in Thai they sound like Mu Ko Similan. They occupy a relatively small area, where all the touches of the local underwater environment are concentrated. The archipelago is considered the most beautiful corner of Thailand. Connoisseurs of natural luxury and diving enthusiasts () come to its lands. For a night's rest, it is better to choose Miang and Similan. On these islands, tourists will find refuge in pretty houses and refresh their strength in coastal restaurants and bars.
Natural features of the Similan Islands
The Mu Ko Similan complex is made up of 10 islands surrounded by the waters of the Andaman Sea. Their total area accounts for 142 square meters. km. To rest on Similan Islands in Thailand, the tourist must make a 69-kilometer journey along the western coast of the country. A cozy recreation area belongs to the province of Phang Nga, which lies in the Phratong region. 94 km south of the archipelago is located - a large tourist site is closest to all other pieces of land. The islands are guarded by the King himself, who considered it necessary to allocate them to the National Marine Reserve. They have been in this honorary status since 1982.
The coastal waters of the Similan Islands are a network of caves, stone labyrinths and coral reefs. The eastern part is especially rich in corals - there solid natural formations have accumulated in amazing sea gardens. In contrast, the western side is lined with soft corals, evenly covering the underwater cobblestones. Those who repeatedly sink to the bottom can admire not only corals numbering more than 500 units, but also valuable exotic inhabitants. If the tourist does not want to dive into the depths of the sea, he will be able to see amazing living creatures through the water surface - its purity and transparency allows you to look almost 35 m deep.
Similan have their own wildlife. It is represented by reptiles (25 species), mammals (30 families) and birds (40 different specimens). Of the rare individuals that amaze with their appearance, it is worth noting the leather turtle, the horned heron, the crab with wool, and the blue lizard. Long and exciting sea excursions to the Similan Islands are included in!
The archipelago does not differ in many shops and noisy nightlife. It is an ideal place for those who want to get complete privacy and get acquainted with the unspoiled tropical landscape. By agreeing to tours to the Similan Islands, the traveler knows for sure that a beautiful tan awaits him and the opportunity to dive into the picturesque depths of the sea. The sunset in this area creates a romantic atmosphere. Solitude is achieved by the absence of a crowd of people. The vacationer only has to enjoy the sounds of nature, the breath of a pleasant breeze and the beauty of the tropical zone. In, lasting from May to October, tourists are not allowed into the national park. In the remaining months, the territory is available for inspection.
beach holiday
Some parts of the land that make up the archipelago Similan in Thailand, are under state protection - their ecosystems are subject to protection. Some of the islands resemble rocky massifs with a bare coastline without sand. You can soak up the sun and plunge into pleasant water on the islands of Miang and Similan. The first is famous for the beaches of Hat Yai and Hat Lek, the other is Beacon Beach and Donald Duck Bay with Sail Rock. The whole "four" is united by white sand near clear water and the general beauty of the area.
Entertainment in the Similans
The main occupation for vacationers is diving (). For his sake, foreigners come to the archipelago in thousands. They give the second place to traditional bathing and taking air baths. For lovers of ecotourism, Thailand has limited the possibilities of this hobby, since the protection of ecosystems on the islands is considered a holy cause. Vacationers can do snorkeling without any problems.
There are no other entertainments on Mu Ko Similan, there is simply nothing to do. Roads that allow you to ride bikes (by the way, and you know how to do it right) are not provided here. And the so-called hotels in the similan islands are tents, standing just on the shore.
Climatic features
The weather in the area is set by a tropical humid climate. Dry season on the Similans reigns from November to early May. Rain at this time is considered a rare occurrence. During the day, the thermometer stays at + 30 ° C, at night - around 25 degrees. Sea water warms up to + 27°C.
Accommodation
As a place of residence, vacationers can choose tents or bungalows. The second type of housing is equipped with air conditioning or a fan, electricity, rooms for hygiene and the administration of natural needs. Tents on the Similans are available for 600 baht, but amenities await campers outside. A luggage room is offered for storing valuables.
You can stay on the islands near Miang or Similan. There are cheap cafes on their territory. Suitable accommodation is recommended to be booked (read more about) in advance when buying a tour at an agency or through National Preserve website.
Video tour of the Similans
How to get to the Similan Islands?
To get to Similan, you have two options:
- Travel agency services. To make the path really easy and enjoyable, it is better to trust the experts. They will arrange from the hotel to the pier and transfer between the islands, take care of meals and return to the hotel on time. If the trip is for educational purposes, then one day will be enough. But if you wish, you can linger, which we strongly advise you.
- Independent voyage. An independent trip suggests that you first need to get to the Thap Lamu pier, and then take the ferry (you can use the 12 Go Asia website). Being in or in Phuket, the tourist must go by bus to Phang Nga, or from there to get to the pier. For this purpose, you can use the services of a taxi. When Similan Islands open to explore the territory of the national park, ferries run daily. The trip lasts from 90 minutes to 4 hours depending on the speed of the boat.
If the national park is open to tourists, then you can get here by ferry, which departs daily from the pier of Tap Lamu. Such a trip will cost 1500 baht. For tourists who are in Phuket for the first time, there is a transfer service from the airport to the pier, which costs 300 baht.
The cost of holidays on the islands
There is no need to pre-book a trip to the Similan Islands. In Phuket, you can find travel agencies everywhere selling trips to the islands. This is a profitable option, especially for those who are in Thailand for the first time, because worries about living in an unfamiliar area cause a lot of trouble. During the high season, holidays in Similan are quite expensive. The peak price falls between December and January. The cost of living for one person will be:
- Round trip ticket - 4500 baht.
