Top Activities and Attractions in Krabi, Thailand

Krabi Province is a favorite destination in Thailand. With an abundance of things to do in Krabi, it has taken us several visits to explore it fully! This stunning southern province of Thailand features gorgeous natural limestone cliffs, lush mangrove forests, and over 150 islands in the Andaman Sea.

No trip to Thailand would be complete without including Krabi in your itinerary. Once you experience everything that Krabi has to offer, you’ll be eager to return to Thailand.

Best Things to Do in Krabi Thailand

This list of the best things to do in Krabi begins with a focus on the islands before transitioning to the mainland, showcasing all the remarkable sights around Krabi Town. Let’s dive in!

1. Rock Climbing in Railay

Rock climbing is at the top of our list of the best things to do in Krabi. During our first visit to Thailand, we made a beeline for Railay to rock climb. It is among the best places globally to learn the sport.

Climbers of varying skill levels are drawn to the over 300 climbing routes on its limestone cliffs. Every return visit prompts us to engage in rock climbing in Railay. We’ve climbed with reputable companies and found both professional and affordable options. Whether you opt for a top rope rock climbing excursion for a day or wish to learn lead climbing on a multi-day rock climbing course, there are plenty of reputable providers to choose from.

When choosing a climbing company, opt for those that have been established and trusted over the years.

Where to Stay in Railay – Railay is a compact destination, making it easy to walk to most accommodations. Choose your hotel based on your budget. Railay Bay Resort & Spa is a personal favorite for an upscale stay, while Diamond Cave is an excellent mid-range option.

2. Railay Beach

Railay boasts some of the most stunning beaches in Thailand. After an adventurous day of rock climbing, take a break and unwind on Railay Beach. Railay Beach East is perfect for soaking up the sun or renting a kayak, while Railay Beach West is where the nightlife thrives. You can also visit Phra Nang Beach for some caving adventures.

Railay Beach offers numerous activities to keep you entertained. Restaurants lining the beach provide the ultimate relaxation experience, while the nightlife scene is vibrant and entertaining.

3. Phra Nang Beach

Phra Nang Beach is among Thailand’s most famous and picturesque beaches. With its enchanting sea caves, warm waters, and white sand bordered by limestone cliffs, it draws day trippers by the hundreds. However, if you stay in Railay, you’ll have the beach to yourself for refreshing morning walks.

When deserted, the beauty of Phra Nang Beach shines even brighter. The view of towering rock formations from the shoreline is simply breathtaking.

Phra Nang Cave offers a lovely spot to take in the scenery, framed by stunning stalactites. At the beach’s other end, hike through a dramatic cave to discover remarkable viewpoints of Railay Bay.

Getting to Railay

Access Railay Beach and Phra Nang Beach easily via longtail boat from Ao Nang, with only a 20-minute boat ride. Regular boats also depart from Krabi Town, which takes approximately 45 minutes.

4. Ao Nang Beach

Visiting Railay often means passing through the beach town of Ao Nang. During our stay in Ao Nang, we commuted to Railay by long-tail boat, which was an enjoyable experience.

Although Ao Nang Beach may not rival Railay Beach’s beauty, it offers a lively atmosphere with numerous hotels, restaurants, and bars to explore. Additionally, you can embark on various excursions from Ao Nang Beach for daily island tours in Krabi.

5. Sea Kayaking at Koh Hong Island

One of the most enjoyable activities in Krabi is kayaking. Take a day trip to Koh Hong Island in Than Bok Khorani National Park. The term “Hong” means “room,” and you’ll discover a stunning hidden lagoon at the island’s center—an incredible sight.

Paddle through a cave at low tide to emerge amidst striking limestone cliffs, creating a unique experience in Phang Nga Bay.

6. Island Hopping

If kayaking doesn’t excite you, consider hiring a longtail boat for a day of island hopping. Explore the beautiful islands that graced films like James Bond and The Beach. Numerous day trips depart from Ao Nang, Railay, or Krabi Town, leading you to the serene islands of Krabi.

• Consider these top-rated island hopping tours to visit Rope Island and Emerald Cave.
• Visit James Bond Island on this speedboat tour around Krabi.

