PHANG NGA, Thailand – Thailand’s Similan Islands welcomed 1,409 visitors on October 15, the opening day of the 2026–2027 tourism season, with national park officials promoting coral-friendly sunscreen and environmentally responsible travel. Located in Phang Nga province, the marine national park reopened after its annual five-month closure from May 16 to October 14, allowing the marine environment to recover and avoiding the monsoon season.
Park chief Chaiyapruek Weerawong said officials were stepping up efforts to balance tourism with marine conservation. Visitors are being encouraged to use sunscreen without chemicals harmful to coral, reduce single-use plastics and respect protected marine areas where illegal fishing is prohibited.
Of the 1,409 visitors on opening day, 1,359 joined day trips and 50 arrived for scuba diving. The turnout reflected continued interest in one of Thailand’s best-known marine destinations among Thai and international travellers.
The park will monitor visitor numbers to keep tourism within the area’s carrying capacity, while maintaining marine patrols and safety measures throughout the season. All boat passengers are required to wear life jackets during journeys to the islands.
At Ban Thap Lamu pier in Thai Mueang district, Phang Nga, tour operators welcomed visitors for check-in, equipment collection and safety briefings before boat journeys of about 90 minutes to the islands.
Local tourism operators said they were ready to welcome visitors, with tour boats, hotels and accommodation prepared for the new season. The reopening is also expected to bring income to tourism businesses and local communities during the Andaman coast’s high season.
The Similan Islands are known for clear blue water, white-sand beaches, coral reefs and distinctive granite formations. Sail Rock on Island No. 8 is among the destination’s best-known landmarks, while the surrounding waters attract snorkelers and scuba divers. The 2026–2027 season runs from October 15, 2026, to May 15, 2027.
