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Similan Islands Location | Complete Guide

Address: Mu Ko Similan National Park, Phang Nga Province, Thailand
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Phuket

  • Distance from Phuket: ~84 km (52 mi) northwest
  • Time taken from Phuket: ~1.5–2 hours by speedboat from Thap Lamu Pier

Khao Lak

  • Distance from Khao Lak: 65 km (40 min) west
  • Time taken from Khao Lak: 70–90 minutes by speedboat from Thap Lamu Pier

Access: Boat only. Visitors travel via Khao Lak or Phuket, as the islands are marine protected and have no direct land connection.

Getting to Similan Islands by public transport

Catamaran docked at Similan Island beach with tourists boarding.

By Bus

  • Route: Phuket Bus Terminal → Phang Nga
  • Travel time: 4–5 hr
  • Fare: 250–350 THB
  • Transfer: Tuk-tuk or taxi to Thap Lamu Pier (10–15 min)
  • Best for: Budget travelers with flexible schedules

By Boat

  • Departure Point: Thap Lamu Pier
  • Duration: Around 1–1.5 hours by speedboat from the pier to the Similan Islands.
  • Frequency: Daily during the high season.
  • Best For: Visitors staying in Phuket who want a full-day boat tour to the Similan Island.
Speed boat docked for Similan Islands tour from Phuket.

By Bus

  • Route: Khao Lak Bus Stop → Takua Pa → Thap Lamu Pier
  • Travel time: 2–2.5 hr (short distance but infrequent buses)
  • Fare: 150–250 THB
  • Transfer: Local taxi or songthaew from Takua Pa to the pier (10–15 min)
  • Best for: Budget-conscious travelers or backpackers staying in Khao Lak

By Boat

  • Departure Point: Thap Lamu Pier (approximately 15–20 minutes from central Khao Lak)
  • Duration: Around 1–1.5 hours by speedboat from the pier to the Similan Islands.
  • Frequency: Daily departures during the open season (November to May).
  • Best For: Travelers based in Khao Lak who want the fastest and most convenient access to the Similan Islands.
Speed boat cruising towards Similan Island with lush green coastline in the background.

By Bus

  • Route: Krabi Bus Terminal → Takua Pa → Thap Lamu Pier
  • Travel time: 5–6 hr (includes transfers and short stops)
  • Fare: 300–400 THB
  • Transfer: Tuk-tuk or taxi from Takua Pa to Thap Lamu Pier (15–20 min)
  • Best for: Long-distance travelers heading to Similan Islands on a budget

By Boat

  • Departure Point: Thap Lamu Pier (approx. 2.5–3 hours from Krabi by road; most tours include early morning hotel transfer).
  • Duration: Around 1–1.5 hours by speedboat from the pier to the Similan Islands.
  • Frequency: Daily departures during the open season (November to May).
  • Best For: Travelers staying in Krabi who don’t mind a longer transfer for a full-day Similan Islands adventure.

Getting to the Similan Islands by car

Transfer cars parked

From Phuket

  • Route: Drive via Route 4 (Phetkasem Road) to Thap Lamu Pier.
  • Duration: ~2–2.5 hr from Phuket Town, ~1.5 hr from northern Phuket.
  • Parking: Available at Thap Lamu Pier.
  • Best For: Flexible travelers or groups wanting private, direct transfers.
  • Cons: Early morning start needed for boat departures; limited signage.
  • Tip: Many Similan tours from Phuket include hotel pickup and pier transfer.
Woman with suitcase waiting for transfer, taxis in background.

From Khao Lak

  • Route: Short drive via Route 4 from central Khao Lak to Thap Lamu Pier.
  • Duration: ~10–20 min depending on hotel location.
  • Parking: Available near the pier.
  • Best For: Visitors staying in Khao Lak seeking quick, easy access.
  • Cons: Early departures during peak season; confirm pickup in advance.
  • Tip: Most Khao Lak Similan tours include complimentary hotel transfers.
Family crossing road with parked taxis nearby.

