Krabi Island is among the best places to visit in Asia and when I asked a traveler “how do you feel about Krabi?”, he said, “there are so many reasons why we love Krabi, where should I start from?”
Things to do in Krabi Island, Thailand
Krabi town in southern Thailand is for those people who just want to relax, enjoy time at the beach and eat some good food. I had a wonderful time here, it is beautiful and peaceful. I feel 3 days are sufficient for the visit because Krabi has only 2 markets and a few attractions, rest it all depends on what you want from your trip.
Prepare your documents for Thai Visa- First things first. Also, find if your country is eligible for an on-arrival visa.
Where is Krabi Island on Thailand Map
This is the Thailand Map, it is a Southeast Asian country. Bangkok is the capital of this country.
This is Krabi island on Thailand Map, it is on the west coast of the country.
Krabi Island Weather and time
There are only two types of seasons in Krabi island; Dry and Rainy. It is hot all around the year. The tourist season is the dry season, from November to April. Book your tickets early to get cheap flights and accommodation under good rates.
You will get cheap flights in the rainy season but there are good chances that you will end up spending your time in the hotel.
Thailand is GMT+7 (like it is 1 hour 30 minutes ahead of India(GMT+5:30))
Where to stay in Krabi Town
You have two choices:
First is Ao Nang, this area is full of all the thing you will need during your vacation. You will find the following things to do in Krabi, Ao Nang:
- A beach,
- A variety of hotels,
- Tourist information centers,
- Walking street market,
- Restaurants,
- Massage parlors, an
- Money exchange
Second is my Favourite, Railay Beach! This is the one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand, especially Phra Nang Caves.
Railay Beach is only 10 mins away by long tail boat from Ao nang and only accessible by boat. This island has all the things that you might need for your holidays.
The only negative point of staying here is that you will have to put extra efforts to go to attractions like Emerald pool.
Hotels in Krabi
I stayed at ‘The Small‘ hotel once and I found it better than advertised. Most importantly, the restaurant was great. There is only one restaurant in the hotel. They managed to fulfill all my food requirements.
I had veg pasta, veg pad thai noodles, veg Thai curry, and all the items were superb! The staff was very friendly, the room was pretty and spacious, so was the restroom. The hotel is on the main road near the Ao Nang beach, Ao Nang market, and many restaurants. The location is really good.
Holiday Inn resort was nearby the above hotel and seemed wonderful. Loved its ambiance. Would love to try it next time.
If you are staying at Railay then stay at Bhu Nga Thani and make your holidays better. This is where I stay when I am in Krabi! Check out this hotel in detail through the following video.
Beaches to visit in Krabi Town
This island is full of beautiful beaches, all are white sand beaches. 4 island tour is a perfect tour to visit many of those beautiful beaches.
4 islands tour
This tour will cover 4 islands, some tour guides also take tourists to Railay beach apart from the 4 islands. Transfers are made by a speedboat to 4 different beaches, all are beautiful and you get to do SNORKELING. You will get free drinks on the boat. Apart from the speedboat, there are Long tail boats that can be used but it is slow as compared to the speedboat.
The 4 islands are:
Every island has something different to offer. Snorkeling is possible on almost all the islands.
At Tup Island, you will get to practice snorkeling as the depth is not that much, then near Chicken Island, you get a chance to snorkel properly and enjoy ocean life. You will also be able to see Nemo(the fish)! Exciting isn’t it. Chicken Island is named so due to the Chickenhead shaped mountain. Look at the picture again.
Stop Poda Island will be your last stop where you will get your lunch. There are rocks in the water, while you walk or snorkel just stay away from it as these are really sharp. I got many cuts.
This tour will be over by 4 pm then you have the half day left for the market or a message. Find out more about the tour here
Railay Beach
Railay is divided into 3 parts: Railay West, Railay East, and Phra Nang Caves. This island is full of hotels on both east and west side. West side also has many restaurants nearby the beach.
Phra Nang is the most beautiful out of all, the only hotel facing this beach is Rawaydee which is quite expensive. If you have looked at the above listed video of Bhu Nga Thani Hotel then the island which you saw in the beginning is para Nang Caves.
No matter where you stay on this island, you will give yourself a treat of nature.
If you love beaches then you MUST visit this place, and if you are only in Krabi because of beaches then there are many resorts on this beach. Go ahead and book the one you like because you can’t find a better beach here. This is one of the most beautiful beaches, it has caves, activities like rock climbing, and so much more…
Phi-Phi Island Tour
This is the best island and a must visit when you are in Phuket or Krabi. Phi-Phi Island has such power of natural beauty that it can make you feel surreal. It is a highly recommended trip, read my complete experience and recommendations here.
Top Things to do in Krabi besides beaches
Hot spring bath
Nature’s way of relaxing your body. It is a Hot Spring near Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve. There are stone cups filled with hot water from the waterfalls. You can sit inside the so-called Jacuzzis and let your hair down. Since the demand is so high there are also man-made tubs in addition to the natural ones.
I have read that whoever takes a bath in that water, gets rid of all the skin diseases. I couldn`t try it unfortunately but you definitely should…You can book your tickets here. Charges are around 900 Baht/ person if you buy the package from here.
