20 Best Things to do in Krabi, Thailand + Extra Tips

When I first arrived in Krabi, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I’d seen the pictures of dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise water, but being there in person was something else entirely. The pace felt slower than Phuket, but still lively enough to keep me busy.

I quickly realized that it isn’t just a jumping-off point for islands — it’s a destination of its own. Between beaches, hikes, viewpoints, and day trips, there’s more than enough to fill your days here.

In this guide, I’ll share the best things to do in Krabi based on my trip. From exploring Railay Beach to hopping between islands and checking out night markets, these are the experiences that stood out the most for me.

Best Things to do in Krabi

Map of all the attractions

1. Climb up to Tiger Cave Temple

The Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea) was on my list from the moment I saw photos of it. The staircase leading up into the clouds, the giant golden Buddha, and those views — it just looked too good to miss.

The reality didn’t disappoint. The climb is 1237 steps straight up, and it’s tough. The heat made it even harder, and I had to stop a few times to catch my breath. But reaching the top was worth every step.

From up there, I had a panoramic view of Krabi’s limestone cliffs, jungle, and even out towards the sea.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Go early in the morning — it’s cooler, and the stairs are quieter.
• Cover up properly — it’s a temple, so shoulders and knees should be covered.
• Beware of monkeys — they hang around the first part of the trail, and I kept my distance.

2. Walk along the river promenade

Krabi Town doesn’t always get the same attention as Ao Nang or Railay, but I actually enjoyed spending time there — especially along the river promenade.

It’s a quiet stretch where you can stroll by the water, watch longtail boats go by, and see the famous Khao Khanab Nam mountains rising in the distance. I liked how relaxed it felt compared to the busier beaches.

Locals come here for their evening walks, and there is a night market nearby.

3. Eat your way through the Night Market

One of my favorite things in Krabi Town was the night market. It’s not busy, colorful, and full of smells that make you hungry the moment you arrive. I ended up trying way more than I thought I could eat.

There’s everything from classic Thai street food like pad thai, mango sticky rice, and grilled skewers, to western delicacies, like crepes or brownies (I bought 10 pieces).

4. Hike to Khao Ngon Nak Viewpoint

I first saw the Khao Ngon Nak Viewpoint on Instagram and really wanted to do it. The photos of cliffs, jungle, and turquoise water looked incredible. Honestly, it felt like a must-do.

But when I tried to find the trail, I ran into a problem — there wasn’t much info online, and I couldn’t figure out exactly where to start. I ended up skipping it, which was a bit disappointing because it looked amazing from the pictures.

Nowadays, there are blogs and guides about the hike, so planning it is much easier. The trailhead is close to Tub Kaek Beach. This is the exact starting point.

The park is open from 8:00 to 14:00 — starting later could even get you a fine. The hike is uphill but easy to follow, with a few viewpoints along the way, and it typically takes around 2 hours to reach the top.

5. Have fun Snorkeling or get PADI-certified

One of the highlights of Krabi for me was getting in the water. The snorkeling here is fantastic — clear turquoise water, colorful fish, and dramatic limestone formations.

Some of the best spots I’ve read about are around the Hong Islands, Phi Phi Islands, and the 4 Islands near Ao Nang. Even if you’re doing a day trip, you’ll get to see some amazing marine life.

If you’re interested in getting PADI certified, there are a few dive shops in Ao Nang and Railay that offer courses for beginners. I didn’t do a full PADI course myself, but I stopped by a couple of shops, and it looked easy to plan.

6. Visit the Emerald Pool & Hot Springs

The Emerald Pool and nearby hot springs are some of the most talked-about natural attractions in Krabi, and for good reason.

The pool is famous for its striking turquoise water surrounded by lush jungle, and the hot springs offer naturally warm water perfect for relaxing.

If you want to see both in one go without worrying about transport or planning, you can join a guided tour that also includes the Tiger Cave Temple. Honestly, it’s a convenient way to see all three spots.

Things to do near Ao Nang Beach

7. Spend some time at Ao Nang Beach

Ao Nang Beach is the main hub for visitors. It’s a long, sandy beach with lots of restaurants, cafes, and shops nearby. The area is calmer than Phuket, but it’s still touristy and doesn’t have much of a local feel.

If you enjoy easy access to amenities and a lively atmosphere, it can be a convenient base, but it may not be for everyone.