- Ticket for 2 days with an overnight stay on the island - 6500 baht.
You can save on tours if you buy them in Khao Lak. From Khao Lak to Thap Lamu Pier can be reached by public transport, spending only 85 baht. The best option for the price would be a tour to the Similan Islands from Khao Lak. It will cost 2000 baht, while upon arrival you can book a place in a palette or rent a house in the forest for an overnight stay. Renting a place to stay overnight will approximately be:
- Tent - from 650 baht,
- Bungalow without amenities - from 1500 baht,
- Bungalow with modern communications - from 2000 baht.
Near the forest houses there are cafes and bars that open three times a day for 1.5 hours, and close the rest of the time. Here you can make all meals if you arrive on time. Prices are affordable and you can buy a set breakfast, lunch and dinner for 250 baht.
The beaches of the Similan archipelago
Despite the fact that the archipelago consists of 9 islands, only 2: 4 and 8 can boast clean white sand beaches. Since the islands are part of a Thai national park, access to some beaches is closed for wildlife safety or due to nearby reefs and rocks .
The most popular beach is Donald Duck Beach, which is located on the island of Koh Similan. In general, the island consists of three more beaches: Beacon Beach, Honeymoon Beach and Princes Beach. The beaches are distinguished by a gently sloping bottom, sandy beaches of small pebbles and incredibly clear water, even during the high and low tide season. On the territory of Donald Duck Beach is the most famous landmark of the Siminan Islands, Sail Rock, which offers incredible views of the sea horizons and tropical terrain.
On the island of Koh Huong, which is the first in the list of the archipelago, there is a wonderful beach, which is the longest in length in the entire archipelago. Here are collected the best representatives of Thai flora and fauna, but for the conservation of nature, the beach is closed to visitors.
Things to do
The most popular type of recreation among tourists is diving. Similan can also offer snorkeling and ecotourism, but these activities are not available on all islands of the archipelago, because local authorities care about the preservation of wildlife. Throughout the islands there are diving sites that are especially popular among tourists.
Koh Similan Island
Koh Similan is the largest island. Here the most developed infrastructure. Against the backdrop of a partial civilization, a 30-meter coral reef seems like a fairy tale. A natural lookout point is the rock formation to the west, which offers an excellent view of the island. Ideal for snorkeling:
- Fantasy Reef. It is located 180 meters along the western coast. The depth of the descent is 15-38 meters, and the maximum visibility is 23 meters. The fauna here is great, but the current is strong, so you need diving experience to go down to the fantasy reef.
- Beacon beach. There are underwater caves formed from a hard coral reef. Nearby, at the bottom of the sea, there is a sunken ship. The depth is no more than 25 meters, which is ideal for those who are just trying to master diving.
- Elephant Head. The formation of rocks in the form of an elephant's head is located in the southern part of the island. At a depth of 25 meters there are deep caves. Due to the strong current, it is only suitable for experienced divers.
- Reef Beacon Point. A hardened coral reef and large smooth rocks are a place where a large number of marine life hides. There are almost no currents, and the depth varies from 4 to 33 meters.
- Deep Six. The bottom of this beach consists of reefs, rocks and tunnels. The depth in some places reaches 46 meters, so it is possible to see a shark.
Donald Duck Lagoon. This is a picturesque place, no more than 17 meters deep, which allows you to dive without equipment, only with a mask. Here you can see a variety of species of turtles and fish. The current is not strong, so the lagoon is suitable for beginners.
The cost of diving in the Similaya Islands will be from 4000 baht. Excursions with accommodation on board are possible, which will cost from 5500 baht per day.
The Similan Islands offer two types of dives:
- Diving in popular places with a group. Such trips involve a day or week tour of the best dive sites.
- Dive with an instructor. For such a trip, it is necessary to preliminarily draw up a route and coordinate it with the personal preferences of the client.
Holidays with children on the islands
The Similan Archipelago is a paradise for children. This is a quiet, cozy place that offers acquaintance with a thousand representatives of flora and fauna, swimming in clear water and relaxing on the azure shores of the coast. If you come on vacation with children, then it is inapplicable for them to show:
- Giant turtles. A whole population of large turtles lives on the island of Koh Huong, which annually hide their eggs with their offspring in the sandy shore of the Adaman Sea. Giant tortoises grow up to 1 meter in length and weigh 100 kg. For a child, meeting with such an exotic animal is an unforgettable experience. During the breeding season, the population of giant tortoises on the territory of the islands reaches several hundred and some individuals are not averse to being fed.
- Corals and reefs. The Similan Islands offer to get acquainted with the world of wild marine nature. The variety of colors and textures of coral reefs will delight any child.
- Exotic animals. The archipelago is famous for its abundance of marine nature, but the terrestrial representatives of exotic animals will impress no less. The entire territory of the islands is a national park, so 39 species of birds and wild animals can be found everywhere.
Also, the child will certainly appreciate the boat trip, because in the sea you can see dolphins and sharks near.
Airport
If getting to the archipelago is not difficult even in the low season, then leaving this resort is a little more difficult. If it is quite easy to get from Phuket to Tap Lamu Pier by public transport, then from the Similan Islands you need to go by boat or cruise ship. You can rent it for 450 baht and the journey will be 1.5 hours. From these calculations, you need to arrive at the pier in advance, because you can get to Phuket Airport by bus only on schedule.
