Visit the Similan Islands: The archipelago of the Similan Islands lies in the Andaman Sea roughly 70 kilometres west of Phuket island, this marine-park wonder is open to visitors annually from 15 October to 15 May. Whether you’re drawn by snorkeling, diving or the islands pristine beaches, natural beauty and clear water, you’ll find several ways to visit the Similan Islands. Below we’ve outlined the main options, helping you decide how best to tailor your trip with us at phuketexplore.com
Visit the Similan Islands – The Visiting Options
1. Private Speedboat Day Trips
For those staying around Phuket, the easiest way to visit the Similan Islands in one long day is via a private twin-engine speedboat. Departing from a marina in Phuket, you can reach the islands in roughly two hours. This choice offers flexibility and relative seclusion: you can snorkel over vibrant coral, lounge on white-sand beaches and hike to scenic viewpoints on your own schedule. It’s important to remember the ferry distances—sailing catamarans or relaxed motor yachts are not typically available for day-trip access to the Similans due to the travel time involved.
See our detailed trip option here: Private Speedboat to Similan Islands
2. Join-On Group Speedboat Tours from Khao Lak
Another regular method to visit the Similan Islands is to join a group tour departing from Thap Lamu Pier (in the Khao Lak area). From the south of Phuket this means a roughly two-hour taxi ride, then about a 90-minute speedboat journey to the islands. The tours typically include multiple snorkeling stops, a beach visit, maybe a viewpoint walk, lunch and refreshments. The trade-off is less flexibility and more crowding: boats are often near capacity during peak season.
3. Liveaboard Trips – A Multi-Day Experience
If you have more time, the best way to visit the Similan Islands is to stay overnight (or for several nights) on a liveaboard vessel. These trips cater to both divers and non-divers, with durations ranging from two nights to over a week. From snorkeling and kayaking to scuba diving around world-class sites, you’ll explore the islands with leisure, and arrive during the quieter parts of the day when day-boats have left. For certified divers especially, the Similan Islands (and nearby Surin Islands) are a bucket-list destination.
4. Tented Camps on the Islands
A more rustic option: stay in the tented camp or simple bungalows operated by the national park on the main island of the Similans. These packages usually include all meals, and you can select 2-day/1-night or 3-day/2-night stays. Waking up close to the beach and having first access to the quieter trails and viewpoints is a memorable way to experience the islands.
5. Luxury Multi-Day Yacht Charters
For ultimate comfort and freedom, you can charter a motor yacht or sailing catamaran for 5 days or more, exploring the Similan Islands and beyond (including the Surin Islands). These options deliver floating-hotel convenience, crewed service and high flexibility—ideal if you want to relax in style and avoid rigid schedules.
See our motor yacht option here: Motor Yachts
Important Practicalities & Rules
- The Similan Islands are closed to visitors annually from 16 May to 14 October for conservation and weather-safety reasons. thailand.prd.go.th
- All vessels entering the park must obtain permits in advance and adhere to park regulations. thainationalparks.com
- Jet-skis and motorised water-sports are prohibited in the national-park area to protect the marine ecosystem.
- Please do not touch or disturb corals, marine fauna, flora or any protected wildlife — everything helps in preserving the environment.
- Because the islands are remote and the season is limited, we recommend early booking, especially for overnight stays or liveaboards where space is restricted.
Which Option Should You Choose?
Choosing how to visit the Similan Islands depends on your timeframe, budget and preferences.
- If you have one full day and want the quickest route from Phuket, a private speedboat is your best option.
- If you’re travelling on a tighter budget or solo and don’t mind sharing with others, a join-on group tour works.
- If you have 2–3 nights, staying overnight on-island (tents or bungalows) offers a quieter experience.
- If you love diving or want a full immersion, a multi-day liveaboard is unbeatable.
- If luxury, exclusivity and comfort are your priorities, go for the private yacht charter.
No matter which route you take, the rewards are the same: turquoise waters, coral reefs, sandy beaches, granite boulders and abundant marine life. As one of Thailand’s most treasured natural destinations, the Similan Islands will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.
To plan your trip, explore our full range of tour options at phuketexplore.com and get in touch—let us help tailor your perfect visit.