As the spring officially starts in the Similan Islands, March brings more warm temperatures, low rainfall and calm seas. Thanks to the still waves, this is a great time of the year to visit for scuba diving at one of the many famous sites that surround the islands. The average sea temperature feels great too, staying steady at 28°C (about 82°F), plenty warm enough for splashing and swimming in the water.
The chance of rain on any given day is 20 percent and there's only a 20 percent chance of clouds too. Along with warm-weather clothing like short-sleeved shirts, shorts and tank tops, you'll want to pack sunglasses, a hat and a high-SPF sunscreen. The UV index is high in this part of the world, so you'll want to avoid a nasty sunburn. The average number of rainfall days this time of the year is only four, so you probably won't need the umbrella or poncho at all during your stay. Around 50 mm of rain falls across the month, which is still considered the dry season.
With nine hours of sunshine each day, you'll have plenty of time to get out and see the sights on the islands, as well as explore the inland areas of Thailand. The average daily temperature this month sits at 28°C (around 83°F), an excellent temperature for just being outside, enjoying the sunshine.
During the heat of the day, you can expect high temperatures jumping all the way up to 33°C (around 91°F). The breezes blowing across the Andaman Sea help to temper the hot temperatures and make it feel more pleasant. Like nearby Khao Lak, at night on the islands, the lows drop down to 24°C (about 76°F), a welcome change from the hot afternoons. You can check the local forecast each day to know for sure what to expect.
Where to Stay
The Kantary Beach Hotel Villas and Suites Khao Lak is an exclusive adults-only resort from November to May. The rest of the year, it's open to families with children. The private beach features two lagoons and you'll get amazing views of the Andaman Sea. Other amenities include outdoor pool, a roof-top bar and pool-side bar, beach massages and on-site restaurant. You can even request to enjoy a romantic dinner on the beach under the stars.
A gorgeous adults-only resort, Beyond Resort Khaolak, invites guests to experience a peaceful and quiet holiday away near the Similan Islands. All of the accommodations are studio, one and two-bedroom villas, including some with private patios, Jacuzzis and dip pools. Down at the beach, you'll find plenty of shade to escape the hot Thai sun, as well as loungers and umbrellas. The hotel also has several swimming pools with swim-up bars and lounge areas.
Part of the Marriott family of hotels, the JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort and Spa boasts one of the largest pools in southeast Asia, with 16,000 square meters of swimming space, perfect for the March heat. For the younger travelers, the hotel also has a dedicated children's pool. Other amenities include beach, walking and running trails, fitness center, water sports, tennis, volleyball, spa and kids' club. All of the rooms have direct access to the pool, as well as air-conditioning and balcony or terrace.
Hit the Beach
Khao Lak has numerous beaches that line its beautiful shorelines, including the most remote one, Bang Sak Beach. The beach features a promenade with numerous restaurants and bars one side and tables and gazebos on the other for enjoying a picnic meal overlooking the water. Be sure to spend some time in the water too, with an average sea temperature of 28°C (about 82°F) in March.
Eating and Drinking Out
Not only can you indulge in yummy Thai cuisine at My Friend Thai Restaurant, you can also find good old fish and chips. The menu includes other Western favourites like toasted sandwiches and ice cold beer. You can't beat the view from the restaurant's open-air dining room, which is located right on the beach. As you dine with your toes in the sand, you'll enjoy sunsets across the Andaman Sea and beautiful views of the water.
Change it up a bit and head over to ENZO, a bistro featuring fusion Japanese dishes. Because of the restaurant's small size, you'll get personalised attention, but you'll also have to make a reservation online before you go. The chefs at ENZO utilize local, fresh and organic produce, meats and other food products in all the dishes. Depending on the time of the year, you can dine off the buffet or the a la carte menu.
Pull up to your table on the sand and take part in a delicious Thai meal at the Lay Restaurant. If you visit during the rainy season, the restaurant also has an indoor main dining room. The menu is full of traditional and authentic dishes, as well as crowd favourites like pineapple rice, tempura prawns and fresh fish. If you're a vegetarian, you'll find lots of meatless choices to keep your belly happy and the prices are very affordable.
Things to Do
Known around the world for its incredible dive sites, the Similan Islands invites divers of all skill levels to enjoy the amazing reef and rock formations. The Similan Dive Center offers day trips to the waters surrounding the islands, allowing you to explore coral reefs, boulders and swim-throughs. Your package includes pick up and drop off from Khao Lak and diving at two sites, as well as a buffet lunch and snacks and drinks during the day.
Recently added to the collection of Similan Islands, Ko Tachai Island offers another spot to enjoy remote and quiet beaches, snorkeling and hiking on your March holiday. You can reach the island from Khao Lak via sailboat or speedboat and once there, you'll find only the basics. The island has one restaurant with fresh water facilities. Because it's one of the newer islands to welcome visitors and a hidden gem, you'll find peace and quiet when you visit.
If you're up for an adrenaline-fueled adventure, check out the white water rafting tour with Mr. Moo Tours Khaolak. The eight-hour tour include pickup and drop off from your hotel in Khao Lak, as well as lunch, water and fresh fruit to snack on throughout the day. White water rafting is the main attraction, but you'll also get to ride ATVs, go on an elephant trek, visit a beautiful waterfall, and see a local ancient temple.
