When you look at the Similan Islands in Phuket on Google, it seems like it’s all a victim of Photoshop. But in reality, it’s all true! When you first see the sea near the Similan Islands, it dazzles your eyes. Here, the color of the Andaman Sea shifts from bright azure to emerald green. Almost every island has blue lagoons where you can observe the life of the underwater kingdom. And from the airplane window, the Similans resemble giant blue beads, forming a necklace if you connect them with a string. From a bird’s-eye view, this place seems to be the most beautiful on Earth.
The Similans are Thailand’s main national marine park, consisting of an archipelago of 9 small but fantastically beautiful islands scattered in the Andaman Sea like peas. These islands are not just one of the best places for diving locally but globally! In translation, “Similan” means “nine” – referring to the number of islands.
Due to their volcanic origin, the islands resemble black boulders, surrounded by granite rocks thanks to nature’s mysterious whims. Monumental boulders, “polished” by the winds and waters of the Andaman Sea over centuries.
How was it? A trip to the Similans.
A trip to the Similans is a continuous “WOW.” We sailed on a yacht, drank champagne, and witnessed breathtaking views of green mountains combined with turquoise water. We swam with turtles, run away from a shark, spent the night in a tent with bats, and witnessed the most beautiful sunset in the world with the flickering lightning.
Want to see more of the stunning islands in Phuket? Then my post The Lost World of Phuket may interest you.
We saw a lot during the trip, but not all islands were accessible to us. Some were off-limits due to turtle nesting season. It is said that these huge tortoises can simply crush a person with their bodies while protecting their offspring. Some islands were closed altogether because observatories are located on them.
The first island we saw was Bangu, the northernmost in the Similan archipelago. The landscape is characterized by chaotic piles of large boulders, which can also be observed underwater. Near the northeast tip of the island is Christmas Point, one of the best diving spots in the archipelago, known for its diverse underwater inhabitants, including reef and leopard sharks, giant rays, barracudas, moray eels, and many other species. Approaching a small bay, the water became increasingly clear. From the deck of the yacht you could see turtles swimming in the water.
Next was Meang Island, one of the two most visited islands in the archipelago. It has two beaches, Haad Yai (Honeymoon Bay) and Haad Lek (Princess Bay), as well as a viewpoint at an altitude of 130 meters.
The most famous beach in the Similans is on Ko Similan (Island No. 8), called Donald Duck Bay, where Sail Rock, the most recognizable feature of the Similan Islands, is located. From here, visitors take photos with the Sail Rock in the background.
Want to know more about Phuket? don’t miss my post about the most interesting places in Phuket.
The underwater world of the Similan Islands.
One can endlessly talk about the beauties of the underwater world, but what truly impressed me was seeing a shark. It swam literally five meters away. I was torn between stopping and watching it a little more or swiftly moving away at lightning speed. The first thought prevailed over the second, and for some time, I stared at this creature, unable to move aside. I want to reassure you, familiar divers said that the local sharks are safe and only want to gaze at people.
We also encountered parrotfish, sea urchins, tridacna, green turtles, sea stars, swordfish, and other amazing inhabitants of the underwater world.
Similans are famous not only for their underwater world; the islands are home to 16 species of bats that won’t let you sleep at night.
Where we stayed on the Similan Islands.
After enjoying the azure and crystal-clear water, we headed to settle in a tent city on Koh Miang Island. Accommodation conditions vary from tents to quite decent hotels; we chose the cheapest option (bringing your own tents is not allowed).
Looking for the perfect hotel in Phuket? Then read my post about Thavorn Beach Village and Spa hotel.
Useful recommendations before visiting.
Once on Koh Miang, don’t forget to climb to the observation deck, which offers a stunning view of the bay.
A trip to the Similans is worth taking for more than two days because that’s the only way to feel the full power and excitement of the area.
What to bring to the Similan Islands?
Comfortable shoes
Swimsuit
Sunglasses / Headgear
Towel
Sunscreen
Camera
Pocket money in small bills.
Click here for information on organized excursions in Phuket.
Check Aviasales to find the cheapest flights to Phuket if you’re traveling from another country.
If you find yourself in Phuket, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Similan Islands. The joy of the sea, the enjoyment of the harmony and exciting landscapes of this cozy and charming corner of nature, will stay with us forever.
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