Beaches
Krabi has some stunning beaches that are a must-visit if you’re looking for a tropical getaway. From white sand beaches to rocky cliffs and secret coves, Krabi has it all. Of course, Koh Phi Phi and Railay Beach are among the most popular beaches here, but there are many other incredible beaches to explore. Let’s take a look at some of the best beaches Krabi has to offer:
Ao Nang Beach
Ao Nang beach is one of the most popular beaches in Krabi, Thailand, and for a good reason. It is on an idyllic stretch of towering limestone cliffs and white-sand beaches. As a result, Ao Nang beach is a great place to enjoy a wide range of activities ranging from relaxing sunbathing to exciting snorkeling, kayaking, and rock climbing.
This stunning stretch of paradise offers excellent facilities such as bars, cafes, restaurants, shops, and tour services that can provide anything you need during your stay in Krabi. There are also opportunities to rent or purchase items like beach chairs, umbrellas, and other recreational equipment. You can relax along the shore or explore the scenery by taking a scooter tour or hiring a longtail boat to take you further into the sea. Ao Nang also provides excellent snorkeling activities where you can explore spectacular coral reefs and fish-rich waters while basking in sunlight glittering off the crystal clear sea.
The area near Ao Nang beach has plenty of accommodation options ranging from inexpensive guesthouses to luxurious resorts offering private balconies with incredible views of the surrounding landscape. Ao Nang has everything you need for a perfect beach vacation – see why this popular destination attracts individuals worldwide!
Railay Beach
Railay Beach is widely known for its spectacular limestone cliffs on the beach and in the nearby bay. It’s a stunningly beautiful place to explore, with various activities that will suit all kinds of travelers. So whether you are looking for thrills or simply a relaxing day out in the sun, Railay Beach won’t disappoint you.
The vibrant turquoise waters and white sandy stretch beckon visitors to relax into postcard-perfect days at this breathtaking beach. Many activities are available here, including rock climbing, kayaking, swimming in one of the shallow coves, and incredible hikes through jungle-clad hills offering breathtaking views. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, sunbathing is available while taking in some astonishing scenery.
For accommodations, affordable bungalows are available near the beaches, and several luxury hotels on beaches fringed with limestone rocks jutting out from crystal waters. Alongside these accommodation choices, you can also find restaurants serving delicious local Thai delicacies and seafood that would satisfy any craving.
Railay Beach is unique and relatively unknown, which adds to its charm and beauty – so pack your bags and head there soon!
Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta is one of the largest islands off the coast of Krabi Province, located approximately 70km southwest of Krabi Town. It’s a popular tourist destination for those seeking a tropical island paradise, boasting crystal-clear waters, stunning white sand beaches, and a lush jungle interior.
Koh Lanta is split into two main parts: Koh Lanta Yai and Koh Lanta Noi, each featuring unique offerings. A 20-minute ferry ride takes you from one part to the other.
The main attraction here is the vast array of pristine beaches that grace the coasts of this lush tropical island. Beaches such as Long Beach, Klong Toab Beach, Khlong Nin Beach, and Kantiang Bay offer clear warm waters and powdery white sand to soak up under a shady palm tree or in one of many sunbeds that line these locations. In addition, many beaches come with their beach bars, eateries, and water sports offering activities such as snorkeling, diving, and kayaking, making it great for a day out for those who love adventure and exploring by day but also like to kick back with relaxation in mind by night.
For those wanting to explore further, a longtail boat or boat tour will take you around some of the smaller islands nearby, affording you beautiful views and sunsets!
Islands
Krabi’s islands are some of the most beautiful in the world, making it one of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations. As a result, there are plenty of activities to do, from kayaking to snorkeling and, of course, swimming in crystal-clear waters.
Let’s explore some of the islands that Krabi has to offer:
Koh Phi Phi
Koh Phi Phi is an archipelago of 6 islands between Krabi and Phuket, Thailand. It is famous for its stunning turquoise waters, spectacular limestone cliff formations, white sandy beaches, and coral reefs, offering some of Thailand’s best snorkeling and diving opportunities.
Koh Phi Phi is a popular tourist destination for backpackers, families, and young couples looking for a tropical island getaway. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy here on the sun-drenched beaches of Koh Phi Phi, from swimming with sea turtles to hiking up cliffs for breathtaking views over bays and lagoons.
Longtail boat tours from Krabi will take you around the island’s top attractions, such as Maya Bay (famed for the Leonardo DiCaprio movie ‘The Beach,’ named one of Forbes’s top 12 most beautiful beaches in the world) or Loh Samah Bay with its towering limestone cliffs draped with tropical vegetation.
Tiiding’s beach is crammed with boats and longtail ferries that take visitors to nearby islands such as Koh PANYI, Railay beach, or Phuket. At the same time, Bamboo Island offers stunning coral reefs teeming with colorful fish that can be seen while snorkeling or by kayaking around the small island.
Plenty of outdoor activities here include rock climbing, water sports such as jet skiing or parasailing, snorkel trips, and sea canoeing.
Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta is one of Thailand’s most visited islands, known for its beautiful beaches and lush jungles. It’s located in Krabi Province, a popular area many travelers explore. On the island, you can find plenty of things to do and see, such as diving, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and visiting various shops and restaurants. The beaches are all equipped with plentiful sun loungers, making it perfect for a day at the beach! Awake before daybreak to watch the beautiful sunrises that inspire many visitors.
Koh Lanta is also home to some of Thailand’s best national parks. Explore Namtok Ton Sai National Park or Khao Ngu Stone Park, where you can find ancient ruins over 600 years old! You can also take a short boat ride over Mu Koh Lanta National Park to experience the dramatic limestone cliffs that frame stunning views of bays and lagoons filled with colorful corals and sea life.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation on your trip to Thailand, Koh Lanta has something for everyone! So be sure not to miss out on this stunning island getaway.
Koh Ngai
Koh Ngai is a beautiful island off the coast of Krabi, Thailand. Its turquoise waters and powdery white beaches, surrounded by lush tropical forests, make this destination an ideal paradise for holidaymakers. Visitors can spend days lounging on the beach, exploring nearby islands, or diving deeper to discover spectacular underwater formations with vibrant marine life.
For those seeking active day trips, boat tours to uninhabited Koh Mai Phrao will delight sunseekers and beach bums alike. Here you will find a hidden beach oasis complete with a freshwater pool for swimming and snorkeling opportunities abound. Nature lovers can visit nearby Koh Maa, a tiny rainforest island great for bird watching and hiking through jungle trails of towering karst formations and dense bamboo groves.
A place of seclusion and beauty, Koh Ngai provides an idyllic escape for intrepid travelers searching for adventure, solitude seekers looking for relaxation, or just about anyone seeking respite from their hectic lives back home. From boat tours to bird watching – pack your bags – from lush jungles to crystal clear waters – Krabi Province will surely be unforgettable!
National Parks
Krabi, Thailand, is a place of great beauty and adventure. For those looking to explore nature and enjoy the outdoors, it’s no secret that Krabi offers some of the best national parks in Thailand. From the Khao Ngon Nak Wildlife Sanctuary to the Than Bok Khorani National Park, Krabi boasts numerous parks sure to delight visitors.
Read on to learn more about the different national parks in Krabi and all the things to do in them:
Khao Phra Thaeo National Park
Khao Phra Thaeo National Park (often abbreviated to KPT) is the most popular of three national parks that make up the central part of the jungle-covered hills and valleys of Krabi province. This eco-tourism site covers an area of over 600 sq km and is home to some very diverse wildlife, including 20 kinds of mammals, eight species of reptiles, 85 kinds of birds, and 300-plus types of plant life. It also houses some historic temples the Khmer built more than 600 years ago.
For visitors hoping to explore an unspoiled tropical forest with many limestone caves, Khao Phra Thaeo offers some unique experiences. The remote location makes it an excellent spot for an adventure or a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s also famous among rock climbers because it has several hundred limestone cliffs suitable for sports climbing activities – with routes ranging from beginner level to demanding technical climbs.
Visitors can enjoy spectacular views over the area’s deep valleys or observe wildlife alone in its natural habitat – making it one wildlife park that should not be missed out on!
Khao Nor Chuchi National Park
Khao Nor Chuchi National Park is a popular site for tourists visiting Krabi, Thailand. Located about 40 kilometers from Krabi town, Khao Nor Chuchi National Park has an array of stunning landscapes and unique wildlife. The park contains several mountain ranges, with the highest peak being Khao Nor Chuchi at 866m (2,841ft).
The mountainous landscape of this expansive park encompasses two significant rivers – Namtok Than Singto and Than Bokkhorani, and many smaller streams that flow through the park’s numerous limestone hills and rock formations. In addition, the park is covered in tropical evergreen forest with diverse flora and fauna unique to Khao Nor Chuchi National Park.