Another option would be to take a taxi, which will cost from 1000 baht. The best option would be to book a trip with a tour operator who will take care of all the nuances of the road and take you to Phuket Airport for no more than 3 hours. The cost of the transfer will be from 2 thousand baht per person, but this is a guarantee that you will be able to get to the city or airport on time.
The Similan Islands or the Similans are paradise islands in the south of Thailand! Finally, it's time to talk about them 🙂 Due to the large amount of useful information, photos and videos, I decided to write two articles about the Similans. In this article you will not find delights, ah-sighs from the beauty of the surrounding nature, a detailed description of how we went to the Similans and my emotions, today only useful practical information: where the Similans are located, how to get there, what excursions are and the price for them, is it possible to go to the Similan Islands on your own and how to do it, hotels, infrastructure and other details of life on the islands.
Similans - paradise islands in Thailand
general description
Similan or - an archipelago in the Andaman Sea in southern Thailand, a national park, one of the ten most beautiful places in the world! The islands are located at a distance of about 60 km by sea from the coast, from the popular resort of Phuket to Simalan about 100 km in a straight line 🙂 The exact location of Similyn on the map at the bottom of the article.
The archipelago consists of nine islands, each of which has its own name and serial number 🙂 The word "Similan" itself is translated as "nine" by the number of islands, but in 98 two more islands were added to the national park and now there are eleven Similan Islands:
- Ko Huyong - No. 1
- Ko Payang - #2
- Ko Payan - No. 3
- Ko Miang - No. 4
- Ko Ha - No. 5
- Ko Hok - No. 6
- Ko Payu - No. 7
- Ko Similan - #8
- Ko Bangu - #9
- Koh Bon
- Koh Tachai
Here they are on the map:
Nine islands of the archipelago on the map The largest island is number 8, the second largest is island number 4. Not all islands are accessible to the public, some of them are closed to tourists in order to protect the environment and the rare species of turtles. Sometimes one of the islands is closed for a couple of years, so that nature can recover after numerous tourists. For example, Tachai Island was closed a couple of years ago, then it was opened, and in the 2016-2017 season, Tachai Island again closed to tourists!
Rock "Sail" on the island number 8 - a visiting card of Similan 
View from the observation deck of the island number 4 When are the Similan Islands open? The islands are open only during the season, namely from November to April. For the summer period, during rains and storms, Similan is closed. The exact date when Similans open can be found on the official website of the national park.
Important! In the season 2018 - 2019 in the Similan Islands overnight stays are prohibited, only one-day excursions are possible!
Cost of visiting
The Similan Islands is the Mu Ko Similan National Park and its visit is paid, but if you come to the islands as part of an excursion, then the cost of visiting the national. parka already included in the price of the tour(although at the time we paid extra for the entrance to the national park).
Cost of visiting Similan National Park:
- 500 baht for adult foreign tourists
- 300 baht for children
- 100 baht for Thais
As you can see, the cost of visiting Thailand's national parks for foreign tourists is growing by leaps and bounds. And the difference in price for foreigners and Thais is 5 times (!), and they don’t give the right to a discount ... It’s sad ... But, for example, the prices for almost all attractions for foreigners and locals are the same!
You can get to the Similan Islands only by speedboat or by boat as part of a diving tour. I read that before a couple of times a week some big public boat went to the Similans, but in the 2015-2016 season it was not there. If someone has real and up-to-date information about him, please share!
Speed boats leave from Taplamu Pier, which is about 30-40 minutes from the main ones and one and a half to two hours from Phuket hotels. All boats leave at about the same time - around 9 am. Speed boats are small, designed for 30-35 people, there is a toilet. You can stay both inside under the roof and on the sunny front deck (if you are not afraid of the scorching sun). I advise you to sit in the middle, it shakes less, and the best seats are on the chair next to the captain, but they are occupied by the first person to enter the boat 🙂
On such speedboats they take you on an excursion to the Similans 
This is what the boat looks like inside 
The best seats are two seats next to the captain! Boats rush across the sea from the mainland to the Similan Islands for a little more than an hour, on the way, even in calm weather, it can get very sick, so when landing, and even during the journey, pills for motion sickness are distributed. Important: pregnant women can not swim!
To get to the Similan Islands, you need to buy an excursion or a ticket with an open date at any travel agency. At the pier tickets do not sell buy a tour in advance, boats are 99% complete!
as such There are no hotels in the Similan Islands, but you can stop at tent or in bungalow national park. There are tents on two islands: on the fourth island of Miang and on the eighth Koh Similan, and the bungalow only on the fourth. You cannot install your own scarves.
Prices for tents and bungalows in the Similan Islands
- Tent rental - 500 baht per day
- Bungalow with fan - 1000 baht per night
- Bungalow with air conditioning - 2000 baht per day
When booking independently on the website of the national park from Monday to Thursday, a 30% discount.
Tent on the Similans
The campground on the fourth island is located on the main beach on the left, almost on the seashore. Tents stand in a shady grove, they are located in two rows and quite close to each other. If someone snores at night, it is very audible 🙂 Each tent is locked! (First time I've seen this). The tents are large, 3-4 people could easily fit inside, the two of us were quite comfortable. Inside there is a mattress and pillows. I advise you to take some kind of bedding or blanket with you to cover it all. Despite the open windows in the tent (they left only nets), it was very hot and stuffy to sleep.
