Krabi province is located in southern Thailand, and the capital Krabi Town is often referred to as a resort destination because of its many islands and beautiful beaches. However, it is also home to stunning jungle and mountainous areas, making it a highly popular tourist vacation destination.
Read on for travel tips and to learn more about this stunning little paradise.
Krabi is known for its stunning beaches and gorgeous landscapes. Located in southern Thailand, Krabi province is a developing area and often referred to as a tropical paradise with many waterfalls and beautiful islands. It is the perfect tourist hotspot for a low-key, relaxing vacation, scuba diving, and island hopping.
Krabi has an average daytime temperature of about 90 degrees Fahrenheit year-round and is a popular beach-lover destination. Some of the most popular beach locations are the nearby islands of Phi Phi and Krabi Railay Beach.
It can be challenging for first-time travellers to navigate Thailand’s tropical climate and decide when to go to Krabi. Many people state that Krabi has two seasons; the Dry Season and the Wet Season.
Read on to find the ideal time for a trip to Krabi according to your budget, interests, and needs.
The cool season has perhaps the most appealing Krabi weather to visitors. This season runs from November to February, and the weather is warm and dry at about 82 Degrees Fahrenheit during the day. However, this weather is also accompanied by cool breezes and perhaps a few rainy days scattered in between.
This season, especially late December, is considered High Season, or Peak Tourist Season, in Krabi. Because it has the driest weather and some of Krabi’s main attractions are its beaches, tourists flood to Krabi town during this time.
Note that you would need to book accommodation well in advance if you intend to take a trip to Krabi around this time of year and that prices will be at their highest. However, prices will be slightly lower in late- January and February than in December, as any extra cost during Christmas and New Year will have already passed.
Nov
32°C
Avg.Rain
9mm
Dec
32°C
Avg.Rain
15mm
Jan
34°C
Avg.Rain
10mm
Feb
35°C
Avg.Rain
50mm
The hot season in Krabi has similar weather to the rainy season, as it is also humid. However, it doesn’t rain as much as during the monsoon season. The hot season spans from March until May and has average temperatures of around 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day.
The hottest month of the year is usually late- April or May, and March may be slightly cooler. Some days, short outbursts of rain or thunderstorms break the otherwise scorching heat. However, when skies are clear, many tourists take to the beach as it’s the best weather to cool off by swimming. It is best to invest in a good hat and sunscreen before visiting Krabi during this season.
On the plus side, this is a much less busy time to visit Krabi, and prices generally drop, making this non-peak season.
Mar
32°C
Avg.Rain
9mm
Apr
32°C
Avg.Rain
9mm
May
32°C
Avg.Rain
10mm
Monsoon season in Krabi is from June to October, and some of the wettest months throughout the year are experienced in this time. You may need to pack a raincoat or invest in a good umbrella before visiting Krabi in the rainy season, as this season is notorious for heavy rainstorms, rough seas, and strong winds.
While this is the rainy season in Krabi, rain rarely falls for more than a few hours a day. The quick, heavy showers of rain are soon substituted by clear, blue skies and a lot of sunshine. The wettest month is typically September or October.
This is also considered the “off-season”, as many tourists avoid Krabi because of the rain. As a result, accommodation prices are the lowest, and the whole city is under-crowded.
Jun
32°C
Avg.Rain
9mm
Jul
32°C
Avg.Rain
15mm
Aug
34°C
Avg.Rain
10mm
Sep
34°C
Avg.Rain
10mm
Oct
34°C
Avg.Rain
10mm
Considered high season for tourists, this time of year is ideal for tourists who enjoy the hustle and bustle, don’t mind higher prices, and enjoy dry weather.
Key events:
Chak Phra Festival: Normally celebrated in December in southern Thailand, Chak Phra means “Pulling the Buddha”, a Buddhist festival to celebrate the return of Buddha from Heaven and the end of lent.
