Mu Ko Similan National Park

Mu Ko Similan Overview

Mu Ko Similan National Park, known in Thai as “หมู่เกาะสิมิลัน,” is one of Thailand’s most breathtaking marine parks. Situated in the Andaman Sea off the western coast of Phang Nga Province, this national park spans an area of approximately 140 square kilometers (54 square miles) and comprises 11 islands.

Officially established in 1982, Mu Ko Similan is renowned for its pristine waters, vibrant coral reefs, and an abundance of marine and terrestrial biodiversity, making it a jewel of Thailand’s protected areas.

The terrain of Mu Ko Similan is a stunning mix of rugged granite boulders, dense tropical forests, and idyllic sandy beaches. The underwater landscape is equally captivating, with coral reefs, underwater caves, and pinnacles. Among the islands, Koh Similan (Island 8) is the largest and most popular, known for its panoramic viewpoints and remarkable beaches like Donald Duck Bay, named for its distinctive rock formation. The terrain beneath the waves is as diverse as above, featuring steep drop-offs and expansive plateaus teeming with life.

The park is home to an impressive array of wildlife, particularly its marine species. Divers and snorkelers may encounter majestic manta rays, whale sharks, and sea turtles such as the green sea turtle and hawksbill turtle. The coral reefs support countless fish species, including parrotfish, angelfish, and barracudas.

On land, the islands host creatures like crab-eating macaques and flying foxes, while birdwatchers can spot species such as Nicobar pigeons, white-bellied sea eagles, and bridled terns.

Popular features of Mu Ko Similan National Park include the underwater sites of East of Eden and Elephant Head Rock, which are world-famous diving destinations due to their vibrant coral ecosystems and unique rock formations. The park’s beaches, with their powdery white sand, provide serene spots for relaxation and exploration. Additionally, the pristine waters around the islands are perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and sailing.

Visitors primarily explore the park via guided boat tours, which range from day trips to multi-day liveaboard experiences catering to divers. These excursions allow access to the park’s best dive sites and secluded beaches. Hiking trails on Koh Similan offer another way to engage with the park’s natural beauty, with viewpoints providing awe-inspiring vistas of the islands and the azure sea.

Conservation efforts in Mu Ko Similan National Park have been significant yet challenging. Over the years, the park management has faced pressures from tourism and environmental degradation, such as coral bleaching and waste accumulation. To address these challenges, the park implements strict visitor limits and enforces seasonal closures to allow ecosystems to recover. Efforts to educate visitors about sustainable practices and the importance of marine conservation have been met with success, ensuring the park remains a sanctuary for its diverse species and a haven for future generations to enjoy.

Park Map

Mu Ko Similan National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Mu Ko Similan National Park, located in the Andaman Sea, is renowned for its vibrant marine life and diverse ecosystems. The park’s coral reefs and underwater habitats host a remarkable variety of marine species, making it a haven for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Below are some of the popular non-bird species found in the park.

Hawksbill Turtle
This critically endangered species is known for its beautiful shell and role in maintaining the health of coral reefs. Hawksbill turtles can often be seen feeding on sponges around the park’s vibrant reefs.

Green Sea Turtle
A common sight in the park, the green sea turtle is a graceful swimmer often spotted gliding through the water. These herbivorous turtles play a vital role in maintaining healthy seagrass beds.

Blacktip Reef Shark
These small, agile sharks are commonly seen in the shallow waters of Mu Ko Similan. Known for their distinctive black-tipped fins, they are harmless to humans and crucial to the reef’s ecosystem balance.

Clownfish
Famous for their symbiotic relationship with sea anemones, clownfish are brightly colored fish often spotted darting among the tentacles of their hosts.

Giant Manta Ray
These gentle giants are a highlight for divers in the park. With their enormous wingspan and graceful movements, manta rays often feed on plankton in the open waters surrounding the islands.

Moray Eel
Moray eels are a common sight within the coral reefs of Mu Ko Similan. Known for their elongated bodies and sharp teeth, they hide in crevices and feed on smaller fish and crustaceans.

Napoleon Wrasse
One of the largest reef fish in the park, the Napoleon wrasse is easily recognized by its large, hump-shaped forehead and vibrant coloration.

Leopard Shark
With its distinctive spotted pattern, the leopard shark is a favorite among divers. It is often seen resting on sandy seabeds near coral reefs.

Sea Cucumber
Sea cucumbers are abundant in the park and play a crucial role in recycling nutrients by breaking down detritus on the ocean floor.

Blue-Spotted Stingray
This colorful stingray is easily identified by its bright blue spots on a yellowish body. It can be seen gliding gracefully over sandy areas and coral beds.

Birds

The park is also home to a variety of bird species, with its coastal and island habitats providing essential nesting and feeding grounds. These birds add to the park’s natural charm and diversity.

White-Bellied Sea Eagle
This large bird of prey is commonly seen soaring above the islands, scanning the water for fish. Its striking white and dark plumage makes it a recognizable sight.

Pacific Reef Heron
Often spotted along the rocky shores and shallow waters, the Pacific reef heron can be black or white and is known for its agility while hunting for fish and crustaceans.

Great Frigatebird
With its long wingspan and distinctive red throat pouch in males, the great frigatebird is often seen gliding effortlessly over the open ocean.

Roseate Tern
These elegant seabirds are known for their pale plumage and graceful flight. They are frequently observed nesting on the park’s smaller islands.

Brown Booby
A common seabird in the Andaman Sea, the brown booby is recognized by its brown and white plumage and its skillful dives for fish.

Lesser Crested Tern
This medium-sized tern is easily identified by its orange bill and black cap. It often forms large colonies along the park’s coastlines.

Oriental Pied Hornbill
Although primarily a forest bird, the Oriental pied hornbill can sometimes be seen in the wooded areas of the park’s islands, feeding on fruits and small animals.

Black-Naped Tern
Known for their sleek appearance and distinctive black nape, these terns are commonly seen in flocks around the park’s coastal areas.

White-Throated Kingfisher
This colorful bird, with its bright blue body and chestnut head, can often be found near the park’s freshwater streams or coastal areas.

Grey Heron
A large and majestic bird, the grey heron is often seen wading in shallow waters, patiently waiting to catch fish.