Similan Islands - Thailand's Premier Diving Destination

The Similan Islands National Park, established in 1982, comprises nine main islands and offers one of Thailand's most exceptional diving experiences. With crystal clear waters, diverse marine ecosystems, and breathtaking underwater topography, it's a paradise for divers of all levels.

Location and Geography

Located approximately 65 kilometers off Thailand's west coast in the Andaman Sea, the Similan Islands feature unique granite boulder formations both above and below water. These massive rocks create fascinating swim-throughs, caves, and archways for divers to explore.

Diving Conditions

The Similan Islands offer excellent visibility (often 20-30 meters), warm water temperatures (27-30°C), and diverse dive sites ranging from gentle coral gardens to challenging deep dives. The eastern sides typically feature gentle slopes with vibrant coral reefs, while the western sides present dramatic drop-offs and boulder formations.

Notable Dive Sites

Richelieu Rock, Koh Bon, and Koh Tachai are among the most renowned dive sites in the area. Richelieu Rock is particularly famous for whale shark sightings, while Koh Bon is known for its manta ray cleaning station. Each island in the archipelago offers unique underwater experiences, from 'East of Eden' with its colorful coral gardens to 'Elephant Head Rock' with its challenging swim-throughs.

Marine Life

The biodiversity of the Similans is truly remarkable, featuring over 500 species of hard and soft corals and more than 800 species of fish. Divers regularly encounter reef sharks, turtles, barracudas, and octopuses. The area is also one of the few places where lucky divers might spot whale sharks and manta rays in the same trip.

Best Time to Visit

The Similan Islands are open to visitors from mid-October to mid-May, with the park closing during monsoon season for conservation purposes. Peak diving months are February to April when water visibility is optimal and chances of encountering larger pelagic species are highest.

Accommodation Options

Liveaboard trips are the most popular way to experience the Similans, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury vessels offering multiple-day diving adventures. Day trips from Khao Lak are possible but limit diving time. Overnight stays on the islands themselves are restricted to simple bungalows and tents operated by the national park.

For serious divers, the Similan Islands represent one of Thailand's most pristine and rewarding underwater experiences, combining world-class diving conditions with extraordinary marine biodiversity and stunning landscapes both above and below the surface.