Similan Islands: Thailand’s Most Beautiful Beach Awaits
Few places on Earth rival the natural beauty of the Similan Islands - eleven emerald jewels scattered across the Andaman Sea, each one fringed by powdery white sands and luminous turquoise waters.
Located about 70 kilometres off the coast of Phang Nga Province, the Similan Islands sit roughly halfway between Phuket and Khao Lak. They’re famous for their spectacular underwater life, perfectly white beaches, and those smooth, otherworldly granite boulders that tumble into the sea like marbles. This is a destination that feels far removed from the chaos of Phuket’s Patong Beach or Krabi’s crowded Ao Nang - a place where nature reigns supreme.
Visiting the Similan Islands isn’t as simple as hopping on a ferry. Access is controlled to protect the fragile ecosystem. The islands are only open to visitors from mid-October to mid-May, and there’s no accommodation allowed on the islands themselves. That means most travelers come on a day trip from Phuket, Khao Lak or Phang Nga: a long day, but one that rewards you with some of the most spectacular sights in all of Thailand.
View from Sail Rock, Similan Islands
Granite boulders at Similan Islands
Jungle-clad granite hills, Similan Islands
Setting Off from Phuket to the Similan Islands
When we visited the Similan Islands in February, we knew we were in for something special. We booked a full-day trip with Love Andaman, one of the country’s most reputable eco-tour operators. Their Similan Islands tour promised a seamless experience from start to finish, and that’s exactly what we got.
Our day began early in Phuket, when a van from Love Andaman pulled up to our hotel just after 6:30 a.m. The drive to Thap Lamu Pier near Khao Lak took around two hours. It’s a long transfer, but the van was air-conditioned, comfortable, and gave us a chance to watch the morning unfold across the Thai countryside: mist curling over rubber plantations and sleepy roadside towns slowly waking to life.
At the Love Andaman headquarters, guests were greeted with warm smiles and a buffet-style breakfast. There was coffee, Thai tea, pastries, fruit, and a friendly check-in team handing out wristbands and snorkeling gear. The entire operation ran with impressive precision, efficient but never rushed. Before long, we were ushered to the pier, where sleek white speedboats bobbed gently in the morning light, ready to whisk us away to paradise.
What to Expect on a Love Andaman Tour
The tour cost 3,500 Baht for Cam (a foreigner) and 2,500 Baht for Kat (a Thai citizen) - not the cheapest day trip we’ve taken, but certainly one of the best-organised and best-valued. Considering the package included hotel pick-up and drop-off, breakfast, lunch, snacks, snorkeling gear, and national-park fees, it was more than fair.
Our group of around 40 travelers was split between English-speaking and Chinese-speaking guests, each with an enthusiastic guide who seemed to genuinely love their job. The main guide, a young Thai guy with endless energy, cracked jokes, pointed out islands, and made sure everyone was having fun. Their professionalism gave the day a light, easygoing feel - no stress, no confusion, just smooth sailing (literally).
The speedboat ride from Thap Lamu Pier to the Similan Islands took about an hour. Even when the Andaman Sea got a little choppy, the vessel sliced through the waves confidently. Having done slower, larger boat tours before - like our trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park near Koh Samui, where we rocked back and forth for hours - I can’t stress enough how much better a speedboat is for this kind of trip. It’s faster, more comfortable, and gets you more precious time on the islands.
Love Andaman speedboat
Friendly Love Andaman crew
Donald Duck Bay: The Crown Jewel of the Similan Islands
Our first stop was Ko Paed (Island #8), home to the iconic Ao Kuerk Bucht, also known as Donald Duck Bay - a name inspired by a rock formation shaped like the famous cartoon character’s beak. Stepping onto this beach felt like walking into a dream. The sand was blindingly white, the water shimmered in layers of blue and green, and the backdrop of jungle-clad granite hills gave it a prehistoric kind of beauty.
