White sand beaches. Bustling backpacker spots. Tropical islands. A little luxury. Krabi is calling you and it will feed your soul.
Staying in the right location can make or break your Thailand getaway, so let’s get it right.
In our guide to where to stay in Krabi, we’re looking at Ao Nang, Railay Beach, Koh Lanta, Krabi Town and Klong Muang Beach. Let’s discover the perfect piece of paradise for you.
Ao Nang
THE TOP TOURIST HOTSPOT
Once your feet hit the soil in Ao Nang, just breathe it in. This breath-taking Thai escape promises crystal clear waters, limestone cliffs and beautiful beaches. It’s a picture-perfect tropical escape, and one of the most popular spots to stay in Krabi. Use it as your base to explore the four islands, take a boat to Railay Beach, enjoy the vibrant nightlife or just drink in the sunset with a cold beer or cocktail.
You can get involved with a variety of sports on the sand or in the water too. Get sweaty with a little volleyball before heading into the waves for jet-skiing, windsurfing, water skiing or parasailing – you’ll find plenty of operators on the beach so you can book on the day.
If you’re on the hunt for beaches in your time in Krabi, basing yourself in Ao Nang is always a wise decision. It’s home to some of the top beaches in Thailand. We’re talking soft powdery sands, azure waters and plenty of sunshine. Ao Nang beach with its beach bars, night entertainment and relaxing golden sands is right on your doorstep and always worth your time.
Insider tip:
If you want to meet some interesting local residents, take a stroll to the end of Ao Nang Beach past the Last Fisherman bar and head up the path going up the rocks. There’ll be plenty of monkeys hanging around. Keep going through the jungle for around 10 minutes and you’ll hit Monkey Beach. A secluded spot to while away the day.
Nopparat Thara Beach is also well worth a visit, and a little quieter than the main beach. Away from the action of Ao Nang, about a 20-minute scooter ride away, is Klong Muang Beach. The white sand is beautiful, it’s not too crowded and is packed with some great beach bars.
Hotels near Ao Nang
Railay Beach
TROPICAL PARADISE
Accessible by boat and located on the Railay Peninsula, Railay Beach is one of the most spectacular places in all of Thailand. As the name suggests, it’s all about the beach. Plus it has those dramatic limestone cliffs and clear waters that Krabi is famous for.
Take a longboat from Ao Nang, step into the shore and let your feet sink into golden sand, you’re in heaven. Railay Beach is a fantastic place to stay for a few nights, with luxury and more budget options available. So, let’s chat about the beaches.
The main beach is of course Railay Beach, and it’s a haven for simply sitting and soaking it in. We’re talking mighty rock formations, emerald sea and fine white sand. The water is calm and great for bathing. You’ll find bars and restaurants right on the beach too.
Phra Nang Beach is not to be missed, with its monkeys, spectacular setting and famous cave. Head into Phra Nang Cave and you’ll be delighted with a unique fertility shrine – it’s packed with wooden and stone phalluses and always makes for a fun photo.
Insider tip:
If you’re new to climbing but intrigued, take a hike to the Railay Viewpoint. You’ll find the entry point between Railay East Beach and Phra Nang Beach. The 25-minute hike requires a little clambering over rocks and ropes to pull yourself up. Pack some non-slip shoes and a bit of bravery and you’ll be fine. You can also hike onto the Railay lagoon, but it’s often closed for safety.
Hotels near Railay Beach
Railay Beach East is less suitable for swimming so it’s usually less busy. Stroll along the promenade in peace and take in the beach that seems to go on for miles at low tide. Ton Sai Beach in the north of Railay has more of a hippie vibe and is a hotspot for backpackers and climbers.
Railay is the perfect spot to explore the four islands, head out into the water with some scuba or kayaking, or try climbing. When you’re relaxing on the sand, look up at the limestone cliffs and you’ll see climbers tackling the vertical walls with ease.
Koh Lanta
AN INTRIGUING ISLAND EXPERIENCE
Just off the coast of Krabi, this Thai island district has retained much of its laid-back charm. The main island, Ko Lanta Yai, is 6km wide and 30km long and has plenty of tourist resorts catering to everyone from luxury travellers to backpackers.
The island district is known for its coral-fringed beaches, mangroves, rainforests and Mu Ko Lanta National Park which spans several of the islands. On the southern end of Ko Lanta Yai, you’ll find the semi-nomadic sea people, the Chao Leh, promising a real authentic understanding of life here.
Ko Lanta is ideal if you want to explore under the water – the diving is excellent here with the best dive sites being Hin Muang-Hin Daeng, Koh Rok and Koh Haa Ya.i
Hotels near Koh Lant
We recommend a peaceful walk on Long Beach, a hike through the national park (you’ll pay an entrance fee of 200 baht) and a visit to Koh Lanta Old Town. You can also get out and explore the four islands from here.
To get from Krabi to Koh Lanta, you can hop on a ferry or speedboat from Ao Nang. The ferry is cheaper at around 550 baht per person and takes around 2 hours. A trip on a speedboat is around 800 baht and will take 1.5 hours.
Krabi Town
TRADITIONAL AND AUTHENTIC
A popular spot with backpackers and individual travellers, Krabi Town is a vibrant and fun slice of authentic Thai life. It’s the closest location to the airport and is the ideal base to explore the best of the region.
It’s also the provincial capital of Krabi and the largest urban area. Just note, Krabi Town isn’t on the coast, so it’s not necessarily the tropical getaway you’ve been dreaming of, but you will experience local life here. The Night Market should be top of your agenda and is the place to sample Thai street food and pick up a few souvenirs. The 400m mangrove walkway is a unique experience in Krabi Town – you’ll stroll through the mangroves on a 2m walkway and if you’re lucky you’ll see frogs, birds, crabs and even monitor lizards.
Buddhist temples either in town or close by include Wat Kaew Korawaram with its terrace and colourful snake statues and the famous Tiger Cave temple with its 1260 steps up and around the limestone mountain. Khao Khanap Nam Cave on the Krabi River is well worth a visit too.
Hotels near Krabi Town
Klong Muang Beach
QUIET AND TRANQUIL
Where once there were hardly any hotels here, it’s becoming more and more popular with tourists and there are many great options to lay your head for the night. Thankfully the beach has still kept its quiet and relaxing feel. The beach bars are quaint, colourful and charming, and the water is lovely for a swim. When the tide’s high it will lap at your feet while you enjoy a Singha beer at the bar.
You’ll see Hong Island off the shore, which is just a short longtail boat away.
Hotels near Klong Muang
Peace, quiet and tranquillity. It’s what Klong Muang is all about. Away from the tourist hotspot of Ao Nang, this 1.5km stretch of white sand is one of the jewels in Krabi’s crown and ideal for a few nights of relaxing and pampering.
Insider tip:
If you want to take your feelings of wellbeing and rejuvenation to the next level on Klong Muang you’ll find loads of Thai massage spots along the beach. Just remember a Thai massage is more invigorating than relaxing.
You’re dreaming of crystal clear waters, soft white sand and sunsets – a trip to Krabi can’t come soon enough. Now let’s discover how to get around, the top hotels and resorts as well as the best attractions.
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