Surin Islands Snorkeling Tour from Khao Lak by Wow Andaman

Summary

Small Group Snorkeling Trip to Surin Islands National Park

You’ll snorkel clear waters teeming with fish, visit a real Moken sea gypsy village, and enjoy lunch right in Surin Islands National Park—all with friendly guides and no big crowds.

What’s the experience like?

The day started early with a knock on our hotel door in Khao Lak—minivan right on time, which I appreciated because I’m not a morning person. We drove through quiet streets still waking up, and the air had that salty tang you only get near the coast. At the pier, there was hot coffee and some light breakfast laid out—nothing fancy, but enough to wake up properly before boarding the Wow Andaman speedboat. The crew greeted us with big smiles and made sure everyone had what they needed. Only 35 seats on board, so it never felt crowded or rushed.

The ride out to Mu Ko Surin National Park was smooth—just a bit of spray if you sat near the edge. Our guide, Bee, pointed out little islands as we passed and shared stories about the area’s wildlife. I’d read that Koh Surin Nua and Koh Surin Tai are the main islands here, but seeing them rise out of the water is something else entirely. The water around us looked almost unreal—clear turquoise with flashes of silver as fish darted below.

We stopped first at Pakkard Bay for snorkeling. The coral gardens were alive with color—parrotfish nibbling away, tiny clownfish hiding in anemones (Bee called this spot “Nemo Village” for good reason). At Ao Mae Yai, I floated above reefs so close you could almost touch them (but don’t!). There’s always someone from the crew nearby if you need help or just want to know what you’re looking at.

A highlight for me was visiting the Moken village. These sea gypsies have lived here for generations—still building their homes from wood and palm leaves, fishing like their parents did. Kids waved shyly while women worked on weaving mats under shady trees. It didn’t feel staged; just everyday life carrying on while we watched quietly.

Lunch came just when hunger hit—a simple Thai meal at the National Park canteen on Koh Surin Nua. Nothing too spicy unless you asked for it (I did). Afterward, some folks stretched out on Mai Ngam Beach while others took a short hike along a two-kilometer trail shaded by tall casuarina trees. The sand squeaked underfoot—a weirdly satisfying sound.

One last snorkel stop in the afternoon at Ao Mae Yai before heading back. By then, most of us were sun-warmed and sleepy but happy. Back at the pier there were cold drinks waiting before we hopped into vans for hotel drop-off. If you’re after a day that mixes adventure with real local culture—and you want to avoid big crowds—this trip hits all the right notes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Surin Islands Snorkeling Adventure

• Pickup and speedboat cruise to Mu Ko Surin National Park
• Speedboat cruise to Surin Islands snorkeling sites
• Snorkel stops at Pakkard Bay, Nemo Village, and Ao Mae Yai
• Visit Moken Sea Gypsies village
• Lunch and activities at Koh Surin Nua
• Afternoon snorkeling at Ao Mae Yai and return to Khao Lak

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners who can't swim well?

Yes! Life jackets are provided and guides are always nearby in the water to help out if needed.

Can I join if I'm staying in Phuket instead of Khao Lak?

This specific tour includes pickup from hotels in Khao Lak only; please check with us for Phuket options.

What should I bring besides my passport copy?

Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, and maybe a dry bag for your phone or camera.

Are vegetarian meals available for lunch?

Yes—just let us know your dietary needs when booking so we can arrange it at the park canteen.

What’s included

Your round-trip hotel transfer from Khao Lak is covered, plus all snorkeling gear (mask, fins, life jacket), beach towel, national park fees, accident insurance, English-speaking guide service, light breakfast at the pier, soft drinks and fresh fruit onboard, and a Thai lunch at the ranger station canteen.