Canopy of Trees Overlooking Emerald Pool in Krabi Thailand

Long Tail Boat on Shore of Railay Beach in Krabi

Krabi Travel Guide

January - DecemberThailandTHB

Natural Beauty

Beaches

Water Sports

If you are dreaming of idyllic tropical beaches, crystal clear blue seas, soaring cliffs, and lazy days spent island-hopping, then those dreams will come true in Krabi. Located on Thailand’s Andaman Coast, this stunning province boasts arguably the country’s most scenic seascapes and dozens of deserted islands just waiting to be explored, each one with its own set of hidden gems.

Most visitors come here simply to spend their days lazing on the beach and their evenings relaxing in one of the many seafront bars and restaurants. You could spend hours exploring the gift shops where you can find the usual trinkets for sale, or wandering the streets admiring the scenery. But Krabi also has plenty to lure the more active traveler. Kayaking, snorkeling, diving, hiking, birdwatching and some of Southeast Asia’s best rock climbing are among some of the most popular adventure activities here. The area also boasts spectacular scenery, including huge limestone karsts, mangrove forests, caves, waterfalls, and coral reefs, as well as some gorgeous islands just waiting to be discovered, such as Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta. Throw a few beautiful Buddhist wats in there for a sprinkle of culture and history within Krabi town itself, and you’ve got a perfect mix. In Krabi, there is enough to see and do to keep you busy, but you can also take full advantage of all the activities while still having enough time to pamper yourself on the beach for a few days, so you will get the best of both worlds!

Whether you choose to stay in lively Ao Nang or secluded Railay, there is a vast selection of resorts to suit all budgets. This is truly one of the world’s greatest beach paradise destinations and is accessible for everyone, no matter your style of travel or your budget.

Must See Attractions in Krabi

West Railay Beach

Bookmarked by towering cliffs at each end, West Railay is the tropical paradise beach of your fantasies. Whether you choose to stay at one of Railay's laid-back resorts or if you're just visiting the day, you'll fall in love with West Railay's photogenic setting and laid-back ambiance. Known as the best place in Railay to swim and watch the sunset, the beach is flawless, and you'll want to enjoy it for as long as you can. Sunbathe in the sand or join a pick-up sports game with some friendly fellow beachgoers, and you're in for a full day of fun.

Tiger Temple

Also known as Wat Tham Sueua, the Tiger Temple is both a meditation retreat for visiting monks and a tourist attraction in its own right, mainly for its stunning views over Krabi province and its coastline. There are 1,237 steps to the top, but when you see the panoramas from the summit, you'll know it's worth the effort! At the peak of the hill, you'll find golden Buddhas, a beautiful stupa, and of course, the views. You can also follow a looping trail to explore several limestone caves that are home to more Buddha statues and altars.

Nopparat Beach

Nopparat is one of the best places to spend a relaxing evening in Krabi, with its bohemian atmosphere and laid-back vibe. Shop for crafts and souvenirs, then retire to the beach for some fresh seafood and cold beer while you listen to one of the many beach musicians serenade you. Stretching 4 kilometers across the coast, the beach eventually spills into a beautiful natural lagoon just outside another one of Thailand's natural parks. Less developed and a little quieter than some of the other beach destinations, this is the perfect place to visit if you're looking to relax and unwind.

Ao Nang

Once a sleepy fishing village, Ao Nang has developed into the heart of Krabi’s tourism industry. But don’t let that put you off - it’s still a fairly relaxed town with a wide range of bars, restaurants, markets and hotels, as well as a beautiful long stretch of beach. It’s also the departure point for boat trips to Railay and the nearby islands. If you want a laid-back holiday with a bit of activity and nightlife thrown in, Ao Nang is the place for you.

Railay

Accessible only by boat or a challenging hike over the cliffs, idyllic Railay has an island feel to it and is the ideal choice for visitors looking for total relaxation. Its two beaches are picture-postcard perfect and great for kayaking, snorkelling or just sunbathing, and it is also home to a small cluster of bars and restaurants as well as some of Krabi’s most beautiful beach resorts.

Optional Day Trips from Krabi

Crystal Clear Waters of Island Near Krabi

Four Island Tour by Speedboat

You can reach the magnificent Phi Phi Islands in only 45 minutes via speedboat from Krabi. On the way, you’ll stop at some of the less frequently visited spots for snorkeling — Bamboo Island and Hin Klang. The snorkeling here is said to be so good that it feels like you’re swimming in an aquarium, with plenty of colorful fish and other marine life to marvel at through those goggles. Enjoy an exciting island-hopping excursion to the tropical hot spots in the Krabi Sea: Phra Nang Cave, Tub Island, Chicken Island, and Poda Island. Swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and exploring the islands are the main activities to enjoy. You can anticipate a great day out, a rich variety of corals and fish, crystal clear water and white powdery beaches lined with coconut palms. You’ll get to explore places like Princess Cave, where legend has it that Princess Goddess lives, along with colorful shrines and views of breathtaking limestone cliffs. No matter if you’d rather swim, snorkel, explore, or sunbathe, this trip is a blast for everyone.

Phi Phi Island & Bamboo Island

The fabulous Phi Phi Islands are only 45 minutes away from Krabi by speed boat. On the way, stop at some of the lesser-visited spots for snorkelling - Bamboo Island and Hin Klang. Enjoy lunch at Tonsai Bay, swim and sunbathe on a beach. Visit Phi Phi Ley, the sister island of Phi Phi Don without any hotels. Enjoy more snorkelling and swimming opportunities in a beautiful bay.