Loy Krathong, Typically celebrated at the full moon in November on the Thai calendar, a banana-leaf basket with flowers, candles, and incense are placed in water to release the negative energies of the previous year and wish for good fortune.
Boek Fa Festival, The Andaman Sea Festival is celebrated annually in November to welcome the end of the rainy season and includes many religious rituals and other festivities like musical performances.
While this time is considered low season, it would be ideal for budget-conscious travellers who prefer a quieter vacation and don’t mind some rain. Since the rain comes in sudden bursts, there are still many low season activities for tourists to enjoy.
Key events:
Songkran Festival – Thai New Year is celebrated from 13 April to 15 April, and among other Festivities, locals enjoy water sports and water fights in the street to cool off.
Krabi Vegetarian Festival – Celebrated in October for nine days wherein Thai people adhere to a vegetarian diet and avoid other negative stimulants as a sort of spiritual cleansing.
Krabi is located in southern Thailand and is famous for its stunning scenery and landscapes. It has over 150 islands along its coastline and a jungle area on the mainland. There are many activities available for someone visiting Krabi town.
Krabi Airport is one of the smaller international airports in Thailand and can be reached conveniently from anywhere in the province via Krabi’s main highway. Krabi International Airport is around seven kilometres from the city centre. Krabi airport is also being expanded, and expected to be double its size by August, 2022.
Direct flightsIf you are flying from Singapore, Malaysia, Qatar, or China, you may take a direct flight to Krabi Airport (KBV).
Some of the airlines that can be found at Krabi airport are also commonly found in other Thailand provinces, such as Air Asia and Thai Air Asia, Nok Air, Bangkok Airways, Qatar Airways, Thai Lion Air, Thai Smile, and Thai Vietjet Air.
However, if you are travelling to Krabi town from further away, you may need to fly to Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, or Koh Samui first, then do a private transfer to another plane which will take you to Krabi.
Phuket is widely considered the biggest island in Thailand; however, it is part of the second smallest province. By car, Phuket town is about 160 kilometres from Krabi, making it a two and a half-hour drive from Krabi to Phuket, or vice versa.
Phuket International Airport (HKT) is located around 20 minutes from Phuket city centre. It is considered one of the three busiest airports in Thailand, two of which are located in Bangkok. Phuket Airport thus plays a large role in Thailand’s tourism industry. However, as Phuket is so close to Krabi, there is really no reason to travel from Phuket to Krabi by plane.
Krabi also has no railway system, so tourists cannot travel from Phuket to Krabi directly via a train.
Most often, people travelling from Phuket to Krabi, or from Krabi to Phuket, do so by land or water, with public transport such as buses, private transport such as cars, or ferries.
By BusThe journey time from Phuket Bus Terminal, or Phuket Old Bus Station, to Krabi Bus Station is around three hours or four hours. Many local buses depart from Phuket Bus Terminal to Krabi every hour, so it wouldn’t be difficult for you to find one. Public buses in Phuket run from 7 am to 10 pm.
Bus tickets typically cost around 150 to 250 Thai Baht, making a local bus perhaps the cheapest way to travel to Krabi. However, ticket prices vary according to which kind of bus you choose, and there are different coaches to choose from. For example, a Standard public bus will likely cost less than a First Class coach but may not include perks like air conditioning or food.
Note that Phuket Bus Terminal 2 is newer and has more departures, which means that it is likely the better option. Also, note that government-run buses typically only travel within Phuket.
There is also the option of travelling to Krabi with a minibus, which can be hired at a travel agent. While they are smaller and offer less legroom, minibuses often pick you up directly from your hotel. If you have many suitcases, you may need to pay more or buy another ticket.
Minibuses drive slightly faster than regular buses, and the journey travel time should be around two hours. You can expect to pay between 200 to 250 Thai Baht for minivan tickets.
By Car/TaxiTaxis are a convenient way of getting to Krabi from Phuket. The trip takes around two hours, making it one of the faster options. The perks of taking a taxi are the direct drop-offs to anywhere in Krabi town and not needing to adhere to timetables like you would have with buses and ferries.
However, they are also one of the more expensive options. Phuket is infamous for having extremely high private taxi rates, and not all taxi drivers are willing to use their meter. Not every taxi driver will be willing to make the trip to Krabi, either, and a taxi ride can cost anything from 1500 to 2000 Thai Baht. Therefore, you may need to negotiate and agree on a suitable price before driving to your destination.
You can book a taxi through a travel agency, but you would have to pay them a commission, making the price even higher. You can also book private taxis online through companies such as Andaman Taxis or through the GrabTaxi app that is popular in Thailand and Southeast Asia.
Alternatively, there is the option of car rental services. Many tourists prefer this, as it is an entirely private and flexible way to travel to their desired destinations. It is also comfortable, as most rental cars include air conditioning. Rates may differ from high season to low season. Car rental companies are often available at the airport.
By FerryTaking a ferry is a very popular way to travel to Krabi, as the beautiful coastal views along the way make for a very nice trip. They are also a good idea when visiting one of the many islands in the Krabi region.
Typically, these ferries depart Rassada Pier or Bang Rong Pier in Phuket and arrive at Klong Jilad Pier, Tonsai Pier, or Ao Nang in Krabi. Journey times for ferries are much longer than for buses or car rental, and the journey from Phuket to Krabi could take from four to six hours via the Phuket ferry. Note that speedboats will have a quicker journey.
In other words, ferries are not the fastest way to get to Krabi. Furthermore, travel time via ferry can also be affected by the weather and may be delayed in the case of heavy rains during the monsoon season.
Ferry tickets prices start at around 700 Thai Baht and can go up to about 1200 Thai Baht, making a boat ride one of the more expensive ways to travel to Krabi.
This would not be an ideal option for tourists on a budget or tourists suffering from sea sickness.
Bangkok is about 785 kilometres from Krabi. It is the capital of Thailand and the biggest city in the country.
There are various ways to travel from Bangkok to Krabi, but two of the best ways to travel to Krabi is by plane or bus.
By PlaneBangkok has two international airports, namely Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang Airport. Many airlines operate through these airports, including Thai Airways International, Thai Smile, and Bangkok Airways.
Taking a flight from Bangkok to Krabi is the shortest and most comfortable option and would be ideal for travellers who are not looking for long, scenic journeys. A flight from Bangkok to Krabi usually takes around an hour and a half.
Ticket prices vary year-round and are typically higher during peak tourist seasons. It also depends on which airline you use and which class. For example, when you buy tickets for economy class, it is bound to be the cheapest option, whereas business class is usually the most expensive.
By BusBuses are a good option for budget-conscious travellers.
Buses leave Bangkok at Southern Terminal or Khao San Road. Generally, Southern Terminal buses depart in the morning and Khao San buses in the evenings. The journey to Krabi Bus Terminal takes around twelve hours and about fourteen hours to Krabi Town Maharaj.
Tickets will cost around 600 to 1000 Baht, depending on which bus class you take.
There are many reasons tourists love Krabi, from the gorgeous beaches like Railay Beach, Noppharat Thara Beach, and Phra Nang Beach, to the Emerald Pool and the beautiful Tiger Cave Temple Wat Tham Suea.
There is no shortage of things to see when visiting Krabi town or Krabi Province, and there are many different kinds of private or public transport to choose from.
Read on to find valuable travel tips and different ways of getting around Krabi.
Ride-Hailing AppsRide-sharing or ride-hailing apps tend to be cheaper than regular taxis. They also have the convenience of receiving an estimated price for your journey before booking a vehicle..
Grab
Grab is popular in Singapore and Southeast Asia. It is similar to Uber in that it offers a variety of vehicles to choose from, including premium vehicles. However, if you are looking for a taxi, you can use the Grab Taxi service provided by the app.
