Over the years, Krabi has slowly become a popular destination for world travellers for its limestonecliffs, gorgeous sea views, and seeming limitless beauty. The natural wonders that make up this traveller’s magnet are perfect for
anyone looking for outdoor adventures, blissful relaxation, or anything in between.
While Ao Nang beach and the Railay peninsula are perfect starting points for any memorable Krabi adventure, the world-famous Ko Phi Phi remains the area’s most popular attraction. From island-hopping to snorkeling, rock
climbing and nightly beach parties, it’s no wonder Phi Phi and the surrounding areas have become a magnet for tourists the world over.
It’s best to visit Krabi from mid- November through to April, when the tides are low, the rains are nil, and the seas are serene. It’s also the perfect time for road trips through the picturesque landscape, allowing you ample time for photos without the worry of rain. The monsoon season from May to October can easily put a damper on anyone’s travel plans, especially to any of the islands, although many of them are open all- year-round.
Travellers can save time by flying to Krabi International Airport from Bangkok or Chiang Mai. You can even fly direct from several destinations across Asia, including Singapore, Malaysia, and China. Budget airlines like AirAsia, Thai Smile, and Thai Lion Air all head to Krabi, as do major airlines Bangkok Airways and Thai Airways. From Phuket, one can take a ferry to Ao Nang for just 700 baht. A road trip from Phuket to Krabi is also a beautiful ride on its own, whether by bus or rent-a-car (but don’t forget your international driver’s license)!
While there are several options to move throughout Krabi mainland, taxis and rentals cars remain the most convenient. Relative to Phuket and other areas, taxis in Krabi remain relatively inexpensive for solo travellers and couples. Since Krabi is quite widespread, families might consider renting a car, if only to cut down on the travel time and soak in the natural wonders all around. Cycling is also a great way to sightsee throughout large swaths of areas.
A trip to Krabi has to include a stop at this popular peninsula. Accessible only by longtail boat, Railay is surrounded by sea, from east to west, and is a popular spot for rock climbers and adrenaline junkies the world over. Railay is cut off from the mainland by road, and it’s seclusion become the reason travellers have made this one of the most visited places in Krabi. The Phra Nang Cave, also known as the Diamond Cave because of its glittering wall, a short walk inside the Experience this mountain is not out of the question. A day trippers paradise, an overnight stay at any one of its luxury boutique hotels is recommended, like Railay Phutawan which is right up against the cliffs!
It’s simply too unique to miss! Wat Tham Sua Cave, also known as Tiger Cave Temple, was founded in 1974 by a local monk who came upon the cave while trying to find a peaceful hilltop to meditate. Tigers were roaming at the time, but nowadays it’s a popular spot not just for its one-of-a-kind location, but it still has a meditation centre with many monks who live and worship here. Travellers must visit the ‘footprint of the Buddha’ which is a climb up 1,237 steps along the limestone karf. You’re rewarded with 360 degree views of the Andaman Sea and the beautiful islands that fall within.
Krabi lives up to it’s nickname of the ‘Land of a Hundred Islands’ with seemingly endless tropical islands within its purview, all with white sand beaches, and the natural wonders one would expect. The world-famous Phi Phi Islands are well-known, but other popular spots include the small Ko Lanta — a relaxing paradise. For day-trippers, the four islands of Ko Kai, Ko Tub, Ko Mo, and Ko Poda are perfect for anyone looking for the island life. In fact, the Talay Waek “twin sea” phenomenon is located near Ko Tub, as low tide unveils a white beach connecting the sister islands!
Located inside the Thung Teo Forest Natural Park, the Emerald Pool is a top-notch outdoor destination for any nature lover. Visitors can bathe in the warm, mineral-rich waters of the Khlong Thom Hot Springs close by as well. The Emeral Pool itself is at a temperature of 30 to 50 degrees Celsius, providing a pleasant experience for families to swim all day long! Three pools are located within: the Sa Kaew, Sa Morakot, and Sa Nam Phut, which change colours depending on the weather — from emerald to turquoise. A walk along the 2.7 kilometres of natural trails that slither along the forest is also highly-recommended for its beautiful landscape.
It’s not enough to stare at the stunning cliffs; scaling them is much more fun! Climbers from all over the globe make it a point to climb any of Krabi’s beautiful limestone rocks, which are found dotting the entire province — even on the islands. Climbing schools can be found in various areas so the uninitiated can practice safely before heading out, while experienced climbers can easily find challenging routes near Krabi Town, Ao Nang Beach, and even Ko Phi Phi. Permanent hooks are already placed in several areas, with difficulties ranging from F4 (easy) to F8c (professional).
