Mu Ko Similan National Park
Mu Ko Similan National Park is a protected marine conservation area in the Andaman Sea, comprising a chain of islands renowned for their powdery white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise water, and thriving coral reef ecosystems. The park draws snorkellers and scuba divers from around the world, with underwater visibility and marine biodiversity that consistently rank among the finest in Southeast Asia. On land, visitors can hike to Sail Rock, a striking formation that rises approximately 150 metres and rewards the climb with panoramic views across the archipelago. While snorkelling is accessible from the beaches, experienced divers tend to venture further out — including to nearby Richelieu Rock — where the reefs are less crowded and the marine life more abundant. The islands are best explored by liveaboard dive vessel, with multi-day trips allowing access to the park's more remote dive sites. Day-trip boats also operate from the mainland, though some visitors note that heavier boat traffic can affect the experience on busier beaches. The park operates seasonally and is typically open from approximately October to May, closing during the monsoon months when sea conditions make access unsafe. Visitors should book liveaboard or day-trip operators in advance during peak season. As a protected national park, all visitors are expected to follow conservation guidelines — leaving nothing behind and taking care around the reef.
Book tours & tickets in Khao Lak
Day trips, skip-the-line entry, and guided experiences around Mu Ko Similan National Park — book ahead and skip the on-the-ground markup.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
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.
Also Popular in Khao Lak
Bang Niang Market
A popular open-air night market in Khao Lak offering local street food, handicrafts, and a relaxed evening atmosphere.
Khao Sok National Park
Khao Sok National Park protects one of the world's oldest rainforests — older than the Amazon — draped over dramatic limestone karsts in southern Thailand between Phuket and Surat Thani.
JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa
Upscale beachfront resort in Khao Lak offering spacious rooms, villas, a lagoon pool, and a full-service spa.
The Sands Khao Lak by Katathani
A well-regarded beachfront resort in Khao Lak offering a relaxed tropical escape on Thailand's Andaman coast.
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 typically open 00:00-00:00 — 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; 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.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Agoda
Asia-focused selection
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.
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
Koh Lipe, in Thailand's far southern Andaman near the Malaysian border, is the country's closest answer to the Maldives — powder-white sand at Sunrise and Pattaya beaches and water in improbable shades of turquoise, with snorkeling straight off the shore into the protected Ko Tarutao Natio.
Koh Samet
A compact island near Rayong offering white sand beaches, clear waters, and coral reefs within easy reach of Bangkok.
Koh Phangan
A laid-back Thai island of white-sand beaches, jungle interior, and the legendary monthly Full Moon Party.
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 Agoda
Asia-focused selection
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; 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