Phuket Island Guide: Similan Islands

The Similan Islands can be found 84 km northwest of Patong Beach, and the contrast between the 2 places could not be greater! Despite both being beautiful stretches of land, the Similan Islands are part of a national park which was established in 1982. The beautiful natural spaces are one of the reasons many people buy a house in Phuket, and the Similan Islands are perhaps one of the greatest examples of this. Included in the ‘top 10 most interesting dive areas in the world’, the clear blue waters, huge boulders scattering the beaches and sparkling white sand make this idyll a must see. Include in this the fact that you can often find an element of seclusion and serenity lacking in Patong, and you have paradise!

The Similan Islands consist of nine granite islands named Ko Bon, Ko Bayu, Ko Similan, Ko Payu, Ko Miang (two adjoining islands), Ko Payan, Ko Payang, and Ko Huyong, Ko Bon and Ko Tachai. 3 of the islands are closed to the public due to turtle hatching protection program and reef conservation programmes and fishing is also banned.

The main wonder of the Islands is the diving opportunities. The diving season for the Similan Islands is from mid/late October through to early May. Some of the most stunning coral growths in the world can be found here, thanks to the sheer variety of marine creatures including leopard sharks, guitar rays, whale sharks, manta rays and turtles. The same boulders that lie on the beaches can also be found under the water, that alongside caves and narrow passage shave created a world class diving experience.

The Similan islands are accessible by boat from many points along the n north-west coast of Phuket, including Naithon Beach, home to Vista del Mar Phuket luxury sea view villas.