...I returned to this island after more than 20 years because I had the opportunity to work near Khao Lak for 2 months. On my days off, I looked for tours near Khao Lak to visit the various islands in the area. Most prices were between 2,200-2,700 baht, but just as I was about to book, a local contact offered me a price of 1,600 baht with Love Andaman tour company, saving me a bit more money.

On the morning of the trip, a car picked me up from Khao Lak and took me to Thap Lamu Pier, which serves as a departure point for various islands in the area. I then proceeded to the Navy Wives Association shop to register and receive a wristband indicating my assigned boat. Following this, I listened to the guide's instructions at the pier of the company operating the boat.

Before boarding the boat, we had to leave our flip-flops at the pier, as there is a rule prohibiting footwear on the island. Then, a 900 cc speedboat, with a capacity of nearly 50 people, swiftly transported us away from the shore amidst the relatively calm waves. It took about an hour to reach Island 4, where the park headquarters is located.

Koh Miang, also known as Koh 4, is the second largest island and one of the nine islands in the Similan Islands archipelago. It houses the park headquarters and is the only island where overnight stays are permitted. Accommodation options include tents and bungalows. Water is available for showering, and electricity is available on a schedule. The island offers a variety of food options, including cooked-to-order meals, snacks, bottled water, soft drinks, and instant noodles.

The Island's Enchanting Shores

The island boasts two captivating beaches: the main beach and the smaller beach. Additionally, the Lhan Khao Luang viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramas. Boats typically dock at the main beach, though occasionally they may land at the smaller beach depending on the day's wave and wind conditions.

The island is a haven for rare creatures, including the elusive robber crab and the Nicobar pigeon. These shy creatures rarely make an appearance, so I focused on exploring and capturing the beauty of the main beach. Its pristine white sand is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Gazing towards the horizon, one can spot the silhouettes of Payu Island (Island 7) and Similan Island (Island 8).

While the waters surrounding both beaches are ideal for snorkeling, caution is advised due to strong currents. Alternatively, visitors can relax and soak up the sun under the shade of the majestic sea trumpet trees, offering respite from the tropical heat.

The weather is starting to change, with rain clouds forming. I wonder if I will encounter a rainstorm on my way back, as my trip is scheduled for the end of March, which is close to the monsoon season.

After lunch, which was provided by the park and is the same regardless of which tour operator you use, we spent over two hours on the island. Due to some changes in the schedule, we then traveled to Koh Bangu (Island 9), a renowned diving location known in the diving community as Christmas Point. This site features a vast and intricate underwater rock formation, teeming with vibrant coral reefs and gorgonians. It also serves as a habitat for diverse fish species, including ribbon eels, silvertip sharks, groupers, gobies, and slipper lobsters. The island's landscape is dominated by numerous rocky outcrops.

After spending approximately an hour snorkeling, we embarked on a journey to Similan Island (Island 8), the final destination of our one-day trip. Similan Island has long been renowned worldwide, particularly for its iconic Sail Rock formation, which serves as a scenic viewpoint. The underwater world boasts a dazzling array of coral, including brain coral, staghorn coral, mushroom coral, leaf coral, sea fans, lobsters, and a multitude of vibrant fish. This island offers both snorkeling and diving opportunities. Upon arrival, we disembarked and made our way to the Sail Rock viewpoint, located on the left side of the pier. The ascent is not overly steep, and the walk to the top of Sail Rock is relatively short. Due to the limited space, caution should be exercised when taking photographs or waiting in line if there is a crowd.

From the Sail Rock viewpoint, you can enjoy a panoramic view of almost 360 degrees. Looking straight ahead, you will see Bayu Island. To the left is the bay where boats dock on the beach. To the right, there is a shallow water snorkeling spot near the small rock formations. Behind you, the island is covered with trees.

The most sensitive point of the sailboat's rock.

Behind the sailboat-shaped rock

The time had come to return to shore at 3:30 PM. The rain clouds that had formed in the morning were nowhere to be seen. The sky was clear, the sun was strong, and my skin was tanned. But in my heart, I wondered if I would have the opportunity to return to Similan in the twilight of my life. After all, my first visit was when I was a teenager, and my second visit was in middle age. While waiting to board the boat, I took a 360-degree view as a farewell before walking to board the boat. We arrived at the pier at 4:30 PM. Another trip to Phang Nga was over...

To explore the various islands in this area without booking a tour package, find affordable accommodation in Khao Lak or Phuket. Then, look for one-day trip tours from your chosen accommodation. Numerous tour counters offer various options, with prices typically under 500 baht depending on your negotiation skills.

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