Discover the Surin Islands – Thailand’s Top Diving Destination

Overview: Surin Islands National Park

The Surin Islands (Thai: หมู่เกาะสุรินทร์, Mu Ko Surin) are a spectacular archipelago in the Andaman Sea, located 60 km off the Thai mainland in Phang Nga Province. Comprised of five islands, the Surin Islands are part of Tambon Ko Phra Thong, Khura Buri District.

Protected as a Thai National Park and under UNESCO environmental programs, the islands feature pristine beaches, verdant forests, and some of the most biodiverse waters in Thailand.

The main islands include:

• Koh Surin Nuea
  
  

• Koh Surin Tai
  
  

The surrounding waters are home to colorful reef fish, butterflyfish, moray eels, sharks, sea turtles, and occasionally whale sharks, making the Surin Islands a world-class destination for diving and snorkeling.

Diving in the Surin Islands

Key Facts:

• Access: Only reachable by boat
  
  

• Dive Type: Boat dives over coral reefs and pinnacles
  
  

• Marine Life: Rich diversity from pelagic to macro species
  
  

• Level Required: Suitable for all levels of divers and snorkelers
  
  

• Water Temperature: 26 – 30°C
  
  

• Visibility: Up to 30 m
  
  

• Best Diving Season: November to May
  
  

• Location: 60 km west of Khura Buri, Phang Nga Province
  
  

Favorite Dive Sites in Surin Islands National Park

1. Richelieu Rock

• Located east of the Surin Islands
  
  

• World-famous dive site and top choice for advanced divers
  
  

• Known for manta rays, whale sharks, and pelagic species
  
  

• A must-visit site with a dedicated webpage for more details
  
  

2. Koh Khai (Koh Torinla)

• Drift dive with a beautiful pinnacle called Yellow Rock
  
  

• Covered with yellow corals, home to sweetlips and potato groupers
  
  

• Suitable for intermediate divers
  
  

3. Koh Chi

• Northern Surin Islands
  
  

• Perfect for a check dive or easy shallow dive
  
  

• Calm conditions ideal for beginners and snorkelers
  
  

4. Hin Rap

• North of Koh Surin Nuea
  
  

• One of the deepest dive sites in Surin National Park
  
  

• East side boulders drop to 25 m
  
  

• Shallow reef areas on the west side are excellent for snorkeling and spotting turtles
  
  

Marine Life & Coral Reefs

The Surin Islands are home to healthy coral reefs and abundant marine species, including:

• Reef fish: parrotfish, angelfish, sweetlips, butterflyfish
  
  

• Predators: sharks, moray eels, rays
  
  

• Macro life: nudibranchs, shrimp, pipefish
  
  

• Seasonal visitors: whale sharks and manta rays
  
  

Soft and hard corals thrive in these protected waters, creating vibrant underwater landscapes ideal for photography and marine research.

Terrestrial Wildlife & Flora

The islands are covered with evergreen forests, mangroves, and sandy beaches, home to:

• Mammals: crab-eating macaques, deer, flying foxes
  
  

• Birds: hornbills, Nicobar pigeons, kingfishers, sea-eagles, Brahminy kites
  
  

The Surin Islands offer a rare combination of underwater biodiversity and terrestrial wildlife, making them a top destination for eco-tourists and nature lovers.

Visitor Regulations & Permits

• A national park permit is required to dive, available through accredited dive operators
  
  

• Strict protection rules: Removing shells, coral, or sand is prohibited and may result in fines or imprisonment
  
  

• Surin Islands are home to the Moken sea gypsy village, preserving local culture and traditions