We highly recommend a four-island tour in Krabi. The destinations include Chicken Island, Railay Beach, Tub Island, and Poda Island, all standing proud in the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea.

7. Ao Thalane Bay Among the Mangroves

A great off-the-beaten-path adventure in Krabi is kayaking in Ao Thalane Bay. This stunning day trip can begin from Krabi Town, Ao Nang, or Railay Beach, leading you to a mangrove forest where you will paddle into dark caves and hidden pools. Like the islands of Krabi, Ao Thalane Bay features stunning karst formations that rise dramatically from the water.

8. Phi Phi Islands

It’s astonishing that a single province can boast so many beautiful locations. Phi Phi is a tropical paradise and is certainly one of the top attractions in Krabi. Phi Phi Don, the main tourist island, features five-star resorts, beach bungalows, and vibrant nightlife. Here, you’ll discover plenty of accommodations and activities, including booking day tours via longtail boat to nearby islands.

The primary beaches on Koh Phi Phi Don include Tonsai, Long Beach, and Nui Beach. Tonsai is also home to various dive centers, travel agencies, and beach bars. For an idyllic stay on Phi Phi Don, consider the PP Princess Resort, located along the stunning Dalum Bay.

9. Island Tour to Maya Bay

Phi Phi Leh is part of the Hat Noppharat Thara – Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park and is approximately 30 minutes by boat from Koh Phi Phi Don. This stunning area is home to the famed Maya Bay.

Maya Bay is renowned as one of Thailand’s best beaches, featured in the movie The Beach. A visit to the Phi Phi islands is incomplete without witnessing the crystal-clear waters of this pristine beach. Although closed to tourists, you can still hire a boat to admire the surrounding limestone cliffs. Note that access to Maya Bay is limited to a few daily visitors, so be sure to check availability ahead of time.

How to Get There

Ferries and speedboats regularly run from Phuket, Krabi Town, or Koh Lanta. You can book day tours to the Phi Phi Islands by speedboat from Krabi.

10. Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is an excellent place to unwind and relax. This island paradise in Krabi features picturesque beaches that invite you to savor a plate of pad thai while sipping a cold Chang Beer. Long Beach is precisely what its name suggests—a long stretch of beach lined with bungalows and delightful eateries.

11. Scuba Diving

While the premier scuba diving experiences in Thailand can be found on Koh Tao or Koh Samui, Koh Lanta stands out as one of the best diving spots along Thailand’s west coast. Seek out incredible marine life, such as Blacktip reef sharks, sea turtles, seahorses, manta rays, and occasionally, whale sharks.

12. Skull Island – Koh Talabeng

Engaging in a kayaking trip to Skull Island is one of the most adventurous things to do in Krabi. Situated about a 20-minute boat ride from Koh Lanta, Skull Island presents a unique karst structure resembling a skull. This thrilling day trip involves climbing ropes and navigating tire ladders, allowing you to explore the cave and peer out from the eyes of the skull formation.

13. Koh Klang

One of the most intriguing activities in Krabi is traveling by longtail boat to the island of Koh Klang. A mere few minutes from Krabi Town, this island feels like a world apart. Local villagers lead simple lives focused on fishing and rice harvesting.

14. Thai Massage

It wouldn’t be a complete article about Thailand without highlighting the experience of traditional Thai massage. This delightful activity is one of the best ways to indulge while in Thailand, given its fantastic affordability. In Krabi, consider enjoying a massage on the beach while relaxing under palm trees, making you feel like a million bucks as all your travel aches melt away.

15. Krabi Town

Krabi Town serves as the main hub, and if you’re flying or taking the train from Bangkok to Krabi, chances are you’ll arrive here. Taking a couple of days to absorb the local vibe is worth it, as Krabi Town makes an excellent base for exploring the region before venturing off to the islands.

16. Krabi Town Night Market

Like every city in Thailand, Krabi boasts a fantastic night market. One of the most enjoyable activities in Krabi Town is to go out after dark for shopping at the Weekend Night Market. This venue offers the chance to sample street food from numerous stalls, savoring pad thai or finding the perfect souvenir from your travels.

The largest market is the Chao Fah Night Market, with other notable markets being Klong Muang Market and Ao Nang Market.