Khao Nor Chuchi National Park boasts numerous activities for visitors to enjoy, including:
- Trekking in the spectacular mountain range
- Caving into the stunningly beautiful Kansai Cave
- Camping sites are also available within the park premises, with amenities like bathrooms and restaurant cabanas constructed along some of the trails; however, no overnight camping is permitted inside Khao Nor Chuchi National Park without permission from the park’s management office in advance.
Thung Teao Forest Natural Park
Thung Teao Forest Natural Park is one of Krabi, Thailand’s most famous national parks. Located on the edge of the mountains near Khao Phranom Bencha National park, the area boasts a variety of landscapes that can be explored. The park contains some of Krabi’s most pristine forests and is home to various species of colorful birds, reptiles, and mammals.
In Thung Teao Forest Natural Park, you can find several trails leading through its lush vegetation filled with palm trees, lime trees, rainforest plants, and other flora, which offer hikers great opportunities for amazing pictures and an enjoyable day out in nature. The rock formations, streams, and waterfalls make it a great spot for swimming or kayaking, depending on the season you decide to visit. In recent years, wildlife sightings provided by local guides in trekking boats have become increasingly rare due to higher visitation rates, but they still might occur if you are lucky enough!
Lastly, Thung Teao also serves as a gathering place for local tribes who practice traditional ceremonies as part of their spiritual activities. These age-old customs will give visitors a unique insight into how Thailand’s diverse cultures connect with nature through sacred rituals that honor religion and preserve tradition. Visiting this natural park will surely be an unforgettable experience full of mystery, enlightenment, and adventure!
Adventure Activities
Are you looking for an adventure? Krabi, Thailand, has some amazing activities to offer. From waterfall rappelling to sea kayaking over secret lagoons, there is something to thrill everyone. Let us take a look at some of the thrilling and unforgettable experiences you can have in Krabi:
Rock Climbing
Rock Climbing is an exciting way to experience Thailand’s stunning Krabi coastline. With vertical limestone walls rising just offshore, Krabi is an ideal spot for rock climbers of all levels, from beginners to world-class climbers. With hundreds of routes ranging from sea level to hundreds of feet above the ground and plenty of uncrowded crags, Krabi offers a memorable climbing experience.
Krabi’s unique geography creates some special rock features and provides opportunities for high-intensity ascents, multi-pitch outings, big walls, and classic routes that have been climbed since the 1980s. There are also long-distance routes strung along the coast that have their unique appeal. So if you’re looking for a challenge or want to get out there in nature, Krabi’s rock climbing scene has something for everyone!
Equipment such as helmets and harnesses can be rented at local outdoor outfitters or many private outfitters along Ao Nang beach. However, be aware that surface conditions on these rocks can vary dramatically with weather and rock type – so experienced climbers should be knowledgeable about checking handholds before committing to certain ascents! There are also safety concerns on specific, more demanding climbs due to loose rock; it is always recommended to climb with someone who knows the route setting beforehand.
Kayaking
Krabi, known for its stunning limestone karsts and pristine beaches, is home to some of Thailand’s most breathtaking natural beauty. A great way to explore this picturesque landscape is by kayaking – hop on a single or double kayak and peddle around Krabi’s many coves, caves, lagoons, and mangroves.
- Single Kayaking: If you love the idea of paddling hard to get around smaller coves, caves, and lagoons, then this is the ideal choice for you. Single kayaks are perfect for first-time adventurers and those with beginner-level experience who would like a light physical workout while enjoying the majestic views.
- Double Kayaking: Double kayaks are twice as wide as single ones, providing more excellent stability on the water while paddling with a partner or exploring bigger bodies of water. This activity suits novice or intermediate-level adventurers who want an enjoyable experience without too much effort!
Both single and double kayaks can be rented for the day or longer, making it an ideal activity for groups of friends or family. You can even take them out for sunset – the best time to see the sunset behind towering limestone cliffs! In addition, guides are available who can provide information about Krabi’s dense jungle environment and share fascinating stories about local wildlife, such as monkeys, crabs, and even hornbills!
Snorkeling
Snorkeling is a fun and exciting way to explore the beauty of the underwater world. Krabi, located on Thailand’s southern Andaman coast, has some of the best sites in the world for snorkeling. The clear waters guarantee excellent visibility and year-round warm temperatures.
