In short
- Reef-safe sunscreen is mandatory by law.
- Bring a 10-20 liter dry bag for boat rides.
- A passport or copy is required for entry.
In this article
Your Similan Islands packing list must account for national park regulations and the realities of a 70 to 90-minute speedboat crossing. Rangers strictly enforce bans on certain chemicals and plastics. Preparing the right gear ensures you stay comfortable and avoid fines.
What items are mandatory for Similan Islands entry?
You must bring reef-safe sunscreen and a passport or certified copy.
National park staff verify passports at the pier before you board. You also need sunscreen free of oxybenzone, octinoxate, 4-MBC, and butylparaben. Violating the sunscreen ban can result in fines up to 100,000 THB. Single-use plastics are strictly banned in the park.
What should you pack for the speedboat ride?
Pack a 10-20 liter dry bag and take motion sickness medication 30 minutes before boarding.
Speedboats move fast and spray water. A dry bag protects your phone and valuables. A waterproof phone pouch is also useful for taking photos safely. Bring a hat with a chin strap and sunglasses to block the wind during the boat ride from Khao Lak.
What should you wear to the Similan Islands?
Wear light moisture-wicking layers and secure, grippy footwear.
Pickups from Phuket start as early as 5:30 AM. Light layers keep you warm before the sun rises. Secure shoes with good grip are necessary if you climb the wooden stairs and slippery rocks on the trail to Sailing Rock.
What do you need for snorkeling and the beach?
Bring a quick-dry microfiber towel and your reef-safe sunscreen.
Most tours provide snorkeling masks and life jackets. A microfiber towel dries fast and takes up minimal space in your dry bag. You should also bring a small amount of cash in Thai Baht for tips or snacks at the pier.
What is banned on a Similan Islands tour?
Do not bring single-use plastics, banned sunscreens, or drones without a permit.
Foam containers and plastic bags are banned across all Thai National Parks. Drones are prohibited unless you secure prior permission from the national park authorities. Overnight bags are unnecessary, as overnight stays on the islands have been prohibited since 2018.
Questions travellers ask
Can I fly a drone on the Similan Islands?
No. Drones are prohibited without prior permission from the national park authorities.
Which sunscreen is allowed in Thailand national parks?
Only reef-safe sunscreen is permitted by law. It must not contain oxybenzone, octinoxate, 4-MBC, or butylparaben. Fines for banned sunscreen reach up to 100,000 THB.
Do I need to bring my passport?
Yes. You must bring your passport or a certified digital or printed copy for national park entry checks at the pier.
