איי סימילאן

The islands are generally open to visitors in the dry season, roughly from mid-October to mid-May. During the rainy season the park is normally closed because of rough seas.

• Ko Similan is the largest island in the group, with a beach and a viewpoint.
• Elephant Head is a well-known dive site with large granite boulders.
• Shark Fin Reef is a dive site known for marine life.
• Koh Tachai Pinnacle is a dive site near Koh Tachai.

• Diving: Dive among granite boulders.
• Snorkeling: Float over clear water.
• Beach time: Relax on white sand.

• Day boat trips: speedboats run from the mainland.
• Liveaboard trips: multi-day diving cruises.

• Khao Lak is the main mainland base.
• Phang Nga Bay is a limestone bay to the east.

• By boat: Boats leave from piers near Khao Lak.
• By air: Fly to Phuket and continue by road.

• Boat: The only way between islands.
• Walking: Short trails on some islands.

• Is a car worth it?: Not on the islands, but useful for reaching the pier.
• Driving side: Traffic drives on the left.

Meals on boat trips are usually simple Thai dishes. Restaurants in Khao Lak serve fresh seafood.

• Sea conditions: Check weather before sailing.
• Reef care: Do not touch coral or wildlife.
• Sun: Bring sunscreen.
• Royal family: Do not speak or write badly about the monarchy. It is a serious crime in Thailand.

The islands are protected as a national park, and numbers of visitors are managed to protect the reefs.

Quick practical facts for Thailand at a glance: