Krabi is arguably one of the most beautiful provinces in Thailand known for its dramatic natural features from white sandy beaches, limestone cliffs and hot springs to beautiful temples and night markets. Not only this it is the perfect place to balance a relaxing time there are also many adventures to be had in this area. This was one of our favourite destination in Thailand during our trip and below we’ll share with you some of our favourite spots in our ultimate travel guide to Krabi, Thailand.
WHEN TO VISIT:
November to February is the High season, known as the ‘Cool season’ with Mild comfortable weather. March to May is Hot Season (and the time we’re visiting, temperatures have been averaging 28-35 degrees celsius so far with high humidity) and June to October is Rainy season.
TRAVEL TO KRABI:
Krabi is located in the south of Thailand and can be reached from main travel hubs in Thailand in a variety of ways. Krabi has its own small airport serving a few international destinations in South East Asia such as Singapore but also receives arrivals domestically from cities throughout the country like Bangkok, Chaing Mai and Phuket. Alternatively you can travel by ferry in the high season from Phuket or Koh Phi Phi. Hop on Mini Bus from destinations like Phuket and Surat Thani (the gateway to islands Koh Tao, Koh Samui and Koh Phangan) or travel by Coach from Bangkok. There is no train station in Krabi but you could travel from Bangkok to Surat Thani and then hop on a Mini Bus from here (expect a 12+ hour journey for this route).
AMOUNT OF TIME:
We felt like 5-7 days was the perfect amount of time for us during our trip through the country however we could have spent around 10 days here if we wanted to slow down a little more!
PLACES TO VISIT AND THINGS TO DO:
Ao Nang
One of the best places to stay in our opinion. There were lots of places to eat, shops and also within easy access of a sandy beach. From Ao Nang you can hop on a boat over to Railey or for a day trip to nearby islands.
Railey
To get to Railey you’ll need to hop on a long tail boat from Ao Nang as this area is hidden between the limestone cliffs and is only accessible by boat. The boats leave regularly and you can buy a return ticket in the morning. Just head down to the booth at Ao Nang beach to purchase your tickets. You can also stay overnight in Railey if you want to feel a little more secluded, there are a few different options of accommodation here. The top spots to see are Phra Nang Beach, Princess Cave, Railey Beach, Railey Lagoon and Diamond Cave. The beaches here are some of the most famous in Thailand and one of the main draws to the area so we recommed you spend a day here taking it all in! You’ll also find rock climbers, climbing and bouldering the cliffs here.
Tiger Cave Temple & Viewpoint
Visit the tiger cave temple know as Wat Tham Suea in Thai. There are a few stories to how the temple got its name but one story says the name comes from a monk who went to meditate in a cave and witnessed tigers roaming around. It’s also said that a rock formation in the cave represents a tigers paw. Once you have visited the temple at the bottom you can make your way up to the top of a limestone Kask to absorb the views of the area from the top. A fair warning, there are 1260 steps to the top which are steep in places so make sure you bring lots of water and avoid the hottest humid part of the day to make the experience a lot more enjoyable. It’s well worth the reward when you reach the top and can appreciate the view whilst you catch you breath!
Hot Springs
Known as Khlong Thom Nuea, Krabi hot springs were incredible for a little bit of outdoor spa therapy. Here there are pre made pools filled with the hot spring water and cold showers nearby to cool off however if you walk a little further, you’ll find the natural hot stream which falls into a nearby river. The minerals in the water have created little pools you can jump in and relax under the trees. You’ll also find a few other smaller hot spring locations in this general area so there a few to choose from!
Emerald Pool
A poplar destination in Krabi, the walk to the Emerald Pool is a scenic one through Thung Teao Forest Natural Park. The trail winds you through the trees and past different bodies of water with different colours created by minerals. There is a spot to cool down and swim on the trail so make sure you bring your bathers. Right at the end you’ll find a spectacularly bright and crystal clear emerald/blue pool!
Krabi Night Market
The perfect evening activity is to pop into Krabi town for the night market which takes place three times a week over the weekend on Friday, Saturday and Sundays. You’ll find the market in walking street and here you can try lots of local Thai delicacies for dinner and also shop for clothes and gifts.
Shell Cemetery
A lesser know attraction but If you like natural history you’ll find Shell Cemetery super interesting. This site is only one of a few in the world where fossilised shells can we seen in slabs along the coast. This area is part of a conservation area which provides information about the local geology and you can get up close to hundreds of fossils which have been uncovered.
Nopharat Thara Beach
Stroll along the walkway under the trees next to Nopharat Thara Beach and then hop onto the sand for a sunbathe. This was a quieter beach compared to others in Krabi and we enjoyed a peaceful walk here!
Mountain Buddha Temple
We found Mountain Buddha Temple by chance one evening on a drive back to our hotel in Ao Nang. Situated on a hill there are various different Buddhist statues on different levels which can be reached by a central staircase. Once you get to the top you’ll be greeted by a nice view over the area.
Island Hopping
From Ao nang Beach you can hop on different day trips to nearby islands. Notable places to visit are Ko Kai, Thale Waek, Ko Poda or Hong Island & Koh Lao Lading. You could also take a longer day trip from Krabi to Koh Phi Phi if you are not planning to stop here as a separate destination!
Krabi, Thailand really is a stunning destination with varied places to visit, hopefully this travel guide to Krabi will help you plan your visit! If you are lucky enough to visit this corner of Thailand, as with any destination, remember to be respectful of the culture and natural surrounding by abiding by local rules and leaving areas clean and tidy.
