Krabi Thailand 101: Best Things to Do for First-Time Visitors

Do you have any idea about traveling to Thailand for the first time and don’t know how to start? Are you in search of a destination where you can see monuments, and landscapes, and experience extreme thrills? Then be tempted by Krabi, an area that offers numerous tourist and visitor attractions.

The next paragraphs highlight some of Krabi’s strengths, best timing for visiting this region as well as its accessibility and transport options. Trekking lovers or scuba diving fans or those who simply want to go for a thrilling vacation on Krabi’s sandy beaches will find this place just perfect. To know this precious pearl of the Andaman Gulf follow us.

Written by Preetika Narula (Local Expert)Updated on 05-11-2024

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1. Is Krabi Worth Visiting?

In a simple answer, yes! Krabi is absolutely worth visiting. The area is vibrant both naturally and socially, and it should definitely be on your Thailand itinerary. Located in Southern Thailand on the Andaman Sea, Krabi is an ideal destination for travelers seeking unspoiled nature, dream beaches, and authenticity. This region captivates with its raw beauty, featuring limestone cliffs, mangrove forests, and turquoise waters.

In addition, Krabi boasts some of Thailand's most beautiful beaches, including Railay and Phranang. Nearby islands like Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta offer picturesque coves and a complete change of scenery.

The region is perfect for nature lovers, with activities such as trekking in national parks, scuba diving, and kayaking. Krabi enjoys an ideal tropical climate from October to April, making it perfect for a visit during these months. Access is easy with its international airport.

All in all, Krabi island is the perfect destination for an authentic holiday in a preserved setting between land and sea—a paradise to (re)discover.

2. Best Time To Visit Krabi Thailand For Beach Lovers

As a tropical country, Thailand is a popular year-round tourist destination. Travelers seeking warm-weather activities will find the best time to visit Krabi is from December to April. During these months, the weather tends to be mild and sunny, ideal for exploring the beaches and islands of the Andaman Gulf. 

Additionally, from May to November, Krabi experiences its rainy season, peaking around August. Despite this, many tourists still choose to visit in May and June when rainfall is less frequent.

3. How To Easily Reach This Paradise

• Ways to get to Krabi

You can easily reach Krabi, Thailand, which offers a variety of transportation options. Krabi Airport is the primary gateway, with frequent flights operated by reputable airlines such as Thai Airways, Air Asia, Nok Air, Viet Jet Air, Lion Air, and Thai Smile. Whether you're flying from cities within Thailand, neighboring countries like Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, or even farther destinations such as Doha, Qatar, Krabi is just a flight away.

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Additionally, ferry services from Phuket or nearby islands in the Andaman Sea, like Koh Phi Phi, provide a scenic alternative. For travelers preferring land routes, buses connect cities along the Gulf of Thailand such as Surat Thani, Trang, Nakhon Si Thammarat, and Bangkok. Another option is to take a train from Hua Lamphong Station in Bangkok to Surat Thani, Trang, or Tung Song, then transfer to a bus to Krabi. The train journey typically lasts about 8 hours and 45 minutes.

We suggest you prioritize comfort by choosing a second-class ticket with air conditioning and on-board meals or explore the overnight travel option with a duration of approximately 11 hours and 45 minutes in first class (approximately 1,500 baht) or second class (960 baht). Enjoy a pleasant and convenient journey to beautiful Krabi.

• Getting around Krabi made easy

Discovering Krabi is easy with two central areas to choose from: Ao Nang and Krabi Town. Both offer the convenience of complimentary pick-ups for most day trips, making exploration hassle-free.

For budget-friendly travel, hop on the local bus (song-taew), which runs all day to Krabi Town for a fare of just 20-50 baht each way. Traveling between Krabi Town and Ao Nang costs around 50 baht one way. Motorbike taxis are another affordable option but require advance payment.

Motorbike taxis, an affordable alternative, require advance payment before departure. For maximum flexibility, consider renting a private car. Tourists often choose to hire a car, driver, and tour guide, typically around 2,500 Thai baht per day, with variations depending on the desired destination.

Another option we recommend for a memorable island getaway is to explore the main beaches by renting a longtail boat. If you prefer independence, renting a motorbike is a great choice, costing around 150 to 250 baht per day. Enjoy the freedom and adventure that Krabi has to offer!

