What to Do in Krabi?
Krabi is only about two hours from Phuket by car, or 50 minutes by boat, but it feels like a different world. The scenery is more dramatic, with towering limestone cliffs rising straight out of the sea. The beaches are quieter than Phuket’s, and the vibe is more laid-back.
I’ve been coming here for years, sometimes just for a day trip, sometimes for a few nights when I want to escape the busier side of Phuket. Railay Beach is still one of my favourite places in Thailand, accessible only by longtail boat and surrounded by cliffs that draw rock climbers from around the world. The Tiger Cave Temple is a serious climb, over 1,200 steps, but the view from the top is worth the sweat. And the islands nearby, Koh Hong, Koh Poda, Phi Phi, are some of the most beautiful in the region. Krabi doesn’t try to compete with Phuket’s nightlife or shopping. It’s about nature, and it does that better than almost anywhere.
Things to Do in Krabi
Krabi Beaches
The beaches in Krabi look different from Phuket’s. The limestone karsts change everything, creating dramatic backdrops you won’t find on the west coast of Phuket. Ao Nang is the main hub, busy and convenient with plenty of restaurants and shops, but not the prettiest beach. The real draw is Railay, which you can only reach by boat. It’s small, surrounded by cliffs, and has some of the best scenery in southern Thailand.
Phra Nang Beach, at the southern tip of Railay, has a famous cave shrine and crystal-clear water. If you want something quieter, Tubkaek Beach has a handful of luxury resorts and views across to the Hong Islands. Nopparat Thara, just west of Ao Nang, is more relaxed and has a long stretch of sand that empties out at low tide. Each beach has a different feel, so it’s worth visiting more than one.
Where to Stay in Krabi
Where you stay in Krabi depends on what kind of trip you want. Ao Nang has the most options, from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels, and it’s the easiest base for exploring. Railay is more special but more limited. There are only a handful of resorts, and you’ll need a boat to get anywhere, which adds to the escape-from-it-all feeling.
Tubkaek and Klong Muang are quieter, with upscale resorts that cater to couples and families who don’t need nightlife. If you’re heading to the islands, Koh Yao Noi has some beautiful boutique hotels and feels far removed from the tourist trail. Book ahead during high season, especially for Railay, because the good places fill up fast.
Islands Nearby
The islands around Krabi are stunning, and most of them are easy to reach by longtail or speedboat. Phi Phi is the most famous and is still worth visiting despite the crowds. The scenery really is that good. Koh Hong has an emerald lagoon hidden inside a ring of cliffs, perfect for kayaking.
Koh Poda is a small island with a long sandbar and good snorkelling. And Koh Yao Noi, sitting between Phuket and Krabi, is one of my favourite escapes in the region. It’s quiet, local, and hasn’t been overdeveloped. Most hotels and tour operators can arrange island-hopping trips, or you can hire a longtail from Ao Nang and go at your own pace.
