Islands in Mu Ko Similan National Park
- Koh Bon: Located north of the main Similan Islands. This island is a popular spot for diving and is especially known for sightings of manta rays.
- Koh Tachai: This island is considered as a hidden gem, and is famous for its beautiful beach and vibrant underwater life. Koh Tachai is not close to Koh Similan, situated around 50 kilometers to the north.
- Koh Payu: is another excellent diving spot, offering a rich underwater landscape with coral reefs and a variety of marine life.
- Koh Miang: This island is home to the national park’s main headquarters and is offering some accommodation options (Tented style) belonging to the national park. It’s known for its beautiful beaches and is a popular stop on island-hopping tours.
- Koh Haa and Koh Hok: These islands are smaller but offer great opportunities for snorkeling and diving.
- Koh Bangu: This island is another diving hotspot within the national park, known for its interesting underwater rock formations.
- Koh Similan: The largest island in the group, it’s famous for its iconic Donald Duck Bay (Ao Kuerk Bucht) and offers some of the best viewpoints.
Things to do in Similan islands
There are several things that can be done and explored during Similan islands tours. The most iconic one is Diving and snorkeling, however, there are other amazing things to be done as well as per the below details:
- Donald Duck Bay (Ao Guerk): This place is the most iconic spot on the island. It gained its name due to the rock formation that resembles the famous Disney character. It’s a popular spot for photos and offers a beautiful beach and great snorkeling opportunities.
- Snorkeling and Diving: The waters around Similan Island are crystal clear, making them ideal for snorkeling and diving. The marine life is diverse, including a wide range of tropical fish, coral reefs, and occasionally larger species like sharks and rays.
- Beaches: The island has some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand, with white sand and turquoise waters. These beaches are perfect for relaxation and swimming.
- Viewpoints: There are several viewpoints on the island offering breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea and the surrounding islands. The most famous is the viewpoint above Donald Duck Bay. This viewpoint provides a panoramic view of the bay and its unique rock formations.
- Nature Trails: For those who want to enjoy a bit of adventure, there are nature trails through the island’s lush forests that can be explored. These trails offer a chance to explore flora and fauna of the island.
- Camping and Accommodation: Accommodation options are limited in similan islands. However, there are facilities for camping, which can be an attractive option for those wanting to experience the island’s natural beauty overnight.
Marine Life that can be spotted during Similan islands tours
Snorkeling tours in the Similan Islands offer the opportunity to witness a rich and diverse array of marine life in their natural habitat. The national park is home to many species, making it one of the best spots in Thailand for snorkeling and diving. Below is a list of some of the marine life you might spot during a snorkeling tour in the Similan Islands:
- Coral Reefs: The reefs around similan island exist with a variety of hard and soft corals, creating a vibrant and unique underwater landscape.
- Tropical Fish: Snorkelers and divers can expect to see a wide variety of tropical fishes, including clownfish (Nemo), parrotfish, lionfish, butterflyfish, angelfish, and more.
- Moray Eels: These creatures are often found hiding in small caves within the coral reefs.
- Sea Turtles: Hawksbill and Green Sea Turtles are living in the waters around the Similan Islands.
- Reef Sharks: Blacktip and Whitetip Reef Sharks are commonly spotted in Mu Ko similan national park. They are usually seen cruising along the reefs.
- Manta Rays and Eagle Rays: It’s not very common to spot these lovely creatures, however they are occasionally seen by snorkelers in the Similan Islands.
- Octopuses and Squid: When Snorkeling or diving during a tour to Similan island, you can spot these magnificent, intelligent creatures while changing their colors and textures.
- Nudibranchs: These are small and colorful sea slugs known for their striking forms.
- Starfish and Sea Urchins: Various types of starfish and sea urchins can be found along the seabed or on the coral reefs.
- Barracudas: Barracudas are sometimes seen, especially around deeper reefs or drop-offs, usually spotted during diving expeditions.
- Anemones and Anemonefish: Anemones are considered as the homes for the anemonefish. One of the most popular types of the Anemonefish is the famous Nemo Fish.
- Giant Clams: These large mollusks with vibrant mantles are a beautiful sight on the reefs.
- Jellyfish: Different species of jellyfish can be spotted around Similan islands. They are usually harmless to snorkelers but it’s always recommended to observe from a distance for safety reasons.
- Batfish: These curious fishes can also be found while snorkeling during Similan islands tours.
Wildlife on Similan island
In addition to the Marine life, you can also spot some amazing wildlife when visiting Similan islands. There are both mammals and reptiles living on these islands, but they are usually less noticed compared to marine life. Below are some of the mammals and reptiles you might encounter when visiting Similan islands :
Mammals found on Similan island
- Flying Foxes: These are the most noticeable mammals on the islands. They are very active during dusk and dawn, therefore it’s usually spotted by visitors overnighting on the island.
- Rodent Species: There are several rodent Species living on Similan islands. This includes different types of mice and rats, which are common in such island ecosystems.
- Lesser Mouse-Deer: Spotting this beautiful creature is not common as they are usually present in the dense forests of the islands.
Reptiles found on Similan island
- Monitor Lizards: These large lizards are common on the islands. Visitors can often see them roaming the beaches or in the forested areas.
- Geckos: Same as many other destinations in Thailand, Various species of geckos can be found, particularly around human habitation areas.
- Snakes: There are several species of snakes living in this national park, however they are not commonly seen. If you get the chance to meet one, It’s important to be cautious and keep a distance for safety.
- Turtles: Sea turtles are more commonly associated with the marine environment. However, they do come ashore as well and can be found lying or moving on the soft white sands along the beaches of Similan islands.
Other Wildlife
- Birds: The islands are also home to a variety of bird species, including sea eagles, kingfishers, and sunbirds. Many of these birds migrate from other nearby countries in different seasons.
- Insects and Arthropods: A variety of insects, including butterflies and dragonflies add to the biodiversity of the islands.