GrabCar
A four-seater private vehicle
GrabTaxi
A four-seater cab
GrabVan
Fits up to 10 people
JustGrab
Books the nearest taxis and cars for a reduced fare
GrabSUV
A premium vehicle that seats four people with enough space for luggage
With Grab, tourists can decide on a mode of transport that fits their budget and pay for the ride through the app or with cash on arrival. Fares fluctuate depending on which vehicle is chosen and are typically higher during peak hours.
However, using a ride-hailing app prevents being over-charged, as happens so often with regular taxis.
SongthaewA songthaew is a popular way to travel throughout northern and southern Thailand. Songthaews are pickup trucks, often painted red, with benches in the back that can fit up to eight passengers at a time and covers to provide shade. Some of the red songthaews in Krabi are small vans. Songthaews can be flagged down in the street just like taxis.
They are popular because they are one of the cheapest ways to travel in Krabi town. They travel in specific routes throughout Krabi, Ao Nang, and the surrounding areas. However, you can ask songthaew drivers to stop anywhere along their route.
Fares and times depend on how long the journey is. For example, a journey from Krabi to Ao Nang can take anything from 20 to 45 minutes.
Note: Make sure you have small notes or coins as not all drivers will have change. Fares for songthaew rides vary, so ensure that you agree on a price before getting on the truck.
TaxiMost taxis in Krabi do not offer short rides but are ideal for longer distances and day trips. They are perfect for tourists travelling by themselves.
While taxis are not as common in Krabi town as other places in Thailand, they can usually be found at Krabi International Airport, Ao Nang Beach Road, taxi ranks, or the bus station. If you are travelling from elsewhere in Krabi, you may need to call a service and book a taxi ahead of time.
Many travellers hire taxis for day trips at around 500 to 2500 Thai Baht. However, prices for taxi rides tend to vary but can usually be found on displays near the taxi ranks.
Alternatively, you may decide to use the services of motorbike taxis. A motorbike taxi is one of the quickest and most affordable ways of getting around Krabi. Remember always to wear a helmet, and choose another driver if the one you are considering cannot provide one.
Samlor / Motorbike Sidecar TaxisUnlike the traditional bicycle rickshaws found in other areas of Thailand, Samlor in Krabi are motorcycles with attached sidecars that are used as taxis.
They are widely available in both Krabi and Ao Nang and are one of the cheaper ways to travel short distances. However, samlor usually charge per person, and a price will need to be negotiated and agreed on before the trip.
Because samlor can be a little off-balance, it is best to limit the number of passengers. Two to three people are more than enough passengers. As a result, they are not always ideal for families or larger groups of people travelling together.
You can expect to pay around 20 to 50 THB for a samlor ride.
Note: There aren’t any tuk-tuks in Krabi.
Rented VehicleMany people opt for renting a vehicle, such as a rental car, rental motorcycle, or bicycle, to get around Krabi. It is a great way to experience Thailand and Krabi at your own pace, without worrying about fixed routes or schedules. You have complete freedom to choose where you would like to go and for how long.
The daily rate for these are usually quite affordable but note that you will need the relevant license and travel insurance, as Thailand’s roads are not always the safest or easiest to navigate. When renting a motorcycle, wear long sleeves and a helmet to help protect you if you should fall.
Unless you have previous experience riding a motorcycle, it may be best to rent a car or bicycle instead. It is also best not to keep any valuables in the bicycle basket but invest in a cross-body or waist bag that can’t be snatched easily.
Usually, motorbike rentals in Thailand require a deposit of anything from 1000 to 5000 THB, depending on where you rent it. The deposit can be paid either in cash or through electronic transfer, and you will get it back once the motorcycle is returned. However, while some rental services will request a passport, license, or ID as a deposit when you don’t have the money, this is not recommended. Plan ahead and ensure you bring enough money with you if you want to rent a motorcycle.
