Similans - Is It Worth Going To Thailand's Paradise Islands

The Similan Islands are indeed one of Thailand's most stunning locations. Imagine soft, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise water that looks just like the pictures in travel magazines. Suppose you dream of a tropical getaway where you can swim in clear waters, see colourful fish, and stroll along beautiful white beaches. In that case, the Similan Islands are the perfect place for you. You can expect to take amazing photos capturing yourself in this paradise's beauty. In this article, I'll explain how to reach the Similan Islands and what to do to ensure you have a fantastic experience during your visit.

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Tours to Similan Islands from Khao Lak, Phuket or Krabi

What are the Similans, and why do tourists go to these islands

The Similan Islands are a group of nine tiny islands located in the Andaman Sea, off the western coast of Thailand. These islands are part of a national park open to visitors from October to May. During the rest of the year, the islands are closed to tourists.

There are no airports, hotels, roads or pears on Similans Islands. You can't find places to stay on travel booking websites. The only way to visit these beautiful islands is by taking a tour by boat.

On the Similan Islands, tourists can only walk on the beaches of Islands No. 4 and No. 8. For the other islands, visitors are welcome to swim, snorkelling, or go scuba diving, but they can't set foot on the land.

The Similan Islands are known for their stunning turquoise waters and beautiful white sandy beaches, making them a top destination for travellers.

What are the Similan islands

The Similan Islands are a group of nine islands numbered from 1 to 9. The islands also have names, but locals and tourists usually use numbers:

Here are some interesting facts about the Similan Islands:

• They are made of granite and originated from volcanic activity, featuring impressive rock formations.
• The islands are covered in lush and vibrant tropical plants.
• The beaches are famous for their soft, powdery white coral sand.
• You can find large crabs and unique fruit-eating foxes living here.

How to Get to the Similan Islands

You can visit The Similan Islands from October 16 to May 15, when the national park is open to visitors.

When you go on a trip to the Similan Islands, you'll take a yacht, either a speedboat or a catamaran. The speedboat ride takes about 1.5 hours from the starting point on Thap Lamu Pier to the first stop near the Similan islands.

If you get motion sickness, eating a light breakfast and taking motion sickness tablets about 30 minutes before you get on the boat is a good idea.

Here are some convenient options to get to the Similan Islands:

1. tours to Similan Islands from Khao Lak - Khao Lak, as it's the closest town to the islands. The shortest distance makes the trip cheaper and quicker.
2. tours to Similans from Phuket - includes transportation from your hotel on Phuket to Thap Lamu Pier. It takes about an hour to reach the pier.
3. tours from hotels in Krabi - with a transfer to Thap Lamu Pier, which takes roughly 1.5 hours.

What you should know about tours to the Similans

Tours to the Similan Islands includes a transfer to the islands and an program along the most beautiful beaches and bays of the Similans:

• transfer from the hotel to the pier Thap Lamu Pier near Khao Lak and back to your hotel on the island of Phuket, in Krabi or Khao Lak,
• rental of snorkelling equipment (is essential if you want to sea the fish, corals and turtles),
• a tour of three to four islands with stops to swim or climb to the viewpoint,
• lunch and refreshments.

Tours to Similans from Khao Lak / Phuket >>>

Tours to Similans from Krabi >>>

What to take with you on an tours to the Similan Islands

You should take with you on your trip to Similans:

• swimsuit and towel,
• sunscreen (waterproof),
• hat and sunglasses,
• motion sickness pills (must be taken 15-20 minutes before boarding the boat),
• spray or cream against mosquitoes (these bloodsuckers can bite even at noon if you decide to have lunch in a shady place).

The Similan Islands are home to many fish and corals, and it's common to spot turtles while snorkelling. Bring a mask, fins, and snorkel to appreciate the underwater beauty fully. If you don't have your gear, you can rent a mask, snorkel, and fins on the shore of Khao Lak before boarding the boat.

For those who may not be confident swimmers, life jackets are available on all tours boats, allowing everyone to enjoy snorkelling safely.

If you are prone to sunburn, consider wearing a long-sleeved shirt while swimming to protect your skin.

Remember to bring your shoes to the beach. The path leading to the most beautiful viewpoint is covered with thorny branches, sticks, and leaves, so footwear is essential.

Is it worth going on a tour to the Similans with children

It is not worth going with small children.

The road to the Similans is tiring, even for adults.

It is better to go with children to the Koh Racha or on a tour to James Bond Island.

Reviews of the islands and tours to the Similans

Reviews from tourists about trips to the Similan Islands are overwhelmingly positive despite the large number of visitors and the exhausting journey required to reach the islands.

The stunningly clear sea, pristine white sand, granite rocks, and lush tropical vegetation leave you in awe. You desire to absorb this beauty and cherish it for a lifetime.

Without a doubt, Similan is one of the most beautiful places in Thailand. That is why I recommend all my friends to go on this tours.

With proper trip preparation, a great experience in Similan and fantastic photos are almost guaranteed.

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