The word "paradise" is used far too often these days, but it absolutely applies to Donald Duck Bay in the Similan Islands. It was the most fantastic boat trip we've ever taken in Thailand, and that's saying something considering how many tours we've done in recent years. No wonder we're not the only ones raving about this place: Donald Duck Bay was recently ranked number 10 on a list of the 50 most beautiful beaches in the world.

Although the journey from Phuket was a long day, and in hindsight we should have started from Khao Lak, the Similan Islands were absolutely worth it. This archipelago is much more beautiful than the photos suggest – one of the few places in the world that isn't overrun by tourists. While you might find some complaints about crowds in online reviews, if you book an early bird tour, you'll experience a wonderful day in the Andaman Sea.

How to get to Donald Duck Bay

Donald Duck Bay is tucked away at the northern end of Koh Paed (Island No. 8), the largest island in Mu Ko Similan National Park. The park is located about 70 kilometers off the coast of Phang Nga province and is only accessible from the mainland by boat. Note that Donald Duck Bay cannot be visited separately, as most tour operators include excursions to other beaches, islands, snorkeling spots, and a buffet lunch.

The usual departure point is Thap Lamu Pier, south of Khao Lak. To get there from Phuket, you first drive to the pier, where you'll receive a briefing and board the boat. The shuttle bus ride takes about two hours from Phuket Old Town or 90 minutes from Bang Tao Beach. Basically, you have two options for tours to the Similan Islands: day trips in small groups or multi-day dive safaris.

  • Day Trips: These tours include hotel transfers, speedboat rides, a picnic lunch, and approximately 90 minutes at Donald Duck Bay as the first stop. We recommend staying overnight in Khao Lak, as otherwise you would have to depart from Phuket at 5:00 AM. Be sure to choose the 7:00 AM departure time from the pier to avoid the biggest crowds that begin later in the morning. You can book the tour here: Early Bird Tour from Phuket or Khao Lak
  • Liveaboard diving safaris: If you have 3 or 4 nights to spare and enjoy sleeping on the water, this might be just the thing for you. You can choose between budget-friendly junks and luxury charter boats, diving or snorkeling excursions, and decide whether you want to include the Surin Islands in your itinerary. We've only heard good things about liveaboard diving safaris to the Similan Islands – the sunsets from the boat are said to be breathtaking.

    • Boat tour to the Similan Islands

    Snorkeling in the Similan Islands

    Activities in Donald Duck Bay

    Admire the natural beauty

    Arriving at Donald Duck Bay is an unforgettable experience. First, there's the famous balancing boulder that greets you. Second, the water changes color from sapphire blue to neon turquoise as soon as you enter the bay. Although we arrived a bit late, around 10:30 am, it wasn't so crowded as to detract from the experience. It's certainly one of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand (if not the most beautiful).

    Arrival at Donald Duck Bay

    Off to Sail Rock!

    Upon arriving at the pristine beaches of Donald Duck Bay, our first stop was Sail Rock. Unfortunately, our tour booked with Love Andaman only allowed us an hour at the beach, so we had to hurry. The climb is short and easy, although you do have to pull yourself up using ropes in a few places. At the top, you're greeted by a stack of granite boulders overlooking the bay. The view is spectacular: a sweeping white sand beach with jungle in the background, over which speedboats whiz.

    Swim in the neon turquoise water

    After our strenuous hike to Sail Rock, we were looking forward to diving into the warm waters of Donald Duck Bay. The beach was packed in the middle, almost like a human soup, but we swam to the edge and found plenty of space. We had never seen water like that before: within just 50 meters, it changed from crystal clear to emerald green to deep blue. Combined with the dazzling white sand, it was simply magical.

    Take a photograph of the granite rocks

    Donald Duck Cove is incredibly photogenic, not least because of its unique rock formations. While most visitors stay at Sail Rock, we discovered some great photo opportunities at the far end of the beach. There, similar granite boulders rise up from the lush jungle. We had a lot of fun photographing the waves crashing against the rocks and swimming among them, where we didn't encounter any other tourists.

    Relax on the white sandy beach

    The sand at Donald Duck Cove is a beautiful light golden color and incredibly soft. It's a wonderful place to relax under the trees or sunbathe. We did this for about ten minutes while we waited for everyone to get back on the boat. It's funny to see how hesitant people are to leave the boat. The tour guide gives a meeting time, but it's never adhered to to the minute. There are always a few stragglers.

    Rules and regulations for Donald Duck Bay

    The Similan Islands are open every year from mid-October to mid-May. Therefore, be sure to plan your trip within this period. February to April is considered the best time to visit, as the seas are calm for boat trips and underwater visibility is good for snorkeling. The daily number of visitors in the entire national park is limited to 3,850 people to prevent overcrowding and excessive environmental impact.

    National park fees are 500 THB per adult, but are usually included in tour prices from Phuket or Khao Lak. Donald Duck Bay can only be visited with licensed tour operators and is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes from Thap Lamu Pier. For your day trip, pack swimwear and a change of clothes, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, a waterproof bag, and a phone case. Plastic, smoking, and shoes are strictly prohibited (bring water shoes instead).

    Frequently asked questions for a visit to Donald Duck Bay

    Where did Donald Duck Bay get his name from?

    The name Donald Duck Bay supposedly comes from a granite rock formation that, when viewed from the water, bears a striking resemblance to the Disney character's head. We tried to see the similarity, but found it a bit of a stretch. A more fitting name would be Ao Kueak, the Thai name meaning "shoe." From a bird's-eye view, the shape looks more like a horseshoe than a cartoon character.

    How much does a day trip to the Similan Islands cost?

    A speedboat day trip from Phuket or Khao Lak costs between 3,500 THB (100 USD) and 4,500 THB (130 USD), depending on the operator. While this may sound expensive, it's excellent value for money considering the all-inclusive package. You'll be picked up from and dropped off at your hotel, and lunch, snacks, and water are provided – so most of your day's expenses are covered.

    Is it possible to stay overnight anywhere on the Similan Islands?

    The protected status of Mu Ko Similan National Park prohibits overnight stays on the islands. However, this restriction applies only to stays on land and not to overnight safaris on boats anchored off the coast. One island group where overnight stays are permitted is the Surin Islands. There, simple bungalows and tents are available and can be booked through official national park channels or authorized tour operators.