Island 9: Ko Ba-ngu, also known as Ko Bayu Island 8: Ko Similan Island 7: Ko Hin Pousar Island 6: Ko Payu, also known as Ko Pa Yu Island 5: Ko Ha Island 4: Ko Miang, also known as Ko Meang. Park HQ is here. Island 3: Ko Payan, also known as Ko Pa Yan Island 2: Ko Payang, also known as Ko Pa Yang Island 1: Ko Huyong, also known as Ko Hu Yong The Similans lie 70 kilometres off the coast of Phang Nga Province. "Similan" is a Yawi word meaning 'nine'. Ko Bon and Tachai were added to the national park in 1998. Ko Similan: Ko Similan is the largest island. The sea in the area has an average depth of 60 feet. Underwater it is full of rock formations and coral reefs in several shapes and forms, resembling such things as deer, leaves, brains, and mushrooms. Above the water are found many diverse species such as the Nicobar pigeon, mangrove monitor lizards, flying fox and more. Ko Huyong: Ko Huyong has the longest and widest beach in the park. However, the park prohibits any tourists from landing on the island as the beach is a place where turtles come to lay their eggs. Wildlife protection Islands 1, 2, and 3 are closed to the public due to a turtle hatching protection program and reef conservation efforts. Island number 3 belongs to a Thai princess. Fishing is banned in Similan and Surin National Parks. However, fishing boats are constantly seen in and around the park. When diving, one can often find nets stuck to reefs and illegal fishing traps. In recent years many illegal fishing traps have been found outside the most common dive sites. They have contained among others trevallies, batfish, barracuda, golden pilot jacks, and triggerfish. Fishing traps seem to be overly abundant around Ko Bon and Ko Tachai. Important Bird Area The archipelago has been designated an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International because it supports a population of Vulnerable pale-capped pigeons. See also List of islands of Thailand List of national parks of Thailand List of Protected Areas Regional Offices of Thailand References External links Website, Mu Ko Similan National Park Similan Islands Guide Similan Islands Dive Center & Snorkeling Center Overview of diving the Similan Islands Diving maps of Similan islands dive sites Geography of Phang Nga province Similan Andaman Sea