Main Attractions and Sites

• Granite Boulders: The primary attraction of North Point is its impressive underwater granite boulders, which create a complex and exciting terrain for divers. These boulders are often covered in colorful corals and sponges.
  
  
• Swim-Throughs and Canyons: Divers can explore numerous swim-throughs and canyons formed by the boulders, adding an element of adventure and discovery to each dive.
  
  
• Marine Life: North Point is teeming with diverse marine life, including reef sharks, barracudas, trevally, moray eels, and a variety of reef fish. The site is also known for sightings of manta rays and whale sharks during the peak diving season.
  
  
• Coral Reefs: In addition to the rocky formations, North Point features beautiful coral reefs that are home to a myriad of marine creatures. The vibrant corals create a stunning underwater landscape.
  
  

Historical and Cultural Background

North Point, like the rest of the Similan Islands, is part of the Similan Islands National Park, established in 1982. The park was created to protect the region’s exceptional marine and terrestrial ecosystems, ensuring that sites like North Point remain pristine and vibrant. The establishment of the national park reflects Thailand’s commitment to marine conservation and sustainable tourism, which has helped preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Similan Islands.

Practical Information

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit North Point is during the dry season, from November to April, when sea conditions are calm, and visibility is at its best. The Similan Islands National Park is closed from May to October to allow for ecosystem recovery during the monsoon season.
  
  
• How to Get There: North Point is accessible by boat from the mainland. Most visitors depart from Thap Lamu Pier in Phang Nga or from Phuket. Various dive operators offer day trips and liveaboard excursions to the Similan Islands, including North Point.
  
  
• Tips and Precautions:
  
  
  • Ensure you have appropriate diving certification and experience, as North Point is best suited for intermediate to advanced divers.
    
    
  • Bring your own diving gear if possible, although rental equipment is available through dive operators.
    
    
  • Follow the guidelines provided by dive operators and the national park to protect the marine environment.
    
    
  • Stay hydrated and apply sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun between dives.
    
    

Recommendations

• Activities:

  • Diving: The primary activity at North Point is diving. Explore the dramatic underwater landscapes, swim-throughs, and diverse marine life.
    
    
  • Photography: Bring an underwater camera to capture the stunning underwater scenery and vibrant marine creatures.
    
    

• Dining:

  • Onboard Meals: Most dive operators provide meals as part of their excursion packages, offering a variety of Thai and international dishes.
    
    
  • Nearby Restaurants: Before or after your trip, enjoy fresh seafood and local cuisine at restaurants in Khao Lak or Phuket. Recommended spots include Phang Nga Viewpoint Restaurant and The River House.
    
    

• Accommodation:

  • Liveaboard Boats: For an immersive diving experience, consider staying on a liveaboard boat that offers multi-day diving trips around the Similan Islands. These boats provide comfortable accommodations and all necessary amenities.
    
    
  • Nearby Hotels: Stay in nearby Khao Lak or Phuket, where a variety of accommodation options are available, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses.
    
    

Special Events and Festivals

While there are no specific events or festivals held at North Point, visitors can enjoy local cultural festivals in nearby towns:

• Songkran Festival (April): Celebrate the Thai New Year with traditional water fights and cultural festivities.
  
  
• Loi Krathong (November): Experience the beauty of floating lanterns during this enchanting festival.
  
  

Why This Location is a Must-Visit

North Point stands out as a must-visit location in the Similan Islands due to its unique underwater topography, thrilling swim-throughs, and diverse marine life. The site’s dramatic granite boulders and vibrant coral reefs create an underwater playground that is both challenging and rewarding for divers. Whether you’re navigating the intricate swim-throughs, observing the abundant marine life, or simply marveling at the stunning underwater scenery, North Point offers an unforgettable diving adventure. Its pristine conditions and thriving marine ecosystems make it one of the standout destinations in Thailand’s diving scene, ensuring an extraordinary experience for all who visit.