Krabi Province, on Thailand’s Andaman eastern coast, is known for its towering limestone karst cliffs rising from the coast, hidden lagoons, magnificent beaches backed by jungle covered mountains, and more than 150 islands scattered across the Andaman Sea.
With spectacular landscapes in the mainland and in the nearby islands, with long-tail boats tied in clear bays, long stretches of sandy beaches, beach bars and front seats to the most beautiful sunsets, Krabi is one of the best places to sunbath and spend a day (or a week) at the beach.
With rock climbers ascending sheer cliffs, kayakers paddling through mangrove channels, snorkelers and divers swimming in reefs rich with marine life, and numerous beautiful hiking trails inland and in the islands, you will always find an outdoor activity to enjoy.
Vacationing in Krabi, you will probably start with Ao Nang which serves as Krabi’s main beach town and transportation hub. In town, a long sandy beach backed by hotels, restaurants, bars, and the piers from which boats depart daily for island-hopping tours to Krabi’s spectacular offshore islands.
South of Ao Nang, Krabi’s crown jewel, Railay Peninsula, accessible only by boat, offering spectacular beaches, world-class rock climbing, hidden lagoons, isolation, and laid-back and romantic atmosphere that feels more of an island than mainland.
For a day out of the beach, you will enjoy Krabi’s nature wanders such as the Emerald and Blue pools and hot springs nestled in a tropical forest, and the unique and impressive Tiger Cave Temple offering spectacular scenery of the mainland and sea.
Either part of a day boat cruise, or for few days of vacation, you will have numerous options visiting the nearby Andaman Sea islands.
Take a one-day trip to the Four Islands, to enjoy magnificent beaches, swimming and relaxation, or to the Hong Island where you will admire a hidden emerald lagoon accessible through a narrow channel, and enjoy swimming, kayaking and snorkeling.
Railay Peninsula
Koh Loa Lading, Koh Hong Islands
Emerald Pool
Take a one day, or preferably 2-3 day trip, to the magnificent Koh Phi Phi Islands famous for the Maya Bay, Leonardo DiCaprio film location, the vibrant nightlife in Koh Phi Phi Don’s Tonsai Village, and the stunning Pileh Bay lagoon in Koh Phi Phi Leh.
Note that the Phi Phi islands are one of Thailand’s premier snorkeling and diving destinations.
In Koh Lanta, Krabi Province’s largest inhabited island, 70 km south of Krabi, enjoy 2-3 or 5-7 days of beach vacation with relaxed and family friendly atmosphere. You will admire the beautiful long beaches, enjoy excellent diving in the surrounding waters, and absorb the slow paced, authentic Old Town preserving sea gypsy and Sino-Portuguese cultures.
If tranquil, uncrowded and beautiful beaches, magnificent coral reefs, and a remote adventurous character appeal to you, consider vacationing in the Southern Islands, the Trang archipelago and Koh Lipe in the Satun Province, 240 km south of Krabi Province. The islands near the Malaysian border include Koh Kradan rated among Thailand’s most beautiful islands. Koh Lipe, far south near Malaysia, on the other hand, gained high popularity with amazing beaches and excellent snorkeling and diving sites.
Krabi is served by its International Airport with direct flights from Bangkok and major Asian cities. Railay Peninsula can be accessed using boats service from Ao Nang.
The surrounding Islands are served by boat’s cruises from Ao Nang and Railay.
November to April is the high season in Krabi with dry weather and calm seas, with advance booking recommended. May to October is the Monsoon season with many island’s resorts closed.
Krabi’s diversity accommodates every traveler, from adventurers to beach lovers, from families to romantic couples. All will find a great opportunity for a marvelous vacation.
Spend 2-5 days in Ao Nang or Railay peninsula with day cruises to the great nearby islands, or plan to have 5-10 days, a major part of your vacation, in the islands.
