Similan Islands Generate Record 215 Million Baht Before Seasonal Closure

The Similan Islands National Park has announced tourism revenue exceeding 215 million baht during the 2026 season, marking one of the strongest financial performances in the park’s history before its annual seasonal closure.

Park Chief Sirivat Suebsai said the famous marine park welcomed more than 400,000 visitors between November and May, with international travelers accounting for over 90% of arrivals.

Despite a slight decrease in the total number of tourists compared to last year, revenue increased from 197 million baht in 2025 to more than 215 million baht this season.

According to park officials, the growth was driven largely by foreign tourism, although global economic uncertainty and ongoing international conflicts contributed to a slowdown in visitor activity during March.

Sirivat noted that tourism in southern Thailand remains highly sensitive to external global conditions, but international travelers continue to play a crucial role in supporting the economies of both Phang Nga and Phuket provinces.

The Similan Islands are internationally known for their white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and world-class diving sites, making the archipelago one of Thailand’s most valuable marine tourism destinations.

To protect the fragile ecosystem, authorities continue enforcing strict environmental measures, including daily visitor limits, marine safety regulations, and ongoing reef restoration and conservation projects.

As part of its long-established environmental protection policy, Similan Islands National Park officially closed to tourists on May 16 and will remain closed until October 14 during the southwest monsoon season in the Andaman Sea.

Officials explained that the annual closure allows coral reefs and marine ecosystems to recover naturally while park staff carry out maintenance and infrastructure improvements ahead of the next tourism season.

While the Similan Islands are closed, other tourist attractions across Phang Nga province will continue operating as usual throughout the low season.