Row of tents near the sea on Koh Miang (4th island) 
Tents stand on the side of the beach, outsiders almost do not roam past them 🙂 
Our tent and lock with a key 🙂 
The tents on the 8th island are in the wrong place: there are many day-trippers wandering around. Yes, and some of them are not under the trees, but in the sun Similan Islands hotels - bungalows
The nicest bungalows in the Similans are the Chomview air conditioned bungalows. They are good not so much because they have air conditioning (it’s not really needed), but because they stand on high piles on a hill, each house has a large veranda with a partial sea view. The bungalows are large, comfortable and with huge floor-to-ceiling windows (better than ours). The only disadvantage of these houses is that they have to climb stairs.
If you have financial opportunities, I advise you to choose these houses on the mountain - several air-conditioned rooms in a house right on the beach. Here are literally two steps - and the best beach in Thailand 🙂 Only during the day next to the house is very noisy and crowded.
Similan Bungalow - rooms in a building right next to the beach 
Similan Bungalow near the beach 
And here is a big house on stilts right next to the sea Fan rooms are located in a long wooden house with a shared veranda. The rooms are small and very dark, but the beach is close at hand 🙂
Bungalow with fan next to the sea. But the rooms are very small and dark. Of course, all bungalows have their own toilet and shower. Shower only with cold water 🙂 There is only one outlet in the houses, the voltage is low and all devices are charged for a very long time.
Infrastructure and life in the Similan Islands
More developed in terms of infrastructure is the island of Ko Miang (No. 4), and not Ko Similan (No. 8), although island No. 8 is the largest island of Similan. On the fourth island (Koh Miang) there is a large dining room where they feed those who came on an excursion (I didn’t like it, there were flies and tasteless) and a cafe where you can eat if you came to the Similan Islands on your own. Tomorrow, lunch and dinner in the cafe only at certain hours. The rest of the time in the cafe you can buy drinks and all sorts of little things like nuts and chips. To be honest, they cook not very tasty and half of the dishes from the menu are simply not available.
Map-scheme of the 4th island and pointers 
I didn’t like the dining room on the 4th island at all, we had lunch once and didn’t eat there anymore, we swam for breakfast - lunch - dinner on the boat 
Dining on the 4th island 
Cafe on the island where you can have breakfast, lunch, dinner and buy some small change 
And this is already on the 8th island. There is also some kind of dining room, but only organized groups of tourists are fed in it. 
On the 8th island Similan food prices
- Tom Yum - 220 baht
- Rice soup with shrimp - 100 baht
- Dish with rice and meat - 150 baht
- Omelet, fried eggs - 80 baht
- French fries - 100 baht
- Pancake - 80 baht
- Water - 30 baht
- Beer - 100 baht per can 0.33 (it doesn't always happen, it's better to take it with you!)
In general, if you are going to the Similans on your own for a few days, then take water (our boat neighbors brought a couple of five-liter bottles), some snacks such as nuts - chips, rum, wine, beer (but you have to drink warm, there are no refrigerators in the bungalow). But it is better not to take fruits and vegetables, they will quickly deteriorate or ants will divorce.
There is a left-luggage office near the administration of the park, where you can leave your things for free after the key to the tent or house has been handed over (and check-out here is at 10:00). Here you can rent a safe for 20 baht per day.
There are several outdoor fresh water showers on the island near the beach and several showers and toilets in separate buildings for those who stay overnight in a tent. There are also mirrors. I will say this: on our 4th island, the shower and toilet were more or less clean, we even managed to wash our hair normally in the evening with shampoo and smear ourselves with creams, but on the 8th island, the toilet and shower are just a mess! I went there with difficulty...
FiWi catches in cafes and nearby areas (without a password). It was fun to lie in a tent and use FiWi on your phone 🙂
Electricity on the island only from 6pm to 6am, so there is no sense from the fan and air conditioning during the day.
Island number 4: tents, bungalows, dining room. Video
Island number 8. Video
Excursions to the Similan Islands: cost, where to buy, a brief description
To begin with, several operating companies are taken on an excursion to the Similan Islands. Those. it doesn’t matter where and from whom you bought the tour, but what matters is which operator will take you. I have heard that an excursion to the Similan Islands should be taken only from the SeaStar operator, that they are the best in this segment. Yes, I confirm it is! Everything was really great! And organization, and guides, and boats, and food. I’ll definitely write about food, but I’ll say right away that they simply fed us without ceasing! And everything was very tasty. But our neighbors from another tour operator were almost starved 🙁
I recommend SeaStar for a trip to the Similans! What are the trips to the Similan
- For a day
- For two days and one night
- For three days and two nights
We took a two day tour and really regretted it! I should have gone For a three days! 🙂
Where to buy a trip to Similan
Excursion to the Similans can be bought at any travel agency or hotel:
- in Phuket
From Khao Lak to the Taplamu pier, it is the closest to go, but get ready for a long journey, you will have to go three hours in one direction.
Excursion to the Similan Islands price and how to buy
I can say that the prices for an excursion to the Similan are quite different from agency to agency. The price is very dependent on your ability to bargain and on the fullness of the excursions on the date you need. It is clear that an excursion bought in Khao Lak will be a little cheaper than the same excursion bought in Phuket (but it’s cheaper by “a little”, literally by 200-400 baht, i.e. for this it’s not worth going specially to Khao Lak, there it is worth going for the Khao Lak resort itself 🙂).