Of the three rental options, a rental car is likely the most expensive but the safest. As with most airports, Krabi airport has private car rental services, including Budget, Avis and Europcar. Some car rental companies bring the vehicle directly to your hotel. It is also possible to rent cars directly through hotels, rather than through companies at Krabi Airport. Some rental companies offer discounts for renting a vehicle for a longer period of time, like a week or month.
Note: Take pictures and make notes of the vehicle’s condition upon receiving it, in case of any damage or scratches, to avoid a scam later when returning it.
Ferries / Water TaxisFerries and other longtail boats take trips from Krabi to the other surrounding islands in the Andaman Sea every day. These islands are all within easy access of Krabi, and with a longtail boat, you can take a round trip to Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Samui, or even Koh Lanta.
Longtail boats are commonly found at Chao Fah Pier, Klong Muang, Ton Sai Beach, Noppharat Thara Beach, and Railay Beach.
Boat drivers tend to wait until they have a certain number of passengers, but Ferries or Water Taxis are usually relatively inexpensive. It is also a great way to take in the beautiful coastline and go island hopping. You can buy coupons for boat trips at booths in Ao Nang or Noppharat Thara, and the fixed prices are usually displayed outside the ticket office booths.
Be sure to pack any valuables such as phones or cameras away properly to protect them in case of water splashes.
Note: Ferries, boat taxis, and speedboats are often less available during monsoon season- for obvious reasons and would not be ideal for travellers who suffer from sea sickness.
Krabi province is a great location for tourists because of its stunning scenery, lush jungles, beautiful limestone cliffs, and many surrounding offshore islands in the Andaman Sea. In addition, it is a great location for island hopping, and many travellers staying in Krabi town take day trips to Ao Nang or Chicken Island.
However, the sheer number of options can be jarring for first-timers, and they may find it challenging to decide where to stay in Krabi.
Here is a list of the best areas which may help you decide where to stay on your Thailand trip to this small paradise in southern Thailand.
Jump to location
Ao Nang (Aonang Beach) is the perfect location for a family holiday and for first-time visitors to stay in Krabi. It has lovely resorts and restaurants, a wide variety of available activities, and is perhaps the most popular area in Krabi.
Ao Nang has a vibrant nightlife, which is great for younger visitors. There is also the Ao Nang Walking Street, where tourists can experience delicious food from street vendors (both Thai and Western cuisine), go to the night market, do some shopping, or visit beach bars and nightclubs. Ao Nang Beach is very popular among tourists, as the area is laid-back and relaxed.
Ao Nang has been referred to as Krabi’s main tourist centre. Because it is such a popular tourist destination, there are many accommodation options available- from luxury hotels to budget accommodations. You won’t struggle to find cheap accommodation, even during peak season.
Ao Nang, Krabi, is also a short distance from Railay Beach and Tonsai Beach. Visitors can take a short boat ride from Ao Nang to Railay Beach, making it the perfect starting point for exploring surrounding areas. Alternatively, you can visit the private Pai Plong Bay and indulge in some sunbathing.
In recent years, Ao Nang Beach has become more littered, but many conservation efforts are in place to restore it to its original glory. Unfortunately, it can also become crowded during the peak season.
Railay Beach (Rai Leh) is a remote area of Krabi that is perfect for backpackers or travellers looking for something more off the beaten path. With its beautiful limestone mountains and formations, it’s perfect for rock climbing, snorkelling, scuba diving, and other adventurous activities.
It is slightly cut off from the mainland and is only reachable by boat, and can only really be explored on foot. However, this gives it an old-worldly charm. This area offers some beautiful luxury hotels, with some budget accommodations available inland, and many restaurants and attractions are within walking distance.
Because Railay Beach is only reachable by boat, you will need to pay for a ferry or boat taxi to take you there, which can cost around 100 Thai Baht per person.
Klong Muang Beach is a beach town ideal for a romantic getaway or honeymoon couples. Unlike some other beaches in Krabi, Klong Muang has clear, blue water and long stretches of white sandy beaches, with no cliffs to obscure the gorgeous views.
