Best things to do in Krabi
Jan 13,2025 | Milo
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Helpful Tips for Your Krabi Trip
Stay Connected with ByteSIM During Your Krabi Trip
The Krabi province in Thailand is widely regarded as one of the top beach destinations in the country, and arguably all of Southeast Asia. Beyond its stunning coastline, Krabi offers a wealth of cultural and scenic attractions. Let’s explore some of the most exciting activities and experiences Krabi offers.
Best beaches in Krabi
Towering limestone cliffs, pristine waters of the Andaman Sea, and sun-kissed golden sands define Krabi’s iconic landscape. While the region offers far more than just its beaches, skipping a visit to these stunning shores would be a missed opportunity. Though every beach in Krabi has its own charm, here are a few of the top picks you shouldn’t miss:
Ao Nang Beach
Ao Nang Beach ranks among the most frequented spots in the region. It seamlessly blends breathtaking scenery with a range of activities. This picturesque shoreline features soft golden sand framed by majestic limestone cliffs and shimmering turquoise waters.
Beyond soaking up the sun and admiring the view, visitors can enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, and even surfing. Ao Nang is also the perfect launch point for island-hopping tours, with renowned spots like the Phi Phi Islands and Railay Beach just a short long-tail boat ride away.
Situated at the edge of Ao Nang town, the beach is surrounded by numerous restaurants, bars, and shops. The area offers a variety of budget-friendly accommodations, making it an excellent choice for those looking to unwind, bask in the sun, and explore the nearby islands through organized tours.
Pai Plong Beach
Pai Plong Beach, situated close to Ao Nang Beach, is a gem worth visiting. This serene spot offers a more tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for those seeking some peace and quiet. To reach it, you can hike the Monkey Trail, which rewards you with spectacular cliffside views of the ocean. Alternatively, a short boat ride from Ao Nang is available for a small fee.
The scenery here mirrors that of its neighboring beaches, boasting Krabi’s signature limestone cliffs and crystal-clear turquoise waters. However, Pai Plong Beach sees fewer tourists and minimal boat traffic, creating a calm and uncrowded environment—perfect for unwinding by the water.
Railay Beach
Railay Beach is a popular hotspot, offering a breathtakingly beautiful shoreline and stunning vistas, though it tends to draw a crowd. The most convenient way to reach the Railay Peninsula is by taking a short boat ride from Krabi Town or Ao Nang.
In addition to the usual beach activities, Railay is famous for its resident monkey population. While some visitors enjoy their playful presence, others may find them a bit intrusive. Regardless of your preference, it's wise to keep a close eye on your snacks, as these cheeky creatures have a reputation for swiping food.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking to a nearby viewpoint, exploring caves, and taking boat tours to surrounding islands. Of course, the beach also offers classic options like surfing and diving. With its towering limestone formations rising from the water, Railay Beach is often regarded as one of the most picturesque spots in all of Thailand.
Tonsai Beach
Tonsai Beach, tucked away on a secluded island west of mainland Krabi, can only be reached by boat, with regular services departing from Krabi's larger towns throughout the day. Given the journey, it’s worth staying for a few days to fully immerse yourself in everything the island has to offer.
Beyond its signature features—majestic limestone cliffs, powdery white sand, and sparkling turquoise waters—Tonsai Beach is a haven for adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities such as rock climbing, exploring hidden caves, snorkeling, and scuba diving in the vibrant marine ecosystem nearby.
Temples to visit in Krabi
Although Krabi's breathtaking beaches often steal the spotlight, the region's vibrant cultural heritage deserves equal attention. In Thailand, religion plays a central role in daily life, a fact reflected in the numerous awe-inspiring temples and historical monuments scattered across the country.
Tiger Cave Temple
The Tiger Cave Temple, also known as Wat Tham Suea, stands out as one of Krabi’s most remarkable spiritual landmarks, thanks to its dramatic setting and the towering golden Buddha statue that dominates the site. Situated just north of Krabi Town, this temple is perched atop a mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic views that stretch for miles.
To reach the temple, visitors must ascend a staircase of over 1,200 steps, climbing to an elevation of 276 meters (905 feet). While the trek can be physically demanding, the stunning vistas and serene atmosphere make the effort worthwhile. The surrounding caves and mountain formations hold both religious and historical importance, with numerous ancient Thanu artifacts uncovered in the area.
In the jungle valley below, monks reside within a labyrinth of natural caves, while the summit houses the temple and its sacred statues, creating a profound space for worship. To fully appreciate the Tiger Cave Temple, be sure to explore both the caves and the mountain peak.
Wat Kaew Korawaram
Wat Kaew Korawaram, often referred to simply as Wat Kaew, stands as Krabi’s largest temple, centrally located in the bustling heart of Krabi Town. However, what truly sets it apart isn’t its size but its striking architecture and vibrant color palette. The temple’s bright white façade, an uncommon sight in Thailand outside of Chiang Mai, adds to its unique charm.
Visitors are welcomed by a grand naga staircase, which leads up to the expansive 2,500-square-meter temple complex. Upon reaching the top, you’ll be greeted by the stunning sight of the main temple building, which has been a hub for worship since its establishment in 1887.
