Thailand's Similan Islands are set to welcome visitors again from October 15, marking the start of the 2026–27 Andaman Sea tourism season. The Mu Koh Similan National Park, located off Phang Nga province, has been closed since May 15 to allow the marine environment to recover and to avoid hazardous monsoon conditions.
The archipelago, famous for its turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and granite rock formations, is a key draw for international travellers and divers. Park chief Sirivat Suebsa reported that the 2025–26 season attracted more than 400,000 visitors, generating over THB 215 million in revenue—up from THB 197 million the previous year. Over 90% of visitors were from overseas, underscoring the islands' importance to Thailand's inbound tourism market.
The seasonal closure is a standard practice across many Thai marine parks, balancing visitor access with conservation. During the monsoon, rough seas and heavy rain make boat trips dangerous, while the quiet period allows coral reefs and fish populations to rebound. Park authorities also used the downtime to upgrade facilities and prepare for the new season.
Visitor management and e-ticketing
Since October 2025, all visitors—Thai and international—must register through an electronic ticketing system before arriving. This move aims to streamline entry and better manage daily visitor numbers, a critical step for protecting the park's fragile ecosystem. Tour operators and travel agents should ensure clients are aware of the booking process and check ticket availability well in advance.
Most visitors reach the islands by speedboat from Thap Lamu Pier in Phang Nga, a journey of about 90 minutes. Day trips typically combine beach time, snorkelling, and exploring the islands' distinctive coastal scenery. The area is also a popular scuba diving destination, with operators offering excursions to dive sites around the archipelago.
The reopening is a significant moment for the local tourism economy, which relies heavily on the Similan Islands to attract visitors to Phang Nga and neighbouring Phuket. The region has been actively promoting itself as a year-round destination, with initiatives like Thailand's use of the IMF–World Bank meetings to boost tourism and investment. The Similan season also complements other Andaman offerings, such as the extended Mediterranean season at Address Beach Resort Marassi, though on a different coast.
For travel professionals, the Similan Islands remain a reliable seller for FIT and group itineraries. The park's popularity shows no sign of waning, but the emphasis on conservation and visitor caps means that agents must plan ahead. The new e-ticketing system is a clear signal that Thailand is prioritising sustainable tourism over sheer volume.
As the 2026–27 season gets underway, the challenge will be to maintain the islands' appeal while ensuring that tourism remains within environmental limits. The park's long-term viability depends on this balance, and the industry will be watching closely.