It is not always easy to find a tour on the right date. We arrived in Khao Lak for three days in order to calmly bypass the agencies and buy an excursion to Similan on the desired date, and after Similan spend one more night in Khao Lak and move to early in the morning. What was our surprise that there were no places anywhere on the date we needed! Yes, and the prices were called some inflated and did not want to bargain at all. I don't know what it was? Some peak of the season on the Similans or something ... As a result, we accidentally bought a two-day excursion to the Similan Islands, it was a canceled tour to the Similans! It's just lucky that someone refused, and here we are 🙂
Price for trips to the Similan
Important: prices are indicated from, for one adult when leaving Khao Lak, from Phuket and Krabi will be more expensive. I must say that, after reading the forums, I expected 4200 - 4300 baht per person for a two-day tour, but there were no such prices at all, even after bargaining. On average, a two-day tour to the Similans from Khao Lak was offered to us for 5500 baht, we bought for 4700 baht, i.e. for two 9200 baht - this is more than we paid per month for
The cost of the trip to Similan includes:
- Transfer by minibus from the hotel to the pier and back
- Accompanying a guide
- Island tour, landing on two islands (No. 4 and No. 8) and a few more stops at sea for snorkeling
- Three meals a day + snacks during the day, water, fruits
- Masks and tubes for snorkeling (good quality, unlike). We were given flippers for free, but in neighboring groups (from other tour operators) flippers were for an additional fee of 100 baht!
- Travel insurance
- Accommodation in a tent (if the tour is overnight)
- The spirit and three day tours include snorkeling in the morning and evening on a big boat. There, on board, for those who wish, there is breakfast - lunch - dinner and meeting the sunset.
We meet the sunset at sea on board the ship Additionally, if desired, improved accommodation is paid:
- Air-conditioned bungalow 2000 baht
- Bungalow with fan 1000 baht
- Cabin on the ship - 2000 baht
Accommodation prices are indicated for two people, not each!
In the photo below, a description of the excursion to the Similans from different operators:
Similan Islands on my own
How to travel to the Similan Islands on your own? The first thing to do is to take care of housing the island. I advise you to stay on island number 4, I didn’t like island number 8 at all. If you agree to live in a tent, then you can not book anything in advance, there are always free tents, but if you want to stay in a bungalow, you will have to take care of housing in advance, 2 months in advance!
How to book accommodation on the Similans
- We go to the website of the national parks of Thailand: http://nps.dnp.go.th
- From the top menu, select "Reservation" - "Reservation Accommodation"
- We select the desired Mu Ko Similan park and the desired dates. Important: reservation is possible 60 days in advance. You need to book places quickly at exactly 12 nights in Thailand, bungalows are instantly sold out by agencies. How much I tried to book a bungalow for the dates I needed, I did not succeed, literally in 10 minutes they were taken apart. But upon arrival on the island, it turned out that there were enough free houses and, if desired, we could move from tent to house, but we decided to feel all the exotic and stayed overnight in a tent 🙂
- After booking, an invoice for payment and details will be sent to the mail.
- With an account for payment, you must urgently run to the bank, because. the reserve is kept for exactly three days, and then automatically flies. So at 12 at night you can catch the withdrawn reserves.
- After paying at the bank, send a copy of the payment receipt to the national park.
Select the desired national park (in our case, it is Mu Ko Similan) and dates 
List of available bungalows for the desired dates and their cost. Don't forget that 30% discount for accommodation from Monday to Thursday After booking accommodation on the Similan Islands, or rather on the island of Koh Miang, you can relax and wait for your vacation 🙂 Upon arrival in the south of Thailand, you will need to take care of how to get to the Similan Islands on your own.
How to get to the Similan Islands on your own
Buy from any agency one day tour open date, those. one day tour with open date. The essence of this tour to the Similans with an open date is as follows: in the morning you will be picked up from the hotel, brought to the boat, fed, delivered to one of the islands, fed again with lunch and left on the island 🙂 There you will quietly settle in a pre-booked bungalow and enjoy your vacation. The day before departure from the island, you must warn the guide that you want to go back. The next day after lunch you will be picked up from the island and taken with all the sightseers for snorkeling and further according to the program, and then taken to the pier and taken to the hotel. Those. in fact, this is a standard one-day tour, only broken into two parts 🙂
Important: perhaps in some tour offices you will be told that you cannot do this, that they do not sell tours with an open date, that you cannot go to the Similan Islands on your own. Don't listen to them! SeaStar definitely sells tours with an open date. The cost of such a tour ranges from 2500 to 3200 baht per person.
The beauty of the Similan Islands Sea turtle on the Similans. Video
Answers to some important questions
Is it possible to leave luggage-backpacks somewhere before the tour?- SeaStar has a special luggage room on the pier.
Is there anywhere to shower and change after the tour?- There are also clean showers with hot water and changing cabins near the pier.
Clean and comfortable showers, toilets and changing rooms Is it possible to have time after the tour on the same day to fly to (or somewhere else)?— Yes, it is quite possible to catch evening flights to Phuket airport. We arrived at the pier at 4:30 pm. While they handed over their masks, while they washed and changed, had dinner, ate delicious ice cream, and at about 6 pm minibuses began to deliver tourists to hotels, so after about an hour, i.e. at 7 pm you can be at the fork in the direction of Phuket Airport, and there 10 minutes by tuk-tuk and you are at the airport. Those. at 9 pm and later, you can safely take tickets from Phuket.
Can I travel to Similan with small children?- We have not seen children under 7-8 years old on the islands, so see for yourself how your child will endure the pitching on the boat.
Is it worth going to the Similan Islands on your own or is it better to choose an excursion?
Let's count. If you go on your own for two days one night and stay in an air-conditioned bungalow, then you will pay per person: 3,000 baht (tour with an open date) + 1,000 baht (accommodation) = 4,000 baht, but you will have to pay for dinner-breakfast yourself, and you will not get to the most interesting part - evening and morning snorkeling and sunset on board the ship.