Because Klong Muang is on the mainland, tourists staying in town have direct access to this beautiful beach. It is also located about 20 minutes away from Ao Nang via taxi ride.
The Klong Muang Beach area is one of the more expensive places to stay in Krabi, with luxury resorts and boutique hotels. However, some of the best hotels in Krabi can be found here, and honeymoon couples can watch some beautiful sunsets on the west coast.
Klong Muang Beach is the perfect place for tourists who want to experience an infinity pool overlooking the sunset. Many couples are drawn to these spots as they make such beautiful pictures. While not as developed as Ao Nang, Klong Muang Beach is quieter and has a few boutique stores for people to enjoy, making it ideal for relaxation.
Klong Muang Beach is not ideal for budget travellers as it doesn’t have the cheapest accommodations. It may also be too laid-back for visitors who enjoy the hustle and bustle of busier areas.
Tonsai Beach (Ton Sai Beach) is a great location for travellers on a budget, situated between Ao Nang and Railay Beach. It is another secluded, private beach that is reachable only by boat.
Similar to Railay Beach, Tonsai beach is popular among rock-climbers, divers, and snorkelers. The local and western cuisine can be enjoyed at cafés, bars, and some new pizzerias. However, Tonsai is less popular than its neighbouring beaches, making it even more secluded and perfect for tourists looking for a peaceful, remote location.
Tonsai beach has many affordable accommodation options, and you won’t struggle to find a good mid-range hotel or cheap hostel here. These resorts have clean rooms and often offer free wifi.
Because Tonsai is smaller and not considered the main tourist centre, there isn’t much to do. Unfortunately, it is also notorious for having bad phone and internet reception.
Krabi Town is the capital of Krabi. It is a small town located no more than thirty minutes by taxi from Ao Nang Beach and Railay Beach, making it ideal for island hopping.
Krabi Town has an authentic Thai feeling and is relatively quiet due to its small size. It has some markets where visitors can buy fresh produce. There are also some shopping areas and restaurants.
Another big draw to Krabi Town is the weekend walking street market. It’s open from Friday to Sunday, and as with many other Thai markets, it offers visitors a variety of local Thai cuisine, crafts, and fashions.
While you may not find a luxury hotel or luxurious resort in Krabi Town, it is a great location if you are looking for budget-friendly Krabi hotels, guest-houses, and hostels.
Krabi Town does not have direct access to a beach, and you would need to pay for a taxi ride to one of the surrounding beaches if you want to be in the water. Luckily, transport in Krabi Town is relatively affordable.
There is no shortage of activities to enjoy when visiting Krabi province. From the many stunning islands with their soft, white-sand beaches to Krabi Town with its old-world charm, it truly is a tropical paradise. Some of the best beaches in Thailand can be found in and around Krabi.
However, the wide variety of gorgeous islands and exciting destinations can be overwhelming for first-time visitors, and it can be hard to decide on things to do in Krabi. Here are some popular activities to add to your itinerary.
Anyone who has visited Thailand will tell you that the night markets are a must-see, and Krabi is no exception. There are many day markets, weekend walking streets, and night markets to choose from in and around Krabi.
Krabi Town Walking Street is open from Friday until Sunday on weekends and is one of Krabi’s most popular tourist destinations. There is a stage where visitors can enjoy performances and many stalls selling different things. It is a great place to experience some authentic Thai street food, such as Pad Thai or Rice Noodle, as many of the vendors sell food here. However, because it is such a popular destination, it does tend to draw a big crowd. It is great for souvenir shopping and ideal for people who don’t mind the hustle and bustle.
The biggest market in Krabi is the Chao Fah Night Market, but other markets worth seeing while visiting Krabi are Chao Fah Pier and the Klong Muang and Ao Nang Night Markets.
The Ao Nang Market is open from 5 pm to 11 pm throughout the week and is ideal for tourists who want to visit a smaller, less crowded shopping area. While there aren’t as many stalls as the Krabi Walking Street, there is still a wide selection of local food vendors to choose from, and the authentic Thai food is prepared freshly upon ordering.
