Blue Button jellyfish close swimming areas at Similan Islands
Photo courtesy of Khaosod English
Mu Ko Similan National Park just shut down swimming areas on Island No. 4 after Blue Button jellyfish showed up along the shoreline. The park issued warnings yesterday about the bright blue marine creatures, particularly on the eastern side (Hat Na) where most people swim.
Blue Button jellyfish aren't your typical box jellyfish — they're smaller with that distinctive round, button-like disc in the center. But they can still sting, and when there's enough of them to warrant closing beach zones, the park's not taking chances.
What this means if you're heading there
The Similan Islands are one of Thailand's top diving and snorkeling spots, especially busy during peak season (November through April). Island No. 4 is Koh Miang — one of the main islands where day boats drop people off.
Park officials haven't said how long the swimming restrictions will last. These jellyfish blooms can clear up in days or stick around for weeks, depending on currents and water conditions.
The diving sites around the islands are still open — the jellyfish seem concentrated in the shallow swimming areas near shore. So if you're coming for the underwater stuff (which is why most people make the trip), you should still be good.
Getting there costs
A Similan Islands day trip from Khao Lak runs about ฿1,500-2,500 ($43-71) depending on the operator. That includes transport, national park fees, lunch, and snorkel gear. Liveaboard diving trips start around ฿8,000 ($229) for two days.
The national park entrance fee is ฿500 ($14) for foreigners, which should be included in any tour package.
If you've got a Similan trip booked, check with your tour operator about what's actually accessible. Most companies will adjust the itinerary to hit other islands or focus on the diving sites that aren't affected.
The jellyfish situation will probably sort itself out — these blooms are seasonal and temporary. But for now, swimming at Hat Na is off limits until park officials give the all-clear.
Source: Khaosod English
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