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Weather in Similan Islands
Pristine national park of world-class diving reefs
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About Similan Islands
This pristine national park archipelago rises from the Andaman Sea as Thailand's premier diving destination, where granite boulders create dramatic underwater formations and coral gardens teem with tropical fish. Minimal development preserves the islands' natural state—accessed only by liveaboard boats to limit impact. The underwater scenery rivals surface beauty.
Best months to visit
January, February, March
Things to do in Similan Islands
Dive world-class coral gardens and reefs
Explore dramatic granite boulder formations underwater
Photograph tropical fish and marine life
Snorkel pristine shallow reefs
Camp on island beaches accessed by boat
Take liveaboard diving expeditions
Weather by month
Click any month for detailed weather information and travel tips.
Recommended
January
28C
Warm and pleasant, with occasional showers.
Recommended
February
28C
Warm and pleasant, with occasional showers.
Recommended
March
29C
Warm and pleasant, with occasional showers.
April
29C
Warm and pleasant, with regular rainfall.
May
29C
Warm and pleasant, with frequent heavy rain.
June
29C
Warm and pleasant, with frequent heavy rain.
July
29C
Warm and pleasant, with frequent heavy rain.
August
28C
Warm and pleasant, with frequent heavy rain.
September
28C
Warm and pleasant, with frequent heavy rain.
October
28C
Warm and pleasant, with frequent heavy rain.
November
28C
Warm and pleasant, with frequent heavy rain.
December
28C
Warm and pleasant, with some rainy days.
The Similan Islands are a remote chain of granite-boulder islands in the Andaman Sea, protected as a national park and ranked among the world's top diving and snorkelling destinations. Crystal-clear water, powder-white beaches and abundant marine life make them a highlight for liveaboard dive trips and day excursions from Khao Lak or Phuket.
Best areas to stay in Similan Islands
Island 8 (Similan Island)
The largest island, known for its viewpoint over giant granite boulders and Donald Duck Bay.
Island 4 (Koh Miang)
Home to the park's main ranger station, a visitor centre and popular beaches.
Khao Lak
The main mainland gateway town for boat departures, with hotels and dive operators.
Surrounding Dive Sites
Numerous offshore dive sites known for granite boulder formations and marine life.
Getting to Similan Islands
✈
Flights
Phuket International Airport is the main gateway, around 1.5-2 hours from Khao Lak by road.
⏱
From London
~12-13 hours direct from London to Phuket, then onward by road and boat to the Similan Islands.
🚕
Getting around
Speedboats and liveaboard dive boats are the only way to reach and explore the islands.
Frequently asked questions
When can I visit the Similan Islands?
The park is typically open from mid-October to mid-May and closed during the monsoon season to allow the ecosystem to recover.
How do I get to the Similan Islands?
Speedboat day trips run from Khao Lak (the closest port) and Phuket; multi-day liveaboard dive boats also depart from these areas.
Is camping allowed on the islands?
Limited camping and basic accommodation have historically been available on some islands, though availability varies by season and park regulations.
What marine life might I see?
Manta rays, reef sharks, turtles and colourful coral reefs are commonly seen, especially on dive sites around the deeper boulder formations.
Is the Similan Islands trip suitable for non-divers?
Yes - snorkelling is excellent and many day trips cater to both divers and snorkellers, with beach time included.
Traveler reviews
★★★★★
Some of the clearest water I've ever snorkelled in - the boulder formations both above and below the surface were incredible.
Freya N. · February 2024
★★★★★
Did a 3-day liveaboard and saw manta rays on two separate dives. The islands themselves are stunning, with that classic powder-white sand.
Marcus L. · March 2023
★★★★☆
Long day from Khao Lak but worth it - the viewpoint on Island 8 over the bay below is one of the best views in Thailand.
Pim K. · April 2024
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