Thailand's Andaman coast — towering limestone karsts rising from clear water · boat-only Railay beach · Ao Nang's base town · Phi Phi and the 4 Islands · the Emerald Pool jungle spring · and the 1,237-step Tiger Cave Temple
On the Andaman coast about 800 km south of Bangkok, Krabi is defined by jungle-clad limestone karsts that rise straight out of turquoise water. Boat-only Railay is a rock-climber's paradise; Ao Nang is the lively base town for restaurants and island tours; and just offshore lie Phi Phi, the 4 Islands and Hong Island. Add the Emerald Pool, hot springs and the cliff-top Tiger Cave Temple, and you have one of Thailand's most spectacular beach destinations.
Krabi spreads along the coast, so where you stay shapes your trip. Most visitors base themselves in one of four areas — buzzy Ao Nang, secluded Railay, local Krabi Town, or the quiet resort beaches of Klong Muang. Pick the one that matches what you came for.
Krabi's lively hub — the beach promenade, restaurants, bars and the pier for island tours. Hotels in every budget and the easiest base for getting around. Walkable and well-connected.
A car-free peninsula cut off by cliffs, reached only by longtail boat. White-sand beaches, the Phra Nang cave and world-class rock climbing. Resorts from luxury pavilions to climber huts.
The provincial capital on the river — night markets, cheap local food, the bus terminal and ferry piers. Not on a beach, but the most authentic and best-value place to sleep.
A string of calm beaches northwest of Ao Nang, lined with upscale resorts facing the islands. Peaceful and scenic — you'll want a taxi or a hire car to get out and about.
Selected for their locations across Railay, Ao Nang and the quiet resort beaches — from cliff-side pavilions to bright budget stays near the sand. Compare prices across 3 booking platforms in one click.
An iconic pavilion resort tucked between limestone cliffs and three of Railay's beaches — reached only by boat. The definitive Krabi luxury splurge.
Tiered hillside pools overlooking Ao Nang bay, an easy walk down into town and the beach. A reliable, scenic mid-range favourite for first-timers.
A sprawling colonial-style resort on quiet Klong Muang beach with a vast lagoon pool and golf course — relaxed, family-friendly and great value for its tier.
Cottages and villas spanning Railay West to East, so you can walk between both beaches. A relaxed mid-range base right in the heart of the peninsula.
Perched on the cliffs above Ao Nang with sweeping sea views and infinity pools, yet just a short walk or shuttle down to the beach and restaurants.
A bright, cheerful budget hotel a short walk from Ao Nang beach, with a pool and breakfast included — a perfect, well-located base for travellers on a budget.
Found your ideal base? Compare prices from three leading booking platforms — Krabi has stays for every budget, from Ao Nang beach hotels to cliff-side Railay resorts.
Southern Thai cooking is the boldest in the country — fiery, turmeric-yellow and packed with fresh Andaman seafood. From grilled fish on the beach to spicy yellow curry, here is what you absolutely cannot miss.
Krabi's signature treat — whole fish, tiger prawns, squid and crab fresh off the boat, grilled over charcoal and served with a punchy seafood dipping sauce (nam jim talay). Best eaten beachside at sunset in Ao Nang.
Signature DishA fiery turmeric-yellow curry, sour with tamarind and loaded with fish or prawns and vegetables. The defining taste of the south — hot, tangy and not for the faint-hearted. Eaten with plenty of steamed rice.
Southern ClassicThailand's most famous soup, and never better than with fresh Andaman prawns — hot, sour and aromatic with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime and chilli. A must on every Krabi seafood table.
Local StapleFresh rice noodles drowned in a rich, spicy fish-based curry sauce, piled high with raw vegetables and herbs you add yourself. A beloved southern breakfast and market lunch — fierier than its central-Thai cousin.
Southern NoodlesWhole mud crab wok-tossed with egg, onion and fragrant curry powder until rich and golden — messy, indulgent and worth every minute spent cracking the shells. A southern seafood-house highlight.
Seafood FavouriteA Muslim-south staple — flaky fried roti drizzled with condensed milk and sugar, or served savoury with curry. Pair it with kanom and a fresh coconut at any Ao Nang night market for the perfect end to the day.
Street SweetKrabi pairs world-famous beaches and island-hopping with jungle springs, hot waterfalls and a cliff-top temple. Here are the sights you shouldn't miss.
A car-free peninsula of white sand framed by sheer limestone cliffs, reached only by longtail boat. World-class rock climbing, the Phra Nang cave shrine and Krabi's most iconic scenery.
Must-See LandmarkThe most famous islands in the Andaman — emerald water, soaring cliffs and the legendary Maya Bay. A full-day speedboat trip from Ao Nang for snorkelling and that postcard scenery.
Island Day TripKrabi's classic island-hop — Chicken Island, Tup, Mor and Poda, linked at low tide by the famous "Separated Sea" sandbar you can walk across. Snorkelling, swimming and beach time all in one day.
Signature Boat TourInland in the Khlong Thom rainforest, a jewel-green natural spring you can swim in, plus warm waterfalls that cascade into smooth rock pools. A refreshing half-day escape from the beaches.
Jungle & NatureA forest temple where 1,237 steep steps climb to a golden Buddha on a limestone summit — and a jaw-dropping 360° panorama over Krabi's karst landscape. Go early to beat the heat.
Temple & ViewpointPaddle a kayak through quiet mangrove channels and hidden lagoons that wind between towering karst walls, spotting monkeys and kingfishers. A peaceful, low-key half-day away from the crowds.
Mangroves & NatureTwo days is a great first taste of Krabi — day one island-hopping the 4 Islands and watching sunset at Ao Nang, day two for Railay's cliffs and the Emerald Pool inland. Easy to tweak to your own pace.
Essential info and getting-around tips to help your Krabi trip run smoothly from the very first step.
Fly direct from Bangkok to Krabi International Airport (KBV) in about 1 hr 20 min — the airport is around 20 minutes from Ao Nang. Ferries also link Krabi to Phuket, Phi Phi and Koh Lanta.
Carry cash for markets and street food. Cards and PromptPay QR are accepted in malls, hotels and most cafés, and ATMs are everywhere (expect a per-withdrawal fee).
Longtail and speedboats reach Railay and the islands; shared songthaews and Grab cover Ao Nang and Krabi Town. Many rent a scooter — and a daytrip boat tour is the easiest way to see the islands.
Pick up a tourist SIM (AIS, TrueMove or dtac) at the airport, or activate an eSIM before you board. 4G/5G coverage is strong across the city.
Click any pin for details — plan your route with ease
Krabi has stays for every budget — from Ao Nang beach hotels to cliff-side Railay resorts. Pick your ideal base and start comparing right now.
A good trip doesn't end at one city — 3 Andaman-coast destinations easily reached from Krabi.