Overshadowed by the nearby islands of Phuket and Phi Phi, the Thai town of Krabi is often completely skipped by Thailand’s island seekers. Krabi’s karst landscape is a fantastic place to hang out for a few days, especially for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts. There are far more fun things to do in Krabi than first meets the eye.
Krabi has an international airport, making it an easy destination to visit no matter which part of Thailand or Southeast Asia you’re visiting from. Stay in the center of Krabi Town or head to the nearby Ao Nang Beach hotels. Wherever you choose to rest your head, your time in Krabi will be full of adventure and gorgeous sceneries.
Best Things To Do in Krabi, Thailand
Despite being vastly associated with stunning islands, buzzing night markets, and beautiful beaches. There are several other fascinating attractions, including lots of fun things to do with kids in Krabi.
The beach town is jam-packed with adventures, from day trips to the emerald pools in the Thung Teao Forest Natural Park to relaxing in the bubbling Klong Thom hot springs. If you’ve thought of what to do in Krabi, here’s the lowdown on this tropical paradise.
Visit the Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple)
Don’t let the 1,200 steps discourage you from making the trek to Tiger Cave Temple. Is it daunting? Yes. Is the hike worth it? You bet. Settled atop the limestone formations, the view from the top of Tiger Cave Temple is one to be seen.
Monks from all over Thailand meditate at this sacred temple, and the massive Golden Buddha Statue at the top can’t be missed. Don’t be fooled — there are no real tigers at the temple, but according to the locals, a family of tigers lived at the top at one time.
About 30 minutes outside of Ao Nang Beach, it’s best to head up in the morning before the sun decides to radiate its heat across the land. Skip the gym that morning, bring plenty of water, and don’t forget to bring something to cover your knees and shoulders once you’ve reached the top.
Spend the Day Relaxing at Krabi’s Railay Beach
Railay Beach is a trip highlight for most travelers visiting Krabi Town. Perfect for a day trip or a quick couple of hours, Railay Beach has the crystal blue water and limestone cliffs that all the Thailand travel guides highlight.
Head down to the pier at Ao Nang Beach and hire a water taxi to get you there. Only about a 20-minute ride to paradise, hop off and spend the day sunbathing on the sand. Go rock climbing, get a Thai massage on the beach, or go explore some caves.
Stay for sunset and thank us later.
In our opinion, the best place to be a beach bum is Phra Nang Cave Beach. Follow the walking path through the shops at Railay Beach West (where you’re dropped off), continue to Railay Beach East, then follow the signs for Phra Nang Cave Beach.
Don’t walk with food on the path, as the Phra Nang Beach trail is full of hungry monkeys!
Visit the Thung Teao Forest Natural Park Emerald Pool
The Emerald Pool is not an “off the beaten path” experience, and you will definitely encounter crowds when you visit but don’t let that be the reason you skip this Krabi Town hot spot.
This park is about one hour outside of Ao Nang and provides a lively Thailand jungle experience. With different pools and hiking trails to explore, the most popular reason people visit is for the Emerald Pool — a natural water pool full of clear water (who saw that coming?).
A popular place for nature photographers and the perfect spot to cool down from the scorching Thailand sun.
Relax at the Klong Thom Hot Springs
Located near the Emerald Pool, pop over to the Klong Thom hot springs to bring your body temperature back up after cooling down in the natural lagoon. Or vice-versa!
With many natural “hot tubs” throughout the thermal spring, pick your favorite and relax in the toasty yet satisfying 95°F – 104°F temperatures. The mineral salts contained in the Krabi hot springs water are said to ease a number of discomforts, including rheumatism, sciatica, and other skin issues.
Chase the Waterfalls at Khao Phanom Bencha National Park
Hire a tuk-tuk or a motorbike for the day, head 12.4 miles outside of Krabi’s city center, and prepare for a day of chasing waterfalls.
This national park in Krabi Town is full of flowing streams, wildlife, woodland, and waterfalls. Spend the day trekking inside Krabi’s green paradise for a fabulous getaway from the crowds at Ao Nang Beach.
Huey Toh waterfall is the nicest in the park, but the hike all the way to the peak takes longer than you think. If you want to be home by nightfall, be sure to head out on the trail earlier in the day.
Go Rock Climbing in Krabi Town
For bouldering to rock climbing enthusiasts, Krabi Town is an absolute paradise. No matter your upper body strength and skill level, there’s a rock waiting for you to climb. Popular rock climbing Krabi destinations are Railay and Ton sai beach.
Try one of the many tours and meet climbers that are ready to show you the ropes (literally). Ask your hotel or hostel for guide recommendations. Or simply take a water taxi to Railay Beach on your own and walk up to one of the many rock climbing stands located on the island.
