How to get to Khao Lak and the Similan Islands: fly into Phuket, transfer to Khao Lak, then speedboat from Thap Lamu Pier. Simple step-by-step travel guide.
If you’ve seen those dreamy photos of turquoise water, white sand, and schools of fish that look like confetti, chances are you’ve stumbled across the Similan Islands. The only question left is: how do you actually get there? Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think.
Quick answer: Fly into Phuket International Airport (HKT), then travel about 1.5 to 2 hours north to Khao Lak by private transfer, shared minivan or local bus. From Khao Lak, boats leave from Thap Lamu Pier, 15 to 20 minutes south of town, and reach the Similan Islands in roughly 1.5 to 2 hours (about 70 km) by speedboat. Visit on a day trip or a 3 to 5 day liveaboard. The Similans are open only from mid-October to mid-May, so book ahead in high season.
Step 1: Fly into Phuket
First stop: Phuket International Airport (HKT). This is your main gateway to Khao Lak where all the trips to the Similans start, and lucky for you, Phuket is one of the most well-connected airports in Thailand. There are tons of direct flights from Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and even Europe during high season.
Once you’ve landed, resist the urge to head straight to the nearest beach bar, you’re only about 1.5 to 2 hours away from Khao Lak by car.
Step 2: Get from Phuket to Khao Lak
You’ve got a few options here, depending on your budget and comfort level:
🚗 Private Transfer: The easiest and fastest option. Book one online or through your accommodation: you’ll be whisked away in an air-conditioned car straight to your hotel.
🚐 Shared Minivan: A bit cheaper and still convenient. You’ll just make a few stops along the way as others get dropped off.
🚌 Local Bus: For the adventurous souls (and those traveling light). Buses run regularly from Phuket’s main bus terminal to Khao Lak, just keep in mind that they can be slow and not exactly luxury.
Whichever option you choose, the drive itself is beautiful: lush jungle, small Thai villages, and glimpses of the Andaman Sea.
Step 3: Settle into Khao Lak
Once you’ve made it to Khao Lak, congratulations! You’re already halfway to paradise. This laid-back coastal town is the launch pad to the Similan Islands, and it’s worth spending a day or two here to soak up the chilled vibes (and eat your weight in Thai food).
You can easily find tour operators, dive shops, and liveaboards offering trips to the Similans. Most boats depart from Thap Lamu Pier, just 15 to 20 minutes south of Khao Lak town center. If you book a tour, the pickup from your Hotel is usually included.
Step 4: Off to the Similan Islands!
From Thap Lamu Pier, it’s about 70 km (1.5–2 hours by speedboat) to reach the Similan Islands. You can visit on:
🐠 A Day Trip: Great for snorkeling or a quick dive fix. You’ll visit a few islands and still be back in time for sunset cocktails.
🛥️ A Liveaboard: The dream option for divers! Spend 3–5 days sleeping on a boat, diving at world-class sites like Richelieu Rock, Elephant Head Rock, and Christmas Point.
Pro Tips:
The Similan Islands are only open from mid-October to mid-May. The rest of the year, the park is closed to allow the ecosystem to recover.
Book your trip a few days in advance during high season because spots fill up fast!
Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a dry bag. You’ll thank yourself later.
Getting to Khao Lak and the Similans FAQ
Which airport do you fly into for the Similan Islands?
Fly into Phuket International Airport (HKT). It is the main gateway, with direct flights from Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Europe in high season, and it is about 1.5 to 2 hours by road from Khao Lak.
How long does it take to get from Phuket to Khao Lak?
The drive from Phuket airport to Khao Lak takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours. You can go by private transfer (fastest), shared minivan (cheaper) or local bus (slowest), all passing jungle, villages and Andaman Sea views.
How far is it from Khao Lak to the Similan Islands?
Boats leave from Thap Lamu Pier, 15 to 20 minutes south of Khao Lak town, and the Similan Islands are about 70 km away, roughly 1.5 to 2 hours by speedboat.
When are the Similan Islands open?
The Similan Islands are open only from mid-October to mid-May. The marine park closes the rest of the year so the ecosystem can recover, so plan your trip inside that window.
