Similan Islands

Christmas Point on Similan Island No. 7 is famous for a sloping coral garden that cascades from the surface to 30 m, planted with enormous table corals and staghorn formations. The site is named for a distinctive Christmas-tree-shaped rock that marks the entry point. Leopard sharks rest on sandy patches between boulders, and manta rays visit seasonally during the November to April diving season.

East of Eden on Similan Island No. 8 is considered one of the most beautiful coral gardens in all of Thailand, with fields of hard corals at 10–22 m harbouring an astounding density of reef fish in dazzling colour. The east-facing aspect means current-driven nutrients fuel constant fish activity, including schooling anthias, neon fusiliers, and resident Napoleon wrasse. Visibility regularly exceeds 25 m during the prime season.

Elephant Head Rock (Hin Pousar) is one of the Similan Islands' most dynamic sites, consisting of a jumble of massive granite boulders that form swim-throughs, gullies, and archways between 5 m and 30 m. Strong swirling currents bring pelagics including barracuda, tuna, and reef sharks, while the sheltered crevices hide enormous sea fans and juvenile fish life. It rewards exploratory, relaxed diving from multiple angles.

Khao Lak Reef Explorers offers day trips by speedboat to the Similan Islands during the November–April open season, giving divers access to famous sites like East of Eden and Fantasy Reef teeming with leopard sharks and schooling barracuda. Their shore-based dive centre provides full PADI training for resort guests and independent travellers alike, with underwater photography workshops tailored to the region's rich macro life. Equipment rental includes modern Zeagle regulators and Suunto computers, all serviced annually.

Similan Pelagic Divers operates from Khao Lak, the primary gateway to the Similan Islands National Park, running six-day liveaboard voyages that include the remote Richelieu Rock — one of the world's top sites for whale shark and manta ray encounters. The Andaman Sea's exceptional visibility, often exceeding 30 metres, showcases the stunning granite boulder formations and pristine hard coral gardens that define Similan diving. Their liveaboard vessel, MV Andaman Dream, accommodates 20 guests with en-suite cabins and a dedicated camera room.