Hike the Tab Kak Hang Nak Trail
A fantastic viewpoint and arguably one of the best you can find in the south of Thailand is at the top of Tab Kak Hang Nak. Still a little under the radar, this trek is best early in the morning to avoid being completely soaked from the heat. If you’re an early riser, the peak makes for a stunning spot to catch a sunrise.
After an hour and a half hike through the luscious green trail, you’ll reach a rock that sticks out like a tongue. A beautiful overlook point with gorgeous views of Krabi’s limestone landscape and the Andaman Sea.
Perch on top of the rock for a great Instagram photo, and throw in a yoga pose for good measure. The views at the top will give you all the “I love Thailand” feels.
Catch a Bluedragon Cabaret Show
If you’ve done any research before heading to Thailand, you know that a popular evening activity is attending a LadyBoy show. Krabi Town hosts one of the best ones in Thailand at Bluedragon.
Walk up to the third floor of Center Point in Ao Nang to see the show. For fabulous costumes, tons of belly laughs, and a night of endless entertainment hit the red carpet and head to Bluedragon.
Don’t knock it before you try it.
Go on a Wild Pub-Crawl With Slumber Party Hostels
Slumber Party is a hostel chain in Thailand known for some pretty wild nights out. Even if you decide to stay away from the hostels this time around, Slumber Party Hostel, Krabi hosts public pub crawls. They also host awesome adventure day trips for outside guests.
Start with a round of beer pong at the hostel. Then head to the main bar district in Ao Nang for a night full of the notorious Thailand buckets and dancing. A great way to meet fellow travelers and experience the Krabi nightlife.
If you wake up the next day and are ready to explore more of what Krabi has to offer, check out their version of The Four Island Tour. The Jungle Tour (Tiger Cave Temple, Hot Springs, and Emerald Pool) or maybe take on their “secret destination” kayaking trip — an excellent option for anyone short on time while in Krabi.
Explore the Best Islands in Krabi on a Four-Island Tour
When looking for things to do in Krabi, hopping on a long tail or speed boat for a four-island tour is an absolute must-do. Bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, and an underwater camera if you have it.
Organize the tour with your hotel or hostel, or just head down to the pier at Ao Nang Beach yourself. If you’re short on time while in Krabi, a four-island tour is a great way to see the surrounding islands. Set sail and experience the crystal blue waters of the Andaman Sea in a single day.
The usual island stops are Chicken Island, Koh Tub, Koh Poda, and Koh Mor. Most tours also include lunch on one of the beautiful islands and snorkeling spots throughout the day.
Go on a Spree at the Krabi Shopping Night Market
Need a place to grab some tasty Thai food and purchase some souvenirs for friends back home in one fell swoop? Head to one of the bustling night markets in Krabi Town.
On weekend evenings (Friday – Sunday) from 6 pm to 9:30 pm, you can stroll through the most popular shopping event, located behind the Vogue Department Store in Krabi Town.
Stalls include cheap Thai food, handmade crafts, clothing, souvenirs, and a random assortment of gadgets. Local musicians provide background music while you shop til you drop!
If you’re in Ao Nang on a Wednesday evening, head to the Ao Nang Night Market near the boxing stadium. This night market is open on Wednesdays from 4 pm to 7: 30 pm. The Ao Nang Night Market includes your typical night market items such as street food, crafts, and souvenirs.
The night market is PACKED with the best Thai food and drinks in town – so definitely come hungry.
Best Food Markets in Krabi Town
When you think about things to do in Krabi, shopping isn’t usually the first thing that comes to mind, but there are many bargains to be found in and around Krabi Town.
Maharaj Fresh Market
If you’re looking for some fresh fruit or vegetables? Stop by Maharaj Market to be greeted by the colorful stalls filled with piles of produce, fish, and flowers. It is easy to find as it’s located just off the large Maharaj road on Soi 7.
This market is open most of the day, but the best time to go is in the morning when all the fresh goods have just been brought in.
Walking Street Krabi Town Market
The most popular food market in Krabi is open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday and is located behind the well-known Vogue Department Store. This is Krabi Town Walking Street and the perfect place to stop for dinner and try various Thai dishes.
After filling your stomach with all the food your heart desires, enjoy some live music or a Thai dance show on the stage in the center. Krabi Town Walking Street is also a great place to find unique souvenirs for great prices, such as shoes, clothing, accessories, and other locally handmade goods.
Chao Fah Night Market
Located across from Chao Fah Park Pier, this is the market for any foodie as it is exclusively a food market. Here you can find extremely affordable meals while enjoying the ocean breeze.
This market is quite a hidden gem as it is not frequented by many tourists, which gives you a more authentic experience when you are crouched down and eating next to the locals. What makes this market even better is that it is open every day, so you don’t have to wait until the weekend to gorge on the local cuisine.
