In short
- Similan has iconic white beaches and large rock formations.
- Surin offers richer shallow-water snorkeling.
- Both parks are strictly closed from May 16 to October 14.
In this article
Both island groups sit in the Andaman Sea and require a speedboat trip from the mainland. The Similan Islands draw visitors for their white powder-sand beaches and deep-water snorkeling. The Surin Islands are better known for shallow coral gardens and the local Moken sea gypsy village.
What is the difference between Similan and Surin Islands?
Similan is famous for its large granite boulders and white sand beaches, while Surin is known for shallow coral reefs and a Moken village.
The Similan Islands feature 11 granite islands with prominent landmarks like Sailing Rock on Koh Similan. Surin lacks the large granite beaches found at Similan. Instead, it offers easier access to shallow coral reefs and a chance to visit a local Moken village.
| Feature | Similan Islands | Surin Islands |
|---|---|---|
| Landscape | Granite boulders and white sand | Shallow coral reefs |
| Culture | Uninhabited park islands | Moken village experience |
Which islands have better snorkeling?
Surin Islands offer richer, shallower coral reefs, while the Similan Islands feature deeper waters with large boulders.
At the Similan Islands, you will snorkel around dramatic underwater rock formations at sites like Christmas Point on Koh Ba Ngu. You might spot sea turtles and reef sharks in the deeper blue areas. The Surin Islands provide extensive shallow coral gardens that are easier for beginners to explore.
Which park has better beaches?
The Similan Islands have superior, wide white-sand beaches compared to the Surin Islands.
If your goal is to relax on the sand, choose the Similans. Koh Miang Beaches features Princess Bay and Honeymoon Beach. Both offer exceptionally soft, white sand. Koh Similan is home to Donald Duck Bay, a beautiful turquoise bay ideal for swimming.
How do you get to the Similan and Surin Islands?
Both require a speedboat or catamaran trip, typically departing from Khao Lak.
The speedboat crossing to the Similan Islands takes 70 to 90 minutes from Thap Lamu Pier in Khao Lak. The distance is approximately 65 to 70 kilometers. Both parks mandate strict environmental rules. This includes a ban on single-use plastics and the required use of reef-safe sunscreen.
Are both island groups open all year?
No. Both the Similan and Surin marine parks are closed for half the year.
The Similan Islands are open exclusively from October 15 to May 15 annually. The national park is strictly closed to all visitors outside these dates. The best months for calm seas and good underwater visibility are February to April.
Which islands are more crowded?
The Similan Islands attract more visitors, though daily caps are in place.
The Similan Islands cap daily visitors at 3,850 people per day. Because of their popularity and accessibility, central spots like Donald Duck Bay experience significant crowds during peak hours. Surin generally sees fewer daily visitors.
Questions travellers ask
Can I stay overnight on the Similan Islands?
No. Overnight stays on the Similan Islands are strictly prohibited. You must visit on a day trip or stay on a liveaboard boat moored offshore.
What is the national park fee for the Similan Islands?
The entry fee is 500 THB for foreign adults and 250 THB for foreign children ages 3 to 14. Thai citizens pay 100 THB for adults and 50 THB for children.
Which sunscreen is allowed in Thailand national parks?
Only reef-safe sunscreen is permitted. Your sunscreen must not contain oxybenzone, octinoxate, 4-MBC, or butylparaben. Violators face fines up to 100,000 THB.
