Surin Islands: Ultimate Guide to Thailand’s Untouched Paradise

1. Overview of Surin Islands' location

The Surin Islands, part of Mu Ko Surin National Park, are located 60 kilometers west of Phang Nga in the Andaman Sea. This group includes the larger Koh Surin Nuea and Koh Surin Tai, along with smaller, uninhabited islands such as Koh Ri, Koh Khai, and Koh Klang. It's definitely a place you'd want to visit, not only because it offers a different kind of tropical getaway but, it's also supposed to be an area popular with divers and those seeking a bit of adventure but also some peace and quiet. 

2. How to get there

Surin is quite accessible from a multitude of travel options.

2.1 Access by Air Travel:

There are no direct flights to the Surin Islands. Instead, you can fly to Phuket International Airport or Ranong Airport. From Phuket, it’s a 2.5 to 3-hour drive to Khura Buri Pier, the main departure point for the islands. If you prefer a shorter drive, fly to Ranong Airport and then drive to the pier, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

2.2 By Road:

Getting to the Surin Islands involves a scenic road trip followed by a ferry or boat ride from Khura Buri Pier. Here’s how you can reach the pier by road:

• Driving down from Bangkok: the expedition will take 9-10 hours as Khura Buri Pier is located around 720 kilometers from the capital city of Thailand. If you have time on your hands then opt for this travel mode.
• Driving from Phuket: If you’re already in Phuket, driving to Khura Buri Pier takes up to 3 hours, covering a distance of about 200 kilometers. Renting a car or driving yourself is a convenient option.
• Driving from Ranong: The shortest route is from Ranong, only 120 kilometers away, taking up to 2 hours. This is the best option if you’re already in Ranong or have flown there.

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2.3 Access by Sea:

To reach the Surin Islands, you must take a boat from Khura Buri Pier (Greenview Pier). Here are your options:

• Speedboat: This is the fastest and most efficient way, taking about 1.5 hours. However, the ride can be rough and the cost is higher, ranging from 1,700 to 2,000 THB per person for a round trip. If you’re not comfortable with fast-moving boats or have a tight budget, consider another option.

• Slow Boat: The journey on a slow boat takes around 3 hours. This option is more budget-friendly, costing 1,200 to 1,500 THB per person for a round trip. It's suitable if you have more time and don't mind the longer, less comfortable ride.

2.4 Some local tips:

• Timing is Crucial: Boat trips to the islands take time. Most boats depart in the morning around 8:00-9:00 AM, so arrive at Khura Buri Pier at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before departure to handle any changes and prepare for boarding. For the return trip, boats typically leave in the afternoon around 2:00-3:00 PM.

• Advance Booking: During peak season (November to April), book your boat tickets at least 1 week in advance. For Christmas, New Year, and Songkran holidays, reserve 2-3 weeks ahead, as these periods fill up quickly. 

If you plan to stay on Koh Surin Nuea, the main island with the national park headquarters, book your accommodation through the national park website or reputable travel booking sites.

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3. Best time to visit the Surin islands

3.1 Weather and Climate:

• Peak Season (November to April): This is the dry season with pleasant weather, especially from November to early February, when temperatures range from 24°C to 32°C. Late February to mid-April brings rising temperatures as Thailand enters its peak summer period.
• Monsoon Season (May to October): This period experiences heavy rainfall and rough seas, making it unsuitable for visiting the Surin Islands, as they are closed for safety reasons.
• Sea Temperature: The sea temperature ranges from 27°C to 30°C, perfect for swimming and aquatic activities.

3.2 Special Events and Festivals:

• Moken Sea Gypsy Festival: Held annually in the second week of March on Koh Surin Tai, this festival celebrates Moken culture with boat-building demonstrations, traditional dances, songs, and storytelling. It honors sea spirits and showcases the vibrant heritage of the Moken people.
• National Park Week: From December 1st to 7th, this event focuses on marine conservation and education throughout Mu Ko Surin National Park. Activities include clean-up drives, coral rehabilitation, educational tours, and discounted diving excursions. It's an excellent time to learn about sustainable tourism and engage in conservation efforts while exploring the Surin Islands.

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4. Surin islands: a famous spot for diving

Did you know that the Surin Islands, nestled in the Andaman Sea, are renowned for their thrilling diving opportunities? Here’s why this area is a top choice for divers:

4.1 Richelieu Rock:

About 18 km east of the main islands lies Richelieu Rock, famous for its whale shark sightings, particularly from February to May. Divers also encounter manta rays, cuttlefish, and moray eels here.

• Best Time to Visit: March to May for whale shark sightings.
• Diving Tip: The strong currents can be challenging, so it’s best suited for advanced divers. Always be cautious around marine life and respectful of the coral.

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4.2 Koh Chi:

Located near Koh Surin Nuea in the northern part of the Surin Islands, Koh Chi offers dives at depths of 5-18 meters with visibility up to 25 meters. It’s known for blacktip reef sharks, sea turtles, and vibrant coral reefs including hard corals and barrel sponges.

• Best Time to Visit: November to April for optimal diving conditions during the dry season.
• Diving Tip: Wear water shoes to protect your feet and the coral, and be mindful of where you step.

4.3 Ao Mae Yai Bay:

Situated on the west coast of Koh Surin Nuea, Ao Mae Yai Bay provides easy dives with a maximum depth of 12 meters and high visibility. Expect to see parrotfish, butterfly fish, and occasionally reef sharks. Clownfish in anemone corals offer a special treat for fans of Finding Nemo.

