Ko Miang (Island 4) is the headquarters island of Mu Ko Similan National Park, in the Andaman Sea off Phang Nga, Thailand. Its white-sand Princess Bay and gently shelving reef let even first-timers wade in from the beach and glide over hard and soft corals amid clouds of butterflyfish, anemonefish and parrotfish, in water that often stays clear to 20-30 m or more; hawksbill and green turtles are a common sight. Some reefs were hit by bleaching in 2010 and again in 2024 and are still recovering in patches, yet the rich fish life, granite boulders and glassy visibility keep Ko Miang among the Andaman's finest snorkel spots. As of July 2026 the park is within its annual monsoon closure (15 May-15 Oct) and reopens around mid-October.
Easy walk-in reef right off the beach (roughly 1-8 m) — beginner- and kid-friendly entry
Signature Andaman clarity, often 20-30 m or more; late October to November is calmest and least crowded
White sand of Princess Bay (Haad Chao Ley) plus hilltop viewpoints and a sunset lookout
Hard- and soft-coral gardens with colourful schools of butterflyfish, anemonefish and parrotfish
Hawksbill and green turtles amid dramatic granite-boulder underwater scenery
Good to know
SafetyOutside the sheltered bay and in channels, currents can run strong and push snorkelers offshore. Stay close to the beach and reef, carry a float or buoy, never snorkel alone, and keep within sight of the boat and guide.
SafetySpeedboats and tour boats move through the bays. Snorkel only inside the designated swim area, wear brightly coloured gear, and surface with awareness of boat traffic.
SafetyStonefish, sea urchins and fire coral lurk on shallow rock and reef. Never put a hand or foot on the bottom or coral, wear water shoes and a rash guard, and treat any sting promptly — do not underestimate this as a beginner.
SafetyMask fogging or a sudden sense of breathlessness can trigger panic. Beginners should test gear in the shallows, avoid over-exerting, and rest on a float; also guard against sun, dehydration and seasickness on the rough speedboat crossing.
SeasonThe best window is November-April, when seas are calm and water is clear (calmest and quietest in late October-November). Jellyfish are generally more likely in the warmer monsoon months (July-October, overlapping the closure), so check local tides and conditions even early in the reopened season.
RulesAs a marine national park, touching or standing on coral, feeding fish, and collecting shells or coral are strictly prohibited. Only reef-safe (oxybenzone-free) sunscreen is allowed, and a park fee plus a licensed tour are effectively required.
MannersIf you meet a turtle, keep your distance — don't chase, touch or feed it. Never stand on the reef; take only photos and leave everything as you found it.
Practical info
Ko Miang is reached by speedboat (about 60-90 minutes) from Thap Lamu Pier near Khao Lak, and independent access is limited, so most visitors come on a licensed day tour. The best window is November-April (calmest and clearest in late October-November); confirm the current foreigner entry fee (around 500 baht for adults), tour prices and whether any island camping or lodging is operating, as these change season to season.
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