With an excursion, you will spend on the same tour: 4700 (excursion cost) + 1000 baht (surcharge per person for an air-conditioned bungalow) = 5700 baht. The total difference will be 1700 baht per person.
In my opinion, if you go to the Similans for just one night, then it is better to take a tour. But for 3-5 days it is better to go on your own.
Excursion to Similan - one of the best experiences from the south of Thailand In Russian, "Similans" are nine islands that are part of the Marine National Park, located in the Andaman Sea, 100 km from Phuket. Sailing to the Similan Islands is one of the most popular excursions in Phuket. All tourists are tempted by the purest water and sea turtles that live on the Similans.
And this is no accident. The Similan Islands are among the top 10 dive sites and are included in the list of the most beautiful places on Earth by UNESCO.
The Similan Islands is a national marine park, an untouched part of nature where animals are not afraid of humans yet. The islands are popular, but there are not so many divers and tourists here. If you decide to dive, you will see a very diverse marine life, an abundance of corals and reef fish.
So, this is the southern part of Thailand.
The very word "Similan" in translation means "nine". The name refers to their number. Until 1998, there were nine of them, and then two more islands were added to the national park, and now there are eleven Similan Islands:
- Ko Huyong - No. 1
- Ko Payang - №2
- Ko Payan - No. 3
- Ko Miang - No. 4
- Ko Ha - No. 5
- Ko Hok - No. 6
- Ko Payu - No. 7
- Ko Similan - No. 8
- Ko Bangu - #9
- Koh Bon
- Koh Tachai
Usually tourists distinguish them by numbers. No. 8 is the largest, the second largest is island No. 4. Some islands are closed to tourists in order to protect and restore nature and the rare species of turtles. The islands have to recover after the tourists, of course, there are no other reasons. In the season 2016 - 2017, for example, Tachai Island closed to tourists not the first time.
In the summer, during the rainy season, getting to the Similan Islands is unlikely. There are no centralized excursions at this time - storm or bad weather. There is an official website of the national park - there you can search for detailed information about the opening / closing time of the season.
How to get to the Similan Islands
You can get here only by sea. Many sail from Phuket, although Khao Lak is closer. Numerous travel and tour agencies offer 1 or 2 day visits. One day tour costs 2200-2400 baht.
More advanced and independent travelers go to Similan for 3-4 days. To do this, you need to agree, for example, in the same agency, so that you are only taken there and picked up after an agreed number of days from there. The road itself will most likely turn out to be cheaper, and you will have the opportunity to fully enjoy the virgin nature in the absence of a crowd of tourists with guides always in a hurry.
On the pier, right before sailing, it is unlikely that you will be able to buy a place in the boat. Buy in advance and in the city.
Speed boards of various formats. There are boats for divers, they are larger than a speed board, but of course they sail more slowly. If you have never swum on a speed board, think about whether you have problems with your spine or something else when shaking is contraindicated for your health. For the same reasons, pregnant women cannot sail on a speed board. Here, of course, it is important how lucky you are - if the sea is almost calm, then you will rush quickly and with pleasure on a speed board. 
The islands have all the necessary tourist infrastructure. There you can rent an apartment and find a cafe to eat.
Accommodation in the Similan Islands
Bungalows and tents (regular tents) are rented on the islands. Bungalows come with a fan and air conditioning. They will kick you out with your tents, you can’t. But I think it would never occur to anyone to go to Thailand, and even to the islands, with their own tent!
- house for 1000 baht / day with a fan,
- house for 2000 baht / day with air conditioning
- tent 500-600 baht.
Tent on the Similans
The campground on island number 4 is located to the left of the main beach almost at the seashore. Tents are hidden in a shady grove, they are located densely and in two rows from each other. So if at night someone in a neighboring tent reads Dostoevsky aloud, you can hear it well. The tents are equipped with locks.
The tents are spacious enough to accommodate 3-4 people. Inside there is a mattress and pillows. Even with open windows in a tent, it can be hot and stuffy to sleep. 
Tents on island number 8 are located further from the sea to the right of the beach. In general, it is no better than #4. 
Similan Islands - Bungalow
The nicest air-conditioned bungalows in the Similan Islands. This is expressed not only in the presence of an air conditioner, which many do not use, but in the fact that they stand on a hill on high piles. Each bungalow has its own veranda with a partial sea view. 
The bungalows are spacious, comfortable and with huge floor-to-ceiling windows. The only negative here is that they have to climb stairs.
Fan rooms are located in a long wooden house with a shared veranda. The rooms are small, the illumination inside is low, but the beach is within easy reach. 
All bungalows have their own toilet and shower, but the shower only has cold water.
Infrastructure in the Similan Islands
Island number 4 is considered more developed in terms of infrastructure. It has a large dining room, which serves excursions (the food is rather mediocre), and a cafe. 
Tomorrow, lunch and dinner at the cafe according to the schedule. The rest of the time in the cafe you can buy drinks and all sorts of little things like chips and nuts.
Water, drinks, all kinds of food bags from 7 Eleven can be taken with you if you eat for several days. Fruit will quickly disappear or be attacked by ants.
On this island, next to the park administration, there is a left-luggage office where you can leave your things for free after the key to the tent or house has been handed over (check-out time here at 10:00). Here you can rent a safe for 20 baht per day.
There are several open-air fresh water showers on the island near the beach and several showers and toilets in separate buildings for those who stay overnight in tents.
FiWi catches in cafes and nearby areas (without a password).
