Stretched along Thailand’s exotic west coast, Krabi is the ultimate postcard destination. But the magic doesn’t end with its ludicrously clear waters, powdery white beaches or dramatic green cliffs. Oh no…
This stunning location makes the ultimate tropical getaway because you don’t just get one place to explore. In fact, you’ll be spoiled for choice with over 150 enchanting islands to track down by long-tail boat!
Neither will you be short of an adventure onshore! There are so many things to do and see, that you’ll be wishing you would ‘lose’ your ticket home.
Although this may sound like a fantasy, the real magic of Krabi and its surrounding islands is that they are all relatively untouched, with many islands being completely uninhabited. You’ll feel lost in your own private wonderland!
We highly suggest renting a car or motorbike to get around, as many of Krabi’s highlights are just a short drive away from its town.
Be sure to pack your camera, this will be a trip you won’t want to forget.
Here are some proposals to get you started on your quest…
Railay Beach
Positioned between two towering limestone cliffs, you will be completely concealed from the mainland at Railay Beach.
Be sure to pack your bathing suit for this trip. Solely accessible by boat, this dreamy isle is the perfect hideaway for any busy traveller.
With no roads to cause a conundrum, inhale, exhale the fulfilling scent of relaxation that radiates from this haven.
Just off the coast of popular tourist resort Ao Nang, Railay is one of Thailand’s most beloved spots for beach days. Take your pick of the four pristine white beaches.
Gaze open-mouthed at the stunning views; venture through caves in the rugged rocks and uncover a serene lagoon.
Or maybe you’re ready to brave the face of natural beauty in one of the world’s top rock climbing spots?
There really is something for everyone in this epitome of escapism.
Krabi Town Night Market
The Night Market on Soi Maharaj is the best place to be for anyone hoping to get a real taste of Thai culture.
Stuck for something to do in the evening? Look no further. Discover what it’s like to be a local! Enjoy an extensive array of traditional picks from street food and clothing to souvenirs, serenaded with live music.
If the slashed prices themselves aren’t tempting enough (try a whole grilled mackerel for a mere $1.33); the waft of sizzling soy meddled with warming spices is bound to carry you through Krabi Town.
Saturday and Sunday savour everything from BBQ’d seafood skewers to oyster pearl jewellery. Krabi’s Night Market really does have it all!
Catch the Tuk Tuk bus from Ao Nang Beach which takes you straight to the action.
Thung Teao Forest Natural Park
One of the only untouched tropical rainforests in southern Thailand is the idyllic Thung Teao.
Located in Khao Pra-Bang Kram, an hour’s drive from Ao Nang, without a question the reserve is amongst the many natural treasures you won’t want to miss!
Mesmerising hues come together to paint you a picture of heavenly harmony. The aquamarine waters of the aptly named Crystal Lagoon look staggeringly inviting. Dense foliage that reaches up to the sky, spectacular limestone rocks, and the sound of a gushing waterfall — all offer a complete escape from the outside world.
This is the perfect spot to examine the extraordinary nature that Thailand has to offer. Take the 800-meter path to discover rare exotic animals and plants that cannot be found anywhere else in the country. Birdwatchers, adventures and photographers from around the world, gather on this jungle path to take in the sight. Catch a glimpse of the, once considered extinct, Pitta Gurney bird.
Take a dip in the Sa Morakot (Emerald Pool), a natural lagoon coloured by algae and heated by nature. We definitely recommend paying the extra 200 Baht ($8) to experience the pool firsthand.
Khlong Thom Hot Springs
If you don’t have time to debunk the whole Natural Park, we recommend you at least treat yourself to a relaxing soak in nature’s hot tubs as a well-done for your hard exploring.
Situated only 15 minutes away from the Emerald Pool you will find the mystical mineral baths that locals swear obtain healing properties. At a minimum, the water springs aid blood circulation and relieve stress. Either way, we certainly wouldn’t want you to miss out on the therapeutic experience this forest offers!
The lush waters are heated by underground volcanic chambers that maintain a satisfying 35 to 42 degrees Celsius. If you want to try a completely au natural spa, Khlong Thom Hot Springs are your answer.
A combined entry fee is offered for admittance to both the Springs and the Emerald Pool.
Krabi Shell Cemetery
For a light morning outing, you should visit Ban Laem Pho’s claim to ancient history. Krabi’s Shell Cemetery is one of just three fossil beaches in the world! Though the others are situated in Chicago and Japan, this fossil site is only 17 kilometres away from Krabi Town centre.
Susan Hoi is a fascinating visit thought to be around 75 million years old. The real allure is something you’ll need to see with your own eyes. Embedded in the limestone slabs are millions upon millions of fossilised snails, layered in years of history.
But be sure to check the tides before you visit as the fossils are exclusively visible during low tides!
Tiger Cave Temple
Out of all of the places to see in Krabi, this is unquestionably one of the most culturally important and adventurous.
Wat Tham Sues is an active temple complex you can visit, still used by the monks that live and worship there. The journey up the 1272 concrete steps is an authentic sacred experience and is indisputably worth the hike.
The 365-degree views when you reach the top are in themselves well worth the work you’ll put in; not to mention the satisfaction you get looking down upon reaching the top is the boost that everyone could use.
While it’s possible to see the ‘footprint of the Buddha’ without a guide, tours are available to learn more about the history and archaeology of the site.
While you’re there, make a point of checking out the maze of caves and their religious contents where the temple is said to have got its name.
You should bring plenty of water for this trip and mind your step as the stairs can be steep, especially on your way down.
