Krabi

Photo: Chris Tweten / Unsplash
Key Facts
Best Time to Visit
November to March (dry season, calm seas for island hopping)
Language
Thai; English widely spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Thai Baht (THB)
Time Zone
ICT (UTC+7)
Airport
Krabi International Airport (KBV)
Population
~55,000 (Krabi Town proper)
Climate
Tropical monsoon, avg 27-33°C year-round; heavy rain May-October
Safety Rating
Generally Safe (Level 1)
Known For
World-class rock climbing, limestone karsts, island hopping, and mangrove kayaking
Top Highlights

Railay Beach
Accessible only by longtail boat (15 min from Ao Nang, ~150 THB), this peninsula is hemmed by sheer limestone cliffs and powder-white sand. Base for 700+ rock climbing routes rated beginner to advanced. Allow a full day.

Four Islands Tour
Full-day longtail or speedboat tour (~1,200-1,800 THB) covering Tup Island, Chicken Island, Poda Island, and Phra Nang Cave Beach. Includes snorkeling gear and lunch. Departs Ao Nang 9AM, returns 3-4PM.

Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea)
Climb 1,237 steps to a hilltop Buddha statue with panoramic views of Krabi. Free entry; allow 2-3 hours including the climb. Best attempted early morning to avoid midday heat. Monkeys at the base — secure belongings.

Emerald Pool (Sa Morakot)
Crystal-clear natural pool fed by a warm spring in Khao Phra Bang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary. Entry: 200 THB for foreigners. Open 8:30AM-4:30PM. 1-km nature trail from parking. Combine with nearby Blue Pool (swimming not allowed).

Ao Nang Beach & Town
Krabi's main tourist hub with a long beachfront promenade, restaurants, dive shops, and longtail boat piers. Base for island tours and Railay trips. Walking Street night market runs on weekends with street food from ~40 THB.

Rock Climbing at Railay & Ton Sai
Over 700 bolted routes on limestone crags from grades 5a to 8b+. Half-day beginner courses from ~1,500 THB with gear included. Top operators: King Climbers, Basecamp Tonsai. Best season November-March when rock is dry.

Thung Teao Forest Natural Park
Home to the Emerald Pool and the stunning Blue Pool, set in lowland rainforest. Entry: 200 THB. The 1.4-km boardwalk trail passes through old-growth forest with interpretive signs. Allow 2 hours. 65 km from Krabi Town.

Krabi Night Market
Friday-Sunday evening market at Chao Fah Pier in Krabi Town. Local seafood BBQ from 60 THB, pad thai ~40 THB, fresh fruit shakes ~30 THB. Runs 5PM-10PM. A hidden gem locals prefer over Ao Nang dining.
Planned Itinerary
7-Day Krabi Itinerary
Arrival & Ao Nang Orientation
Arrive at Krabi International Airport (KBV) and transfer to your hotel in Ao Nang (30-40 min drive, taxi ~500 THB or shuttle ~150 THB). Settle in and explore the beachfront promenade.
Airport transfer to Ao Nang(40 minutes)
Pre-book through your hotel or use the airport shuttle (150 THB per person) to avoid inflated taxi prices
Late lunch at Lae Lay Grill(1.5 hours)
Clifftop restaurant overlooking Ao Nang Bay — seafood set menus from 350 THB, the grilled prawns with chili sauce are outstanding
Sunset walk along Ao Nang Beach(1.5 hours)
Stroll the 1.5-km beachfront promenade past longtail boats, dive shops, and massage parlors. End at Nopparat Thara Beach where it's quieter and locals fly kites
Railay Beach & Rock Climbing
Catch an early longtail boat to Railay, Krabi's crown jewel peninsula accessible only by water. Spend the day between the beaches and limestone cliffs.
Longtail boat to Railay Beach(15 minutes)
Boats depart Ao Nang East Pier from 7:45AM, 100 THB per person daytime. Boats leave when 8-10 passengers gather or charter for ~1,000 THB
Half-day rock climbing at Railay East(4 hours)
Book with King Climbers or Basecamp Tonsai — beginner half-day course ~1,500 THB with gear, helmet, and instructor. Routes on the 1-2-3 Wall are perfect for first-timers
Lunch at The Last Bar, Railay East(1 hour)
Shaded bar-restaurant with Thai staples from 120 THB — the green curry is generous and the mango smoothies are fresh
Swim and relax at Phra Nang Cave Beach(2 hours)
Walk 15 minutes from Railay East through the jungle trail to this stunning cove backed by a limestone cave. Locals leave fertility shrines at the cave entrance
Return to Ao Nang by longtail(15 minutes)
Last boats return around 6PM in low season — don't miss it or you'll need to charter (150 THB after dark)
Four Islands Tour
Full-day longtail boat tour covering Krabi's iconic islands — snorkeling, swimming, and that sandbar walk between islands at low tide.