Inside the temple, as with most Buddhist sites, you’ll find a golden Buddha statue, accompanied by various other sacred Buddhist artifacts. Additionally, the complex houses Krabi’s Museum of Contemporary Art and features stalls selling souvenirs and delicious street food, making it a cultural and culinary hotspot.
Wat Sai Thai
If you’re staying in Ao Nang, be sure to add Wat Sai Thai to your travel plans. This site is most famous for its impressive 15-meter reclining Buddha statue, often referred to as the "Sleeping Buddha." While some view it more as a shrine than a full-fledged temple, its cultural and religious significance in Krabi is undeniable.
The area is enveloped by verdant gardens and towering cliffs, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and harmony. Additionally, the shrine serves as a central venue for various Buddhist festivals celebrated in the region.
Nature gems to discover
If idyllic beaches don’t satisfy your wanderlust, this southern Thai province boasts an array of other natural treasures. Lush tropical jungles blanket much of the uninhabited inland terrain, concealing serene waterfalls and soothing natural hot springs beneath their canopy.
Emerald Pool
The Emerald Pool stands out as one of Krabi’s most iconic natural attractions. A brief trek through the dense jungle brings you to this stunning spot, where the pool’s vibrant green color immediately explains its name. Its striking hue comes from the mineral-rich streams that feed into it.
For an entrance fee of 400 Baht (approximately $12 USD), you’ll be treated to a refreshing dip in its cool, crystal-clear waters—an ideal escape from Thailand’s heat. Be cautious, though, and consider wearing water shoes, as the limestone rocks lining the pool’s bottom can be quite slippery.
Krabi Hot Springs
Krabi is home to several natural hot springs, each offering a relaxing retreat, but the Krabi Hot Springs stands out as the most popular. This is largely due to their easy accessibility and shallow pools, which are just about one meter (three feet) deep, making them safe and enjoyable for everyone.
The water temperature is pleasantly warm, typically ranging from 40 to 43°C (104-109°F), similar to that of a standard jacuzzi. Visitors can explore a series of small, crystal-clear pools cascading down the waterfall—perfect for capturing memorable photos. For those seeking a bit more excitement, the larger pool at the base of the falls features a rope swing for added fun.
Ton Chong Fa Waterfall
With its towering cliffs and the abundant rainfall of the wet season, Krabi is a haven for waterfalls tucked within its dense jungles. Among the many, Ton Chong Fa stands out as one of the most stunning.
Situated within the Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park, this waterfall offers an ideal opportunity to spend an entire day exploring the surrounding natural beauty. The 5-tiered cascade is best visited right after the rainy season, typically in November, when the weather is perfect and the streams are flowing abundantly, showcasing the falls at their most spectacular.
This timing applies to most waterfalls in Thailand. Many visitors assume waterfalls are always at their peak, but they are highly seasonal. By the end of the dry season, water levels drop significantly, leaving only a trickle in most cascades.
Cultural Experience in Krabi
Exploring Krabi’s scenic beauty is just one aspect of the journey. To truly immerse yourself in the region, dive into the rich cultural offerings that Thailand is known for.
Savor Local Delicacies
Thai cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors, masterfully blending sour, sweet, and spicy notes. Be sure to try iconic dishes such as pad Thai, mango sticky rice, som tum, and more. Street vendors offer mouthwatering skewers, grilled seafood, and fried rice—perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal.
For a more hands-on experience, consider joining a Thai cooking class. Not only will you master the art of preparing authentic Thai dishes, but many classes also include a guided tour of a local market, where you’ll discover how to identify and select fresh, traditional ingredients.
Explore the Krabi Night Market
Night markets are a quintessential part of Thai culture, and Krabi Town as well as Ao Nang host their own vibrant versions. While these markets operate during the day, their true charm comes alive after sunset.
The Walking Night Street Markets kick off at 5 PM every Friday and Saturday, continuing until midnight. They’re at their busiest around 7 PM, as both locals and visitors flock to enjoy the lively atmosphere. Here, you’ll discover an array of delicious street food, handmade souvenirs, intricate local crafts, and fresh produce—all adding to the unique charm of these bustling markets.
Unwind with a Thai Massage
Feeling achy from trekking through the jungle, or just looking to kick off your Krabi trip with some relaxation? Treat yourself to a Thai massage—a unique experience that’s often likened to Thai yoga due to its blend of stretching and yoga-inspired movements.
Unlike traditional Western massages, which focus on relieving muscle tension, Thai massages excel at enhancing blood flow, boosting flexibility, and rejuvenating your energy levels for the adventures ahead. While it may not suit everyone’s preferences, those who appreciate it often develop a lifelong love for this traditional therapy.
Helpful Tips for Your Krabi Trip
Your time in Krabi is bound to be enjoyable, but understanding the local culture, people, and customs can truly elevate your experience. Here are a few key points to consider before embarking on your journey:
Stay Connected with ByteSIM During Your Krabi Trip
Having access to mobile internet is essential during your trip to Krabi. Whether you need to share your beach photos with friends, navigate using map apps, or communicate with locals through a translation app, staying connected is crucial.
Though local SIM cards and pocket WiFi are options, eSIMs stand out as the most convenient solution. They are cost-effective, simple to set up, and provide a stable connection throughout the country. By opting for an eSIM plan in Thailand, you can get online within minutes, without the hassle of dealing with physical SIM cards or extra devices.
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