Koh Surin Information

Koh Surin Information

Thailand’s Koh Surin National Park is an archipelago of 5 islands and the surrounding waters spanning roughly 135 square kilometres (52 sq miles). The national park sits about 55 kilometres (34 miles) from the mainland and is considered one of Thailand’s most spectacular tourist destinations. Unlike many other popular seaside attractions in the country, it has remained mostly unspoilt due to its rugged terrain and the extreme weather that keeps the park closed from April to November.

The two largest islands are Koh Surin Tai and Koh Surin Nuea, with Koh Ree, Koh Klang, and Koh Khai completing the archipelago. Visitors will find themselves in an island paradise of white sand, clear blue waters, and tropical vegetation. On offer are some of the best diving sites in the world including Richelieu Rock, as well as what is widely considered the best snorkelling in all of Thailand. Beneath the surface is a wealth of marine life, with the national park’s coral reefs in pristine condition and home to an incredible range of marine life. At certain sites, divers can expect to find sea turtles, sharks, and all manner of exotic fish.

The islands themselves are a mixture of sandy coves, irregular rock formations, and beach-side forests, and are a constant port of call for the nomadic Moken people, better known as ‘Sea Gypsies’. The Moken are an ancient people who have maintained a presence in the region for thousands of years. Tourists can explore their culture with guided tours and visits to local settlements, but are encouraged to remain respectful at all times.

Koh Surin National Park is only accessible between November and April when the weather  is generally warm and pleasant. In other months travel to the islands is restricted as the wet season brings unpredictable and often dangerous weather. During the on-season boats to the national park leave daily from Phang Nga province, where travellers can catch a slow ferry or jet across the sea in a high-powered speed boat.