In short
- Phuket hotel pickups start as early as 5:30 AM.
- Expect 2 hours by road plus 1.5 hours by boat each way.
- Khao Lak hotels are much closer to the departure pier.
In this article
Many travelers try to visit the Similan Islands while staying in Phuket. The journey is possible, but it takes up a massive portion of your day. You need to understand the distances involved before you book a tour.
How long does it take from Phuket to the Similan Islands?
The total one-way journey from Phuket takes about 3.5 to 4 hours.
You first need to drive from Phuket to Thap Lamu Pier in Khao Lak. This overland transfer takes 1.5 to 2 hours. From the pier, the speedboat crossing to the islands takes another 70 to 90 minutes. You will do this exact same trip in reverse at the end of the day.
When do Phuket hotel pickups start?
Minivans begin collecting passengers in Phuket as early as 5:30 AM.
Because the speedboats depart from Khao Lak around 8:00 AM or 9:00 AM, Phuket travelers must leave early. You will spend the first two hours of your day in a shared transfer vehicle. Many visitors note that the long transit makes the trip feel rushed.
Is it better to go to Similan Islands from Phuket or Khao Lak?
Khao Lak is the best base for a Similan Islands trip.
Thap Lamu Pier is located in Khao Lak. If you stay in a Khao Lak hotel, your morning pickup might be at 7:30 AM instead of 5:30 AM. You skip the long morning and evening highway drives entirely.
Does a catamaran make the Phuket trip easier?
A large power catamaran offers a smoother ride than a speedboat, which helps if you are prone to seasickness.
You still face the long 2-hour drive from Phuket to the pier. However, the 70 to 90-minute sea crossing is more comfortable on a catamaran. Some premium tours use double-deck catamarans to provide more space during the long day.
How much is a day trip from Phuket?
A group tour from Phuket or Khao Lak typically costs 2,800 to 4,500 THB per adult.
This price usually covers hotel transfers, boat transport, snorkeling gear, and meals. Foreign adults also pay a 500 THB national park entry fee. Most operators include this fee in the final ticket price, but check the terms before booking.
Are the Similan Islands open all year for Phuket visitors?
No, the marine park is strictly closed from May 16 to October 14.
You can only visit between October 15 and May 15. If you visit Phuket during the summer months, no boats will travel to the Similan Islands. The best months for calm seas are February to April.
Questions travellers ask
Can you stay overnight on the Similan Islands?
No. Overnight stays on the islands are strictly prohibited. The rule changed in 2018. Only visitors on liveaboard diving boats moored offshore can stay overnight.
What should I pack for the long trip?
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a dry bag for valuables, and motion sickness medication. You must also bring your passport or a certified copy for national park entry checks.
Is the boat ride bumpy?
The 70 to 90-minute speedboat crossing can be choppy. Take motion sickness medication 30 minutes before boarding. If you worry about seasickness, book a catamaran tour instead.
