Mu Ko Similan National Park
World-class diving and white sand, but day-trip boats can crowd the beaches, so go by liveaboard if you can.
Plan your visit
- Hours
- Mon Open 24 hours
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.
Details
- Phone
- 076 453 272
- Website
- similan-islands.com
Full opening hours
Tours that include Mu Ko Similan National Park
Guided visits and day-tour combos that include Mu Ko Similan National Park.
Why go, and how to do it well
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. Snorkelers 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 meters 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.
Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Sep 2026
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Tours that include Mu Ko Similan National Park
Guided visits and day-tour combos that include Mu Ko Similan National Park.
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.
MJ4X+XH2, Tambon Lam Kaen, Amphoe Thai Mueang
Open in Google MapsTips for Visiting Islands
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.
Bring Cash to Smaller Islands
ATMs on smaller islands like Koh Kood, Koh Mak, and Koh Yao charge high fees and sometimes run out of cash. Withdraw enough on the mainland before heading over.
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).
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