Electricity on the island is only from 6 pm to 6 am, so during the day there is no sense from the fan and air conditioning. There are no discos. Alcohol is not sold.
Nature of the Similan Islands
Here it is even better to start simply with a photo.
Happy 
In the afternoon, the tourists sailed away 
Blue water, white sand beach.
On the Internet they write that on the Similans you can meet the Nicobar pigeon, flying foxes and see how the plankton glows in the water. Not everyone sees them. But hermit crabs a lot of. 
Turtles are also not met by everyone, but some are lucky - they meet them in a basin and a lot. 
There are also large turtles on the Similans. The first to tell the world about this was the famous Jacques-Yves Cousteau. 
The best weather here starts in mid-February and ends in May. The rainy season starts from mid-May and lasts until October, accompanied by a strong northwest wind.
The average annual temperature is + 27 degrees, the humidity is high - about 83%. During the year, 3,560 mm of precipitation falls - twice the height of a person.
High season from October to May. Of course, you can go diving or sunbathing all year round, but you need to somehow get there and so that the local administration has not yet pointed to the door, as it were. at sea in this case. For some reason, the cleanest and most transparent water is in the summer months. Visibility averages 20-25 meters, but in some places it reaches 40 meters!
The relief on the Similans is quite peculiar. On the eastern half of the islands there are sandy placers, gradually going deep into densely populated coral reefs, and on the western side there are huge sheer boulders that meet powerful undercurrents and monsoon winds on land.
Dark rocks, due to their bizarre outlines, get rather funny names with a clearly Western origin, for example, Donald Duck Bay. Due to this peculiar topography, snorkeling or scuba diving on the east and west sides will give very different experiences. By the way, the islands are small and you can see their unique underwater world from both the eastern and western sides within one day.
Along the west coast, the entire archipelago is surrounded by hard coral reefs in the form of a sheer wall 30-40 meters deep. But there are also soft corals that rise in beautiful waves from the seabed. There are no strong currents here.
On the east side, Similans are often surrounded by whirlpools around granite rocks, and diving is almost extreme. But very bright soft corals grow here, and the outlines of the rocks themselves, and small fish, and these corals make an indelible impression on the most sophisticated divers.
When we talk about the resorts of Thailand, first of all, our head is visited by associations with noisy Asian and, moreover, crowded cities. But this does not mean that there are no quiet and secluded exotic corners on the territory of the country. The list of such paradise territories is headed by the Similan archipelago, which consists of nine small islands.
In Thailand, they are washed by the waters of the Andaman Sea and are located a short distance from the main resort of Phuket, which in a short time has been chosen by millions of tourists around the world. It is worth noting that the archipelago occupies the tenth position in the list of the most beautiful places marked by UNESCO.
The islands are included in the national park of Thailand and are under regular control of the authorities. The preservation of the environment on the territory of the Similan Islands is carefully monitored: construction is prohibited here. Thus, the absence of any structures, including even shops and retail stalls, can be explained.
If you came to Thailand in search of exotic places, pristine beaches and unique nature, then you definitely need to visit the Similan Islands. white sand and a sense of freedom will not leave you throughout the rest.
Let's take a closer look at the main attractions and wonders of nature that can be found on the territory of the Similan Islands.
Islands in Thailand
A large number of tourists annually arrive on the territory of the Similan archipelago for a fairly short period of time, since the location of the islands allows you to travel in both directions, lie on the sandy beach, enjoy the beautiful nature and return back to the hotel. Although many vacationers wish to spend a longer weekend in the Similan Islands in Thailand, small tent cities and cozy forest bungalows are provided here for such visitors. The entrance to the territory of the archipelago is closed to visitors during the rainy season - from May to September.
Koh Similan
As we have already said, the archipelago consists of nine islands, but only a few are open for free visiting.
The island of Koh Similan is the largest among all the others and is marked at number eight in the archipelago. This area is famous for its crystal clear waters, underwater landscapes and tropical vegetation. First of all, novice divers and snorkelers go here. A granite rock is especially popular with tourists, from the top of which a stunning view of the entire district opens. See photos of the Similan Islands below.
Koh Miang
Koh Miang has gained great popularity among lovers of passive beach holidays. Firstly, because Haad Lek is located in the eastern part of the island - one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Thailand. The second reason is the specialized territory for the tent camp and bungalows, which is in the north of the island. You can also get from the town to Haad Lek along a special path dedicated for this, which passes through the picturesque jungle. Walking from one place to another will not take you long, and not far from this amazing beach you will find a beautiful coral reef, ideal for snorkeling.
Ko Hu Yong
This island is number one in the archipelago. Unfortunately, it is not intended for overnight stays, but here you can have fun during the day. It is here that tourists come to wander along the long sandy beaches and watch the turtles.
Cu Ba Ngu
It has a second, more common name among visitors - Skull Island. When you swim closer to it, it really resembles a large skull from the side. The cleanest sea water and coral reefs are here, so the surroundings of Cu Ba Ngu are chosen by both beginners and professional divers.
Climate
The tropical monsoon climate zone covers the entire southern part of Thailand. Summer and good weather reign here throughout the year. The exception is the rainy season, but the air temperature does not drop much. During the tourist season, the thermometer reaches 35 degrees.
The mild warm climate of the Similan Islands is perfect for a resort beach holiday. Rich tropical vegetation and magnificent azure sea await travelers from different countries.
As we have already said, the rainy season falls during the summer months. When all the countries of Europe are languishing in the heat, in Thailand there are torrential rains. Therefore, the organization of your trip to this wonderful country should be approached responsibly.