Four Islands Tour by longtail(6 hours)
Book from a Krabi Town agency for 600-900 THB (vs. 1,200-1,800 from Ao Nang). Departs 9AM, includes Tup Island, Chicken Island, Poda Island, and Phra Nang Cave Beach. Snorkel gear and lunch included
Snorkeling at Chicken Island reef(1 hour)
The reef on the eastern side has excellent coral and tropical fish in 2-4m of water. Provided masks are basic — bring your own if you have one
Walk the Tup Island sandbar(45 minutes)
At low tide, a sandbar connects three small islands. Check tide times — the sandbar disappears at high tide. Best photos from the rocky outcrop at the southern end
Dinner at Ao Nang Walking Street night market(1.5 hours)
Open weekends 5PM-10PM along the main road. Grilled squid from 60 THB, pad thai from 40 THB, fresh fruit shakes from 30 THB. Live music some evenings
Tiger Cave Temple & Krabi Town
Morning conquest of the 1,237 steps to Tiger Cave Temple's summit, followed by an afternoon exploring the more local side of Krabi in town.
Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea) climb(3 hours)
Start by 7AM to beat the heat. 1,237 steps to a hilltop Buddha statue with 360-degree views. Free entry. Secure belongings — monkeys at the base are bold thieves. Bring 1L+ of water
Explore the cave temple complex below(45 minutes)
The actual cave temple at the base has meditation rooms, monk quarters, and a massive tree with buttress roots. Quieter and cooler than the hilltop
Songthaew to Krabi Town(20 minutes)
Shared pickup truck from Ao Nang costs 60 THB — drops you at the Vogue Department Store intersection in Krabi Town
Krabi Night Market at Chao Fah Pier(2 hours)
Friday-Sunday 5PM-10PM. Local seafood BBQ from 60 THB, grilled fish on sticks, som tam (papaya salad), and roti pancakes with Nutella. Sit at the waterfront tables overlooking the river
Emerald Pool, Blue Pool & Hot Springs
Head inland to Krabi's rainforest attractions — crystal-clear natural pools and natural hot springs surrounded by jungle. Rent a scooter (200-300 THB/day) or arrange a driver (~1,200 THB for the day).
Emerald Pool (Sa Morakot)(2 hours)
Crystal-clear pool fed by warm springs in Khao Phra Bang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary. 200 THB entry. Walk the 1-km nature trail from parking — arrive by 9AM to avoid tour bus crowds. Water is naturally warm and swimmable
Blue Pool viewpoint(30 minutes)
500m past the Emerald Pool, an impossibly blue pool sits in a sinkhole. Swimming not allowed but the color is otherworldly. Best lighting midday when sun hits the water directly
Lunch at a local restaurant near Khlong Thom(1 hour)
Small roadside restaurants near the park entrance serve kao pad (fried rice) and som tam for 50-80 THB — more authentic than Ao Nang tourist pricing
Klong Thom Hot Springs (Namtok Ron)(1.5 hours)
Natural hot spring waterfall 15 km from the Emerald Pool. Free entry. Multiple pools at different temperatures — the lower ones are warm, the upper cascade is hot. Bring a towel
Free Morning & Kayaking Adventure
A more relaxed day — sleep in, enjoy a late breakfast, then explore Krabi's mangroves by kayak in the cooler afternoon hours.
Sleep in and brunch at Jungle Kitchen Ao Nang(1.5 hours)
Hidden on a hillside — follow the signs up the steps. Thai-fusion dishes from 100 THB in a treehouse-style setting. The massaman curry is legendary among backpackers
Mangrove kayaking at Ao Thalane(3 hours)
Half-day guided kayak tour through Ao Thalane's limestone mangrove channels — 800-1,200 THB per person. Paddle through sea caves and past monitor lizards. Start at 2PM for softer light and cooler temps. Pickup from Ao Nang included
Thai massage on Ao Nang Beach(1 hour)
Beach massage parlors offer traditional Thai massage from 300 THB/hour, oil massage from 400 THB. Rates are negotiable in low season
Farewell dinner at Carnivore Steak & Grill(1.5 hours)
Upscale option on the Ao Nang strip — imported steaks and seafood platters from 500 THB. Good cocktails and a rooftop terrace with fairy lights
Departure Day
Last morning in Krabi. Squeeze in final beach time or shopping before your airport transfer.
Early morning swim at Nopparat Thara Beach(1 hour)
Quieter than Ao Nang beach, with views of the islands you've visited all week. Local fishermen launch boats at dawn — a peaceful farewell scene
Souvenir shopping on Ao Nang main strip(1 hour)
Elephant pants from 100 THB, coconut oil products from 80 THB, dried fruit packs from 50 THB. The 7-Eleven near the pier has vacuum-packed Thai snacks that travel well
Airport transfer from Ao Nang(40 minutes)
Pre-book through hotel reception the night before (~500 THB by private taxi, or 150 THB per person on the airport shuttle). Allow 2 hours before domestic flights, 3 hours for international
14-Day Krabi Itinerary
Arrival & Ao Nang Orientation
Arrive at Krabi International Airport (KBV) and transfer to your hotel in Ao Nang. Settle in and get your bearings along the beachfront.