17. Khao Khanab Nam Mountains

A prominent landmark in Krabi, the Khao Khanab Nam Mountains, are recognized as the gateway to Krabi Town. These two mountains stand sentinel on either side of the river. Hire a boat to take you on an adventure to climb the mountains or explore their caves. Longtail boats can be hired from the Chaofa Pier in Krabi.

18. Thai Cooking Class

While visiting Krabi, make sure to participate in a traditional Thai cooking class. One of our cherished memories from Thailand that we recreate back in Canada is whipping up authentic Thai dishes. Venture to local markets to gather fresh ingredients, and learn to create your favorite Thai meals, from curries to spring rolls. A cooking class can be one of the best investments you make during your trip to Thailand.

19. Wat Tham Sua (Tiger Cave Temple)

While Krabi primarily showcases natural beauty and outdoor adventures, it also offers unique cultural experiences. Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua) is located just 3km from Krabi Town and stands out as a must-visit attraction.

Perched atop a high cliff, Tiger Cave Temple is an active temple home to monks living within intricate cave systems. Be sure to ascend the 1,272 steps to see the magnificent golden Buddha statue and don’t miss the footprint of the Buddha.

20. Wat Kaew Ko Wararam

Another notable temple in Krabi is Wat Kaew Ko Wararam, also referred to as the White Temple. Located conveniently in downtown Krabi, it’s a quick stop to snap photos while shopping or exploring the area.

This temple is celebrated for its stunning architectural beauty.

21. Emerald Pool – Thung Teao Forest Natural Park

One of Krabi’s most popular activities includes a trip to the Emerald Pool in Thung Teao Forest Natural Park. This fantastic day trip from Ao Nang involves a 2.7 km nature trail leading to the pool, also known as the Crystal Pool, where you can swim in crystal-clear waters, enjoy the waterfall, and explore lush flora and fauna.

22. Klong Thom Hot Springs – Krabi Hot Springs

Though not usually listed at the top of activities in warm destinations, the Klong Thom Hot Springs are deserving of a visit. Often combined with a day trip to the Emerald Pool, these therapeutic hot springs reach temperatures of 35-40 degrees Celsius. Nestled deep within the jungle, these smooth stone pools offer soothing thermal mineral therapy, ideal for unwinding sore muscles.

23. Khao Phanom Bencha National Park

An additional jungle escapade from Krabi is a visit to Khao Phanom Bencha, located just 30 minutes from Krabi Town. Nature enthusiasts will find hiking trails, limestone caves, and picturesque waterfalls. This location is less touristy compared to other spots, assuring a tranquil experience for those seeking solitude.

24. Shell Cemetery at Susan Hoi

One of the most unique attractions in Krabi is the Shell Cemetery at Susan Hoi. Dating back 40 million years, this site is one of only three of its kind in the world. Located just 17 km from Krabi Town, it features fossilized shellfish and snails embedded in its rocks.

When to Visit Krabi

• The optimal time to visit Krabi is between December and March when the weather is dry and warm, though this is also peak tourist season.
• Visiting in November or April can still provide excellent weather with fewer crowds.
• During the high season, advance hotel bookings are advisable.

Getting Around Krabi

Thailand boasts a well-developed tourism infrastructure, making it easy to get around Krabi. Regular song-taews (local buses) operate between Ao Nang and Krabi Town.

• From Ao Nang, catch regular longtail boats to Ton Sai and Railay Beach.
• Longtail boats also connect the Chao Fah pier in Krabi Town to Railay Beach, taking about 25 minutes.
• Ferries regularly depart from Krabi Town to Koh Lanta and the Phi Phi Islands. Ferries also run from Phuket to Koh Lanta and the Phi Phi islands.

How to Get to Krabi

• Several flights operate daily from Bangkok to Krabi Town. Check flight details through Skyscanner.
• Regular ferries run from Phuket to Krabi Town, as well as to Koh Lanta and the Phi Phi islands.
• Air-conditioned tourist buses travel daily from Bangkok to Krabi Town, taking approximately 10 hours.

These are just some of the amazing things to do in Krabi, Thailand. We have returned time and again, and we eagerly anticipate our next visit. Have you explored Krabi? What have we missed in this beautiful destination?