How to get there?
You can get to the Similan Islands on your own using one of the flights from Russia to Phuket. Upon arrival at the local airport, a new question will arise in front of you: taxi or public transport? Of course, the first option will cost several times more, but it will help save a lot of time. If you have nowhere to hurry, then you can wait for the bus following the route to the Bus Terminal 1 bus station in Phuket Town.
Further, all tourists transfer to another transport, to Khao Laki, where the Tap Lamu pier is located. This is the most budgetary way to get to the territory of the Similan archipelago. Although some visitors book direct tours from Phuket, this is already a matter of taste and financial security.
From Thap Lamu Pier only speed boats go, since the distance between the islands and it is about 60 km. This information may not seem so important at first glance, but often some travelers simply forget to take comfortable seats on the boat, and then they have to huddle all the way among the standing crowd of tourists.
Undersea world
The Similan Islands are very popular among lovers of the underwater world. This is a true paradise for professional divers and just those who like to snorkel and fins in search of marine life.
In most cases, all trips to the Similan Islands for divers fall into two categories:
- Individual trips with an instructor. A tourist can create his own individual route, after agreeing it with the instructor.
- Diving cruises. You are going with a team along the popular "beaten paths" for several days. On the ship you are provided with a bed, full briefing and training.
The most favorable place for organizing such trips is Phuket. Here you will be provided with a wide range of different professional level operators, it is also possible to get a discount. It is worth noting the fact that multi-day cruises or diving among the caves are available only for experienced divers, confirmation is the presence of an appropriate certificate.
Visa to Thailand
We are all used to the strict visa policy of many European countries. Often the usual planning of a vacation turns into a terrible nightmare due to all this paperwork in the visa centers. After that, we all still have to stay in a tense state for some time, waiting for the consul's response to our application. Fortunately, our affairs with Thailand are a little different.
Any citizen of the Russian Federation should just smile at passport control upon arrival in the country, as he instantly receives the desired stamp in his passport. It is from this moment that the most interesting adventures in his life begin!
If you want to stay in the country for a longer period (over 60 days), then you need to apply for a visa at the Thai Embassy in Moscow. Visas are divided into single and double entry. In the second case, it is necessary to leave the territory of the state after three months of stay. Alternatively, you can leave Thailand for the neighboring country of Laos for one day, and then return back again before the expiration of the issued visa.
How much will vacation cost?
The money issue often worries novice travelers who have never been to Thailand before. How much does a trip to the Similan Islands cost? To be honest, by asking such a question, you are already exposing yourself to waste of money. No tour to the archipelago needs to be booked in advance from Russia. There are many local travel companies in Thailand that are ready to offer excellent organization for quite little money.
One day on the islands with a return to Phuket will cost about 4,000 baht, which is about 7,000 rubles. Two days with one overnight stay in the archipelago will cost about 6,000 baht, about 10,500 rubles.
All the necessary information on how to get to the Similian Islands on your own has been described in the previous paragraphs. Our dear readers can only follow the instructions already prepared in advance.
Excursions to the Similan Islands
One of the most reliable tour operators in Thailand is the SeaStar company, reviews of which can be found innumerable on the Internet. The operator is famous for its organization, comfort and excellent cuisine, which is included in the price of vouchers.
You can book an excursion to the Similan Islands from Phuket, Krabi or Khao Laki at any time for a period of one to three days. Khao Laki is considered to be the closest in distance from the archipelago, but from Ao Nang you will have to go about three hours one way.
What is included in the price of the tour?
Almost all tour operators offer tourists on the streets of Thailand the following list of services included in the cost of the tour:
- Transfer from the hotel by bus to the pier, from where boats depart to the Similan Islands.
- Accompanying a guide.
- Tour of the islands "Koh Miang" and "Koh Similan" and a stop in the sea for snorkeling, with the issuance of the necessary equipment.
- Three meals a day.
- Insurance.
- Accommodation in a tent.
How much does it cost to self-rent accommodation in the archipelago?
This question is asked by many tourists who plan to save on the services of travel companies, and rightly so, since independent travel is often more exciting and unpredictable. Someone finds romantic notes in this, while someone does not like noisy tourist groups at all, breathing intently in the back.
So, as we have already mentioned, the closest way to get to the Similian Islands is from Khao Laki Pier. Directly on the spot, if you plan to stay overnight, you need to rent a tent or bungalow. The following rates apply on the territory of the archipelago:
- Rent a tent - 900 rubles per day.
- Bungalow with fan - 1700 rubles per day.
- Bungalow with air conditioning - 3500 rubles per day.
When booking independently on the website of the national park from Monday to Thursday, a 30% discount.
Conclusion
The Similian Islands are a paradise on earth, suitable not only for sightseeing trips, but also for independent travel. They are recognized as one of the most beautiful and mysterious places throughout Thailand. Picturesque nature, rich underwater world, romantic sunsets and snow-white beaches will sink deep into the soul and will beckon here again and again. Both adults and children will like it here.
A holiday in the archipelago can also be suitable for a honeymoon trip for many reasons. These are wonderful portrait shots against an exotic background, romantic bungalows immersed in the jungle, and no paperwork with visa processing. And most importantly - affordable prices for any type of holiday. Russian tourists have chosen this place for a long time and are trying to give their preference to this country, and Turkey and Egypt, which are already familiar to everyone, are gradually fading into the background. In addition, the numerous positive reviews about the Similan Islands are at least a reason to visit. Have a nice rest and new discoveries!