Earlier this year, my husband and I traveled to Thailand. This was a dream come true and totally exceeded my expectations. We spent 10 wonderful days in Phuket, specifically in Karon Beach, which I recommend if you want to avoid crowds.
From Karon Beach, we took 3 excursions, but let me tell you about one in particular that blew my mind: The Similan Islands.
The Similan Islands are located in the Andaman Sea on the West Coast of Southern Thailand, in the Phang-nga province. The Similan archipelago (group of islands) consists of eleven islands: Koh Huyong (#1), Koh Payang (#2), Koh Payan (#3), Koh Meang (#4), Koh Ha (#5), Koh Payu (#6), Koh Hin Pousar (#7), Koh Similan (#8), Koh Bangu (#9), Koh Bon (#10), and Koh Tachai (#11). These islands are part of the Mu Koh Similan National Park, which means they are protected by the Thai Government. They cover a surface area of 140 square kilometers. To easily identify them, the islands are numbered.
Similan Islands are famous for being a paradise for adventurers and marine wildlife lovers. If you’re into diving and snorkeling, you better write down these islands on your bucket list. Nevertheless, Similan Islands are also the perfect spot for relaxation and contemplation.
To protect its exotic species (birds, small critters, reptiles, and sea creatures), access to the Similan Islands is restricted between May and October.
So, our day trip to this wonder started at 5:30 AM. A taxi picked us up at the hotel at 6:00 AM, then we took an hour bus ride to the port station, and after a two-hour speedboat ride, we finally made it to the first snorkeling spot, between islands #5 and #6. The sun was shining, so the water looked crystal clear, and we saw colorful fishes and corals.
Then we headed towards island #4. As we approached the seashore, I was speechless seeing the turquoise color of the water. It was so beautiful that it seemed unreal. As soon as I could, I jumped out of the boat into the water, and it was one of the happiest and most blissful moments that I’ve ever experienced. The water had the perfect temperature, not too hot but not too cold, and I could see a couple of bright-colored small fishes moving around my legs. The sand was unbelievably white, bright, and soft. We spent some time relaxing, enjoying the beach, taking photos, and eating a local Thai lunch.
After that, it was time to move on to the next snorkeling spot, island #9. Here we saw more exotic fishes and beautiful corals than in the other locations. Finally, our last stop was island #8, which is the most popular because it has a massive black rock called “Sailboat Rock”. On top of it, there is a viewpoint that you can climb to and be mesmerized by the amazing views of the island.
The Similan Islands have a very special place in my heart. 
Even though the trip is long to get there, it’s definitely worth it. I am looking forward to going back someday.
What do you think of this paradise? Do you have a favorite island or beach?
Let me know all about it and show me pictures! 
Thanks for reading this post. 
thanks!
so glad you liked it!