Airport transfer to Ao Nang(40 minutes)
Pre-book through your hotel or use the airport shuttle (150 THB per person) to avoid inflated taxi prices
Late lunch at Lae Lay Grill(1.5 hours)
Clifftop restaurant overlooking Ao Nang Bay — seafood set menus from 350 THB, the grilled prawns with chili sauce are outstanding
Sunset walk along Ao Nang Beach(1.5 hours)
Stroll the 1.5-km beachfront promenade past longtail boats and dive shops. End at Nopparat Thara Beach where locals gather to fly kites at dusk
Railay Beach & Phra Nang Cave
Full day exploring the Railay Peninsula — its beaches, caves, and jungle viewpoints. Accessible only by longtail boat from Ao Nang.
Longtail boat to Railay Beach(15 minutes)
Departs Ao Nang East Pier from 7:45AM, 100 THB per person. Boats leave when 8-10 passengers gather
Railay Viewpoint hike(1.5 hours)
Scramble up a muddy, rope-assisted trail behind Railay East to a viewpoint over both sides of the peninsula. Wear grippy shoes — it's steep and slippery. Rewarding panorama at the top
Lunch at The Last Bar, Railay East(1 hour)
Shaded bar-restaurant with Thai staples from 120 THB — the green curry is generous and the mango smoothies are fresh
Swim at Phra Nang Cave Beach(2 hours)
Walk 15 minutes through the jungle trail to this stunning cove. Fertility shrine inside the cave. The water is calm and crystal-clear for swimming
Sunset drinks at Railay West(1.5 hours)
The west-facing beach has stunning sunsets. Grab a spot at one of the beach bars — cocktails from 200 THB
Four Islands Tour
Full-day longtail boat tour covering Krabi's iconic islands with snorkeling and that magical sandbar walk between islands at low tide.
Four Islands Tour by longtail(6 hours)
Book from a Krabi Town agency for 600-900 THB (same boats as Ao Nang's 1,200-1,800 THB tours). Covers Tup Island, Chicken Island, Poda Island, and Phra Nang Cave Beach. Snorkel gear and lunch included
Snorkeling at Chicken Island reef(1 hour)
Excellent coral and tropical fish in 2-4m water on the eastern side
Walk the Tup Island sandbar(45 minutes)
At low tide, a sandbar connects three small islands — check tide times before booking
Dinner at Ao Nang Walking Street night market(1.5 hours)
Weekend evenings 5PM-10PM. Grilled squid from 60 THB, pad thai from 40 THB, fruit shakes from 30 THB
Tiger Cave Temple & Krabi Town
Conquer the 1,237 steps to Tiger Cave Temple at dawn, then explore the local side of Krabi Town in the afternoon.
Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea) climb(3 hours)
Start by 7AM. 1,237 steps to a hilltop Buddha with 360-degree views. Free entry. Monkeys at the base — secure belongings. Bring 1L+ water
Explore the cave temple below(45 minutes)
Meditation rooms, monk quarters, and a massive strangler fig tree with buttress roots
Songthaew to Krabi Town(20 minutes)
Shared pickup from Ao Nang, 60 THB
Krabi Night Market at Chao Fah Pier(2 hours)
Friday-Sunday 5PM-10PM. Seafood BBQ from 60 THB, som tam, roti with Nutella. Waterfront tables with river views
Emerald Pool, Blue Pool & Hot Springs
Head inland to Krabi's rainforest attractions. Rent a scooter (200-300 THB/day) or hire a driver (~1,200 THB for the day).
Emerald Pool (Sa Morakot)(2 hours)
Crystal-clear warm spring pool in the wildlife sanctuary. 200 THB entry. Arrive by 9AM to beat tour bus crowds
Blue Pool viewpoint(30 minutes)
500m past the Emerald Pool — an impossibly blue sinkhole. Swimming not allowed. Best midday lighting
Lunch near Khlong Thom(1 hour)
Roadside restaurants near the park serve local Thai food for 50-80 THB
Klong Thom Hot Springs(1.5 hours)
Natural hot spring waterfall 15 km from Emerald Pool. Free entry. Multiple temperature pools in the jungle
Rock Climbing at Railay & Ton Sai
Return to the Railay Peninsula for a dedicated climbing day. Over 700 routes on world-class limestone cliffs.
