Krabi is one of those places where traveling feels effortless. Everything is close, everything is organised, and yet you’re surrounded by some of the most dramatic landscapes in Thailand. Limestone cliffs rising from the sea, turquoise water, jungle inland, islands just offshore — Krabi brings it all together without feeling rushed or overwhelming.
For us, Krabi felt like the perfect balance between adventure and comfort. You can be active every day, but you can also do absolutely nothing — and both feel right.
Ao Nang – Tourist Hub with Everything You Need
Ao Nang is where most travelers base themselves, and honestly, it makes total sense. It’s a fully developed tourist town with lots of restaurants, cafés, bars, massage salons, tour offices, and hotels in every price range.
You can stay in a simple hotel, a boutique stay, a big resort with a pool, or even an all-inclusive-style accommodation. Everything is walkable, which makes Ao Nang incredibly easy. During the day, people relax on the beach, book tours, or just wander around. In the evening, Ao Nang transforms.
The beachfront lights up beautifully at night. Restaurants set up tables, street food stalls appear, musicians play, and people stroll along the promenade. It’s lively but not wild. Ao Nang nightlife is social and relaxed — bars for a drink, live music, sometimes a bit of dancing, but nothing overwhelming.
Ao Nang feels touristy — but in a comfortable way. It’s a great base.
Railay Beach – Laid-Back Paradise with Reggae Vibes
From Ao Nang Beach, you can easily take a longtail taxi boat to Railay Beach. Tickets are sold right on the beach, boats leave constantly, and within 15 minutes you arrive in what feels like another world. Railay is perfect as a day trip, though many people also stay overnight.
Railay Beach has a completely different atmosphere. It’s more laid-back, almost bohemian. Think reggae music, barefoot walking, simple wooden restaurants, and a slightly rough-around-the-edges charm. Nothing fancy — and that’s exactly why it’s so nice.
You’ll see monkeys everywhere, especially near the cliffs and paths, so keep an eye on your belongings. Swimming here is fantastic when the weather is good, and the scenery is unreal: towering limestone cliffs, soft sand, and clear water. Railay feels slower, calmer, and more relaxed than Ao Nang.
Island Hopping – Phi Phi Islands & Beyond
Krabi is the perfect place for island hopping, and the Phi Phi Islands are the most famous destination. Booking a tour is incredibly easy — you can arrange it at your hotel, a tour desk, or even online.
Usually, you’re picked up very early in the morning. A minivan brings you to the pier, and from there you head out by speedboat or longtail boat. The day is packed: snorkeling, swimming, beach stops, lagoons, viewpoints — all surrounded by postcard scenery.
Lunch is typically included. In our case, it was an all-in buffet, simple but filling. By late afternoon or early evening, you return to Ao Nang, tired, salty, and happy. It’s touristy, yes — but still absolutely worth it.
Night Markets in Ao Nang – Food, Lights & Local Energy
Ao Nang has several night markets, and they’re perfect for evenings when you just want to eat well and wander around. Food stalls serve everything from Thai classics to grilled seafood, smoothies, roti, desserts, and snacks.
The atmosphere is casual and friendly. Plastic tables, bright lights, music playing softly in the background. It’s affordable, tasty, and a great way to experience local life mixed with travelers from all over the world.
Hot Springs & Emerald Pool – Inland Relaxation
A short drive inland takes you to the hot springs and Emerald Pool area. After a short jungle walk, you arrive at natural pools with warm, mineral-rich water. It’s incredibly relaxing and a great contrast to beach days.
Perfect as a half-day trip if you want to see another side of Krabi beyond the coast.
Tiger Cave Temple – Worth Every Step
The Tiger Cave Temple climb is tough — over 1,200 steps — but the view from the top is unforgettable. Jungle, cliffs, open space, silence. Go early morning or late afternoon to avoid the worst heat.
This is one of those moments where the effort makes the experience even better.
Kayaking Through Mangroves
Kayaking near Ao Thalane or similar areas lets you explore mangrove forests and limestone formations from water level. It’s calm, scenic, and surprisingly peaceful. A nice change from boat engines and busy beaches.
Massages – Daily Recovery Ritual
Massages are everywhere in Ao Nang — and very affordable. After island hopping, hiking, or climbing, a Thai massage feels almost necessary. Simple salons, professional therapists, no luxury needed. Your body will thank you.
How to Get to Krabi
Flying to Krabi
The easiest way is flying directly to Krabi International Airport from Bangkok or other regional hubs. From the airport, it’s a short transfer to Ao Nang.
Night Train via Surat Thani
If you prefer not to fly, you can take the night train from Bangkok to Surat Thani. From Surat Thani station, you book a minivan to Krabi.
We did this via Fantemp, which was super easy. The office is close to the station — you show your reservation, hop into a van, and after a few hours you’re in Krabi. Comfortable, affordable, and surprisingly smooth.