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4. Best Things to Do in Krabi

• Sunbathing on Krabi's dream beaches

Krabi's beaches are a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Here are the finest beaches for you to check out:

• Railay Beach: In the case of the most beautiful beach in Krabi (or at least the ones that one can reach most easily), Railay Beach is the most beautiful of all, without a doubt. It is an isolated beach, accessible only by boat thanks to the steep limestone cliffs that encircle it, and it is perfect for climbers and offers breathtaking vistas. Known for its sandy white clean beaches, rugged mountains, and clear blue ocean waters which even glows with glowing planktons, Railay beach is certainly worth going to.
• Ao Nang Beach: Krabi’s busiest and most accessible beach is known for its clear turquoise waters and ample water activities.
• Phra Nang Beach: Situated on the Railay peninsula, it is well-known for its stunning Princess Cave as well as its clear blue waters. Phra Nang Beach boasts lush greenery and tropical fruit juices that can refresh your spirit.
• Tub Kaek Beach: This slightly isolated site allows you to appreciate the picturesque view of Hong Islands without worrying much about crowds.
• Klong Muang Beach: Ideal for those preferring peaceful locations that are not too urbanized, Klong Muang offers solitude and serenity.
• Ton Sai Beach: Very popular among climbing enthusiasts, it is also a great place to peacefully enjoy one’s surroundings.

Whichever beach you choose, stunning karst landscapes await you. You will fall under the spell of crystal-clear waters bordered by limestone cliffs and coconut trees. After the effort, the reward: these heavenly panoramas will take your breath away. 

• Island hopping activities from Krabi

Krabi is famous for its poetic archipelagos, with Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta being two of the most prominent that tourists should not miss.

Koh Phi Phi, made famous by the movie The Beach, is one of Thailand's most sought-after destinations. Its clear blue waters and soft white sandy beaches create an idyllic tropical escape. Beyond the famous Maya Bay, visitors can explore diving spots at Loh Samah Bay and the ancient wall paintings in Viking Cave.

Koh Phi Phi, considered one of the world's top beaches, captivates visitors with its white sand and crystal-clear waters. This paradise is perfect for walking, relaxing, and soaking in every moment.

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Meanwhile, Koh Lanta is known for its magnificent beaches and preserved authenticity. These 30 km-long archipelagoes include islands like Koh Lanta Noi and Koh Lanta Yai, offering stunning landscapes with mangroves, mountains, and waterfalls. Its tranquil, expansive beaches, less touristy than Koh Phi Phi or Phuket, make it an ideal spot for relaxation. Visitors can unwind on its idyllic shores or explore the island's natural beauty.

>>> Find out more about: Things to do in Koh Lanta

• Discover Krabi, an authentic city

Even though Krabi is primarily known for its beaches and exceptional seabeds, the city is worth a visit. Admire the vibrant Kaew Grovaram temple, discover the colorful frescoes, and explore the Museum of Contemporary Art. Don't miss the famous night market, open from Friday to Sunday, where you can savor local specialties and enjoy traditional shows.

In short, Krabi City is a haven for art, culture, and authentic Thai cuisine enthusiasts. Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, a rich heritage awaits your discovery.

• Hiking in national parks

Krabi offers a vast playground for hiking enthusiasts, with its marine national parks spanning over 390 km². Khao Phanom Bencha National Park and Than Bok Khorani are top choices for those seeking fresh air in the heart of unspoiled nature.

Visitors can explore exceptional biodiversity while enjoying breathtaking views. Whether it's a short family walk or a more challenging hike, the national parks surrounding Krabi will delight those looking to breathe fresh air and experience authenticity.

• Diving and snorkeling

Krabi’s beach is renowned as Thailand's top snorkeling and diving destination, offering unforgettable experiences with its numerous pristine beaches. The diverse marine life, ranging from small fish to sharks and whales, makes underwater exploration truly fascinating.