• Best Time to Visit: December to March for the clearest water conditions.
• Diving Tip: Ideal for those who prefer shallow dives with calm waters and minimal currents.

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4.4 The Surin Islands Diving Classes

While the Surin Islands themselves do not have diving schools, you can take diving courses and book excursions with schools and companies in Khao Lak and the surrounding region. 

• Sea Dragon Dive Center:

Located in Khao Lak, Sea Dragon Dive Center offers a variety of diving courses and excursions to the Surin Islands. Course options include:

• Advanced Open Water Diver: 2 days, designed for those with prior diving experience. Cost: 13,000-15,000 THB.
• Open Water Diver: 3-4 days, ideal for beginners. Cost: 15,000-19,000 THB.

Additionally, Sea Dragon Dive Center provides liveaboard trips, allowing you to stay on a vessel and enjoy both day and night dives while learning about the marine ecosystem.

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• Similan Diving Safaris:

Also based in Khao Lak, Similan Diving Safaris specializes in liveaboard diving trips that cover both the Surin and Similan Islands. They offer various courses:

• Scuba Diver: Available with PADI and SSI certifications, this beginner course takes 2 days. Advanced courses are also offered. Cost: 11,000-13,000 THB.
• Rescue Diver: Aimed at those looking to enhance their skills, this 4-day course covers rescue diving techniques. Cost: 19,000-21,000 THB.

5. Other fun activities

5.1 Hiking

You can explore the 2-kilometer trail along Mae Yai Bay, which connects to Ao Mai Ngam on Koh Surin Nuea. This scenic hike offers views of lush rainforests and the chance to spot local wildlife like monitor lizards.

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5.2. Moken Village

Even if you aren't visiting this area during a special festival, the Moken village is still worth a visit because you get to see how the Surin Tai people live as the Moken village is located on Koh Surin Tai. They're considered to be the sea gypsies so it would be interesting to see how they live their lives such as understanding their boat-crafting techniques and the way they pay homage to the sea. 

5.3. Snorkeling

You can enjoy snorkeling in clear, calm waters at spots like Ao Mae Yai Bay and Chong Kad Channel. Rent snorkeling gear from the National Park to see vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish.

6. How to choose accommodation in Surin Islands?

6.1 Staying in the Surin Islands

National Park Bungalows: You can stay in basic wooden bungalows on Koh Surin Nuea, the main island. These bungalows come with twin or double beds, shared bathrooms, and mosquito nets. Note that electricity is available only from 6 PM to 10 PM, and there’s no air conditioning - just fans.

• Cost: Around 2,000-3,000 THB per night, varying by season. Book through the National Park website or legitimate agents.
• Camping: You can opt for camping at the Ao Mai Ngam campsite, offering a more rugged experience. Tents are provided by the National Park, with bedding and mosquito nets. However, there is no electricity, only torches and fires.
• Cost: Affordable, between 300-500 THB per tent. Book through the National Park or authorized agents.

6.2. Staying on the mainlands:

• Khura Buri:

Proximity: Located 10 km from the pier, making it the closest mainland option.

Accommodation: Due to its limited size and status, options are mostly guesthouses and average hotels, but you can opt for Kuraburi Greenview Resort.

• Khao Lak:

Proximity: About 120 kilometers from the pier, taking around 2 hours to reach.

Accommodation: A popular holiday destination with a range of options, from luxurious resorts to budget guesthouses.

6.3  Day trip vs. Overnight stay: which to choose?

A day trip is a convenient option if you’re short on time or want to keep costs down. You can explore the islands’ main attractions and enjoy activities like snorkeling or hiking, but keep in mind that you’ll spend a portion of your day traveling to and from the mainland.

The boat ride from Khura Buri Pier can take up to 3 hours round trip, depending on whether you opt for a speedboat or slow boat. For those already staying in nearby areas like Khao Lak, a day trip is ideal for fitting a visit to the Surin Islands into a tight schedule without the need for additional accommodation.

An overnight stay allows you to fully indulge yourself in the beauty and tranquility of the Surin Islands. With more time on your hands, you can explore at a leisurely pace, participate in multiple activities, and enjoy the serenity of the islands after the day-trippers have left. While staying overnight does come with additional costs for accommodation, it offers a richer, more relaxed experience.

 You won’t have to worry about rushing back to the mainland, giving you the freedom to soak in the natural surroundings and perhaps even catch a sunrise or sunset over the Andaman Sea. If you have an extra night to spare and are looking for a more memorable adventure, staying overnight is definitely worth considering.

7. What other destinations can be combined with a trip to Surin?

7.1 Similan Islands: 

For those who love diving and island exploration, combining the Surin Islands with the Similan Islands offers an extraordinary tropical escape. 

The Similan Islands are famous among divers for their vibrant coral reefs and iconic dive sites like Elephant Head Rock and Christmas Point. Opting for a liveaboard experience that covers both the Surin and Similan Islands ensures a diverse and well-rounded diving adventure. However, be aware that the strong currents in some areas of the Similan Islands make certain dives more suitable for advanced divers.

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7.2 Khao Sok National Park:

Located about 100 kilometers from Khura Buri, Khao Sok National Park is a must-visit if you have the time. The park is famous for its stunning man-made lake, Cheow Lan, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. 

By combining a visit to Khao Sok with your trip to the Surin Islands, you can create an adventurous itinerary filled with diving, kayaking, hiking, and more. This combination is perfect for those who seek both underwater exploration and land-based adventures in one holiday.

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