Top 20 Must-Visit Locations in the Similan Islands, Thailand
These top 20 must-visit locations in the Similan Islands offer a diverse range of experiences, from relaxing on pristine beaches to exploring vibrant coral reefs. Whether you're a snorkeler, diver, or nature lover, the Similan Islands have something to captivate every visitor.
1. Donald Duck Bay (Ao Guerk)
- Description: Named for a rock formation that resembles Donald Duck's head, this bay features stunning white sand and clear turquoise waters.
- Reasons to Visit: Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The iconic rock formation makes for great photography.
- Important Details: Located on Island No. 8 (Koh Similan). It's a popular spot, so visit early to avoid crowds.
2. Christmas Point
- Description: A famous dive site known for its vibrant coral reefs and underwater rock formations.
- Reasons to Visit: Excellent for diving with a chance to see large pelagic fish, turtles, and manta rays.
- Important Details: Located off Island No. 9 (Koh Ba Ngu). Best visited during the dry season (November to April).
3. East of Eden
- Description: A premier dive site featuring a diverse array of corals and marine life.
- Reasons to Visit: Known for its stunning coral gardens and frequent sightings of sea turtles and reef sharks.
- Important Details: Located off Island No. 7 (Koh Payu). Suitable for divers of all levels.
4. Elephant Head Rock
- Description: A large rock formation resembling an elephant's head, surrounded by vibrant marine life.
- Reasons to Visit: Popular for diving and snorkeling due to its underwater caves, swim-throughs, and diverse fish species.
- Important Details: Accessible from multiple islands. Diving experience recommended.
5. West of Eden
- Description: Another excellent dive site close to East of Eden, featuring large coral bommies and colorful reefs.
- Reasons to Visit: Rich biodiversity, including nudibranchs, eels, and a variety of fish.
- Important Details: Located off Island No. 7 (Koh Payu). Best visited during high visibility periods (November to April).
6. North Point
- Description: A deep dive site known for its dramatic underwater landscapes and strong currents.
- Reasons to Visit: Ideal for experienced divers looking to see large pelagic species and impressive coral formations.
- Important Details: Located off Island No. 9 (Koh Ba Ngu). Strong currents make it suitable for advanced divers only.
7. Boulder City
- Description: An underwater site with massive boulders and diverse marine ecosystems.
- Reasons to Visit: Excellent visibility and frequent sightings of barracudas, giant trevally, and reef sharks.
- Important Details: Located between Islands No. 3 (Koh Payan) and No. 4 (Koh Miang). Suitable for intermediate to advanced divers.
8. Snapper Alley
- Description: A shallow dive and snorkel site with a large population of snapper fish.
- Reasons to Visit: Great for snorkeling and diving, especially for beginners. Rich in fish life and colorful corals.
- Important Details: Located off Island No. 5 (Koh Ha). Best visited during calm sea conditions.
9. Coral Garden
- Description: A beautiful snorkeling and dive site with extensive coral formations.
- Reasons to Visit: Known for its vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life, including clownfish and anemones.
- Important Details: Accessible from several islands. Suitable for snorkelers and beginner divers.
10. Shark Fin Reef
- Description: A long, narrow reef resembling a shark's fin, rich in marine biodiversity.
- Reasons to Visit: Excellent for spotting reef sharks, rays, and large schools of fish.
- Important Details: Located off Island No. 3 (Koh Payan). Ideal for experienced divers due to occasional strong currents.
11. Beacon Beach
- Description: A pristine beach on Island No. 8 (Koh Similan) with clear waters and soft white sand.
- Reasons to Visit: Perfect for relaxing, swimming, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Similan Islands.
- Important Details: Easily accessible. Popular with day-trippers, so visit early or late in the day for a more peaceful experience.
12. Stonehenge
- Description: A unique dive site with large underwater rock formations reminiscent of Stonehenge.
- Reasons to Visit: Offers dramatic underwater scenery and a variety of marine life.
- Important Details: Located near Island No. 4 (Koh Miang). Suitable for divers of all levels, but best enjoyed by experienced divers.
13. Hideaway Bay
- Description: A secluded bay with calm waters and beautiful coral reefs.
- Reasons to Visit: Ideal for snorkeling and relaxing in a tranquil setting.
- Important Details: Located on Island No. 4 (Koh Miang). Less crowded than other popular sites.
14. Three Trees
- Description: A dive site named for three large coral bommies resembling trees.
- Reasons to Visit: Known for its rich coral gardens and diverse marine life, including manta rays and reef sharks.
- Important Details: Located off Island No. 9 (Koh Ba Ngu). Suitable for divers of all levels.
15. Breakfast Bend
- Description: A shallow reef dive site with abundant soft corals and fish life.
- Reasons to Visit: Great for early morning dives with excellent visibility and colorful marine life.
- Important Details: Located off Island No. 9 (Koh Ba Ngu). Best visited in the morning for optimal light and marine activity.
16. Fantasy Reef
- Description: A dive site known for its stunning coral formations and clear waters.
- Reasons to Visit: Offers an enchanting underwater landscape perfect for photography and exploration.
- Important Details: Located off Island No. 5 (Koh Ha). Suitable for intermediate to advanced divers.
17. Princess Bay
- Description: A beautiful bay on Island No. 4 (Koh Miang) with soft sandy beaches and crystal-clear water.
- Reasons to Visit: Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
- Important Details: Easily accessible. Popular with day-trippers, so visit early for a quieter experience.
18. Waterfall Bay
- Description: A picturesque bay on Island No. 4 (Koh Miang) with a small freshwater stream and waterfall.
- Reasons to Visit: Offers a unique freshwater swimming experience and beautiful scenery.
- Important Details: Located near the island’s ranger station. Accessible via a short hike.
19. Anita’s Reef
- Description: A popular dive site with stunning coral gardens and a variety of marine life.
- Reasons to Visit: Known for its vibrant underwater ecosystem and frequent sightings of leopard sharks.
- Important Details: Located off Island No. 5 (Koh Ha). Suitable for divers of all levels.
20. Batfish Bend
- Description: A dive site known for its large population of batfish.
- Reasons to Visit: Offers excellent opportunities to see and photograph batfish, along with other marine species.
- Important Details: Located off Island No. 9 (Koh Ba Ngu). Best visited during the dry season for optimal conditions.