Phuket’s Marine Protected Areas and Their Highlights

Local Marine Protected Areas Around Phuket

Thailand is home to some of the most stunning waters globally, and to protect these, the country has established 26 marine protected areas. The marine parks around Phuket include popular scuba diving sites in the Andaman Sea.

Mu Ko Similan

The Similan Islands are the most famous among liveaboard divers. This group of nine continental islands is located in the Andaman Sea, about 100 km north of Phuket, and is part of Phang Nga Province. It also marks the maritime boundary between Thailand and India. Divers flock here to explore renowned sites such as Elephant Head Rock, Anita’s Reef, and Boulder City.

Mu Ko Surin

Located north of the Similan Islands, the Surin Islands comprise five continental islands situated 55 kilometers from the Thai mainland. They belong to the Tambon Ko Phra Thong area in Khura Buri District, Phang Nga Province. The Surin Islands are home to Richelieu Rock, one of Thailand’s most iconic dive sites.

Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi

The Phi Phi Islands are located within the Ao Nang, Sai Thai, and Pak Nam sub-districts of Krabi Province, Thailand. Established as a marine national park in 1983, this IUCN Category II protected area spans 388 square kilometers and features coral reefs. The area includes the popular dive site Koh Bida Nok.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is an organization dedicated to conserving nature and promoting the sustainable use of natural resources.

Mu Ko Lanta

Mu Ko Lanta National Park, located in the southern part of Krabi Province, covers 134 square kilometers and comprises multiple islands. This national park features well-known scuba diving sites, including Koh Haa, Hin Daeng, and Hin Muang.

The Advantages of Marine Protected Areas in Thailand

Thailand’s marine national parks provide numerous benefits, not only for the environment but also for society as a whole. These protected areas are essential for conserving marine ecosystems and biodiversity.

Key Benefits of Thailand’s Marine Protected Areas:

1. Biodiversity Conservation:
   These parks protect Thailand’s marine habitats and species, including those that are endangered or threatened. They serve as sanctuaries where marine populations, such as Thailand’s turtles (Leatherback, Loggerhead, Olive Ridley, Green, and Hawksbill), can thrive and recover.
2. Habitat Preservation:
   Marine parks help protect critical habitats like coral reefs and seagrass beds, which are vital for the survival of many marine species. For example, the closure of Maya Bay at Phi Phi Islands led to the return of numerous blacktip reef sharks.
3. Ecosystem Health:
   Healthy marine ecosystems are crucial for the planet’s well-being. They support nutrient cycling, carbon sequestration, and oxygen production, benefiting marine life and contributing to global climate regulation.
4. Sustainable Fisheries:
   Overfishing is a challenge in Thailand and many parts of Asia. By protecting certain areas from destructive fishing practices, Thailand’s marine protected areas help support sustainable fisheries, allowing fish populations to replenish.
5. Scientific Research:
   These protected areas offer scientists opportunities to study marine ecosystems and monitor their changes over time. Research conducted in these areas informs conservation and management strategies.
6. Tourism and Recreation:
   Popular marine parks like Ko Phi Phi attract tourists for activities such as snorkeling, diving, and boating. These activities generate revenue for local communities and support Thailand’s tourism industry.