Scuba diving around the Similan & Surin Islands
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Similan Islands and the Surin Islands, two pristine island groups in the Andaman Sea. The Similan Islands consist of 9 islands, while the Surin Islands feature 5, designated as protected marine parks. Nestled Northwest of Phuket near the Myanmar border, these untouched islands have avoided commercial development and offer some of the world's best diving.
Experience why liveaboard diving around the Similan and Surin Islands ranks among the Top 10 dive destinations globally. Below, you’ll find a selection of the top liveaboards in Thailand, ready to take you to the most spectacular dive sites within the Similan and Surin Marine National Park
The Similan Islands—a stunning group of nine islands—are renowned as one of the world’s top ten dive destinations, celebrated for their diverse marine life. This pristine marine park includes:
- Koh Bon
- Koh Bayu
- Koh Similan
- Koh Payu
- Koh Miang (two adjoining islands)
- Koh Payan
- Koh Payang
- Koh Huyong
Each island offers unique underwater experiences, showcasing vibrant coral reefs, abundant marine species, and crystal-clear waters. Dive into this breathtaking underwater world and explore why these islands are truly world-class dive spots!
Immerse yourself in the wonder of the Similan Islands, where coral walls and deep dives reveal a breathtaking underwater landscape. Picture yourself exploring vast fields of huge sea fans, barrel sponges, and schools of big fish. The underwater topography is equally spectacular, featuring massive granite boulders that create an intricate maze of swim-throughs, canyons, archways, and caves stretching from the surface down to 40 meters (132 ft.).
The Similan Islands are renowned for their rich diversity of reef fish, and the area is a hotspot for deep-water creatures like manta rays and whale sharks, especially from February to early May when nutrient-rich waters lead to plankton blooms. Enjoy visibility that ranges between 15 and 40 meters (50 - 132 ft.), and soak in the beauty of shallow coral and white sandy beaches—perfect for snorkeling or lounging under the sun.
Dive sites like Boulder City, Fantasea Reef, Deep Six, and Elephant Head are just a few of the incredible spots waiting to be explored at the Similan Islands.
The Surin Islands consist of five stunning islands: Koh Surin Nua, Koh Surin Tai, Koh Ri, Koh Kai, and Koh Klang. Among these, Koh Surin Nua and Koh Surin Tai are the main islands, offering diverse and breathtaking dive experiences.
The Surin National Park is renowned for housing one of the most famous dive sites globally, Richelieu Rock. This exceptional site is celebrated for its rich marine life and vibrant coral formations. Beyond diving, the Surin Islands boast pristine reefs, providing some of the best snorkeling opportunities in Thailand. Explore these islands to experience an underwater paradise like no other