Overview of the Surin Islands
- Location: 60 km west of Phang Nga in the Andaman Sea
- Main Islands: Koh Surin Nuea (north) & Koh Surin Tai (south)
- Smaller Islets: Koh Ri, Koh Khai, Koh Klang – all uninhabited
- Highlights:
- Unspoiled beaches
- Rich biodiversity
- Cultural encounters with the Moken people
- Reputation: Popular with divers, snorkelers, and travelers seeking a crowd-free paradise
How to Get There
By Air
- Closest Airports: Phuket International Airport & Ranong Airport
- From Phuket:5–3 hrs drive to Khura Buri Pier
- From Ranong:5–2 hrs drive (shortest route)
By Road
- From Bangkok: 9–10 hrs (~720 km)
- From Phuket: ~3 hrs (~200 km)
- From Ranong: ~2 hrs (~120 km)
By Sea
- Departure Point: Khura Buri Pier
- Speedboat:5 hrs (fast, but can be bumpy)
- Slow Boat: ~3 hrs (cheaper, more relaxed)
Local Tips:
- Most boats depart 8:00–9:00 a.m.; return trips leave 2:00–3:00 p.m.
- Peak season (Nov–Apr): book 1–2 weeks in advance; Christmas, New Year, Songkran: 2–3 weeks ahead
- Book island accommodation via the National Park’s official website or trusted platforms
Best Time to Visit
High Season – November to April
- Weather: 24°C–32°C
- Nov–Feb: Cooler, comfortable
- Mar–Apr: Hotter, excellent for whale shark sightings
Monsoon Season – May to October
- Heavy rains, rough seas
- Park Closed for safety and environmental recovery
Special Events
- Moken Festival (March): Dances, storytelling, traditional boat-building
- National Park Week (Dec 1–7): Coral restoration, guided tours, discounted dives
Diving Highlights
Richelieu Rock
- Famous For: Whale sharks, manta rays, cuttlefish, moray eels
- Best Time: March–May for whale sharks
- Note: Strong currents; best for experienced divers
Koh Chi
- Depth: 5–18 m, visibility up to 25 m
- Highlights: Blacktip reef sharks, sea turtles, colorful corals
- Best Time: November–April
Ao Mae Yai Bay
- Depth: Up to 12 m, calm waters
- Marine Life: Parrotfish, butterflyfish, reef sharks, clownfish
- Best Time: December–March
Diving Courses:
- No schools on the islands; book via Khao Lak operators like Sea Dragon Dive Center or Similan Diving Safaris
Other Activities
- Hiking: Scenic 2 km trail from Ao Mae Yai to Ao Mai Ngam
- Moken Village: Learn about Thailand’s “Sea Gypsies”
- Snorkeling: Excellent at Ao Mae Yai Bay and Chong Kad Channel (gear rental available)
Accommodation
On the Islands
- National Park Bungalows: Basic rooms, shared bathrooms, electricity 6–10 p.m. (THB 2,000–3,000/night)
- Camping: Tents at Ao Mai Ngam (THB 300–500/night), no electricity
On the Mainland
- Khura Buri: Closest base (10 km from pier), mainly guesthouses
- Khao Lak: 2 hrs from pier; offers luxury resorts and budget stays
Day Trip vs Overnight Stay
- Day Trip: Convenient but rushed
- Overnight: More time to relax, see sunrises, and explore
Destinations to Combine
- Similan Islands: Another world-class diving spot
- Khao Sok National Park: Jungle trekking, kayaking, Cheow Lan Lake exploration
Final Words
The Surin Islands remain one of Thailand’s most untouched and authentic island destinations. With stunning reefs, rare wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, they offer experiences that can’t be replicated elsewhere. Whether you come for the diving, the peace, or the culture, you’ll leave with memories that last a lifetime.
