Phang Nga –
Phang Nga Province’s two renowned marine national parks, the Surin Islands National Park and the Similan Islands National Park, have closed to tourism and overnight stays for a five-month period, beginning May 15th and lasting until October 15th, 2026.
The closure, announced by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, coincides with the southwest monsoon season in the Andaman Sea. According to Surasak Anusorn, Director of the Office of Conservation Area Management 5 in Nakhon Si Thammarat, the measure is designed not only to ensure visitor safety during rough seas but also to allow ecosystems to recover naturally ahead of the next tourism season.
During the closure, authorities will carry out upgrades to public utilities and visitor facilities within the parks. These improvements are to enhance readiness for the reopening in October, when the islands are expected to welcome tourists once again.
The seasonal closure has long been part of Thailand’s conservation strategy for its fragile marine environments, balancing tourism demand with ecological preservation. The Surin and Similan Islands are celebrated worldwide for their coral reefs, marine biodiversity, and pristine beaches, making them among the country’s most sought-after destinations once the season reopens.
