Surin Islands, A pristine paradise for snorkeling enthusiasts

Koh Surin Nature Trail, Phangnga Province, Thailand

The beach is a fine white sand, as smooth as flour

4.6

Introduction

The Surin Islands are located about 60 kilometers north of Similan in Phang Nga Province. Comprising five small islands, the water here is crystal clear and almost pollution-free, making it an ideal site for snorkeling. There are numerous tropical marine creatures, such as sea anemones and starfish. However, due to the inconvenience of transportation, there are currently fewer tourists, mostly Europeans and Americans, with a natural and quiet environment for animals including lizards, monkeys, hermit crabs, and birds. Visitors can stay in wooden huts or tents. In addition, the island is only open to tourists from November 1st to April 30th each year. Currently, there are two types of itineraries for day trips and two to three day trips from Phuket to the Surin Islands. Charter companies will pick up passengers from various hotels between 5:45 am and 6:30 am and leave from Kurii Pier between 9:00 am and 9:15 am. Depending on the port of departure, the distance can take between 2-2.5 hours one way, while speedboats only take 80-120 minutes. Snorkeling is a highlight of the Surin Islands, where visitors can see more tropical marine life than in the Similan Islands. Day trips can also include visits to the Moken tribe, who live on the Surin Islands and have special sight and extraordinary swimming skills, diving and fishing without the need for diving equipment, and pearl picking. The cost of a one-day trip on the Surin speedboat is about 3200 baht, and the price of camping for one night is much more expensive than on the Similan Islands, with a 2-day-1-night tent trip costing about 5600 baht.