BEACH GUIDE
Krabi travel guide: cliffs, islands and calm blue water
Giant limestone cliffs, longtail boats and some of Thailand’s most beautiful beaches. Krabi is the Andaman coast at its most dramatic.
Krabi province is famous for towering limestone karsts rising out of turquoise water. Most visitors stay in Ao Nang, the lively beach town, and take longtail boats to Railay and the nearby islands.
It’s quieter and more natural than Phuket, and perfect for island-hopping, rock climbing, kayaking and lazy beach days.
On this page: Quick facts · Top things to do · Nightlife · Shopping · Where to stay · Getting around · Itinerary · FAQ
Quick facts
| Quick facts | |
|---|---|
| Best time to visit | November to April (dry season, calm sea) |
| How many days | 3 to 5 days |
| Airport | Krabi International (KBV), about 30 minutes from Ao Nang |
| Main base | Ao Nang |
| Getting around | Longtail boats, songthaews, Grab |
| Nearby | Koh Lanta, Phi Phi, Phuket by ferry |
Top things to do in Krabi
Almost every highlight is reached by boat, which is half the fun.
1. Railay Beach
Cut off from the mainland by cliffs, Railay can only be reached by boat. Phra Nang beach, with its cave and white sand, is one of the most beautiful in Thailand. Railay is also a world-famous rock-climbing spot.
- Getting there: Longtail boat from Ao Nang, about 15 minutes (around 100–150 THB per person each way)
Our tip: Stay until late afternoon when the day-trippers leave, but check the time of the last boat back.
2. 4 Islands tour
The classic Krabi day trip visits Koh Poda, Chicken Island, Tup Island (where a sandbar joins two islands at low tide) and Phra Nang Cave beach, with snorkelling stops.
- Price: Usually 600–1,500 THB by longtail or speedboat, plus national park fees
3. Hong Islands
A hidden lagoon surrounded by cliffs, calm water for kayaking and quiet beaches. It’s less crowded than Phi Phi.
- Price: Usually 1,500–2,500 THB by speedboat
4. Tiger Cave Temple
Climb 1,260 steep steps to a golden Buddha on a mountain top, with incredible views over Krabi’s landscape. Start early; it’s a tough climb in the heat.
- Entry: Free
- Dress code: Shoulders and knees covered
5. Emerald Pool and Hot Springs
A clear, green natural pool in the jungle, often combined with the Hot Stream Waterfall on a half-day tour.
- Entry: National park fee applies (around 200 THB)
6. Koh Lanta
A long, laid-back island south of Krabi with quiet beaches, the old town and Mu Koh Lanta National Park. Perfect for a few slow days.
- Getting there: Minivan and car ferry from Krabi, about 2–3 hours
7. Kayaking at Ao Thalane
Paddle through mangrove forests and between limestone cliffs on a guided half-day tour. Look out for monkeys and kingfishers.
- Price: Usually 500–1,000 THB
8. Dragon Crest (Khao Ngon Nak)
A steep 4 km jungle hike ending at a rocky ledge with incredible views over the coast and islands.
- Time: 3–4 hours return
- Tip: Start before 7:00am to avoid the heat
Prices and opening hours were checked in 2025–26 and change often. Please confirm with the official site before you go. Some links on this site may be affiliate links; see our Affiliate Disclosure.
Nightlife in Krabi
Krabi is more about sunsets and beach bars than big clubs.
Ao Nang beach road
Ao Nang
A strip of bars with live music, happy hours and sunset views over the sea.
Railay East bars
Railay
Chilled reggae-style bars with fire shows on the beach at night, such as the well-known Last Bar.
Good to know: Boats back to Ao Nang stop in the evening, so stay overnight if you plan a late one.
Krabi Town Walking Street
Krabi Town
A weekend evening market with live music, food stalls and local performances.
Good to know: Usually Friday to Sunday evenings.
Shopping in Krabi
Most shopping in Krabi happens at evening markets.
Ao Nang Landmark Night Market
Ao Nang
A compact night market with food, clothes and souvenirs, a short walk from the beach.
Krabi Town Walking Street
Krabi Town
The best place to shop for local crafts and try southern Thai food.
Chao Fah Pier Night Market
Krabi Town riverside
A riverside food market with cheap seafood, noodles and desserts.
Maharaj Market
Krabi Town
The main morning fresh market. Go early to see local life.
Where to stay in Krabi
| Area | Best for | Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Ao Nang | Restaurants, boats to everywhere, all budgets | Budget to mid-range |
| Railay | Cliffs, beaches and climbing, no cars | Mid-range to luxury |
| Klong Muang and Tubkaek | Quiet luxury resorts | Luxury |
| Krabi Town | Night markets and low prices | Budget |
Getting around
- Longtail boats leave Ao Nang beach for Railay and the islands once enough passengers are waiting.
- Songthaews run between Krabi Town and Ao Nang.
- Grab works for trips to the airport and around Ao Nang.
A 4-day Krabi itinerary
| Day | Daytime | Evening |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive, Ao Nang beach | Sunset and seafood on the beachfront |
| Day 2 | 4 Islands tour | Ao Nang night market |
| Day 3 | Railay and Phra Nang beach | Railay viewpoint at sunset |
| Day 4 | Tiger Cave Temple or Emerald Pool | Krabi Town walking street (weekends) |
Frequently asked questions
Is Krabi good in the rainy season?
Some boat trips are cancelled from May to October when the sea is rough, but you’ll find lower prices and fewer crowds. Plan flexible days.
Can I visit Phi Phi from Krabi?
Yes. Ferries from Krabi take about 1.5–2 hours, and speedboat day tours are available from Ao Nang.
Is Railay better than Ao Nang?
Railay is more beautiful and quiet, while Ao Nang has more restaurants and choice. Many people stay in Ao Nang and visit Railay for the day.