There is a Crystal/Emerald Pool near the Hot Springs which is really beautiful and worth visiting. A complete day can be spent in this area as there are many such pools and waterfalls which should not be missed.
This tour is already on my to-do list for my next visit to Krabi.
Watch Kick Boxing!
Kick Boxing or Muay Thai is the national sport of Thailand. It is one of the oldest known forms of kickboxing and is considered to be really deadly. Ao Nang Krabi Stadium puts up a show every Friday night at 9 pm and on Monday nights as well only during peak season. The ticket is approx 1200 Bhat(Arena) – 1500 Baht(Ringside). There are “Super Fights” 3-4 times a year between national champions, you must look out for these if you are a fan. Know more about the schedule or buy tickets here…
There is good news for people who want to learn kickboxing, you all can join one-month long training by a professional fighter. You can sign up for it after trying one session. Know more…
Watch the sunset at Ao Nang beach
It is beautiful, just grab a seat in front of the Ao Nang Walking street and enjoy the view.
Above was the list of Best Things to do in Krabi Town, Read the next section to read about Shopping in Krabi.
Get a Thai Massage
Choose any spa or massage center you like and let yourself relax…
Krabi Town Shopping
– Weekend market/Krabi Night Market
It is approx 30 mins from Ao Nang, almost every hotel gives the facility of pick up n drop to that market @ 200 baht/person.
It is organized every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The market has all kind of stalls, food, plants, souvenirs, clothes, and accessories. There are more shops n complexes nearby.
Swensen’s is also there, yum! The chewy chocolate flavour is yum from Swensen`s.
Even if somebody didn’t know about the market, one would get to know definitely as they advertise about the market on loudspeakers. As it is one of the major attraction of the island.
– Ao Nang walking street
It is 10 minutes walking from the small hotel, has my fav ice cream parlour – Movenpick, McD, Watson, and a few souvenir shops.
Shopping is the only thing to do in Krabi at night apart from massages and cafes.
Restaurants in Krabi
– The Small hotel restaurant
Do try the noodles or pasta.
– I forgot the name :/ (Indian restaurant)
But no worries, I can explain.
There is only one Indian restaurant near Holiday Inn resort (remember resort, not express. B`coz both are there) which is in the yellow hut. The food is delicious, nearly the same taste as you will find in India.
Transport in Krabi
– Tuk-Tuks
There are 2 types of tuk-tuks, one a tempo kind and second a carriage attached with a scooty and that`s one of it`s kind..I enjoyed the ride.
– Tempos
Krabi to Phuket
And, before I say bye I would like to help you further through the following blog. You are welcome!
Summary
What are the things to do on Krabi island, Thailand?
- 4 Island Tour
- Spend time at Railay Beach
- Hot Spring Bath
- Watch Kickboxing
- Watch sunset at Ao Nang beach
- Get a Thai massage
Are there markets in Krabi?
- Weekend Market/ Krabi Night Market
- Ao Nang walking street
Where should you stay on Krabi island?
- Railay beach, if you just want to relax at the beach and do nothing
- Ao Nang beach, if you want to explore the island
How many days to spend in Krabi?
- 3 – 4 days should be more than sufficient. There are not many attractions in Krabi. You will need more days if you plan to visit Phi-Phi island/ James Bond Island or Coral island/Koh Larn. If we only talk about Krabi then 4 days should be enough.
What a great trip, Krabi is truly a beautiful place. I’d love to try the hot bath
I need to go back to Thailand and visit Karbi. Looks awesome!
I like how you summarised all your points at the end ! Nice touch ! Did you manage to make any excursions to the nearby islands, e.g. Phi Phi, Ko Hong ? They are pretty amazing too ! You can check out my blog ! =)
I went to Phi-Phi island from Phuket, my blog on Phuket covers it.. Thank you.. I will definitely read your blog?
These are some great photos. ? Thanks for sharing your amazing travel experience.
Thank you??
Thanks for sharing! I went to Krabi a few years ago but just stayed at my resort (it was for my honeymoon). Now I want to go back and explore some more!
Thailand has been high up on my bucket list for a long time. Now I definitely feel it should be more of a priority. Thanks!
You have some beautiful images in this post! I had never heard of Karbi but it’s no definitely on my bucket list!
It is worth a visit. You will have an amazing time there. 🙂
This destination looks absolutely gorgeous- I need to go! Thanks for sharing
It really is Michelle, I hope you visit soon. 🙂
Great post! Everything looks so pretty!!
Thanks, dear. 🙂
I am bookmarking and pinning this article. So much information, and Thailand is one of my bucket list travel destinations!
Thank you, Anita. I am glad I could help in making your holidays better.
I love how you break everything down! When we plan to go to Thailand we will keep the place in mind! Than you for sharing!
Thanks, Deanna, for inspiring. I hope you have a great time.
Thanks Saniya, Place looking promisin and now added to list, planning to visit there in Month of FEB, thanks.. ?
cheers..!!
I am glad you found this useful. Have a wonderful trip!?
This is really helpful, thanks.
I like the article
Waoo, Thailand is really awesome. I wish to visit there.
Thanks for sharing such amazing images and information about Thailand.
I appreciate your blog post.