8. Fire Dance show on Ao Nang Beach

I’ve watched plenty of fire shows all over Thailand, and they’re pretty much a thing in every tourist hotspot. Performers spin flaming sticks, sometimes with acrobatics, and the shows usually happen right on the beach after dark.

The atmosphere at these shows is always something, watching the locals spinning so effortlessly, it’s a perfect flow. For me, this was amazing way to finish a day of exploring, sitting on the sand with a cocktail in hand.

9. Monkey Trail in Ao Nang

The Monkey Trail is a short hike, less than 0.5 km, that starts at the end of Ao Nang Beach and leads to the quieter shores of Pai Plong Beach. The trail is made up of bamboo bridges and wooden stairs

As you might expect, the main attraction here is the monkeys. I recommend avoiding feeding them and being careful when interacting with them.

Railay Beach

11. Visit the Railay Beach

Railay Beach is one of the most famous spots in the area, and it’s easy to see why. The limestone cliffs, turquoise water, and soft sand make it feel like a tropical postcard.

The area can be visited as a day trip from Ao Nang or Krabi, but I chose to stay for a few nights to have more time to explore everything. Read my guide about getting to Railay Beach for more details.

It felt amazing to take things slow, stroll around, and just enjoy the vibe. Even though it’s popular with tourists, staying overnight meant I could experience the beautiful Phra Nang Beach, almost empty once the day tours had left.

There are small restaurants, bars, and shops in the area, so it’s easy to grab a bite or a drink while soaking in the scenery.

If you decide to go for a day-trip from Krabi, for a hassle-free experience, I’d recommend this Railay day-tour. It includes a visit to Phra Nang Beach, Diamond Cave, sunset, and swimming with plankton.

12. Swim at Phra Nang Beach

A short walk from Railay Beach brings you to Phra Nang Beach, often considered one of Thailand’s most beautiful beaches. The water is clear and calm, perfect for swimming, and the sand is soft and easy to walk on.

What I loved the most about the beach was the massive cliff on its left-hand end. It felt like it was leaning over the shore. It’s a popular rock-climbing spot, and I loved watching people trying to reach the top.

Even the path from Railay leads along the cliffs, with some massive limestone stalactites and small caves along the way. I was also somewhat surprised to have my first encounter with the giant monitor lizard.

Staying nearby allowed me to enjoy the beach in relative quiet, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. There is just one small restaurant and a longtail boat snack bar, which makes it feel peaceful despite its popularity.

13. Phra Nang Cave shrine

At the far end of Phra Nang Beach, you’ll find one of the most unusual sights — the Phra Nang Cave Shrine. Locals believe the spirit of Phra Nang (Princess Goddess) lives here and blesses fishermen with safety and good luck.

But here’s the part no one forgets: the shrine is filled with wooden penises — big ones, small ones, colorful ones — left as offerings for fertility and good fortune. It’s equal parts fascinating and funny.

Even if you’re just here to swim or relax on the sand, take a minute to check it out. Just remember to be respectful.

14. Climb to East Railay Viewpoint & Princess Lagoon

This hike was one of the highlights of my time in Railay — but let me tell you, it’s an adventure, not just a casual walk. The trail is short but steep and muddy, with ropes tied along the path to help you pull yourself up. I was covered in dirt by the time I reached the top, but honestly, I enjoyed every second of it.

The view is unreal — turquoise water, limestone cliffs, and the whole Railay Peninsula below. Standing there, catching my breath, I remember thinking it was worth every slippery step.

From this viewpoint, you can continue down to the Princess Lagoon. The way down is even trickier, but the reward is a quiet emerald lagoon (during my visit it was rather brown) surrounded by towering cliffs.

It feels completely hidden from the rest of Railay — like a secret spot you just stumbled upon. Due to the difficulty of the path, not many tourists come down here.

15. See bioluminescent plankton

One of the most magical things I did in Krabi was seeing bioluminescent plankton light up the water at night. It’s hard to explain until you’ve experienced it — every movement in the water creates a soft blue glow, like tiny stars swirling around you.

I found a private longtail boat going out at night with a small group of other tourists for a fair price, cheaper than the kayaking tours. Try to ask around at Ao Nang Beach or Phra Nang Beach, and you might get lucky.

Another spot to see the plankton is at Phi Phi Islands. In my experience, it was fainter and not as shiny, but still beautiful.

16. Try rock climbing

Railay is often called the rock climbing capital of Thailand, and after seeing the towering limestone cliffs up close, I completely understand why.

