Krabi is located in Southern Thailand, with Krabi Town as its capital. Made primarily of white, sandy beaches, Krabi is well gifted with clear waters, an extensive network of coral reefs, plentiful waterfalls and caves to explore, and the general beautiful backdrop of the Andaman Sea. Perhaps Krabi’s most distinguishing features are the large limestone crags that mark its status as a top destination for rock climbers. It’s surrounded by well over 130 islands, including famous ones such as Koh Lanta, Koh Tao and Koh Samui.

Krabi offers a world class destination with enough local feel to know you’re not in a Western place, but still with plenty of the comforts of the Western lifestyle. Wifi, fantastic coffee, English speaking staff at most locations and international cuisine plus every rental and tour company one could ever desire is right at your fingertips at the various Krabi beach attractions.

An important port for local fishermen as well as ferries carrying visitors to the various surrounding islands, Krabi is an international destination for beachy and outdoorsy types, but still with plenty of high end resorts and charm for visitors who prefer ultimate luxury. As a result of the fisherman culture, seafood is not only incredibly fresh, but also much cheaper than in most other locations in Thailand.

A paradise for people who love rock climbing, swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, hiking, waterfalls, and caves, Krabi is the ultimate destination for these types of activities. With its easy proximity to Bangkok, accessible by flights to Krabi International Airport, tourism in Krabi has been booming year over year.

High season is between November and April when the weather is a bit cooler, and without rain. The sea stays an average of 29 degrees Celsius year round, even throughout the rainy season of June to November.

History of Krabi

Krabi’s name has two potential etymologies that are often debated. “Krabi” can mean “sword” in Thai, named for two ancient swords discovered by villages which were later kept in Khao Khanap Nam cave. The second potential is that the word “krabi” derives from a local tree, called “Lumphi” but pronounced by Chinese and Malay merchants as “ka-lu-bi” which eventually became “krabi.” Other names for this region include “Ban Thai Samor.”

Krabi has historically been an important site for scientists such as marine biologists for its access to diverse and plentiful flora, fauna and sea life.

Surrounding environment

Krabi Town - a peaceful, sleepy town, Krabi Town is a renowned food destination, both in terms of cheap, local dishes as well as international cuisine. A great place to stay for those who won’t be too sad to not be near the beach, as Krabi town is about 3km or a 10min drive from Railey Beach. Krabi Town is home to popular tourist attractions such as Wat Tham Suea and Khao Kanab Nam.

Koh Phi Phi - a small archipelago of six islands, these islands exemplify what most people dream of when they think of a beach vacation. Lively restaurants, bars, and thumping music in the more crowded tourist areas, with plentiful shopping, fantastic people watching and merchants selling a variety of items, the Phi Phi islands have it all. Diving and snorkeling are particularly popular at this collection of islands, as the water is a consistent 29 degrees Celsius and visibility is usually quite good. Phi Phi Leh’s Loh Samah Bay is a popular night dive filled with reef critters who can only be seen at night.

Ao Nang - A popular beach destination among the international crowd, it’s also a great hub with easy access to other destinations. It’s categorized as a national park and is worth a day’s exploration.

Railey Beach - one of the top rock climbing destinations in the world due to its unique limestone formations, Railey has plenty of traveler and local charm. Even if you’re not a climber, there’s still a sacred cave, multiple beaches and a mangrove swamp to wander around in.

Koh Lanta - the main island of Koh Lanta Marine Park, this region is generally renowed to be peaceful and serene, mostly targeted towards those who value a more relaxed and low key travel experience.

Hotels

Accommodations are easy to find in Krabi, and there are budgets and amenities for all types of travelers. Check out some of our top recommendations:

Ibis Styles Krabi Ao Nang

only 1km away from Ao Nang beach.There’s a shuttle every hour that’ll take you to that beach. 24 hour reception, WiFi, safety deposit boxes, tours, parking, a garden, business center, and bar are all available at this fantastic hotel. There’s easy access to food outside of the hotel as well.

Sand Sea Resort

This resort is perfect for those who want to be able to hear and smell the water from their hotel room. Less than .2km from Railey Beach, and about .5km from Phra Nang Beach, the location of this resort is hard to beat. There’s a spa, a restaurant, bar, tours, WiFi, beach towel rentals, and even transport from the airport with an additional fee. With excellent service by a friendly staff, this is a fantastic place to call home base while you explore all that Krabi has to offer.

Aonang Cliff Beach Resort

The ultimate luxurious experience awaits you! Only .5km from Ao Nang Beach, there’s also an abundant array of convenience right at your front door with Starbucks, money changers, tour guides and ATMs.

Beyond Resort Krabi

One of the most beautiful resorts in this part of town, the views from the rooms are absolutely stunning. Most rooms include free breakfast, as well as room service, airport shuttle transfer, a sauna, access to a private beach nearby, a coffee shop, and a fitness center.

Palmari Boutique Hotel

Located only 3km from Krabi airport, this small boutique hotel is the ultimate destination for those looking for a bit of peace and quiet. With access to 24 hour reception, a bar, restaurant, coffee shop, and spa, look no further than Palmari Boutique Hotel for a relaxing experience in Krabi.

