The Similan Islands – Thailand’s Underwater Paradise
by Moo Ping
Sep 4, 2025
#GetDiscountsWithoutLuck
"Sail Rock" Trip, Koh Paet, Similan Islands National Park (1 Day from Phuket)
🌟 Highlights not to be missed
The prominent symbol of the Similan Islands
"Sail Rock" is a large granite rock shaped like a sail ⛵️ standing tall on Koh Paet (Similan Island). It is like an important landmark that anyone who visits must take a photo to check in.
Panorama Viewpoint
Hiking Trail: Short but steep, requires a rope to support yourself, takes about 15-20 minutes.
View from the top: See the clear blue sea, white sandy beach of "Ao Kueak" (horseshoe shape) and surrounding islands in 360 degrees.
Challenge: Locals say "If you don't climb the Sail Rock = you haven't been to Similan!"
Ao Kueak
The white sandy beach is soft and comfortable to walk barefoot.
The sea is crystal clear. Perfect for swimming and snorkeling🐠
⏰ 1-day tour program from Phang Nga (fast-track but worthwhile)
07:00 AM: Depart from Tap Lamu Pier (Phang Nga) by speedboat
08:20 AM: Arrive at Koh Paet, start climbing the Sailfish Rock viewpoint
10:00 AM: Swim or snorkel at Ao Kuek
12:00 PM: Lunch on the boat/island
1:00 PM: Snorkel at other coral spots (e.g. Koh Ha-Koh Kao)
3:30 PM: Return
Note: Times may vary depending on weather conditions and selected tours
⚠️ Things to know before you go
Island opening hours: October 16 - May 15 of each year (currently closed for monsoon season)
Prepare:
Hiking sneakers (no flip-flops!)
Sunscreen and waterproof gear
Request permission to fly a drone 7-10 days in advance
Restrictions:
Overnight stays are not allowed on the island (Stay overnight if you are on a scuba diving tour)
Some days, strong waves may prohibit you from going to the island (look for the red flags on the island)
📸 Techniques for taking beautiful photos
Classic angle: Stand on the rock in front of the main rock to emphasize the scale of its grandeur
High angle from the viewpoint: Take a photo of Ao Keaw from above to see the blue-green gradient of the water
Golden light period: Morning (07:00-09:00) or evening (16:00-17:00) for the softest and most beautiful light
💎 Summary of value for money
Although it is a 1-day trip, "Hin Sailboat" and Ao Keaw on Koh Paet provide a complete experience: both the challenge of climbing, the beauty of the white sand beach and the complete underwater world 🐢 However, you should check the weather before traveling and choose a tour that leaves from Thap Lamu Pier (Phang Nga) to reduce travel time 👍
Disadvantage: If you go on a holiday, there may be a lot of tourists. We recommend a Private Group speedboat tour for exclusivity!
Post by ATHAM | Jul 16, 2025