I didn’t try climbing myself, but I met so many people who said it was the highlight of their trip. There are routes for every level, from complete beginners to experienced climbers, and plenty of reputable climbing schools right in Railay that provide all the gear and guidance you need.

I recommend the Rock Climbing Courses at Railay Beach with King Climbers via Klook. Their reviews are solid: 4.8/5 from over a thousand bookings.

Popular Day-trips

17. Join a 4-island boat tour

One of the best ways to explore the stunning coastline is on a 4‑island longtail boat tour. While I haven’t done it personally, I kept hearing from friends and fellow travelers that this was the highlight of their trip—so I’m passing along the tip.

A standout option is the Premium 4‑Island Day Trip by Longtail Boat with hotel pickup, lunch, snorkeling, and visits to iconic spots like Chicken Island, the sandbar at Koh Tup, Koh Poda, and the beautiful Phra Nang Cave Beach. There’s fruit, lunch, and snorkeling gear included. A free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is also a great benefit.

18. Hong Islands day trip

The Hong Islands are one of the most beautiful spots you can visit around, and a day trip here is an experience you shouldn’t skip.

The ride out by speedboat is quick and scenic, and the moment you see those towering limestone cliffs rising out of emerald water, you’ll know you’re in for something special.

The tour takes you to a few different islands, with plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and relax on quiet beaches. The highlight for me was the hidden lagoon on the main Hong Island — surrounded by cliffs on all sides, it feels like a little secret world tucked away from everything else.

19. Visit Phi Phi Islands

After spending a few days in Railay, my next stop was the Phi Phi Islands, and I have to say — I loved every second of it. I originally planned the trip just to finally see Maya Bay, but the whole experience completely exceeded my expectations.

The water here is unbelievably clear, the limestone cliffs are dramatic from every angle, and the vibe feels completely different from Krabi. I spent my days island-hopping, swimming, and just relaxing on the beaches, and it honestly became one of my favorite memories from the trip.

If you’re short on time and can’t stay overnight on Phi Phi, I’d recommend booking a day trip. The Early Bird Phi Phi Speedboat Tour is a great option — it leaves early in the morning, so you can experience Maya Bay and other famous spots before the big crowds arrive.

20. Visit Khao Sok National Park

If you’re in Krabi and have a few extra days, make your way to Khao Sok National Park. It’s only about a 3-hour drive from here, and it’s one of those places that really deserves more than just a quick stop — plan to spend at least two or three nights if you can.

We were so excited to visit during our trip — staying in a floating bungalow, exploring the jungle, and taking a boat ride on the incredible Cheow Lan Lake were at the top of our list.

Unfortunately, we ended up catching dengue fever and had to cancel that part of the trip, but everyone we talked to said it was an unforgettable experience and one of their favorite places in Thailand.

If you’re planning ahead, definitely book your stay early, especially during high season, as the floating bungalows fill up quickly.

Where to stay in Krabi

Choosing where to stay really depends on what kind of trip you want. Here’s a quick breakdown of the main areas, plus my personal experience:

• Krabi Town – This is where I stayed for part of my trip. It felt local and less touristy, which I really liked. It’s a great base for exploring, but keep in mind that the beaches aren’t walkable, so you’ll need to take a taxi or boat for day trips.
• Ao Nang – The most popular area with travelers. It’s lively, convenient, and packed with restaurants, bars, and shops. It’s perfect if you want nightlife and easy access to tours, but it can feel a bit too busy and touristy at times.
• Railay Beach – I also spent a few nights here and loved it the most. It’s calm, peaceful, and feels a bit more remote, even though it’s just a 10–15 minute boat ride from Ao Nang.

Best hotels in Krabi

Leisure Hostel Krabi – A quirky, movie-themed hostel housed in a repurposed cinema. It’s budget-friendly, clean, and social—great if you’re a solo traveler or looking to meet people. The rooftop bar with views of the river is a cute bonus.

Lada Krabi Residence – Comfortable and well-maintained, this gem in downtown Krabi scored consistently high reviews for cleanliness and service. Excellent location—right near the night market and food stalls—so everything is within walking distance.

Islanda Hideaway Resort – If you’re after peace and stunning surroundings, this resort on Koh Klang island is a real find. Guests rave about the serene vibe, infinity pool, cozy bungalows, and sunset views over the Andaman Sea.

Best hotels at Ao Nang Beach

Ao Nang Baan Suan Resort — A cozy, budget-friendly resort set in tropical gardens with an inviting pool, children’s area, and spa services. Offers free beach shuttle and peaceful surroundings, even though it’s a short drive from the main beach.

