Located on the Andaman coast, the province of Krabi is an idyllic destination for a trip to Thailand. With karst cliffs, postcard-worthy beaches, and lush nature, Krabi has everything to amaze you. Discover all the things to do and see in Krabi.

Visit Krabi Town

Due to its central location, Krabi Town is often seen by travelers as a transit point for nearby islands. However, the town itself deserves a few hours of exploration.

Some of the recommended sights in Krabi Town include:

• Wat Kaew Ko Wararam: Known as the White Temple, it’s the largest Buddhist complex in the province.
• Andaman Cultural Center: This cultural center houses an art gallery (featuring works by Thai and international artists) and a pearl museum.
• Markets: To sample Thai street food specialties or buy souvenirs, visit the various markets in Krabi, such as the Walking Street Market, Ao Nang Landmark Night Market, or the Krabi Weekend Night Market.

See the Khao Kanab Nam Rock Formations and Caves

Khao Kanab Nam is considered the symbol of Krabi. These two karst rocks, about 100 meters high, stand on the Krabi River. The site also includes accessible caves that can be reached via stairs. To get there, take a traditional Thai long-tail boat from the Chao Fah pier. It’s a 15-minute boat ride. You can also visit the fishing village of Ko Klang nearby to see fish farms.

Relax on the Beaches

With towering cliffs and the crystal-clear waters of the Andaman Sea, it’s no surprise that Krabi has some of Thailand's most beautiful beaches. For sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, or water sports, head to Krabi's top beaches:

• Railay Beach: Surrounded by high limestone cliffs and lush jungle, it’s the most spectacular beach in Krabi, accessible only by boat.
• Phra Nang: A natural gem surrounded by picturesque rocks on the southern Railay peninsula, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
• Tonsai Beach: A quieter beach, accessible by foot from Railay Peninsula, with similar features to the other beaches.
• Ao Nang Beach: The main beach of Krabi, where boats depart for nearby islands. Lined with bars and restaurants, it’s ideal for sunset walks.
• Nopparat Thara Beach: A peaceful, 5-km stretch, perfect for relaxing.
• Susan Hoi: Known for its geological curiosities with fossilized shells dating back 30-40 million years.

Visit Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple)

Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple) is one of Krabi's must-see attractions. Located near Krabi Town, it’s a hilltop temple with a golden chedi, caves, and a golden Buddha. The temple is named after tiger footprints discovered near the caves. You’ll need to climb 1,237 steps to reach the top, where a 360-degree view of Krabi awaits. The round-trip takes about an hour.

Practical Info:
Open daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Free entry.
As with all temples, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees.

Swim in the Emerald Pool at Sa Morakot and the Hot Springs

About 50 km from Krabi Town, Sa Morakot (also known as the Emerald Pool) is one of the region's most beautiful sites. Hidden in the forest, it’s a fairytale-like emerald-colored pool. Other natural pools include Glass Pool and Blue Pool. All pools are fed by streams flowing through the Khao Nor Chuchi forest. Swimming is allowed in all except Blue Pool.

Near the Emerald Pool, you’ll also find hot springs where you can enjoy a soak in water around 35-40°C.

Practical Info:
Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Entry to the Emerald Pool is 400 Baht per person.
Many excursions combine the Emerald Pool, hot springs, and Tiger Cave Temple.

Hike in Khao Phanom Bencha National Park

If you're in the mood for hiking, head to Khao Phanom Bencha National Park, 20 km north of Krabi Town, where multiple trails await. The park offers opportunities to observe local wildlife and flora, as well as breathtaking waterfalls, such as Huay Toh Falls—a 70-meter-high waterfall with 11 levels, the tallest in the park.

Practical Info:
Open daily from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Entry fee: 200 Baht per person.

Enjoy the View from the Tab Kak Hang Nak Nature Trail

Also called Dragon Crest Mountain, the Tab Kak Hang Nak Nature Trail is one of the region’s most scenic trekking routes. The trail winds through the Thai jungle and leads to a summit with stunning views of Krabi and nearby islands. It takes around 2 hours to reach the top and just over 1 hour to descend.

Practical Info:
Free trail.
Moderate difficulty requiring good physical fitness. Bring sturdy hiking shoes and plenty of water.

Take Excursions to Nearby Islands

Surrounded by idyllic islands, Krabi is the perfect base for sea excursions, whether with a group or in a private boat. Some of the most popular trips include:

• Four Islands Tour: Departing from Ao Nang Beach, this tour visits several nearby islands, including Koh Poda, Koh Kai (nicknamed Chicken Island for its chicken-shaped rock), Koh Tup, and Phra Nang Beach (in Railay). This tour usually includes snorkeling stops and/or optional kayaking.
• Hong Islands Tour: Featuring magnificent lagoons and crystal-clear waters, Koh Hong is a group of rocky islets within Than Bok Horani National Park, perfect for snorkeling and kayaking.
• Excursion to Koh Phi Phi: Known worldwide for Maya Bay, featured in the film "The Beach" with Leonardo DiCaprio, Koh Phi Phi boasts stunning landscapes. You can also visit other spots in the region, like Bamboo Island, or go snorkeling.
• Excursion to Koh Lanta: With hidden beaches and lush nature, Koh Lanta has preserved its authentic charm and offers a laid-back atmosphere.

Visit an Ethical Elephant Sanctuary

Dreaming of seeing elephants during your stay in Krabi? To observe these animals ethically, consider visiting an elephant sanctuary, such as Krabi Elephant Sanctuary. Here, you’ll spend the day caring for elephants rather than riding them. You’ll learn about their lifestyle, walk alongside them, feed them, and even bathe with them—a memorable activity for animal lovers and families.

Go Kayaking

For sporty and adventurous travelers, Krabi is one of Thailand’s top kayaking spots. Kayaks are available for rent by the hour or day at most coastal resorts in the province. Recommended kayaking locations include:

• Thalane Bay: A bay surrounded by towering cliffs and an impressive mangrove forest.
• Koh Hong: Kayak through a beautiful emerald lagoon surrounded by limestone peaks.
• Ban Bho Thor: A mangrove forest with sea caves, one of which has 2,000-3,000-year-old rock paintings.
• Phang Nga Bay: Paddle through mangroves, limestone formations, lagoons, and sea caves along deserted and wild islets.

Go Rock Climbing

For a sporty challenge, try rock climbing in Krabi. Railay, one of Thailand’s best rock climbing spots, offers plenty of cliffs suitable for both beginners and experts. Recommended beaches for climbing include Phra Nang Beach, Tonsai Beach, East Railay, and West Railay.

Go Diving and Snorkeling

With protected marine parks and excellent visibility, the Krabi region has many coral reefs ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling. The area is rich in both macrofauna (such as nudibranchs and seahorses) and tropical fish (lionfish, scorpionfish, barracudas, fusiliers) as well as pelagic species (bamboo sharks, whale sharks, manta rays, turtles).

Best Time to Visit Krabi
For sunny weather and to avoid rain, the best time to visit Krabi is between November and April.

How Many Days to Plan for Krabi?
Plan for at least 3 days to see Krabi’s highlights. For a more relaxed experience with time to explore everything, consider a week.

Florine Dergelet