Famous snorkeling sites in Krabi include:

• Ko Phi Phi Islands: Discover crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs at Maya Bay, Loh Sama Bay, and Bamboo Island.
• Koh Hong Island: Located in Than Bok Khorani National Park, this island is known for its pristine beaches and brilliant coral reefs.
• The Four Islands: Explore Koh Poda and Chicken Island, which offer excellent diving opportunities with their vibrant coral reefs.
• Koh Lanta: Known for its diverse marine ecosystem, popular spots include Koh Rok, Koh Ha, Hin Daeng, and Hin Muang.
• Ko Tub Island (Koh Tap): Near Railay, this island features a beautiful sandy beach and coral gardens to explore.
• Ao Nang Islands: Ideal for snorkeling, these islands like Ko Gai/Tup (Chicken Island) boast crystal-clear waters.
• Koh Yao Noi: The smaller of the two Yao islands, it offers peaceful sites with impressive coral reefs.

When planning a diving trip to Krabi, look for organized tours or hire local guides to explore the best sites. They will provide the necessary equipment and share valuable information about the local marine life.

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• Kayaking in the mangroves of Krabi

Kayaking is a top activity for visitors to Krabi, offering more than just leisure. It's a unique way to uncover the region's natural treasures. Kayakers can explore stunning canyons, mangroves, and secluded beaches among rocky peaks.

The Ao Thalane and Bo Thor sites offer spectacular landscapes between mangrove forests and limestone cliffs. Bo Thor also houses caves decorated with rock paintings.

• Trekking on spectacular trails

Krabi is a hiker's paradise, offering easy walks to challenging treks. In the Bang Khram reserve, you can enjoy a refreshing bath after your hike. For stunning views of beaches and the valley, head to Mount Hang Nak.

Finally, Khao Phanom Bencha National Park, known for its Nam Tok Huay To waterfall, is a must for any hiker. Whatever your level or the duration of your trek, Krabi will delight fans of nature and altitude with the raw beauty of its landscapes.

• Experience Krabi Elephant Sanctuary

Other activities popular in Thailand are a visit to one of many elephant sanctuaries. Known to be among the more humane options, these highlight that they do not offer elephant rides for tourists.

This is Krabi's first official elephant sanctuary, offering an alternative to the typical elephant tourism in a much friendlier manner. The sanctuary is home to rescued elephants, most of which were exploited well beyond their limits to provide logging and riding services, but now enjoy peaceful and dignified lives. It offers a visit that is educative, interactive, and a great opportunity to support ethical tourism practices.

Everything, from the playful interactions among elephants to the lush landscapes of Krabi, comes together on a visit here and is both a heartwarming and an upward move toward a kinder future of tourism in wildlife.

5. FAQs

• How many days do you need in Krabi?

The Krabi Province is extremely large, hence we suggest that a visitor stays here for a minimum of 3-5 days so that we can spare a night or two either in Railay or Ao Nang and enjoy possible 4 island day trips, spend two nights in Koh Phi Phi, and at the very least, a day availing the sights inland Krabi Province.

• Which Part of Krabi Is Best to Stay In?

Railay Beach is a sweet spot in Krabi, not exactly an island because, though it's only accessible via a short boat trip from the mainland, it is somewhat more secluded and less crowded compared to Ao Nang. The scenery in this place is fantastic, with towering limestone karsts and calm, clear waters. 

6. Practical Advice For A Successful Trip

• Tropical climate with a dry season; the period from November to April is ideal for enjoying the beaches.
• Bring Thai baht, as cards are not always accepted. Krabi is less touristy than Bangkok.
• Easy access by plane via Bangkok, bus, train, or ferry from Phuket. Ao Nang is the central resort of Krabi. If you plan to explore the islands surrounding Krabi, you will need to arrive by ferry or longtail boat from Ao Nang.
• Travel by foot, bus, taxi, tuk-tuk, or scooter rental. Boat reservations are required for the islands.
• Varied accommodations, hotels in Ao Nang, and resorts on the islands. Book in advance during the high season.
• An ideal stay to enjoy the beaches and islands in an authentic setting.

Conclusion

As you will have understood, Krabi, Thailand, is a perfect destination for travelers seeking a change of scenery and diversity. Whether you prefer the beach, the mountains, relaxation, or sports, Krabi has it all. Don't wait any longer; book your stay in Krabi now with our travel agency. We guarantee you quality services, adapted to your desires and your budget. Krabi is waiting for you!

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