Phu Pha Aonang Resort & Spa — A serene 3-star escape surrounded by greenery and just a short shuttle ride from the beach. Wooden-accented rooms, a lush garden pool, and friendly staff make it ideal for travelers wanting comfort and peace.

Anana Ecological Resort Krabi — A 5-star eco-friendly gem nestled amid nature with 360° views of cliffs and greenery. Highlights include spacious, well-appointed rooms, multiple on-site restaurants, a spa, and a free beach shuttle.

Best hotels in Railay

Where to eat and drink

In Krabi town:

• First Restaurant – A simple, local-style spot with great Thai classics at very reasonable prices.
• Lan Lek Lek – This one was a nice surprise. The food is fresh and flavorful, and the portions are generous. Great for trying local seafood dishes.
• TinGrill Restaurant – A bit more modern and slightly pricier, but worth it for a change of pace. Their grilled dishes are really good, and it’s a nice spot for a relaxed evening.
• Chalita Cafe & Restaurant – One of our favorites in town. It has a cozy vibe, friendly staff, and a mix of Thai and Western dishes.
• Open Bar & Restaurant – A fun place for a casual night out. Good food, decent cocktails, and a nice vibe if you want to hang around for a drink or two after dinner.

At Railay:

• Welcome Back Restaurant – A cozy spot serving classic Thai dishes at good prices.
• Kohinoor Indian Restaurant & Pizza – Sounds like a strange combo, but trust me, it works. Their curries are full of flavor, and if you’re craving something different, the pizzas are surprisingly good.
• Lek’s Sushi – Tiny, laid-back, and such a nice change of pace if you want something lighter.
• Tree House Bar & Restaurant – A great spot to grab a drink in the evening. The atmosphere is super chill, with great views, and the food is solid too.

In Ao Nang:

• Maison de Paris – Perfect if you’re craving something different. Their pastries are fresh, and the coffee is really good — a nice break from Thai food.
• Sea Salt Krabi Restaurant – A beautiful spot, ideal for dinner with a view. The seafood here is fresh and flavorful, and the sunset views are unbeatable.
• Hom Mali Thai Food & Noodle – A place with authentic Thai food. The portions are generous, prices are great, and the flavors are spot on.
• Jai Jagannath – A hidden gem if you’re vegetarian or vegan. The food is healthy, tasty, and full of flavor.

How to get around

By Boat – Some places, like Railay, are only accessible by boat. You can either join a shared boat or rent a private longtail boat for the day if you want more flexibility.

Grab / Taxi – For short trips around town, Grab (the local version of Uber) is super convenient. We loved using GrabBike — it’s fast, fun, and often cheaper than taking a car, especially for solo rides.

Scooter Rental – If you’re comfortable on a motorbike, renting a scooter is the easiest and cheapest way to explore. Rentals usually cost 200–300 THB per day, and fuel is inexpensive. Just be careful with traffic and always wear a helmet.

Best time to visit Krabi

The best time to visit Krabi is during the dry season from November to April. The weather is sunny, the sea is calm, and it’s perfect for island-hopping, beach days, and boat tours.

May to October is the rainy season — you’ll still get some sunny days, but heavy showers are common, and boat trips can be canceled due to rough seas. On the plus side, it’s quieter and cheaper during these months.

If we had to pick, February and March are our favorite months to explore Thailand: clear skies, calm water, and not as hot as April.

Quick Tips & Local Insights

• Bring cash – Many smaller restaurants, bars, and longtail boat operators don’t take cards.
• Book tours in advance – Especially during high season (Dec–Mar) to secure your spot.
• Pack reef-safe sunscreen – Protects your skin and the ocean.
• Avoid flip-flops for hikes – Trails like East Railay Viewpoint are steep and muddy; wear proper shoes.
• Respect local customs – Cover up when visiting temples.
• Negotiate boat prices – Especially if you’re hiring a private longtail boat for the day.
• English isn’t spoken everywhere – Be patient and use translation apps if needed; a smile goes a long way.

Final Thoughts

Krabi completely blew me away. From relaxing on Phra Nang Beach to climbing up to the East Railay Viewpoint, exploring the islands, and finding quiet little moments in between, it was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

If I could only recommend a couple of things, it would be to spend at least one night on Railay to enjoy the peaceful vibe after the day-trippers leave, and to book at least one boat trip — whether it’s the Hong Islands, Phi Phi, or the 4-Island Tour.