Similan and Phi Phi Islands highlight Thailand's marine tourism

The Similan Islands, an archipelago of nine main islands in Thailand, are characterized by intense sea colors and granite formations. Established as the Mu Ko Similan National Park in 1982, the area is a protected conservation zone designed to preserve marine and terrestrial biodiversity. The islands are a major destination for diving, offering visibility exceeding thirty meters and sites such as Elephant Head Rock, where divers can observe coral reefs, sea turtles, and rays.

Located in the Andaman Sea, the Phi Phi Islands are part of the Krabi Province. This archipelago, covering approximately 12.25 square kilometers, is known for its limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. While a major global tourism hub, the islands face environmental vulnerabilities due to their low-lying topography. Key attractions include Maya Bay, and visitors often utilize private longtail boats to navigate the area and avoid larger tourist crowds.