What Phuket Islands are closing in 2024?
What Phuket Islands are closing in 2024?
There isn’t a blanket closure for islands in Phuket, Phang Nga Bay, or the Similan Islands in 2024. However, certain islands or parts of marine areas may be temporarily closed to visitors during specific times of the year or for conservation purposes. Here’s some information about closures:
The Similan Islands National Park, located northwest of Phuket, is a renowned marine national park famous for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and diverse marine life. The park is typically closed to visitors annually from mid-May to mid-October.
The closure is part of efforts to allow the marine ecosystem to recover during the monsoon season, which can bring rough seas and strong winds that may damage coral reefs and disturb marine life.
Maya Bay, located on Phi Phi Leh Island in Thailand, was temporarily closed to tourists in 2018 due to concerns about environmental damage caused by over-tourism.
The closure was initially announced for four months, from June to September 2018, to allow the ecosystem to recover from the environmental strain caused by excessive tourism activities such as pollution, coral damage, and depletion of marine life. They now close Maya Bay each year for 2 months. From 1st August to the 31st September.
Koh Kradan is a small, picturesque island located in the Andaman Sea off the coast of Thailand, part of the Trang Province. It’s known for its stunning white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking a peaceful and idyllic beach getaway.
In 2023 it was voted the Best Beach in the world. We are expecting it to be closed from June 1 to September 30.
Both Koh Rok and Koh Haa offer unforgettable diving and snorkeling experiences with their stunning underwater scenery, diverse marine life, and thrilling dive opportunities. We are expecting these islands to be closed from June 1 to September 30.
Phang Nga Bay, known for its limestone karsts and stunning scenery, doesn’t have a specific closure period. However, certain areas within the bay, such as protected mangrove forests and wildlife reserves, may have restricted access to visitors to preserve fragile ecosystems and wildlife habitats.
Islands Near Phuket:
Some islands near Phuket, such as Phi Phi Islands and Coral Island (Koh Hae), remain open to visitors throughout the year. However, it’s essential to check local regulations and guidelines regarding marine conservation and protected areas before planning your visit.
Why are the islands closing?
Reasons for Closures:
Conservation and Environmental Protection: The closures aim to protect fragile marine ecosystems, coral reefs, and biodiversity from the negative impacts of tourism, such as pollution, overfishing, and damage to coral reefs.
Safety During Monsoon Season: In the case of the Similan Islands, the closure during the monsoon season helps ensure the safety of visitors and prevents accidents due to rough seas and adverse weather conditions.
Allowing Ecosystem Recovery: Temporary closures allow marine ecosystems to recover from the stressors of human activities and natural disturbances, promoting the resilience and sustainability of marine environments.
It’s always a good idea to check with local authorities, tour operators, or national park offices for the latest information on island closures, regulations, and responsible tourism practices before planning your visit to these beautiful marine destinations.
Or just send us a message.
Shaun Stenning
Shaun is the Co-Owner and Founder of 5 Star Marine Phuket. After visiting Phuket for a holiday he never left and over 13 years later he calls Phuket home with his wife and kids. Shaun is passionate about Phuket and the Islands surrounding Phuket and loves helping fellow travellers explore.
