North of the Similans, near the Myanmar border, the Surin Islands form another marine national park known for pristine reefs, calm bays, and the traditional home of the Moken sea gypsies. Less crowded than the Similans and with some of the best shallow snorkeling in Thailand, the Surins are a paradise for those seeking both marine life and cultural encounters.
Why Visit the Surins
- Incredible snorkeling in crystal-clear shallow reefs.
- Rich marine life: turtles, reef sharks, colorful corals.
- Authentic cultural experience with the Moken community.
- Quieter and less developed than the Similans.
- Ideal for families, nature lovers, and eco-travelers.
Top Things to Do
- Snorkeling – Surin is famous for shallow reefs like Ao Mae Yai and Ao Chong Kad.
- Moken Village Visit – Learn about the traditional lifestyle of the nomadic sea gypsies.
- Kayaking & Beach Walks – Explore mangroves, lagoons, and unspoiled beaches.
- Wildlife spotting – Monitor lizards, hornbills, flying foxes, and reef fish galore.
- Camping under the stars – A rare chance to overnight in a national park with minimal development.
Food & Drink
- No restaurants beyond the park’s simple canteens.
- Meals are included in most tours and camping packages.
- Fresh seafood sometimes available when arranged in advance.
- Simple, local, and rustic — don’t expect luxury dining.
Where to Stay
- Camping: The main option, with tents provided by the park.
- Bungalows: Basic government-run bungalows available on Koh Surin Nuea.
- Day Trips: Many visitors come from Khao Lak or Kuraburi.
- Closest Base: Kuraburi, north of Khao Lak, is the main departure point.
Getting Around
- Boats depart from Kuraburi Pier.
- Options include speedboats for day trips or local transfers arranged by the park.
- Once on the islands, transport is by longtail boats between bays.
- Best season: November–April. Closed during rainy season.
Tips for Digital Nomads
- Zero connectivity — no WiFi, very limited signal.
- Purely an off-grid experience.
- Perfect if you want a reset from screens and digital noise.
- Bring a camera, not a laptop.
Local Tips & Warnings
- Moken community: Be respectful, ask before taking photos, and support local initiatives.
- Basic facilities: No luxury, only simple accommodation.
- Cash only: No ATMs — bring enough with you.
- Conservation rules: Strictly enforced to protect coral reefs and wildlife.
- Mosquitoes: More common here than on Similans — bring repellent.
Final Thoughts
The Surin Islands are a reminder of how raw and authentic Thailand’s islands can be. With stunning snorkeling, cultural encounters, and a true back-to-nature vibe, they’re a world apart from Phuket’s polished beach resorts. If you want to experience untouched nature and learn from one of the Andaman’s last sea nomad communities, the Surins are worth the journey.