelers. The underwater world here is varied and includes large boulders, caves, and swim-throughs.
In 1982, the Similan Islands were designated a national park of Thailand (Mu Ko Similan National Park). This status helps protect the environment both on the islands and in the surrounding waters, which is crucial because the area is threatened by overfishing and damage from tourism.
Due to the monsoon season, the Similan Islands are generally open to visitors from October to May and are closed to tourism for ecological recovery during the rainy season, approximately from mid-May to October.
In addition to the nine original islands of the Similan Archipelago, a couple more are often included in the greater Similan Islands area when considering the marine national park as a whole, such as Koh Tachai, which lies further north.
The islands are renowned for their crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and some of the best diving spots in the world. Their marine biodiversity is spectacular, with a vast variety of sea life and coral reefs, making it an attractive destination for divers and snorkelers. The underwater world here is varied and includes large boulders, caves, and swim-throughs.
In 1982, the Similan Islands were designated a national park of Thailand (Mu Ko Similan National Park). This status helps protect the environment both on the islands and in the surrounding waters, which is crucial because the area is threatened by overfishing and damage from tourism.
Due to the monsoon season, the Similan Islands are generally open to visitors from October to May and are closed to tourism for ecological recovery during the rainy season, approximately from mid-May to October.
In addition to the nine original islands of the Similan Archipelago, a couple more are often included in the greater Similan Islands area when considering the marine national park as a whole, such as Koh Tachai, which lies further north.