Surin Islands
Surin Islands is an archipelago of five islands namely Koh Surin Nua, Koh Surin Tai, Koh Ri, Koh Kai and Koh Klang. It is located within the sixty kilometers of Phang Nga province and about hundred kilometers from the Similans. Amongst these islands two most prominent are Koh Surin Nua (North Surin Island) and Koh Surin Tai (South Surin Island). Surin Islands has a serene environment away from the crowd. Development works are at low which make it maintain its true natural beauty. Clear blue waters around the islands with sandy beaches make Surin Islands a tranquil and attractive spot to relax at. Excellent for swimming, diving and snorkeling, Surin Islands also offer you hiking and game fishing opportunities. The entire archipelago is maintained as what is known as Mu Koh Surin National Park with the headquarters of the park authority located at Koh Surin Nua.
Surin Islands is safe for tourists in the dry season i.e. from November to April. Getting to Surin Islands is easy. Your choices are multiple. You can either start from Phang Nga or from Phuket. You can reach Surin from its closest pier located at Kuraburi, some 125 kilometers north of Phang Nga town. Ferryboats operating from Kuraburi take about three hours to reach Surin Islands. Another alternative route to Surin is the Kapoe Pier located in Ranong province. This trip takes about seven hours.
As mentioned earlier, Surin Islands has excellent diving and snorkeling spots. Richelieu Rock, located about 14 kilometers to the east of the islands, is believed to be the best diving site available. You may also be lucky to see some whale sharks or manta rays. If you have the hobby, you may find good angling spots.
The National Park authorities maintain some campsites, bungalow-type accommodation and small restaurants. All these operate during the November-May season. For standard accommodation you need to fall back to Kuraburi.
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