Ao Nang Night Market
If you are looking to get out of Krabi Town for a bit, head to Ao Nang on a Wednesday evening to check on the Ao Nang Night Market. It is located right next to the boxing stadium and is only open from 4 pm to 7:30 pm for one night a week.
Pick up some local food and spend the rest of your evening on the beach before heading back to Krabi Town.
Catalunya Walking Street Market, Ao Nang
Though technically not classified as a market, Catalunya Walking Street should not be skipped while enjoying your time in Ao Nang. This shopping complex has a vintage feel and lively atmosphere.
The eccentric storefronts will pull you in, selling different things such as insects encased in resin and masks with a liking to Buddha. You can also enjoy the nightlife here as a few restaurants along the streets provide live music and a cool retro atmosphere.
Best Beaches in Krabi, Thailand
There is no shortage of white sandy beaches when you travel to Krabi. Besides the ever-popular Ao Nang and Railay Beach, there are a few other quiet Krabi beaches if you are looking for a place to relax somewhere more low-key.
Klong Muang
If you are staying in a resort, you are most likely right next to Klong Muang Beach. Despite this beach being located in the resort area of Krabi, it is quite a secluded beach and a great place to relax and get in some reading.
Lined with many palm trees, it is easy to find a quiet location in the shade to chill with your friends or reflect alone.
Tub Kaek
Probably one of the most underrated beaches in Krabi, Tub Kaek Beach is a 30-minute drive from Ao Nang. This beach is taken care of by the few resorts that lay on its banks, which means you will always be able to enjoy a clean, white sandy shore.
There is also a small swing here where you can get that perfect Instagram photo without the worries of having your photo populated by other people.
Nopparat Thara
Located right next to Ao Nang Beach, this treasure is popular amongst the locals. Nopparat Thara Beach is the perfect place to spend an afternoon with a small picnic and good company.
If picnics aren’t your thing, spend the day unwinding under the sun and then try one of the many restaurants situated on the shore.
Where To Stay in Krabi?
Check into the Ao Nang Cliff Beach Resort — one of the favorite hotels on this side of Thailand. They have huge rooms with sea-facing views and outdoor bathtubs, and some even have private plunge pools.
Their infinity pool is also to die for, and the hotel is home to one of the best seafood buffets in Krabi and Ao Nang.
Check Availability & Rates for Ao Nang Cliff Beach Resort
How To Get to Krabi
There are a few ways to get to Krabi that range from budget to more pricey options. It depends on how much time you have and your preferred method of travel. Regardless, getting to this popular beach town is super easy for any traveler.
From Bangkok
Since there is an airport in Krabi, the easier and more efficient way to get there from Bangkok is to fly. It takes no longer than an hour in the air and will only run you around $51 (1,823 Thai Baht). This is a perfect option if you only have a few weeks in Thailand, and it won’t break your bank.
If you prefer to travel by land, you can get a direct bus from the Southern Bus Terminal or take a train to Surat Thani and board a bus there. From the Southern Bus Terminal (also called Sai Tai Mai), you can ride a night bus for the 15-hour trip to Krabi for just over $25 (894 Thai Baht).
For those who would rather not be on a bus for 15 hours, you can go to Hua Lamphong Train Station and buy a direct ticket to Surat Thani. With the train, you can book a first or second-class sleeper train for approximately $27 to $43 (968 – 1,539 Thai Baht) and get some rest before boarding the two-hour bus to Krabi.
From Phuket
If you have already been enjoying your hotel in Phuket or on one of the many beautiful islands around Krabi, traveling is much easier. For the most part, the best option is to take the bus, but you can also pay a bit more for a relaxing ferry ride.
The buses from Phuket to Krabi leave from the main Phuket Town Bus Terminal and take you to Krabi Bus Station, which is a little outside the city. It is the more affordable option, costing only $9 (322 Thai Baht), and you will be driving for two to three hours.
Taking the ferry is a more enjoyable experience and brings you closer to the city. The journey time is the same at two to three hours, and the ticket will cost you around $20 (715 Thai Baht).
Things To Do in Krabi Town | Wrapped Up
There are undeniably plenty of fun things to do in Krabi. The natural beauty is dotted across Krabi Province. From the fascinating Khao Khanab Nam Mountains to mangrove forests at Thung Teao Forest Natural Park and the incredible Phi Phi Islands, this Thailand holiday is like none other.
Enjoy a relaxing Thai massage, visit the massive Golden Buddha Statue, and other Krabi attractions to fully experience Southern Thailand. Don’t miss out on scuba diving, island hopping, or swimming with Blacktip Reef sharks at a beautiful beach along the Krabi coastline.
If you like this post on things to do in Krabi, you’ll love this guide on the top reasons to love Koh Lanta.
Last updated on October 13th, 2023 at 01:35 pm