Longtail to Ton Sai Beach(15 minutes)
100 THB from Ao Nang. Ton Sai is the climber's base — more budget-friendly than Railay with dreadlocked vibes
Full-day rock climbing(6 hours)
Book with Basecamp Tonsai — full day ~2,500 THB with gear, guide, and lunch. Routes range from 5a (beginner) to 8b+ on overhanging limestone walls. The '123 Wall' and 'Muay Thai' wall are most popular for intermediates
Sunset beers at Ton Sai beach bars(1.5 hours)
The Ton Sai bar scene is legendarily laid-back — fire shows, reggae, and Chang beers for 80 THB
Free Day & Mangrove Kayaking
A slower-paced day. Sleep in, enjoy a lazy morning, then paddle through Krabi's mangrove forests in the afternoon.
Sleep in and brunch at Jungle Kitchen Ao Nang(1.5 hours)
Hidden hillside restaurant — follow the signs up the steps. Thai-fusion from 100 THB in a treehouse setting. The massaman curry is legendary
Thai massage(1 hour)
Beach massage parlors on Ao Nang — traditional Thai massage from 300 THB/hour
Mangrove kayaking at Ao Thalane(3 hours)
Half-day guided tour through limestone mangrove channels — 800-1,200 THB. Paddle through sea caves past monitor lizards. Pickup from Ao Nang included
Hong Islands Day Trip
Explore the Hong Islands — Krabi's less-visited archipelago with emerald lagoons, white sand, and superb snorkeling. A different vibe from the Four Islands tour.
Hong Islands speedboat tour(5 hours)
Departs 8:30AM from Ao Nang. Tour ~1,500-2,200 THB including lunch, snorkel gear, and national park fee (300 THB). The Hong Lagoon is a hidden pool of emerald water enclosed by sheer cliffs
Snorkeling at Pak Bia Island(1 hour)
Shallow coral reef off the sandbar — clownfish, parrotfish, and blue-spotted stingrays in knee-deep water
Kayaking in Hong Lagoon(1 hour)
Paddle into the enclosed lagoon through a narrow gap in the limestone — the water is mirror-still and surrounded by sheer karst walls
Dinner at Krua Thara Ao Nang(1.5 hours)
Authentic Thai seafood restaurant one block back from the beach — crab curry (350 THB) and morning glory stir-fry (80 THB) are standouts
Move to Koh Lanta
Head south to Koh Lanta — a more laid-back island with longer beaches, better sunsets, and a fraction of Ao Nang's crowds. 2 hours by minivan and ferry.
Minivan and ferry to Koh Lanta(2 hours)
Minivans depart Ao Nang at 8AM, 11AM, 1PM — 400-500 THB including the short car ferry crossing. Book through any travel agent or your hotel
Check in at Long Beach (Phra Ae Beach)(1 hour)
The island's main tourist beach — 3-km stretch of sand with mid-range resorts from 800-2,000 THB/night. Less developed than Ao Nang
Lunch at Beautiful Restaurant, Long Beach(1 hour)
Beachfront Thai-Swedish joint on Long Beach — pad kra pao from 100 THB, excellent banana pancakes for breakfast crowd
Explore Lanta Old Town(2 hours)
Drive or scooter 30 minutes south to the east coast. Charming wooden shophouses on stilts, Chinese temples, a small mosque, and artisan cafes. Hammock Cafe serves Lao coffee over ice for 60 THB. The sunset pier photos from here are exceptional
Koh Lanta Snorkeling & Beaches
Explore Koh Lanta's diverse beaches by scooter and join a snorkeling trip to the outlying islands.
Rent a scooter on Koh Lanta(15 minutes)
200-300 THB/day from Long Beach shops. The main road is well-paved with gentle hills
Four Islands snorkeling trip from Koh Lanta(5 hours)
Different islands than the Krabi tour — covers Koh Chuek, Koh Muk (Emerald Cave), Koh Ngai, and Koh Kradan. ~1,200-1,800 THB. The Emerald Cave involves swimming through a 80m tunnel into a hidden lagoon inside the cliff
Late afternoon at Klong Dao Beach(2 hours)
Koh Lanta's widest, most family-friendly beach on the northwest tip. Shallow water, soft sand, stunning sunsets. Almost empty on weekdays
Dinner at Same Same But Different(1.5 hours)
Popular Long Beach restaurant with fairy lights and cushion seating — Thai curries from 120 THB, seafood from 200 THB. The red curry with pineapple and prawns is their signature
Koh Lanta National Park & Cooking Class
Southern tip exploration in the morning, then learn to cook Thai dishes in the afternoon. A good blend of nature and culture.
Mu Ko Lanta National Park(2 hours)
200 THB entry. The park covers Lanta's southern tip with rocky beaches, a lighthouse with panoramic views, and nature trails through old-growth forest. Monkeys and monitor lizards are common. Best before 10AM
Waterfall hike in the park(1 hour)
The Khlong Chak waterfall trail (1.5 km each way) passes through jungle — the falls are best in wet season but the walk is pleasant year-round
Thai cooking class at Time for Lime(4 hours)
Popular cooking school on Long Beach — half-day class ~1,500 THB. Learn 4-5 dishes including pad thai, green curry, and mango sticky rice. You cook and eat everything. Recipes to take home
Rest Day on Koh Lanta
A well-earned rest day. No alarms, no plans. Let the island's pace take over.
