Surin Islands
The Surin Islands are a group of islands with spectacular marine life and beaches. They are less touristy compared to the Similans and offer a more tranquil beach experience.
The Surin Islands are an archipelago of five islands located in the Andaman Sea, on the west coast of southern Thailand. They are part of the Mu Ko Surin National Park, which was established in 1981 to protect the area's natural resources. The park covers an area of approximately 141 square kilometers, with a land area of about 33.75 square kilometers. The islands are known for their crystal clear waters, abundant marine life, and beautiful coral reefs, making them a popular destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
The two main islands are Ko Surin Nuea (North Surin Island) and Ko Surin Tai (South Surin Island). The smaller islands include Ko Stork, Ko Pachumba, and Ko Torinla. These islands are relatively undeveloped, with limited tourist facilities, which helps to preserve their natural beauty. There are no hotels or resorts on the islands, but there is a small number of bungalows and camping sites available for visitor accommodation.
The Surin Islands are inhabited by the Moken people, also known as the "Sea Gypsies." The Moken are a semi-nomadic Austronesian people who follow a traditional way of life, relying on the sea for their livelihood. They are known for their exceptional free-diving abilities, as they hunt for food by diving into the sea without the use of modern scuba equipment.
One of the most significant features of the Surin Islands is the rich biodiversity of the surrounding coral reefs. These reefs are home to a plethora of marine species, including over 200 types of hard coral, myriad tropical fish, sea turtles, sharks, and rays. This rich ecosystem makes the Surin Islands a vital area for marine conservation.
The islands are accessible by boat from Khura Buri, a town on the coast of Phang Nga Province. The best time to visit is between November and April when the monsoon season has ended, and the sea is calm, making it ideal for marine activities. During the monsoon season, the national park is typically closed to visitors due to rough sea conditions.
The Surin Islands are often compared with the nearby Similan Islands, another stunning archipelago that is renowned for its diving sites. Both island groups offer unique experiences and are highlights of Thailand's Andaman Sea attractions.
The two main islands are Ko Surin Nuea (North Surin Island) and Ko Surin Tai (South Surin Island). The smaller islands include Ko Stork, Ko Pachumba, and Ko Torinla. These islands are relatively undeveloped, with limited tourist facilities, which helps to preserve their natural beauty. There are no hotels or resorts on the islands, but there is a small number of bungalows and camping sites available for visitor accommodation.
The Surin Islands are inhabited by the Moken people, also known as the "Sea Gypsies." The Moken are a semi-nomadic Austronesian people who follow a traditional way of life, relying on the sea for their livelihood. They are known for their exceptional free-diving abilities, as they hunt for food by diving into the sea without the use of modern scuba equipment.
One of the most significant features of the Surin Islands is the rich biodiversity of the surrounding coral reefs. These reefs are home to a plethora of marine species, including over 200 types of hard coral, myriad tropical fish, sea turtles, sharks, and rays. This rich ecosystem makes the Surin Islands a vital area for marine conservation.
The islands are accessible by boat from Khura Buri, a town on the coast of Phang Nga Province. The best time to visit is between November and April when the monsoon season has ended, and the sea is calm, making it ideal for marine activities. During the monsoon season, the national park is typically closed to visitors due to rough sea conditions.
The Surin Islands are often compared with the nearby Similan Islands, another stunning archipelago that is renowned for its diving sites. Both island groups offer unique experiences and are highlights of Thailand's Andaman Sea attractions.