Grand Mercure Khao Lak Bangsak - Upscale hotels & resorts

The Similan Islands are one of Thailand’s most stunning marine parks and a highlight among Khao Lak destinations. Just a short boat ride from the mainland, these islands are famed for their turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and colorful coral reefs. Whether you come for snorkeling, diving, or simply to enjoy the natural beauty, the Similan Islands promise an unforgettable escape that belongs on every traveler’s list of things to do in Khao Lak.

Things to Know About the Similan Islands

The Similan Islands are often described as the crown jewel of Khao Lak destinations. About 70 kilometers off the coast of Phang Nga, this small archipelago sits in the Andaman Sea and forms part of Mu Ko Similan National Park. Travelers come here for the turquoise waters, the fine white sand, and the marine life that thrives beneath the surface. If you are mapping out things to do in Khao Lak, a day trip to these islands is an experience you should not miss.

History of the Similan Islands

The name “Similan” comes from the Yawi word for “nine,” a reference to the nine islands that made up the original park. Two more were later added, bringing the total to eleven. In 1982, the government declared the area a national park, protecting both its coral reefs and tropical forests.

Unlike many Thai islands that rise from limestone, the Similan Islands are granite. Over millions of years, wind and water carved the rocks into dramatic shapes, both above the sea and below. Divers often describe the thrill of swimming through arches, tunnels, and underwater caves formed by these massive boulders.

Guides like to share small but fascinating details about the ecosystem. Parrotfish, for example, nibble at coral and excrete fine white sand, a process that helps shape the silky beaches you see today.

The park is open to visitors only from mid-October until mid-May. It closes during the monsoon so the reefs can recover and wildlife can flourish. This cycle of rest has helped keep the islands pristine.

In 2004, the tsunami struck here as well. The surge was strong, but nature has proven resilient. Today, corals and fish still thrive, a reminder of the importance of conservation.

Best Time to Visit the Similan Islands (Tourist Season) 

The best time to visit the Similan Islands is during the dry season, from December to April. This period is considered the peak tourist season, when the weather is generally pleasant, the sea is calm, and the skies are clear and bright. These ideal conditions make it perfect for water activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the islands’ world-class marine life.

However, the Similan Islands are closed during the rainy season, which runs from May to mid-November. This annual closure allows for marine ecosystem restoration and ensures visitor safety, as this period also coincides with the monsoon season, when sea conditions can be rough and unpredictable.

For travelers looking to visit the Similan Islands while avoiding large crowds, the best time is from late November to early May. That said, weather conditions during this shoulder period can still be somewhat unpredictable, and sunny skies may not be guaranteed every day.

How to get from Khao Lak to Similan Islands

Choosing the right time to travel is essential to fully experience the natural beauty of the Similan Islands, ensuring favorable weather conditions, safety, and the best overall travel experience.

• Traveling from Phuket, visitors can also travel to the Similan Islands by boat from Phuket. However, the distance is relatively longer, and the journey usually takes more time compared to departing from Khao Lak.
• Traveling from Khao Lak (Highly Recommended) The most convenient and popular way to reach the Similan Islands is from Khao Lak, which is considered the main gateway to the islands. Located just north of Phuket, Khao Lak can be reached by car in approximately 1.5–2 hours from Phuket International Airport.
• Boat Transfer from Thap Lamu Pier. From Khao Lak, travelers can take a boat from Thap Lamu Pier, which operates daily during the tourist season. The journey to the Similan Islands by speed boat takes approximately 75 minutes, making it the fastest and most efficient option.
• Liveaboard Diving Trips Another popular option is a liveaboard diving trip, where guests stay overnight on a dive boat. This option is ideal for divers who want to explore the Similan Islands over several days and access a wider variety of dive sites while enjoying an immersive marine experience.

What to Do in the Similan Islands

Snorkeling and Diving Adventures

The Similan Islands are a diver’s dream. More than 200 types of hard coral cover the reefs, while schools of colorful fish swim in the clear water. Manta rays, reef sharks, and sea turtles are often spotted here. For divers, the granite formations create dramatic drop-offs, caverns, and swim-throughs that make every descent memorable.

Beaches and Viewpoints

Donald Duck Bay, with its cartoon-shaped rock, is one of the most photographed spots in the islands. Its shallow waters are perfect for snorkeling. A short hike leads to Sailing Boat Rock, the best viewpoint in the park. From the top, the sea spreads out in every shade of blue, dotted with islands on the horizon.

Island Walks and Nature Trails

Ko Miang offers a different pace. The wide beach is ideal for a stroll, and forest trails reveal another side of the ecosystem. Walk quietly, and you may see tropical birds, hermit crabs, and butterflies. It’s a refreshing way to balance time in the water with a touch of jungle atmosphere.

Lesser-Known Reefs and Quiet Spots

Not every reef is crowded. Some local guides know smaller sites where fewer boats anchor. These places give you more space to swim and a calmer atmosphere. It feels more personal, almost like a secret shared with only a few.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

Boats to the Similan Islands leave from Thap Lamu Pier, just south of Khao Lak. A speedboat makes the journey in about 90 minutes. If you stay at Grand Mercure Khao Lak Bangsak, you are close enough to enjoy a relaxed morning before departure and still return in time for an evening by the pool or beach.

Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, drinking water, and a dry bag. The sun is strong, and protecting your skin also means protecting the reefs. Follow your guide’s instructions, and you will enjoy the islands while leaving them as beautiful as you found them.

Where to Stay Near the Similan Islands

Most travelers base themselves in Khao Lak, which is the closest coastal town to the Similan Islands. Here you’ll find resorts, restaurants, and easy access to tour operators.

For those seeking both comfort and authenticity, Grand Mercure Khao Lak Bangsak makes an ideal choice. The resort blends Southern Thai design with modern style, creating a setting that feels both welcoming and refined. Rooms overlook lush gardens and lagoon-style pools, while a short walk takes you directly to the sands of Bangsak Beach.

The resort is perfect for all travelers; families will appreciate the calm atmosphere and dedicated activities for children. Couples can enjoy quiet corners, sunset views, and beachside dining. After a full day exploring the Similan Islands, returning to this resort is the perfect way to unwind.

The Similan Islands are more than just a beautiful postcard. They carry history, culture, and a fragile ecosystem that thrives under careful protection. From snorkeling among vibrant reefs to climbing viewpoints with endless horizons, the experience leaves lasting memories. Paired with a stay at Grand Mercure Khao Lak Bangsak, your journey becomes a balance of adventure and relaxation—a true taste of what makes Khao Lak one of Thailand’s most treasured destinations.

FAQs Similan Islands​

Q: Why is Khao Lak a good base for visiting the Similan Islands?

A: Khao Lak is one of the closest mainland destinations to the Similan Islands, offering easy access to piers, less crowded beaches, and luxury beachfront resorts such as Grand Mercure Khao Lak Bangsak.

Q: Are the Similan Islands open all year round?

A: No, the Similan Islands are not open year-round. The islands are closed annually from May to mid-November to protect the marine ecosystem and ensure visitor safety during the monsoon season.

Q: What activities or special programs are available for hotel guests?

A: Grand Mercure Khao Lak Bangsak offers a variety of activities and special programs designed to enhance guests’ stay. For the latest activities, schedules, and special programs during your stay, please visit the hotel’s official website or contact the hotel.