Late brunch at Drunken Sailors(1.5 hours)
Aussie-run cafe near Long Beach — smashed avo toast 160 THB, proper flat whites 80 THB. Good wifi if you need to catch up on anything
Beach day at Kantiang Bay(3 hours)
Scooter 20 minutes south of Long Beach. A gorgeous crescent bay with only a few resorts — much quieter than the northern beaches. Swim, read, nap
Sunset at Koh Lanta viewpoint(1 hour)
Drive to the viewpoint between Klong Nin and Kantiang — park on the roadside and walk 2 minutes to a clifftop panorama over the Andaman Sea
Night market in Saladan(1.5 hours)
Koh Lanta's main town near the pier has a small evening market with seafood BBQ and Isaan food. Grilled whole fish from 120 THB
Return to Krabi & Thung Teao Forest
Head back to mainland Krabi and spend the afternoon at the boardwalk through ancient rainforest.
Ferry and minivan back to Krabi(2 hours)
Morning departures at 8AM, 10:30AM — 400-500 THB. Book the day before at any travel agent
Thung Teao Forest Natural Park(2 hours)
1.4-km boardwalk through old-growth lowland rainforest with interpretive signs. Entry 200 THB. 65 km from Krabi Town — combine with the drive from the ferry. Peaceful and shaded even midday
Check in near Krabi Airport or Ao Nang(30 minutes)
If flying out tomorrow, a hotel near the airport (~600-1,000 THB) saves a stressful morning transfer
Last dinner at Gecko Cabane(1.5 hours)
French-Thai fusion in Ao Nang — duck curry 280 THB, crème brûlée 120 THB. A fitting last-night splurge
Departure Day
Final morning in Krabi Province. Pick up last souvenirs and transfer to the airport.
Early breakfast at a local market(45 minutes)
If near Krabi Town, the morning market near Maharaj Road serves jok (rice porridge) and pa tong go (fried dough sticks) from 30 THB — the local breakfast
Last-minute souvenir shopping(1 hour)
Coconut oil products, dried mango, lemongrass balm, and elephant pants make easy gifts. 7-Eleven has vacuum-packed Thai snacks that travel well
Airport transfer(30-40 minutes)
Allow 2 hours before domestic flights, 3 hours international. Pre-book through hotel the night before
21-Day Krabi Itinerary
Arrival & Ao Nang Orientation
Arrive at Krabi International Airport (KBV) and transfer to your base in Ao Nang. Settle in and explore the beachfront.
Airport transfer to Ao Nang(40 minutes)
Hotel shuttle or airport bus (150 THB per person)
Late lunch at Lae Lay Grill(1.5 hours)
Clifftop restaurant overlooking the bay — seafood sets from 350 THB
Sunset walk along Ao Nang and Nopparat Thara beaches(1.5 hours)
Stroll the connected beachfront, ending at the quieter Nopparat Thara section
Railay Beach & Viewpoint
Full day on the Railay Peninsula — beaches, caves, and the challenging jungle viewpoint hike.
Longtail to Railay Beach(15 minutes)
100 THB from Ao Nang East Pier, boats from 7:45AM
Railay Viewpoint and Lagoon hike(2 hours)
Rope-assisted scramble behind Railay East to panoramic views. Muddy and steep — grippy shoes essential. The hidden lagoon is past the viewpoint
Lunch at The Last Bar(1 hour)
Thai staples from 120 THB on Railay East
Phra Nang Cave Beach(2 hours)
Stunning cove backed by limestone cave with fertility shrines. Crystal-clear swimming
Sunset drinks at Railay West beach bar(1.5 hours)
West-facing beach with front-row sunset views. Cocktails from 200 THB
Four Islands Tour
Classic full-day island tour — snorkeling, sandbars, and Krabi's most photogenic spots.
Four Islands Tour(6 hours)
Book from Krabi Town agency for 600-900 THB. Departs 9AM. Tup Island sandbar, Chicken Island, Poda Island, Phra Nang. Snorkel gear and lunch included
Snorkeling at Chicken Island(1 hour)
Eastern reef with coral and tropical fish in 2-4m water
Walk the Tup Island sandbar(45 minutes)
Low-tide sandbar connecting three islets — check tide times
Ao Nang Walking Street night market(1.5 hours)
Weekend evenings. Grilled squid from 60 THB, pad thai from 40 THB
Tiger Cave Temple & Krabi Town
Dawn assault on the 1,237 steps, then afternoon exploring Krabi's local heart.