Various coral reefs and colorful marine life can be found in the local waters. Snorkelers can experience an abundance of tropical fish (marble-nose trumpetfish, parrotfish, butterfly fish) and larger species like moray eels, cuttlefish, manta rays, and sharks. While swimming and exploring shallow islands such as Railay Bay or Poda Island Reef is recommended for novice snorkelers, experienced divers will appreciate deeper dives in areas like Koh Rok Yai or Ka Lam Nai for thrilling challenges such as hunting ghost pipefish and nudibranchs (sea slugs).
Krabi has many dive operators that offer guided day trips to nearby dive sites, including speedboat or longtail boat transportation – depending on how far you plan to go. Most excursions include meals and refreshments on board too! All necessary equipment, such as wetsuits, snorkeling masks, fins, and life vests, are also provided. So all you need to do is don a mask and jump into one of Krabi’s crystal clear bays to experience incredible sea creatures up close!
Cultural Attractions
Krabi, Thailand, has various cultural attractions for tourists to enjoy. From temples to national parks, there is something for everyone. Here, we will discuss some of the most popular attractions in Krabi, including:
- Tiger Cave Temple
- Khao Kanab Nam Mountain Range
- Wat Tham Suea Temple
Each of these attractions offers a unique experience to visitors, providing an insight into the region’s rich culture.
Tiger Cave Temple
Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua) is one of the most popular attractions in Krabi, Thailand. It serves as a place of worship for Buddhists, offers magnificent views from the summit, and is surrounded by natural beauty. The temple is located in the hills about 10 km from Krabi town and can be accessed by vehicle or foot.
The Tiger Cave Temple got its name due to the tiger footprints discovered on the walls of what was once a limestone cave. The main entrance to the temple is an impressive group of staircases with 1,272 steps leading up to the summit, which has three large stupas. Along the staircases, there are other shrines dedicated to different gods and guardians, with some engraved images believed to be related to Buddhism and Hinduism. The ancient statues surrounding this area attract Buddhist devotees to meditate and offer prayers.
At the top of Tiger Cave Temple, visitors are rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of Krabi town beside the azure waters of Phang Nga Bay and its dramatic limestone islands. Also nearby is Amphoe Muang’s market for those who would like a shopping break during their visit here.
Khao Khanap Nam
Khao Khanap Nam is one of Krabi, Thailand’s most popular cultural attractions. It is located at the heart of the province and can easily access by car or public transport. This unique mountain range consists of two limestone hills on either side of the river, connected by a stone bridge. The awe-inspiring cliffs rise 42 meters above the famous Krabi River, and both mountains are coated with vibrant green trees and foliage that add a sense of peacefulness to the enchanting setting.
Khao Khanap Nam’s breathtaking views offer visitors an unforgettable experience that beckons exploration. Visitors can marvel at the incredible beauty from several viewing points along either side of the hill and take in panoramic views overlooking Krabi Town and the nearby islands below. While exploring this culture hotspot, visitors can discover plentiful wildlife, such as monkeys, turtles, and monitor lizards, as they wander along nature trails through lush forests with towering trees.
Within Khao Khanap Nam lies West Well Cave (Tham Phra Nang Nok), where visitors can explore vast underground systems full of narrow passageways and natural chambers adorned with beautiful stalagmite and stalactite formations. Owing to its magical setting, this cave is believed to house a protective deity amongst many legends passed down from generations ago — and makes for an exciting exploration for those who dare!
Emerald Pool
The Emerald Pool (Sra Morokot) is a stunning natural wonder in Krabi Province, Thailand. This lovely pool of vibrant teal-green water is created by crystal clear water filtering through limestone into a large natural basin surrounded by lush tropical forests. All this combined makes for an extraordinary sight and a great place for adventurous souls to explore.
Located in Thung Teao Forest Park, the Emerald Pool is surrounded by tall trees, beautiful shrubs, and exciting wildlife. There is plenty to explore, with numerous caves and trails in the dense jungle areas around the pool. Visitors can take a cool dip in the inviting emerald waters or relax on the edge while experiencing the tranquil beauty of nature and watching the wildlife go about its business.
One of the highlights of this great attraction is that locals offer you unique experiences, such as riding elephants through the area or paddling around on bamboo rafts like traditional Thais do. From bird watching to floating lotus pools, Thung Teao Forest Park offers visitors something special during their journey into nature’s paradise at Emerald Pool!