It’s hard to find words that do this place justice. As we dived into the crystal-clear waters, Cam turned to Kat and said, “This has to be the most beautiful beach in all of Thailand.” And upon further reflection, we believe this statement to be true. It was pure magic.
We had about one hour of free time here, which we used to climb up to the famous Sail Rock viewpoint. The short five-minute walk involved a few ropes and boulders, but it was manageable for anyone with average fitness. From the top, the view was jaw-dropping: the turquoise bay dotted with speedboats, the curve of the beach below, and the contrast of green forest and silver granite - all beaming under a perfect blue sky. It was one of those rare “wow” moments that stays etched in your memory forever.
Donald Duck Bay, Similan Islands
Sail Rock, Similan Islands
Back down on the beach, we took turns swimming and snapping photos. Kat, being Thai, naturally knew all the best poses, while I mostly stood there in awe thinking, “Is this real”? The water changed from deep blue to emerald to transparent within metres, and tiny fish darted between our feet. Despite being the high season, the beach didn’t feel overwhelmingly crowded, maybe six or seven boats anchored in the bay, but plenty of room for everyone to enjoy their own slice of paradise.
That single hour at Donald Duck Bay might just be the best hour we’ve ever spent at a beach, rivalled only by the surreal beauty of the main beach on Koh Ngai. When we were called to board the boat again, it’s safe to say that we didn’t want to leave and could’ve spent many more hours (or days) there.
Emerald waters of Similan Islands
Kat swimming at Donald Duck Bay
Having fun taking photos
Snorkeling Among the Similan Islands
From Donald Duck Bay, we cruised to Island #9, a smaller isle surrounded by clear water and sculpted rock formations. Here, we slipped on our masks and plunged into the Andaman. The world beneath the surface was alive with movement - parrotfish flashing neon colours, tiny reef fish schooling in unison, and corals glowing in pinks and purples. Visibility was incredible: you could see at least 20 metres ahead.
Next up was Island #7, a spot known for its sea-turtle sightings. We weren’t lucky enough to see one that day, but the snorkeling was still fantastic - calm waters, vibrant reefs, and the occasional curious clownfish peeking out from an anemone. Love Andaman’s crew kept a close eye on everyone, ensuring both safety and environmental respect. They reminded guests not to touch coral, stand on rocks, or chase marine life - a small gesture that goes a long way in preserving this fragile ecosystem.
After snorkeling, we stopped for a buffet lunch on another island. The food, served under shady trees, was surprisingly good - Thai curries, fried chicken, rice, and fresh fruit. By this point, everyone had that sun-kissed, salt-in-the-air glow, the universal look of people living their best island life.
The afternoon wrapped up with a final stop at Island #4, where we relaxed on twin beaches separated by a short jungle trail. Each beach had its own character and charm: one quiet and serene, the other livelier with a few swimming areas. It was the perfect, gentle end to an unforgettable day.
Snorkelling in the Similan Islands
Exploring the different islands
Secluded beach in the Similan Islands
How to Get to the Similan Islands
Reaching the Similan Islands requires a bit of logistics, but it’s absolutely worth it. The islands are located within the Mu Ko Similan National Park, roughly 70 km off the coast of Phang Nga. The most common departure points are Khao Lak, Phuket, and Phang Nga Town.
From Phuket: The most popular starting point, especially for tourists. Expect a 6:00–6:30 a.m. hotel pick-up and a 2-hour van ride north to Thap Lamu Pier.
From Khao Lak: This is the closest base, only 20–30 minutes from the pier. If you want a shorter, more relaxed day, Khao Lak is the best place to stay.
From Phang Nga Town: Tours are less common here, but some operators run private charters for those wanting a quieter experience.
The speedboat ride from the pier takes about 60 minutes to reach the first island. Many tour companies run similar itineraries, but not all are equal in quality. Based on our experience, Love Andaman stood out for their eco-conscious approach, friendly guides, and smooth logistics. You can book directly via their website: loveandaman.com/similan.
