The Surin Islands - Thailand
Koh Surin National Marine Park rates as one of Thailand's prime island locations. The two main islands Koh Surin Nua (North Surin Island) and Koh Surin Tai (South Surin Island) form the bulk of the land mass. The other 3 satellite islands both enhance the overground vistas and provide supplementary fringing reef.
Koh Surin - a naturalist's dream
The Surin Marine Park is a shining example of natural beauty. It plays host to phenomenal range of flora and fauna on the land and in the sea. The casual tourist may be able to enjoy a glimpse of the park's promise whilst the naturalist can marvel at the impressive bio-diversity.
The Surin Islands are layered with ancient rainforest which provide a home to a number of interesting species. These include Monitor Lizards, Flying Fox, Reticulated Python and Pig-tailed Macaque to name but a few. There have also been over 90 species of bird reported on the islands.
In the water the nature is even more impressive. An extensive coastline imparts a long fringing reef around the islands. On the east side there are numerous bays, sheltered from the the open sea. These sections display the most impressive coral reefs. With more than 200 coral species present here this affords the observing visitor the most impressive diversity of corals in Thailand.
Thailand Divemaster Training
Blue Guru offer all inclusive Divemaster internships with scuba diving in the Surin Islands & Richelieu Rock. With exclusive tropical beaches and genuine local diving direct from the shore - training in such a location is a rare opportunity.
Blue Guru Diving
Blue Guru looks after the water sport activities on Koh Phra Thong. There are sensational scuba diving, snorkeling and kayaking experiences on your doorstep. Specially tailored family packages are also available.
Getting to Koh Surin from Koh Phra Thong
Thankfully Koh Phra Thong and Koh Ra are the closest islands to the Surin National Marine Park.
Blue Guru Diving on Koh Phra Thong run a day-trip service to Koh Surin and Richelieu Rock on a weekly basis. During peak season this increases to twice a week or more and is open to both divers and snorkelers.
Read more about trips to the Surin Islands
Staying on Koh Surin
The National Park Authority of Thailand run all the accommodation on the Surin Islands. There are a few options available to visitors.
There are several campgrounds where you can erect your own tent for 80 Bt (€2). Alternatively, you can rent a large good quality tent from Surin Marine Park Authority for 300 Bt (€6). Bedding is available for under €1 per person. Additionally there are a number of fan bungalows for rent. These house 2 people and cost 2,000 Bt (€40) a night.
Tourist numbers to the Surin Islands are restricted by the authorities. This is a very positive step as it allows the Marine Park to maintain its natural splendour and vast diversity of flora and fauna. However, this also means that visitors to the area should seriously consider booking ahead to avoid disappointment.
Please contact us for assistance in this matter
Food on Koh Surin
The Surin Marine Park has a perfectly fine restaurant at their headquarters on the island. The food is reasonably priced. Single dishes with rice start at 80 Bt (€2) and the evening set menu will really fill you up for only 200 Bt (€4).
Further information can be found in the Surin Section of the National Park website.
