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What are the Surin Islands?

The Surin Islands, Thailand (part of Mu Ko Surin National Park), are a remote group of islands located northwest of Phuket, Thailand, known for their clear turquoise waters, soft white beaches, and rich coral reefs. A paradise for snorkeling and diving, the park is home to sea turtles, a variety of reef fish, and vibrant underwater ecosystems. Visitors can also experience the cultural heritage of the Moken community.

Quick facts about Surin Islands

Aerial view of Surin Islands' lush green coastline and turquoise waters.
  • Official name: Mu Ko Surin National Park
  • Landscape type: Island archipelago
  • Total number of islands: 5
  • Famous for: Crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles, and encounters with the Moken (sea nomads)
  • Official language: Thai
  • Distance from Phuket: 160 kilometers (100 miles) northwest
  • National park area: 33,900 hectares (83,800 acres)
  • Activities: Snorkeling, scuba diving, camping, longtail boat tours, and cultural visits to Moken villages
  • Marine life: Colorful coral gardens, clownfish, parrotfish, reef sharks, and sea turtles
  • Function: Marine national park and eco-tourism destination
  • Number of visitors per year: ~100,000 visitors

Plan your visit to Ko Surin Thailand

Boats on white sand beach with clear blue water in Surin Islands.

Opening hours

The Mu Ko Surin National Park is open seasonally from mid-October to mid-May and closed during the monsoon (usually May 15–October 15) for coral preservation and safety.

Timings

8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Closed

During the monsoon season. Always check the current Surin Islands weather before planning your trip.

Tourists in a car enjoying a scenic drive, part of Surin Islands tour with hotel transfers.

Best time to visit

  • Peak season (Nov–Apr): Calm seas, clear skies, and excellent snorkeling visibility.
  • February–March: Best time for marine life sightings.
  • April: Fewer crowds, slightly warmer temperatures.
  • Weekdays: Ideal to avoid crowds.
  • Early morning: Best time for cooler weather and clear underwater views.
Couple on speedboat enjoying view of Surin Island's turquoise waters, Phuket day trip.

Location

The Surin Islands lie in the Andaman Sea, forming part of Mu Ko Surin National Park.

  • From Kuraburi Pier: 60 km, 1.5 hours by speedboat
  • From Thap Lamu Pier, Khao Lak: 55 km, 1.5 hours by speedboat
  • From Phuket: ~160 km, 2 hours by speedboat
  • From Krabi: 220 km, 3–3.5 hours by speedboat

Nearby landmarks include Twin Beach, Moken Village, and Mai Ngam Bay.

Things to do at the Surin Islands

Two people snorkeling in clear Surin Islands waters.

Snorkeling in Surin Islands

Discover shallow coral reefs at Ao Mae Yai and Ao Chong Kad. The calm waters make Surin Islands snorkeling perfect for beginners. Gear and guides are included in most tours.

Group of divers in wetsuits enjoying a scuba diving baptism

Scuba Diving

Explore the depths of Koh Surin National Park, where divers encounter clownfish, reef sharks, and manta rays. Great visibility and diverse marine life make it a favorite for liveaboard diving trips.

Colorful carved wooden totems and small shrine in Surin Islands village setting.

Visit the Moken Village

Meet the Moken, the “sea gypsies” of the Andaman, and discover their stilted homes, handmade boats, and timeless seafaring traditions, a perfect stop for travelers interested in local culture.

Couple walking on a sandy beach with turquoise water and lush greenery on Surin Island, Thailand.

Relax at Twin Beach

Also known as Ao Mai Ngam, this twin-curved beach is perfect for relaxation between snorkeling sessions. Calm waters, shady trees, and scenic views make it one of Surin Island’s top photo spots.

Marine life and conservation

The Surin Islands Thailand feature some of the Andaman’s healthiest coral reefs, home to parrotfish, angelfish, and hawksbill turtles. The park enforces strict marine conservation laws and promotes responsible tourism.

Visitors are encouraged to use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching coral. Conservation efforts also include the protection of nesting turtle sites and coral restoration projects.

Tips for visiting the Surin Islands

Speedboat anchored near lush Surin Islands, Thailand, with passengers on deck.
  • Book early for Surin Island tours during peak months (December–April).
  • Bring reef-safe sunscreen to help protect marine life.
  • Choose between a speedboat and a liveaboard depending on your comfort and schedule.
  • Carry cash, as there are no ATMs on the islands.
  • Stay overnight to enjoy a peaceful sunrise snorkeling at Twin Beach.
  • Respect the Moken community and follow all park conservation rules.

FAQs

What are the Surin Islands known for?

They’re famous for world-class snorkeling, vibrant coral reefs, and the cultural heritage of the Moken people.

What is the best season to visit the Surin Islands?

The park is open from mid-October to mid-May. November–April offers the best weather for snorkeling and diving.

How to get to the Surin Islands from Phuket?

Take a minivan or taxi to Kuraburi Pier, then board a 1.5-hour speedboat to the islands. Many Surin Island Phuket tours include transfers.

Are the Surin Islands good for beginners?

Yes. Calm waters and shallow coral reefs make Surin Islands snorkeling ideal for first-time swimmers.

Can I stay overnight at the Surin Islands?

Yes. Basic bungalows and tents are available inside Mu Ko Surin National Park, bookable through authorized tour operators.

Are the Surin Islands part of the Similan Islands?

No, but both parks are in the Andaman Sea and often combined in Similan and Surin Islands tours.

What kind of wildlife can I see at the Surin Islands?

Expect vibrant marine life like parrotfish, clownfish, sea turtles, and reef sharks. On land, you might spot monitor lizards, hornbills, and flying foxes within the park’s lush tropical forests.

Are there restaurants or food stalls on the islands?

There’s a small national park canteen serving Thai meals and beverages near the visitor center. Most Surin Island tours include meals and snacks during the trip.

Do the Surin Islands have phone signal or Wi-Fi?

Phone signal is limited, and Wi-Fi is unavailable. Visitors are encouraged to disconnect and enjoy the natural surroundings. Some tour boats provide emergency connectivity.