The Similan Islands are a group of islands in Thailand located in the Andaman Sea, approximately 70 km northwest of Phang Nga. To get there, you can fly into Phuket International Airport and then take a bus or taxi to the town of Takua Pa, where you can arrange a boat trip to the islands. There are also liveaboard options available, where you can stay on a boat and visit the islands over the course of a few days.
Here are 20 things you can do while visiting the Similan Islands:
- Snorkel or scuba dive in the crystal-clear waters to see the abundant marine life.
- Hike to the top of the islands for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
- Visit the Similan Island National Park Information Center to learn about the islands’ history and ecology.
- Relax on the white sandy beaches and soak up the sun.
- Go fishing and try to catch your dinner.
- Take a boat tour to see the islands and visit some of the smaller, uninhabited ones.
- Visit the Sailing Rock, a large boulder that appears to be balancing on the edge of a cliff.
- Take a sunset cruise and watch the sun go down over the islands.
- Visit the local village and learn about the culture and way of life of the people who live there.
- Go sea kayaking and explore the islands from the water.
- Visit the island’s temples and shrines to learn about the local Buddhist culture.
- Take a cooking class and learn how to make some traditional Thai dishes.
- Rent a stand-up paddleboard and explore the islands from a different perspective.
- Go birdwatching and try to spot some of the rare species that live on the islands.
- Visit the island’s marine research center and learn about the conservation efforts being undertaken to protect the local marine life.
- Take a yoga class and relax your mind and body.
- Go on a safari tour and try to spot some of the island’s wildlife, including monkeys, elephants, and deer.
- Visit the island’s butterfly farm and learn about these fascinating insects.
- Take a boat trip to nearby Koh Tachai Island, known for its beautiful beaches and excellent diving spots.
- Go island hopping and visit some of the other nearby islands, such as Koh Bon, Koh Tachai, and Koh Ba Ngu.