Khao Lak - Similan Islands: Snorkeling tour with guide + lunch

Summary

Snorkeling the Similan Islands from Khao Lak with local guides and fresh Thai food

You’ll start your day early from Khao Lak with hotel pickup before heading out by speedboat to snorkel among vibrant reefs in the Similan Islands National Park. Swim alongside colorful fish (maybe even turtles), enjoy a Thai buffet lunch on white sand beaches, climb up Sailing Rock for panoramic views, and visit the local turtle nursery — moments you’ll remember long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember how quiet it was when we left Khao Lak — just that soft hum of the van and me clutching my coffee, wondering if I’d regret waking up so early. But then, at Thap Lamu Pier, everything changed. The air was salty and warm, people were already laughing in different languages, and our guide Niran handed out wristbands while joking about “sea hair” (I think he meant seaweed?). It felt like everyone was half-asleep but excited — you could smell sunscreen and engine oil mixing with the ocean breeze.

The speedboat ride out to the Similan Islands is fast — maybe an hour and a half? I lost track because I kept staring at the water. It’s this unreal turquoise, almost cartoonish. We passed granite boulders that looked like they’d been dropped by giants. At one point, someone shouted “dolphins!” but I only caught a splash. When we stopped at Bangu Island for snorkeling, I hesitated — the mask always feels weird on my face — but Niran showed me how to adjust it (he’s done this a thousand times). Underwater was another world: corals like brains and antlers, little fish darting everywhere. I even saw a turtle for about three seconds before it vanished into blue nothing.

Lunch was on the beach at Koh 8 — rice, spicy curry, fried chicken, watermelon slices that tasted like sunshine. There were kids building sandcastles near us; one tried to teach me how to say “Similan” in Thai (Li laughed when I tried — probably butchered it). After eating we climbed up to Sailing Rock’s viewpoint. The steps are rough and my legs complained, but that view... you can see all these tiny islands scattered across the sea like green dots on glass. I took too many photos but none really captured it.

On the way back we stopped at the Royal Thai Navy Turtle Nursery. It’s small but oddly moving; watching baby turtles paddle around made me feel hopeful for reasons I can’t explain. By the time we got back to Khao Lak I was sunburned and sandy and tired in a good way. Sometimes I still think about floating above those corals or laughing with strangers over sticky rice — you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Similan Islands Snorkeling and Sightseeing

• Walk or snorkel, Thai buffet lunch
• Snorkeling and swimming
• Snorkel and swim at Bangu Island
• Swim, snorkel, relax at Similan Island
• Climb viewpoint at Sailing Rock

Top questions

How long does it take to reach Similan Islands from Khao Lak?

It takes about 1 hour 30 minutes by speedboat from Thap Lamu Pier in Khao Lak to reach the Similan Islands.

Is hotel pickup included in this snorkeling tour?

Yes, round trip transfers between your hotel in Khao Lak and the private pier are included.

What is included in lunch during the tour?

The tour includes a traditional Thai buffet lunch with dishes like rice, curry, fried chicken, fruits, and drinks.

Are snorkeling equipment and life jackets provided?

Yes, all snorkeling gear including mask, snorkel, fins, and life jackets are provided as part of the tour.

Can children join this Similan Islands snorkeling tour?

Yes, children aged 4–11 can join with a child ticket; however it's not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with certain health conditions.

Do we visit any special attractions besides snorkeling spots?

Yes, you'll also visit Sailing Rock viewpoint and the Royal Thai Navy Third Fleet Turtle Nursery during your day trip.

Is there an English-speaking guide on this tour?

Yes, an English-speaking local guide accompanies you throughout the trip.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your hotel in Khao Lak, entry fees for Similan Islands National Park arranged ahead of time (just remember your passport), all snorkeling equipment provided by your local guide Niran or team, a traditional Thai buffet lunch served right on Koh 8’s beach along with fresh fruit and drinks throughout the day—and finally drop-off back at your hotel after sunset tiredness sets in.