Note: Some markets in Thailand have closed due to Covid-19 restrictions, so be sure to check whether the market you intend to visit is open before taking the journey there.
Best markets in Krabi:
For tourists who appreciate the natural beauty that Thailand has to offer, a national park is an excellent activity to add to your Krabi Island travel itinerary.
Thung Teao Forest Natural Park is home to many amazing things, including the famous Emerald Pool and the once believed extinct Gurney’s Pitta bird. The Thung Teao Forest Natural Park is about an hour from Ao Nang and perhaps one of Thailand’s most beautiful tourist destinations. Tourists can enjoy the nature trails, diverse wildlife, waterfalls, and hot springs.
For visitors who don’t mind travelling far during their day trips, the Than Bok Khorani National Park is another nature reserve worth seeing. It is located about 45 kilometres from Krabi and is open from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. It is home to water jungles and caves, and the water is clear enough to see marine life underneath. There are also cliffs for rock climbing and some stunning waterfalls, like the popular Lotus Pond. The national park covers a large area with its rich fauna and flora and would require a few hours to visit.
Keep in mind that tickets can be pricy, and the park is ideal for tourists who enjoy scenic routes and peaceful nature areas but may not be entertaining for those who like big crowds and nightlife.
A great budget alternative for nature-lovers to enjoy is the beautiful Khao Ngon Nak or Dragon Crest Mountain trail. Located around 25 minutes from Ao Nang, it is a steep (and often challenging) trail that takes around an hour to two hours to complete and leads up to one of the most stunning viewpoints in all of Krabi. This is an excellent activity for budget travellers as entrance to the park is free.
Krabi mainland is surrounded by more than 100 off-shore islands in the Andaman Sea, and island hopping is often considered Krabi’s main tourist attraction. Some tourists even go on a guided Four-Island tour in a long-tail boat or ferry to visit famous islands such as Koh Lanta, Chicken Island, James Bond Island, Tup Island, Skull Island, Koh Hong, or Koh Poda Island.
Many of these beautiful islands have towering limestone cliffs with hiking trails that are ideal for tourists who enjoy outdoor adventures such as rock climbing. These islands also have beautiful beaches with palm trees, white sand and clear water, making them the perfect destination for scuba diving or snorkelling to experience marine life. Many people also enjoy kayaking or an authentic Thai massage when visiting these white, sandy beaches.
Some popular neighboring beaches in and along the Krabi coastline are Ao Nang Beach, Railay Beach, Phra Nang Beach, Maya Bay, and Susan Hoi.
If you aren’t interested in spending time on the beach when you go island hopping, you may enjoy visiting some Krabi hot springs in the mangrove forests and jungles. These hot springs can reach temperatures of up to 105 degrees Fahrenheit and are a great way to relax. The Klong Thom Hot Springs are close to the Emerald Pool, so visitors often visit these deep-rooted thermal springs and the Crystal Lagoon during the same day trip.
Susan Hoi is famous for being a pre-historic shell cemetery. It is about seventeen kilometres from Krabi Town, and it is home to thousands of ancient fossils. In addition, many tourists visit Railay Beach for the Hidden Lagoon or Princess Lagoon, which can be reached via a hiking trail.
The Phra Nang Cave is another interesting and popular tourist destination and contains a shrine dedicated to the goddess Phra Nang. For cave lovers, the Khao Khanab Nam mountains also have some stunning tiered limestone caves to explore.
If you are interested in Thai history and culture, Krabi is also home to the Thanboke Koranee National Park in the Ao Luek district, where visitors can go kayaking or experience historical paintings of over 3000 years old.
While Krabi is mainly a beach and jungle destination, there are still some awe-inspiring Buddhist Temples set deep in the jungles for those who enjoy immersing themselves in Thai history culture.
