This part of the chapter deals with all the islands and mainland points of interest north of Phuket and south of the Burmese border. The two main island groups are The Similan Islands, approximately 50 miles northwest of Patong, and The Surin Islands, a further 50 miles north.
These groups of islands offer a beautiful contrast to the towering limestone monoliths of the Phang Nga / Krabi region. The huge granite boulders that form the Similans are clear evidence of an entirely different geological process from that which left us with Phang Nga Bay. Smooth, weather-worn rocks the size of cars and houses tumble down the islands’ shorelines looking like some ancient giant’s left-behind marbles.
Read moreApproximately 15 miles northeast of Koh Similan is Koh Bon. Surrounded by very deep water, anchoring is not possible.
On the southwest side orange National Parks moorings are available for shelter from the strong winds. There is a blow-hole cave that runs right through the northern part of the island.
Koh Bon has become a famous dive site because mantas are almost guaranteed here in the high season. If you’re lucky enough to secure a mooring, the etiquette is to allow another vessel to tie off your stern.