Tiger Cave Temple climb(3 hours)
Start by 7AM. Free entry. 360-degree summit views. Secure belongings from monkeys
Cave temple complex at base(45 minutes)
Meditation halls and massive buttress-root tree below
Songthaew to Krabi Town(20 minutes)
60 THB shared pickup
Krabi Night Market(2 hours)
Chao Fah Pier, Friday-Sunday 5-10PM. Seafood BBQ from 60 THB, roti pancakes, waterfront seating
Emerald Pool, Blue Pool & Hot Springs
Inland rainforest day. Rent a scooter (200-300 THB/day) or hire a driver (~1,200 THB).
Emerald Pool (Sa Morakot)(2 hours)
Warm spring-fed pool. 200 THB. Arrive by 9AM before tour groups
Blue Pool viewpoint(30 minutes)
500m past Emerald Pool. Swimming not allowed but the color is surreal
Lunch near Khlong Thom(1 hour)
Local roadside restaurants, fried rice and som tam 50-80 THB
Klong Thom Hot Springs(1.5 hours)
Free natural hot spring waterfall with multiple temperature pools
Rock Climbing at Ton Sai
Full day climbing on the legendary Ton Sai limestone crags with professional guides.
Longtail to Ton Sai(15 minutes)
100 THB from Ao Nang. Ton Sai is the climbers' beach
Full-day rock climbing(6 hours)
Basecamp Tonsai full-day ~2,500 THB with gear, guide, and lunch. Routes from 5a to 8b+
Ton Sai sunset scene(1.5 hours)
Legendary beach bar vibes — fire shows, reggae, Chang beers 80 THB
Hong Islands Day Trip
Krabi's less-visited archipelago with emerald lagoons and pristine snorkeling.
Hong Islands speedboat tour(5 hours)
~1,500-2,200 THB from Ao Nang. Hong Lagoon, Pak Bia Island, snorkeling. National park fee 300 THB
Kayaking in Hong Lagoon(1 hour)
Paddle through a narrow cliff gap into an enclosed mirror-still lagoon
Snorkeling at Pak Bia Island(1 hour)
Shallow reef with clownfish and stingrays off the sandbar
Dinner at Krua Thara(1.5 hours)
Thai seafood restaurant one block from beach — crab curry 350 THB
Free Day & Spa
Rest day in Ao Nang. Sleep in, beach time, and an afternoon spa session.
Late brunch at Jungle Kitchen(1.5 hours)
Treehouse-style hillside restaurant. Massaman curry from 100 THB
Beach time at Ao Nang(3 hours)
Swim, read, people-watch from a beach lounger (100 THB rental)
Spa treatment at Let's Relax Spa(2 hours)
Professional spa chain — 2-hour package with Thai massage and aromatherapy from 1,200 THB
Mangrove Kayaking & Cooking Class
Morning paddling through mangrove channels, afternoon learning Thai cuisine hands-on.
Mangrove kayaking at Ao Thalane(3 hours)
Guided half-day ~800-1,200 THB. Paddle through sea caves and mangrove channels, spot monitor lizards and kingfishers. Pickup from Ao Nang
Lunch at Kodam Kitchen(1 hour)
Small restaurant on the road to Krabi Town — home-style curries and stir-fries from 80 THB
Thai cooking class(4 hours)
Afternoon class at Krabi Cooking School (~1,500 THB) — visit a local market, then cook 4-5 dishes including som tam, tom yum, and mango sticky rice. Eat everything you make
Move to Koh Lanta
Transfer to Koh Lanta — Krabi's laid-back island neighbor with longer beaches and fewer crowds.
Minivan and ferry to Koh Lanta(2 hours)
Departures at 8AM, 11AM, 1PM — 400-500 THB from Ao Nang including car ferry
Check in at Long Beach(1 hour)
Koh Lanta's main tourist beach — resorts from 800-2,000 THB/night
Lunch at Beautiful Restaurant(1 hour)
Beachfront Thai-Swedish joint on Long Beach — pad kra pao from 100 THB
Explore Lanta Old Town(2 hours)
East coast wooden shophouse village on stilts. Chinese temples, artisan cafes. Hammock Cafe serves iced Lao coffee for 60 THB
Koh Lanta Snorkeling & Island Hopping
Explore the islands off Koh Lanta's coast, including the famous Emerald Cave swim-through.
Four Islands snorkeling from Koh Lanta(5 hours)
Covers Koh Chuek, Koh Muk (Emerald Cave — swim 80m through a dark tunnel into a hidden lagoon), Koh Ngai, and Koh Kradan. ~1,200-1,800 THB
Late afternoon at Klong Dao Beach(2 hours)
Widest, shallowest beach on the northwest tip — stunning sunsets
Dinner at Same Same But Different(1.5 hours)
Fairy lights and cushion seating. Red curry with pineapple and prawns is their signature. Thai curries from 120 THB
Koh Lanta National Park & Southern Beaches
Explore the wild southern tip of the island by scooter — beaches, a lighthouse, and jungle trails.
