Phang Nga marine parks close for five months from May 15

Phang Nga’s two main marine parks — Surin Islands National Park and Similan Islands National Park — closed to tourism and overnight stays on May 15, with the shutdown running until Oct. 15, 2026. The five-month marine parks closure affects Andaman destinations frequently visited from Phuket and was announced by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation.

Officials said the annual shutdown aligns with the southwest monsoon season in the Andaman Sea. Surasak Anusorn, director of the Office of Conservation Area Management 5 in Nakhon Si Thammarat, said the measure is intended to protect visitors during rough-sea conditions and give marine ecosystems time to recover before the next tourism season.

Monsoon safety and park upgrades during closure

Authorities said work during the closure will include upgrades to public utilities and visitor facilities inside both parks. The improvements are intended to strengthen readiness for the islands’ reopening in October.

The seasonal suspension has long been used as part of Thailand’s marine conservation approach. Officials described it as a balance between tourism pressure and ecological protection in fragile coastal environments.

The Surin and Similan islands are widely known for coral reefs, marine biodiversity and beaches that draw heavy demand during the open season. Both parks are scheduled to remain closed until Oct. 15, 2026.

Source: https://thephuketexpress.com/2026/05/16/marine-parks-in-phang-nga-close-for-five-months/