Mu Ko Similan National Park
The diving is the reason to come. Reefs in this stretch of the Andaman Sea have the kind of visibility people talk about for years afterwards, with manta rays and the odd whale shark turning up, and Richelieu Rock within reach of the multi-day liveaboards that work the archipelago. Snorkellers do fine straight off the beaches, though divers who head further out get quieter water and more to look at.
On land there's Sail Rock, a climb of roughly 150 metres on a paved route, one way up and down, and the view across the islands at the top is the payoff. The beaches themselves are powdery and pale with rock and trees behind. The catch is traffic. Day boats stack up, the busier beaches get loud, and reviewers keep flagging litter left behind by party boats. Take your rubbish with you and go easy around the coral.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Mu Ko Similan National Park, round out your day in Khao Lak with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
The Similan Islands are one of Thailand’s most breathtaking natural destinations, celebrated for their crystal-clear turquoise waters, powdery white sand, and vibrant marine life. Located in the Andaman Sea, this protected national park is especially popular among snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts, who praise the excellent visibility and colorful coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, manta rays, and occasional whale sharks. Visitors often describe the underwater experience as world-class and unforgettable. Above water, the islands offer stunning landscapes with dramatic granite rock formations, lush greenery, and panoramic viewpoints that are perfect for photography. Beaches are clean, well-preserved, and feel refreshingly untouched, giving travelers a sense of escaping into nature. Many reviews highlight the peaceful atmosphere, especially when visiting early in the day before tour crowds arrive. However, some travelers note that the islands are accessible mainly by day trips, which can feel rushed, and facilities are limited to protect the environment. The Similan Islands are also seasonal, typically open only from November to May, which requires advance planning.
Marine Conservation Area. Did a 6 day liveaboard scuba diving trip with Loma Diving on MV Bavaria. Great food, dive guides. Well organised sage diving. Went to Richelieu rock too. Wonderful apart from very few sharks
Very beautiful place that would get a 5 star if not for too many boats and tourists. Beautiful beach and good snorkeling (but diving is better and less crowdy).
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 4,682 reviews on Google.
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Bang Niang Market
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Khao Sok National Park
Sleep on a raft house on the lake, wake to gibbons and mist. One night won't be enough.

JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa
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Mu Ko Similan National Park: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mu Ko Similan National Park worth visiting?
Mu Ko Similan National Park holds a 4.7★ rating from 4,682 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated islands in Khao Lak.
What are the opening hours of Mu Ko Similan National Park?
Mu Ko Similan National Park is open 24 hours a day — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit Mu Ko Similan National Park?
The best months to visit Khao Lak are November – April (Similan season Oct 15 – May 15), with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – February (strong European family season) — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: May – October (rough seas, Similans closed).
Where is Mu Ko Similan National Park located?
Mu Ko Similan National Park is at MJ4X+XH2, Tambon Lam Kaen, Amphoe Thai Mueang, in Khao Lak. Getting around Khao Lak: Songthaews along the main coastal road (Phetkasem highway); Motorbike rental (฿250–300/day; the resort areas string along one road).
Location Info
MJ4X+XH2, Tambon Lam Kaen, Amphoe Thai Mueang076 453 272similan-islands.com/Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – April (Similan season Oct 15 – May 15)
Avoid: May – October (rough seas, Similans closed)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
24°C – 33°C(75°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February (strong European family season)
Getting there
Phuket International Airport (HKT) is 60–75 minutes south by taxi or shared minivan (฿700–1,500). Buses from Bangkok's Southern Terminal reach Khao Lak town in 10–12 hours, and most stop on request along the resort strip.
Getting around
- •Songthaews along the main coastal road (Phetkasem highway)
- •Motorbike rental (฿250–300/day; the resort areas string along one road)
- •Hotel shuttles and taxis — no Grab coverage to speak of
- •Tour transfers to Khao Sok and the Similan piers are hotel-pickup based
Where to stay near Mu Ko Similan National Park
Find hotels in Khao Lak on the booking sites travellers trust most.
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Tips for Visiting Islands
Book Ferries on 12Go.Asia
The 12Go platform lets you compare ferry operators, times, and prices between islands. Book a day or two ahead in high season. Avoid the cheapest operators if reviews mention safety concerns.
Check Island Closures
Similan Islands, Surin Islands, and Koh Tachai close mid-May to mid-October. Some smaller islands reduce ferry service in monsoon season. Always verify schedules before planning your route.
Snorkel Gear Is Cheap to Buy
Rental gear is often scratched and ill-fitting. Buy a decent mask and snorkel at a Big C for 300–500 THB — cheaper than two days of rentals and much more hygienic.
Similar Islands Across Thailand

Koh Lipe
Tiny far-south island with Maldives-grade water, but it half shuts down in the monsoon.

Koh Samet
Bangkok's easiest proper beach weekend, and small enough to walk between the loud bits and the quiet ones.

Koh Phangan
Two islands in one: the Full Moon madness at Haad Rin, and everywhere else, which is nothing like it.
Where to stay near Mu Ko Similan National Park
Find hotels in Khao Lak on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – April (Similan season Oct 15 – May 15)
Avoid: May – October (rough seas, Similans closed)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
24°C – 33°C(75°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February (strong European family season)
Getting there
Phuket International Airport (HKT) is 60–75 minutes south by taxi or shared minivan (฿700–1,500). Buses from Bangkok's Southern Terminal reach Khao Lak town in 10–12 hours, and most stop on request along the resort strip.
Getting around
- •Songthaews along the main coastal road (Phetkasem highway)
- •Motorbike rental (฿250–300/day; the resort areas string along one road)
- •Hotel shuttles and taxis — no Grab coverage to speak of
- •Tour transfers to Khao Sok and the Similan piers are hotel-pickup based