Rent scooter and ride south(45 minutes)
200-300 THB/day from Long Beach. The coastal road has stunning views
Mu Ko Lanta National Park(2 hours)
200 THB entry. Rocky beaches, a lighthouse with panoramic views, and nature trails. Monkeys and monitor lizards common
Khlong Chak waterfall hike(1.5 hours)
1.5-km trail through jungle to a waterfall — best in wet season
Kantiang Bay beach time(2 hours)
Gorgeous crescent bay with just a few resorts — much quieter than the north
Sunset at the viewpoint between Klong Nin and Kantiang(45 minutes)
Roadside cliff with Andaman panorama — 2-minute walk from parking
Rest Day on Koh Lanta
No plans, no alarms. Let Koh Lanta's pace take over completely.
Late brunch at Drunken Sailors(1.5 hours)
Aussie-run cafe — smashed avo toast 160 THB, flat whites 80 THB
Beach day at your chosen beach(4 hours)
Long Beach for convenience, Kantiang for seclusion, or Klong Dao for shallow swimming
Night market in Saladan(1.5 hours)
Koh Lanta's main town near the pier — seafood BBQ, Isaan food. Grilled fish from 120 THB
Koh Lanta Diving or Second Cooking Class
Choose your own adventure — try a discover scuba dive or deepen your Thai cooking skills.
Discover Scuba Diving at Hin Daeng/Hin Muang(6 hours)
Full-day trip to Thailand's premier dive sites — manta rays and whale sharks possible. PADI discover dives from ~3,500 THB with Lanta Diver or Scubafish. Certified divers: 2-dive trip ~3,000 THB
OR: Lanta Thai Cooking Class(4 hours)
Alternative morning activity — Time for Lime cooking school on Long Beach ~1,500 THB. 4-5 dishes with market visit
Farewell sunset at Long Beach(1.5 hours)
Last Andaman sunset — grab a hammock at a beachfront bar with a Singha and watch the sky
Return to Krabi & Phi Phi Day Trip
Head back to mainland Krabi and catch a half-day trip to the iconic Phi Phi Islands.
Early ferry from Koh Lanta to Ao Nang(2 hours)
8AM departure, 400-500 THB
Phi Phi Islands day trip from Ao Nang(6 hours)
Speedboat trip ~1,500-2,500 THB. Visit Phi Phi Leh (Maya Bay — reopened with daily visitor limits, 400 THB national park fee), Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon, and Monkey Beach. Snorkeling included
Dinner at Carnivore Steak & Grill(1.5 hours)
Rooftop terrace in Ao Nang — steaks and seafood platters from 500 THB
Krabi Islands Exploration: Koh Poda & Beyond
Quieter island day — hire a private longtail and explore at your own pace instead of joining a group tour.
Private longtail charter(5 hours)
Charter a longtail from Ao Nang for ~2,000-2,500 THB for a half day. You choose the itinerary — suggest Koh Poda (quieter than group tour timing), Si Island, and the coral reef near Chicken Island
Picnic on Koh Poda(2 hours)
Buy supplies at 7-Eleven before departure — the island has no shops. Snorkel the eastern reef, then relax on deserted sand
Evening at Chillout Bar Ao Nang(1.5 hours)
Rooftop bar with pool — cocktails from 220 THB and DJ sets on weekends
Community-Based Tourism Day
Step away from the tourist trail for a day of local culture — rubber plantations, fishing villages, and home-cooked meals.
Visit a rubber plantation(1.5 hours)
Many Krabi families tap rubber. Ask your hotel to arrange a visit to a local plantation (usually free, tip 200-300 THB). Watch the dawn tapping process and learn about the industry that built Krabi before tourism
Ban Bor Thor fishing village(2 hours)
Small Muslim fishing community 30 minutes north of Krabi Town. Walk the stilted houses over the river, watch boat building, try local fish paste snacks. Best visited with a local guide (500-800 THB)
Home-cooked lunch with a local family(2 hours)
Several community tourism initiatives offer lunch in a village home — ~300-500 THB per person. Southern Thai cuisine differs from Bangkok — more turmeric, shrimp paste, and heat
Krabi Town evening walk(1.5 hours)
Walk along the Krabi River past the crab statue landmark, through Thanon Maharat's shophouses, to the riverside park
Thung Teao Forest & Shell Cemetery
Explore two of Krabi's lesser-known inland attractions — ancient rainforest and 75-million-year-old fossils.
Thung Teao Forest Natural Park(2 hours)
1.4-km boardwalk through old-growth lowland rainforest. 200 THB. Interpretive signs in English. 65 km from Krabi Town — peaceful even on weekends
Shell Cemetery (Susan Hoi)(1 hour)
75-million-year-old fossilized freshwater snail slabs jutting from the shoreline — one of only three sites like it in the world. 200 THB. 20 km from Krabi Town along Highway 4034. Small museum explains the geology
Lunch at a beachside restaurant near Susan Hoi(1 hour)
Small seafood restaurants along the road serve grilled fish and som tam with ocean views for 80-150 THB
Free evening in Ao Nang(2 hours)
Last few nights — revisit a favorite restaurant or try somewhere new
Scuba Diving Day
Explore Krabi's underwater world — the Andaman coast has excellent visibility and diverse marine life November through March.
