The Similian Islands are just 84kms away from Phuket, but they are in a completely different league to the crowded beaches of Patong and Karon. They are one of the most beautiful archipelagos in the whole of the Andaman Sea and just one hour away from Phuket!

The Similians are among the top 10 dive sites in the world (which is no mean feat) and while they do not boast as dramatic scenes as some of the islands of Krabi or Phang Nga Bay, they are beautiful and are home to a wealth of sea life. Each island is covered in pristine forest, have deserted white sandy beaches and an abundance of wildlife. Beauty oozes from these islands; both in and out of the water.

They are home to crab-eating monkeys, dusky langurs, squirrels, lizards, bats and an enormous selection of birds. Several of the islands have huge boulders which jot out of the sea and form small bays which offer ideal snorkelling opportunities. Some of the most beautiful coral formation lie beneath the water, which unlike others in Thailand’s waters, are perfectly preserved and provide stunning sights for everyone who dives here.

What to do

Diving
Diving is the main reason that people visit the Similian Islands and as most islands are uninhabited, the best way to fully appreciate everything on offer is to enjoy a live-in tour, where you will stay in a dive boat for as long as your tour is booked for. Tours are available from one day to one week and everything on board is provided, including, sleeping areas, food, water and bathrooms. There is so much to see that you might decide that you would like to take a couple of days to explore the underwater and jungle world of this stunning group of islands.  

Highlights include over 200 species of hard coral, the largest collection of reef fish in Thailand’s waters, underwater caves and rocks, enormous sea fans, barrel sponges, sharks, rays, an abundance of other marine life and many shallow areas which are perfect for snorkelling.

Other activities
Other activities popular in and around the Similian islands include sailing, hiking and fishing. All tours (daytrips and longer) can be booked from travel agents in Phuket and all organised tours will include hotel transfers, boats to and from the islands, food and equipment.

How to get there

Dive boats leave for the Similians every day from Phuket and take about one hour to reach the islands. Speed boats can be chartered and are much quicker and it is even possible to charter a sailing boat or yacht. However, you should ensure that you have prior sailing experience before embarking on a trip across open water. Sailing will of course take longer, the time obviously depends on the strength of the wind, but if you are not short on time, this is an excellent and very relaxing way to travel. Prices depend on the type of tour, how long you will be staying and what your planned activites will be.

A trip to the Similian Islands will certainly be one to remember and a unique experience unlike anything else in Thailand.