Similan Islands, Thailand: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Similan Islands, Thailand? If you're planning to go to Similan Islands, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Similan Islands, Thailand

Based on the climate and weather in Similan Islands, Thailand, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Similan Islands, Thailand

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Similan Islands, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Similan Islands, Thailand by month

January

If you visit Similan Islands during January, you might see that it is extremely hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Similan Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Make sure to get the correct type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

February

If you visit Similan Islands during February, you will probably see that it is sweltering and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Similan Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Take care to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

March

If you visit Similan Islands during March, you will probably see that it is unbearably hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Similan Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Make sure to choose the correct type. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

April

If you are traveling to Similan Islands in April, you will notice that it can be sizzling and somewhat stormy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the 90s F (mid 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Similan Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Take care to get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

May

May in Similan Islands is constantly hot and somewhat stormy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Similan Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Take care to get the right kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

June

June in this region can be sweltering. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Similan Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Take care to find the correct type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

July

If you visit Similan Islands during July, you will probably find that it is extremely hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Similan Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Ensure that you choose the right type. Many adapters available are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

August

Traveling to Similan Islands in August, you will notice that it is constantly hot. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Similan Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be sure to choose the right type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

September

September for Similan Islands is consistently hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Similan Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Check that you get the right kind. Many adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

October

October in Similan Islands is really hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Similan Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be careful to pick the right type. Most adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

November

If you are traveling to Similan Islands in November, you will notice that it can be sweltering. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Similan Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be sure to choose the necessary type. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

December

December in Similan Islands can be sweltering. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to low 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Similan Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be careful to choose the right type. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

What to do in Similan Islands, Thailand

The Similan Islands are a group of nine small islands located in the Andaman Sea, approximately 50 kilometers west of Thailand's Phang Nga province. With breathtaking beauty, crystal-clear waters, and a thriving marine ecosystem, the Similan Islands have become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand. Here are the top tourist attractions in Similan Islands.

1. Snorkeling and Diving

The Similan Islands are renowned for their world-class snorkeling and diving sites, and it is the main reason why visitors flock to this island. The islands boast an incredible underwater world, featuring colorful coral reefs, vast schools of tropical fish, sea turtles, manta rays, and whale sharks. The best time to go snorkeling or diving is from November to April when the water is calm and visibility is at its best.

2. Island Hopping

The clusters of islands known as the Similan Islands are located within the Mu Ko Similan National Park. Take a boat trip to visit each of the nine islands, each with its own unique character, and explore a paradise tropical island one by one. The islands are popular for its amazing coral reefs, white sandy beaches, dense forests, and numerous hiking trails.

3. Camping

The national park provides visitors to stay on the island from November to April. Camping facilities are available on some of the islands, such as Koh Miang and Kho Similan, with basic facilities. Camping on the Similan Islands is a dream come true for nature lovers; falling asleep to the sound of waves and waking up to the stunning view of the sea is an unforgettable experience.

4. Beaches

The Similan Islands are home to some of the world's most beautiful beaches. Each island has its unique beach with crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Donald Duck Bay on Koh Similan is the most famous beach, stretching for over half a kilometer, with soft white sand and clear turquoise water.

5. Viewpoints

The Similan Islands offer spectacular landscapes of dense green forests and stunning turquoise waters. The island's viewpoints provide visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the archipelago. The most popular viewpoint is on the top of Sailing Rock, where visitors can take fantastic pictures of Koh Similan and other nearby islands.

In conclusion, with so many incredible activities to do and sights to explore, the Similan islands are considered a hidden gem of Thailand's Andaman sea. From exploring the marine life, island-hopping, and camping, to snorkeling, relaxing on the beach and taking in the magnificent views, there's something for everyone in Similan Islands. A visit to this paradise tropical island is a must-do on any traveler's bucket list.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Cuddalore, India, Decatur, Alabama, United States of America, Chiang Khong, Thailand, Gwandong Palgyeong, South Korea, Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, Utah, United States of America, Orland, Maine, United States of America, Żywiec, Poland, Danbury, Connecticut, United States of America, Georgian Bay Islands National Park, Canada, Canvey Island, England, United Kingdom, and Norco, California, United States of America.