Two-dive trip from Ao Nang(6 hours)
PADI-certified shops like Kon-Tiki and Ao Nang Divers run daily trips to Koh Haa and Shark Point. Discover scuba from ~3,500 THB; certified 2-dive from ~3,000 THB. Leopard sharks, barracuda, and soft corals
Late lunch at Ton Ma Yom(1 hour)
Local Thai restaurant near the Ao Nang mosque — authentic southern Thai food at local prices. Kaeng som (sour fish curry) from 100 THB
Thai massage on the beach(1 hour)
300 THB for a traditional massage. A perfect wind-down after a diving day
Free Day & Last Sunset
Penultimate day. Revisit your favorite spot, shop for last souvenirs, and soak in the final sunset.
Return to your favorite beach(3 hours)
Whether it's Railay, Phra Nang, or a quiet Ao Nang corner — spend one last lazy morning in paradise
Souvenir shopping in Ao Nang(1.5 hours)
Elephant pants 100 THB, coconut oil 80 THB, handmade soap 60 THB, Thai spice sets from 150 THB
Farewell dinner at Gecko Cabane(2 hours)
French-Thai fusion — duck curry 280 THB, crème brûlée 120 THB. A fitting last-night splurge
Last sunset at Nopparat Thara(1 hour)
The quieter western extension of Ao Nang — fewer tourists, same stunning sky
Departure Day
Final morning in Krabi. Quick breakfast and airport transfer.
Early breakfast at a local market(45 minutes)
Jok (rice porridge) and pa tong go (fried dough sticks) from 30 THB at the morning market near Maharaj Road in Krabi Town
Last-minute shopping at 7-Eleven(20 minutes)
Vacuum-packed Thai snacks, dried mango, and instant tom yum packets make great gifts
Airport transfer(40 minutes)
Pre-book through hotel. Allow 2 hours for domestic flights, 3 hours international
Travel Tips
Visa & Entry
Visa Exemption for Most Nationalities
Citizens of 93 countries including US, UK, EU, Australia get visa-free entry for 60 days (extended from 30 in 2024). Bring proof of onward travel and accommodation. Extension for 30 more days possible at Krabi Immigration Office for 1,900 THB.
transport
Getting to Railay Beach
Railay has no road access — longtail boats from Ao Nang East Pier cost 100-150 THB per person (100 THB day, 150 THB after dark). Boats leave when full (8-10 passengers) or you can charter the whole boat for ~1,000 THB. Last boats return around 6PM in low season.
Renting a Scooter vs. Longtails
Scooter rental runs 200-300 THB/day — great for exploring inland attractions like Tiger Cave Temple and hot springs. However, for island hopping and Railay, longtail boats are the only option. Always wear a helmet; police checkpoints are common and fines are 500 THB.
Budget
Save Money in Krabi Town
Ao Nang prices are 30-50% higher than Krabi Town, just 20 minutes away by songthaew (shared pickup truck, 60 THB). Stay in Krabi Town for budget accommodation (~400-800 THB/night) and take day trips. The night market offers full meals for 40-80 THB.
Book Island Tours from Krabi Town Pier
Four Islands and Hong Islands tours booked at Krabi Town agencies cost 600-900 THB, while Ao Nang booking offices charge 1,200-1,800 THB for the same trip. Same boats, same itinerary — just a different pickup point.
Safety
Watch for Jellyfish and Currents
Box jellyfish appear during rainy season (May-October). Many beaches post warning flags — red means no swimming. Rip currents are common at Railay West during monsoon. Vinegar is the recommended first aid for jellyfish stings, not fresh water.
Local Customs
Respect Temple Etiquette
At Tiger Cave Temple and other wats, cover shoulders and knees (sarongs available for rent ~20 THB at entrance). Remove shoes before entering prayer halls. Do not point feet at Buddha images. Women should never touch monks or hand items directly to them.
Related Articles
StoriesA Week in Krabi: Limestone, Longtails, and the Best Pad Thai of My Life
Seven days of cliff jumping, temple climbing, and eating my weight in seafood BBQ — an honest diary from Thailand's Andaman coast.
Travel Guides12 Best Things to Do in Krabi That Aren't Just Railay Beach
Krabi's got way more than its famous peninsula — from underground temples to mangrove kayaks, here's what most visitors miss entirely.
SeasonalWhen to Visit Krabi: A Season-by-Season Guide to Thailand's Andaman Coast
Dry season perfection or rainy season bargains — here's exactly what Krabi looks like month by month, from a local tourism insider.