With lush, green interiors, exotic beaches, enticing islands within minutes and a growing infrastructure, Krabi provides a great vacation full of beautiful memories. Moreover, there’s so much to see: Wildlife sanctuaries, National Parks, hot springs and ice-cold waterfalls are all close by, while one of the world’s most lovely isle's - Koh Phi Phi - is only 45 minutes away.
Railay Beaches & Caves
Now on every savvy traveler's list, Railay is nevertheless one of Thailand's most sought-after beach areas. Located just south of Ao Nang Beach, around a rocky headland and accessible only by yacht or long tail boat, Railay presents a peaceful world. In just one small peninsula you will find beautiful white sand beaches, viewpoints, soaring limestone cliffs, caves and a lagoon hidden inside the cliffs, shaped and nourished by the changing tides.
How to get there: Fixed-price long-tail boats leave from Krabi (150 baht) and Ao Nang (100 baht)
Krabi Islands (four island tour)
Just 8 kilometers from Ao Nang, Koh Poda, is a small island covered in palm and casuarina trees and almost entirely encircled by a soft white-sand beach, with a coral reef 20 meters from the shore. The combination of scenery, excellent snorkeling, and soft sand make the island a popular choice, but by surprise, it is not that crowded. Chicken Island is named after its strange rock formation that looks like the head and neck of a chicken. One end of the island consists of cliffs, while the other has beautiful beaches. Good for snorkeling.
Emerald Pond
Also known as Crystal Lagoon (‘Sra Morakot’ in Thai) Emerald Pond is situated in the area of Khao Pra-Bang Khram, east of Klong Thom hot springs, about 50 km south-east of Krabi Town. You can visit the Crystal Lagoon and the Thung Teao waterfall on the same day – keep your National Park entry ticket stubs, so you do not have to pay twice. The Emerald Pond is a popular (and somewhat crowded) destination on Thai national holidays.
How to get there: 50 km south-east of Krabi Town on Route # 4 by taxi or song teow
Wat Tham Sua (Tiger Cave)
Wat Tham Sua or “Tiger Cave” is one of the most famous caves in the area, and is part of a temple where monks live and worship within a maze of natural caves. Inside one of the caves is what appears to be tiger paw prints embedded in the stone. The main attraction, however, is the 1,272 step-climb to see the “footprint of the Buddha.” It is not that easy climb, but you will be rewarded at the top with 360° views of the countryside and sea.
Location: Nine kilometers south of Krabi Town
How to get there: Song Teow or taxi
Phi Phi Islands
The Phi Phi Islands have been immortalized by Hollywood to the extent that their charismatic beauty is further enhanced. Day-trippers will pass by emerald-green Maya Bay and the Viking Cave on uninhabited Phi Phi Leh. Phi Phi Don is a hive of activity during the day and takes a short break after the last of the ferries depart before exploding into party central later at night. Still, Phi Phi is the King of Cool and is always laid-back and comfortable with its quasi-hippy image, yet does feature some up-market restaurants and hotels. How to get there: Ferries run from both Phuket and Krabi on a 90-minute crossing.
Klong Thom Hot Springs
These Hot Springs are located in the jungle near the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve. These thermal springs are originated from Ancient volcanic chambers which are believed to ease some ailments such as sciatica, rheumatism, and other skin problems, although these medical claims have no scientific ground.
How to get there: 50 km south-east of Krabi Town on Route # 4 by taxi or song teow
Khao Kanab Nam
Khao Kanab Nam is the two steep limestone hills that many people regard as the symbol of the bailiwick. Located just outside Krabi Town and easily spotted from the road, it is such a fantastic sight to see these pinnacles standing almost side by side with the Krabi River flowing in between them. Each is about 100 meters high. The hill on the righthand side is worth a visit as there is a cave with stalactites and stalagmites.
How to get there: Long-tail boat from Krabi Pier (300 baht)
Koh Lanta & Nearby Islands
Koh Lanta consists of 52 islands including the largest, Koh Lanta Yai. It is located approximately 70km from Krabi Town. Koh Lanta's scenic beauty may not quite compete with some other areas in the province. If you are looking for complete peace away from tourist areas, with a few home comforts, head for the Isle of Koh Lanta. Crucial Low development and unspoiled nature are Lanta's main attractions.