The Best Time to Visit the Similan Islands
The Similan Islands are open to visitors only between mid-October and mid-May, with the best conditions typically from December to April. Outside these months, the park is closed to allow for ecosystem recovery and to avoid dangerous monsoon seas.
We visited in February, which falls right in the middle of the dry season. Expect clear skies, calm seas, and temperatures hovering around 30–32°C. The visibility underwater was amazing (easily 20–30 metres) and the sea was the perfect shade of blue. This is also high season, meaning more boats and visitors, but the islands are large enough that (for us) it rarely felt overcrowded.
If your schedule allows, aim for November or early December when the park first opens. You’ll often find fewer crowds and equally gorgeous weather. Morning tours tend to arrive before 11 a.m., so if you want that iconic Sail Rock photo without a crowd, try to join one of the earliest departures.
Similan Islands in February
Shade under the trees
Where to Stay Near the Similan Islands
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Similan Islands is that you can’t stay overnight. While this might disappoint some travelers, it’s a huge win for conservation. By limiting human impact, the Thai government ensures the islands remain pristine - no resorts, no bars, no trash left behind.
The nearest mainland town is Khao Lak, which offers a great mix of boutique resorts, beachside hotels, and eco-lodges. Staying here means you’re just a short transfer away from the pier. A few solid options include:
The Sands Khao Lak by Katathani: family-friendly beachfront resort
La Vela Khao Lak: modern, stylish, and close to the action
The Haven Khao Lak: adults-only luxury escape
If, like us, you’re staying in Phuket, just be prepared for a long day but one that feels entirely worth it once you set foot on those pristine white sands. For anyone doing the same, we’d recommend keeping the following day free to relax. You’ll need it.
Tips for Visiting the Similan Islands
Here are a few practical tips from our experience to make your Similan Islands trip even better:
Book Early: Day tours can sell out weeks in advance during peak season.
Bring Protection from the Sun: The Andaman sun is relentless (even during the dry season, Thailand’s supposed “winter”). Pack a wide-brimmed hat, reef-safe sunscreen, and sunglasses.
Waterproof Everything: A dry bag and waterproof phone case are essential. Your things can get wet with all the hopping on and hopping off the boat.
Choose a Speedboat Tour: It’s quicker, smoother, and gives you more island time than larger vessels.
Leave Only Footprints: The islands are spotless, keep them that way.
Relax and Be Present: You’ll only have about five hours in the national park. Don’t spend it all behind a camera. Take time to simply breathe and appreciate where you are.
If you want to avoid crowds entirely, look for companies that offer early-bird departures or private charters. A few tours from Khao Lak leave around 7:00 a.m., reaching Donald Duck Bay before the main wave of boats arrives around 10.
Again, remember that from May to November, the Similan Islands National Park is closed. If you’re visiting Thailand during those months, consider islands in the Gulf of Thailand instead such as Koh Samui or Koh Tao.
Hat is a must bring
Final Thoughts
We’ve travelled extensively through Thailand - from the remote mountains of Mae Hong Son to the paradisiacal shores of Koh Lipe - but the Similan Islands stand apart. There’s something about their purity. The beaches are cleaner, the water clearer, the colours sharper. Even though you share them with other tourists, they still feel wild and untouched.
What impressed us most was how well the islands are managed. The Thai authorities strictly regulate visitor numbers, enforce conservation rules, and close the park half the year to allow nature to regenerate. It’s a model of sustainable tourism that other destinations could learn from.
If you’re visiting southern Thailand and want to experience the country’s most breathtaking beaches, make the Similan Islands a priority. Yes, it’s a long day. Yes, it takes some planning. But when you see Ao Kuerk Bucht beach unfold before your eyes, when you dive into water so clear it looks unreal, every minute of travel will feel worthwhile.
The Similan Islands remind you of why you travel in the first place: to connect with nature, to feel wonder, and to share those moments with others. Whether you’re a photographer chasing the perfect shot, a couple seeking paradise, or a family looking for a fun day with the kids, you’ll find what you’re looking for here.
Unique rocks of Similan Islands
Pure paradise, Similan Islands