One of the most famous Krabi temples is the Tiger Cave Temple. Wat Tham Suea (or Wat Tham Sua) is a natural wonder that is only about three kilometres from Krabi Town and truly a sight to behold. It is called the Tiger Cave Temple because legend has it that a real tiger once lived there. The temple sits on top of a cliff, and Buddhist monks still live and serve inside the caves. You will need to climb over 1200 steps to get to the top but will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the Andaman Sea, the massive golden Buddha, and the famous Buddha’s footprint.
Tonsai Beach in Krabi is considered a hidden gem and one of the secluded beaches in Krabi. It is popular in the rock climbing community as it has some stunning rock formations. However, most tourists visit the nearby Railey Beach instead and overlook all that Tonsai offers, creating the perfect secluded spot for visitors who prefer a more private way of enjoying the sea.
Another quiet beach in Krabi is Khlong Muang. Located on Krabi’s mainland, Khlong Muang doesn’t contain many restaurants or hotels, making it a secluded beach with few tourists.
Krabi is home to the Thung Teao Forest Natural Park. It is a popular natural attraction in Krabi and contains the famous Emerald Pool lagoon. There are also beautiful hot springs and waterfalls to be found here, along with interesting reptiles and other wildlife to discover. Among these is the Gurney’s Pitta Bird, which was at one point thought to be extinct but has since resurfaced.
Clean drinking water is not easily accessible in Krabi, and the tap water is not safe for consumption. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to invest in clean, bottled water.
Note, however, that some vendors or markets may sell regular tap water, claiming it to be safe to drink for a very low price. You may need to ask around or look at reviews on Google until you find a market that really does sell clean drinking water.
Restaurants and hotels typically sell safe drinks, so if you are having your meals at a restaurant or staying in a luxury hotel, you shouldn’t need to worry about the water quality. Bottled water can also be purchased for about seven to ten Thai Baht at supermarkets.
Krabi is about a two, and a half-hour drive away from Phuket by car. They are around 163 kilometres away from each otherBangkok, however, is much further away, at around 785 kilometres. It would take about ten and a half hours to drive from Bangkok to Krabi, and most people opt to fly instead.
Payment & Finance
All of Thailand uses the same currency – Thai Baht (THB).
Accommodation and food prices in Krabi are slightly higher than in some other places in Thailand. However, it is still really affordable for foreigners.
Krabi meal prices can vary. Generally, you can expect to pay around 360 Thai Baht for food per day. The average meal in a restaurant can cost around 150 THB for one person.
It might be helpful to search for alternative places to eat. Buying street food from markets rather than dining in restaurants or buying groceries to make food for yourself are good examples of the many ways tourists have found to save money while they spend time in Krabi.
Krabi is close enough to Phuket that a day trip is possible, and you may decide to explore Krabi with your family or friends while already vacationing in Phuket.
Many people agree that the best time to visit Krabi, weather-wise, is during peak tourist season from November to February.
However, if you want rest and relaxation, it may be better for you to explore Krabi during the off-seasons, which are anything from March to October. While the weather may not be as nice, prices are generally lower, and Krabi is less crowded.
Most visitors agree that, in general, the traffic in Krabi isn’t too bad
Krabi town has many different places to go shopping, have some authentic Thai cuisine, or enjoy entertainment as tourists.
Krabi Walking Street, or Krabi Night Market, is a great place to go shopping if you are on a budget and want to enjoy Krabi’s nightlife. It runs over the weekend from 5 pm to 10 pm. Keep in mind, however, that it does attract a large crowd.
Visitors can also shop at the Maharat Fresh Market, or Morning Market, which opens up at the crack of dawn, or sometimes even earlier. The market is almost always active, all through the week, and is a great way to find fresh produce or dry goods. Tourists can also enjoy freshly prepared street food and drinks bought from any of the many food stall
Shopping
Unique
For Couple
For Family
Landmark
Unique
Tour
For Couple
For Family
Landmark
Unique
Tour
For Couple
For Family
Temple
Landmark
Unique
Cultural
For Couple
For Family
