Similan Islands closed until October: nature conservation and new rules!

Similan Islands closed until October: nature conservation and new rules!

The Similan Islands in Thailand are currently closed to tourists. This measure applies from May 16 to October 14, 2025 and is part of a comprehensive protection program for the environment. The aim of the closure is to give the damaged coral reef time to relax and to carry out renovation work in the MU Ko Similan National Park. This closure coincides with the beginning of the rainy season, which brings dangerous currents with it, which could endanger the safety of visitors. The Farang reports that in the past there were problems such as the lack of behavioral information from ferry companies, improper creation of boats, waste disposal and illegal fishing.

From October 15, 2025, new regulations come into force: Tickets must now be purchased in advance, which makes the booking via the number of the passport or ID card. This regulation is intended to improve control over the number of visitors. In addition, penalties for organizers are introduced for false bookings: 5,000 baht are due in the first violation, the second 20,000 baht and even 100,000 baht in the third; Repetition offenders must also expect the withdrawal of their work permit.

sustainability and protective measures

Parking administration plans to renew the infrastructure, carry out training for providers and implement stricter environmental and behavioral guidelines. This is particularly important because the Similan Islands are one of the most famous diving regions in Asia, which are heavily stressed by mass tourism. In this context, the closure has shown positive effects, as already found at Maya Bay. Places of Juma adds that the island group is from nine islands and is known for its biodiversity, which makes it one of the best places in Thailand to snorkel and dive.

The journey to the Similan Islands usually takes place with the speedboat, whereby the travel time from Khao Lak is over an hour. Since the islands in the national park can only be visited from November to April, the temporary closures aim to regenerate nature during the rest of the months. The national park is about 24 kilometers long and 70 kilometers from the mainland. There are no accommodation for tourists directly on the islands; The closest city with accommodation is Khao Lak.

Visitors can book guided tours that usually cost between 50 and 110 euros, including the national park fee, drinks and lunch. Many tourists attract popular contact points such as Donald Duck Bay on island number 8, known for the Sailboat Rock. For Schnorchler, island number 7 (Payu Island) and island number 9 (BA NGU Island) are the best spots, while Miiang Island (island number 4) with its beaches such as Honeymoon Bay and Princess Bay is a popular place to relax and take pictures.