In a momentous unveiling of natural beauty, the Similan Islands National Park welcomed over 1,300 tourists on the inaugural day of its 2023-2024 tourist season. Situated in the Koh Phra Thong Subdistrict of Kuraburi District, Phang Nga Province, the renowned national park threw open its gates to both Thai and international visitors on October 15, 2023, marking the commencement of a season that will last until May 15, 2024.
The allure of this exquisite island paradise was palpable from the get-go as travelers embarked on their journeys from the Ban Thap Lamu Pier in Thai Mueang District to Similan Island. Under slightly overcast skies, the sea lay serene, a mirror of tranquility with nary a ripple or gust of wind to disrupt the pristine maritime scene.
Venturing out on high-speed boats, eager explorers were first treated to a breathtaking snorkeling spectacle at Island 9, known as Koh Ba Ngu. Here, they marveled at vibrant coral reefs and an array of resplendent marine life. The expedition continued to Similan Island, the showstopper of the region, graced by its iconic sailboat rocks and a horseshoe-shaped bay. This locale serves as the very embodiment of the Similan Islands’ natural charm, boasting crystal-clear waters and powdery white sandy beaches.
For any traveler, a rendezvous with Similan Island isn’t complete without capturing the sailboat rocks in all their grandeur. The colossal stone structures, resembling massive sails billowing in the wind, continue to intrigue tourists with their origins.
Similan Island, designated as Island 8, reigns as the largest within the Similan archipelago. Its pièce de résistance is, without a doubt, the sailboat rock—a veritable symbol of the entire island chain. Nestled within the rock’s embrace is a horseshoe bay, distinguished by its pristine, velvety sand and the shimmering expanse of clear, azure waters—a veritable playground for visitors.
Beneath the waves, a subaquatic realm unfolds, with a vibrant tapestry of corals and an array of fish species bedecked in brilliant hues. Here, divers can explore both the shallow waters and the mysterious depths. As if the sailboat rocks weren’t enough, the northern shores of Similan Island also feature an array of peculiarly shaped stones, such as a boot-shaped rock and even one that bears a striking resemblance to the iconic visage of Donald Duck.
For those who wish to take in the entire panorama, a visit to the sailboat-shaped rock viewpoint is a must. This vantage point offers an awe-inspiring vista of the surrounding seascape, ensuring that visitors depart with cherished memories etched into their hearts.
Similan Islands, nestled within the jurisdiction of Koh Phra Thong Subdistrict, Khura Buri District, Phang Nga Province, opens its doors to tourists annually between October 15 and May 15. The 2023-2024 season is poised to be an extraordinary one, as travelers from around the world come to savor the natural splendor that the Similan Islands have to offer.
Author: Editorial Staff
Provider of news and content to Heaven is Hua Hin