From Krabi

  • Route: Drive north on Route 4 toward Takua Pa, then Thap Lamu Pier.
  • Duration: ~3–3.5 hr from Krabi Town; slightly longer from Ao Nang.
  • Parking: Available at Thap Lamu Pier.
  • Best For: Travelers coming from Krabi who want to connect overland to Similan.
  • Cons: Long journey; private car or shared van recommended for comfort.
  • Tip: Some operators offer combined Krabi–Similan transfer + speedboat packages.

Going from Phuket to Similan Islands: Speedboat vs Catamaran vs Ferry

Mode of transportTravel timeTimingsBest forDirections

Speedboat

1.5–2 hours (incl. transfer)

6:00–7:00am departures, return by 5:00pm

Saving time, snorkeling day trips

Included in most Similan island day tours from Phuket. Hotel pickup → transfer to Thap Lamu Pier → join shared or private speedboat

Catamaran

2–2.5 hours (incl. transfer)

6:00–7:00am departures, return by 5:00pm

Comfort, smooth ride, small groups

Great for families or those prone to motion sickness. Transfers included. Higher Similan island day tour price but more spacious seating.

Ferry

3.5–4 hours(incl. transfer)

Limited departures (seasonal)

Budget travelers, relaxed pace

Not a direct route — usually combines Phuket to Khao Lak ferry + local transfer. Slower but scenic; best booked via local Similan islands booking agents.

Going from Khao Lak to Similan Islands: Speedboat vs Catamaran vs Ferry

Mode of transportTravel timeTimingsBest For Directions

Speedboat

70–90 minutes

5:00–7:00am departures, return - 5:30pm

Fastest route, day trippers & snorkelers

Most popular Similan day trip from Khao Lak option. Includes hotel pickup, snorkeling gear, and meals. Ideal for limited time.

Catamaran

1.5–2 hours

6:40-8:30am departures, return - 5:30pm

Comfortable cruising, family groups

Smoother ride and shaded deck. Slightly higher price but excellent for a relaxing day

Ferry

3–3.5 hours

Few seasonal runs (Nov–Apr)

Budget travelers, off-peak option

Operates mainly during Similan Islands open season 2025. Best for travelers not in a rush. Expect fewer amenities than speedboats

Getting Around in the Similan Islands

  • Walking: Most beaches and viewpoints (like Sail Rock) are accessible on foot via marked trails.
  • Boat Transfers: Necessary between islands — included in most Similan day trips.
  • Snorkeling Zones: Coral Bay and Princess Bay have shallow entry points ideal for beginners.
  • No vehicles: The islands are protected zones with no internal transport; exploration is by foot or boat only.

FAQs

Where are the Similan Islands located?

The Similan Islands are a group of 11 islands in the Andaman Sea, about 70 km off the coast of Khao Lak in Phang Nga Province, Thailand. They’re part of Mu Ko Similan National Park.

What’s the cheapest way to get to the Similan Islands?

The cheapest route is by bus or car to Khao Lak, then a public ferry or shared speedboat from Thap Lamu Pier. Expect ~฿300–฿700 total cost.

What’s the fastest way to reach Similan Islands from Phuket?

A Similan Island tour from Phuket via speedboat takes only 1.5–2 hours and includes hotel transfers and snorkeling stops.

Is a guided tour worth it?

Yes. It simplifies how to go to Similan Islands, covers national park fees, gear, and transport, ideal for first-time visitors.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

Absolutely. Similan Islands tours from Phuket often sell out due to daily visitor caps; early Similan Islands booking is essential.

Can I stay overnight on the Similan Islands?

Only limited camping on Miang Island is allowed, but most visitors return to Phuket or Khao Lak after a one day trip Similan Islands.

Is it possible to travel to the Similan Islands independently?

No, independent travel isn’t allowed. The Similan Islands can only be accessed via approved tour operators with registered boats and guides.

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All screenshots of maps found on this page are sourced from Google in accordance with fair use. All rights to such screenshots lie with the specific platform, and their use is solely for informational or guidance purposes.

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