One of the best parts about Thailand is that there is so much to see there. And you could probably go back over and over again and still not scratch the surface of it. Thailand is one of those places that is filled with a crazy amount of natural beauty. There are stunning mountains, limestone cliffs, glittering sea, beautiful islands, cascading waterfalls, and more. Because of this, you’ll want to pack your holiday to Thailand with several day trips exploring different areas. And while we stayed in Khao Lak, we took an amazing day trip to the Surin Islands.
The Surin Islands were absolutely stunning. The white sand beaches were perfect to lay down on and soak up some rays before cooling down in the crystal clear blue water. So, if you have the opportunity to take a day trip to the Surin Islands, do it. You’ll be glad you did.
A Day Trip To the Surin Islands in Thailand
How To Visit the Surin Islands
First things first. If you want to visit the Surin Islands, you’ll either have to book a day trip with a tour company or stay the night in that National Park Headquarters. We opted for a day trip. There are several tour companies that will take you there. We signed up for the Surin Islands via Speed Boat tour with TUI. I highly suggest it. They picked us up from our hotel, brought us to the marina to meet our tour, and then drove us back to the hotel at the end of the day (you should be back around 4pm). The tour cost £88.89 for adults and £56.96 for children.
Your Day Trip to the Surin Islands
If you’re staying in Khao Lak, you’re in luck! The marina is a short drive from most hotels in the area. When you book your tour you’ll receive your pick up time. You’ll arrive at the marina, be split into groups of about 20 people, and be given a run down of the day. Afterwards you’ll receive a light breakfast if you want!
Once you’re all set, you’ll head to your speedboat with the rest of your group. From the marina it takes about an hour and forty-five minutes to get to the Surin Islands. I usually get seasick on speedboats, but I thought that the ride was pretty calm. There were a few minutes of bumps here and there, but for the most part it was steady.
Our tour had two guides, one who spoke English, Thai, and German, and the other who spoke English and Thai. They both explained everything in English and German.
Other things to note about your time on the speedboat is that there are snacks including cookies and fresh fruit available. There are also soft drinks and water.
It’s Time To Snorkel!
Snorkel!
During your day trip to the Surin Islands you’ll have two opportunities to snorkel. The driver will choose your snorkel spots from several locations in between the islands. You’ll see gorgeous coral reefs, clown fish, trigger fish, puffer fish, sea turtles, stingrays, parrot fish, and more. Both snorkel stops will last 45 minutes each. Your guide will give you a snorkel, mask, and fins if you want. Life vests are also available if you feel more comfortable using one.
Visiting Moken Island
After your first snorkeling stop and lunch, you’ll stop by Moken Island. This is an island that is apart of the Surin Islands National Park. The people who you’ll see living there inhabit the island year round. They’ve been there for a really long time and when the Tsunami hit in 2004, not one person died. That’s because the Moken people are sea people. They used to live in boats before they settled on Moken Island. They know more about the sea than most people do.
During your stop here you can visit the village, see the houses, and buy souvenirs from the locals.
Lunchtime!
Next up is lunchtime! You’ll hop back on the speedboat and five minutes later you’ll find yourself at the Surin Islands National Park Headquarters. This is where you’ll eat. You’ll be served a buffet of rice, veggies, curry, fried chicken, and fresh fruit. The food is absolutely delicious! There will also be bottled water and soft drinks available. Lunch is included in the price of the tour./
After you eat, head to the other side of the island. You’ll come across the most beautiful white sand beach and crystal clear turquoise water. Take a dip and relax in the sun during your free time.
When you’re finished there, you’ll get back on the boat and head to your final snorkel spot. Afterwards you’ll head back to the marina in Khao Lak (it will take an hour and forty-five minutes to get back).
**Love my swimsuit? It’s from Simply Beach!**
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