Transportation

Plane

Krabi is accessible via flights landing at Krabi International Airport (KBV). Other nearby airports include Koh Samui and Phuket. Although not as big of an airport as Phuket, KRV has direct flights from Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Indonesia.

Taxis

Krabi International airport is quite small, but still about 13km from Railey Beach, and 12km from Krabi Town. There are no metered taxis in this area, so you must negotiate with the driver of the vehicle.

Bus

there’s an airport bus service that you can take once you arrive. 90 THB to Krabi Town, 150 THB to Ao Nang. Prices are per passenger.

Songthaews

a popular form of transportation in Thailand, these converted truck beds offer shared taxis for passengers. They are usually covered up top but you get on in the back of the truck and occasionally have to hold onto the railing as the truck bounces along roads that could use some maintenance. 30-50 THB from airport to Krabi Town. These can only be found along the main road in Krabi which is about 400m from the airport.

Taxis/limos

you can also book a limo or taxi at Krabi airport. This is usually recommended if you have more than 3 passengers, as prices can be much steeper than other options, but you often get to your destination quicker. Prices usually start at around 500 THB to Krabi Town and 800 THB to Ao Nang per car. Negotiations are common. Sometimes you can book a larger car/van if you have more than 6 people in advance to arriving at the airport.

Transportation in Krabi

Songthaews

They are used like a public bus here in Krabi, this is one of the more economical ways to get around. Progress may be slow, as you’re often picking up and dropping off other passengers. Ask about fares before getting on, and pay the driver after you hop off.

Motorcycle taxis

An exhilarating method of travel not commonly found anywhere else in SE Asia. Negotiation is common, and you’ll likely get to your destination quickly. Unlike regular taxis, which are incentivized by distance and time, your motorcycle taxi has only one goal: to get you to your destination as fast as possible.

Main Areas

This section focuses on the main areas that are not the islands nearby. For more information about the islands, see “surrounding areas” above.

• Krabi Town - arguably the downtown of Krabi, if such a thing were to exist. With plenty of Thai markets, shopping and food to go around, this is a great place to visit for those who aren’t adamant about being near the beach.
• Ton Sai - climber’s hangout
• Railey - hippie, chic, relaxed, plenty of accommodations and travelers around.
• Ao Nang - tourist center
• Nopparat Thara - possibly the next tourist central

Attractions

Khao Phanombencha National Park

Various wildlife and plants find sanctuary in this national park. Asian black bears, Asian tapirs and over 200 bird species call this national park home. The park is named for a mountain which consists of 5 peaks that can be reached by hiking. Huay Sade Waterfall is the main attraction in this park. Those looking for a bit of adventure can rent a tent to camp out here for about 150 THB per person, per night.

Opening hours: everyday from 8AM - 6PM

Entrance fee: 100THB for adults, 50 THB for children

Khao Kanab Nam

Two karst rocks standing roughly 100 meters above the ground is Krabi’s most famous landmark. Filled with nature caves with stalactites and stalagmites, adventurous travelers can hike to the top for fantastic views of the surrounding areas. There is no fee with visiting this landmark, although you’ll have to hire the services of a long tail boat from Chao Fah Pier for about a 15 minute trip. Fares will depend on how many people and the time of year.

Opening hours: sunrise to sunset everyday

Entrance fee: free

Noppharat Thara Beach

formerly known as Khlong Haeng Beach and only 6km from Ao Nang Beach, Noppharat Thara stands on its own due to its breathtaking views of coconut and casuarina trees. Seashell enthusiasts should visit the beach at low tide to be able to add to their collection. You can stay on the beach with prior reservation at the ticket office. Be aware that this beach is part of a marine national park, and make sure to clean up after yourselves. 

Opening hours: Everyday from 6AM - 8PM

Entrance fee: 400 THB for adults and 200 THB for children

Activities

Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple)

One of the most famous temples in the south of Thailand. Located on the top of a mountain, Tiger Cave Temple is guarded by a tiger statue as well as Buddha statues. Climbing to the top can be a it strenuous, as there is 1,237 steps that’ll get you to the top, but you’re also rewarded with breathtaking 360 degree views at the top. Make sure to wear appropriate clothing (that covers both knees and shoulders) as well as bring enough water if you’re planning to hike.

Opening hours: sunrise to sunset, everyday

Entrance fee: free

Travel Tips

• Sunscreen - even on a cloudy day, especially if it’s raining, one forgets to use sunscreen in hopes of getting a tan. The sun is a bit different here on the islands, and you can get sunburned in less than an hour. However, many of the sunscreen brands in Thailand have whitening cream in them, so beware of that.
• Negotiating - negotiating is a common practice here in Krabi. From everything to shopping to transportation, you’re expected to try and get a lower price. The only exception is restaurants and bars, their prices are usually set and non negotiable.
• ATMs - ATMs are easy to find in Krabi, but work a bit different than in other countries. The cash will come out first, often prompting one who isn’t paying attention to walk away after they get their cash, leaving their ATM card behind. Make sure you wait for your card to come out before leaving.