The natural wonders that make up Krabi are perfect for anyone willing to explore. One of the top spots has to be Khao Ngon Nak, which translates to Dragon Crest Mountain, located about 30 kilometres north of Krabi Town. The hike feels like a true adventure as you encounter a waterfall, viewpoints, a stream, and some other friendly hikers along the way! After a two and a half hour hike up the mountain, you are rewarded with one of the most breathtaking views in the province, 565 metres above sea level, looking out at the islands in the Andaman Sea and the limestone cliffs as south as the eye can see!
Dive shops are aplenty in Krabi that offers guided dive sessions and beginner courses for those looking for underwater adventure. A variety of courses are on offer. Thailand is a diver’s paradise, and Krabi has some of the most popular sites including the waters off Ko Phi Phi, the King Cruiser wreck and the Shark Point Marine Sanctuary, home to leopard sharks and several species of moray eels!
The dense foliage and complex network of channels that make up Krabi’s Ao Thalane gives travellers a bit more than just a simple glide in a kayak. The mangroves in this area are among the most beautiful in all of Thailand. A guided trip through the mangroves, with crab eating macaques roaming around the fringes of dry land near by, it makes for a memorable experience.
It’s easy to enjoy life in Krabi when staying at the Centara Anda Dhevi Resort & Spa Krabi! The resort’s range of recreational and relaxation facilities are perfectly suited to provide guests with a memorable experience. The resort sports a 43-metre long swimming pool that includes a water slide, jacuzzi and swim-up bar; a children’s pool and Kids’ Club with Camp Safari. Located just steps from both Ao Nang Beach and Nopparat Thara Beach, it’s just the place that all members of the family can take advantage of what Krabi has to offer. The ideal location makes it easy to discover Krabi, wether island-hopping, diving, snorkelling or any of the seemingly limitless trekking expeditions. All 135 rooms and suites come with king, twin or two double beds, and a furnished balcony. After a day of exploring, guests can be pampered with a range of soothing therapies at SPA Cenvaree. Then, let your tastebuds explore the local seafood and Southern Thai cuisine at Palm Court, an all-day dining establishment that provide modern Thai, Asian and Western delights!
Situated on the secluded Pai Plong Bay, near Ao Nang tourist centre, the Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi is the province’s flagship outpost of Thailand’s largest hospitality group. Every one of the 183 rooms and nine villas features a private balcony with views of the natural wonders that make Krabi a world- class destination, from the limestone cliffs to the Andaman Sea. The resort’s design elegantly mixes Southern Thai architecture with modern chic, and all with the 5-star charm carried by the Centara name. The full-scale facilities include Spa Cenvaree, a fitness centre, a water sports centre, and a kids’ club. The food lover in every group will be able to savour all the delicacies in each of the resort’s four restaurants. Special Thai dishes are served up at Rim Saai, while high-quality international dishes at Lotus Court are all the rave. Japanese specialties, hand-crafted with the precision you would expect, including sashimi, tempura and teppanyaki like Wagyu beef, are all served up at Hagi, along with seasonal ingredients. Grills are served at On The Rocks. Refreshing drinks can also be sipped at the Deep BLU Bar & Lounge.
There’s simply no bad seat in the house at the Centra by Centara Phu Pano Resort Krabi. Set amongst the idyllic, lush greenery and limestone formations that dot the Krabi landscape, the resort is just the place any guest needs to unwind, relax, and enjoy paradise! All 158 rooms of the resort, located on Ao Nang Beach, they made in a contemporary design that perfectly fits with it’s natural surroundings. With room sizes ranging from 24-49 square metres, large living spaces are the norm. This is a great place for families, as it can accommodate up to three adults and two children with bunk beds — balconies also overlook the pool and the stunning landscape. Guests can venture easily out onto the Andaman Sea, explore the rocky caverns from a kayak or even head underwater on a dive! When you get back, the friendly staff at any of the resort’s dining establishments will have wonderful recommendations. All-day dining Mix Bistro is where international feasts and bountiful breakfast are enjoyed, along with world-class Thai dishes!
The newest addition to the Centara family in Krabi, the Centara Ao Nang Beach Resort & Spa Krabi is located right on the popular beach for direct access to the soft sands and local boats for day-trips. The 180 rooms range in size from 39-81 square metres, and 20 family-friendly residence are available with bunk beds, so the littles ones can enjoy their own space as well! The modern design blends perfectly with Krabi’s stunning beauty. Food lovers will be able to explore tasty Thai dishes while sampling high-quality international fare! Other facilities include a spa and a beach club.
A tropical getaway unlike any other! Surrounded by limestone cliffs and green mountains of the peninsula, Railay Phutawan Resort is located just steps f rom Railay Beach and short longtail boat ride from Ao Nang Beach. Welcome to the peaceful, serene side of Krabi, just a short walk from the popular restaurants and shops. The resort offers 44 units, private cottages and bungalows, family rooms, and balcony views set right in the Railay forest, with rustic wooden furnishings that sport a Thai twist. This is the perfect place to set out on exciting day trips, which can be arranged at their tour desk. The resort’s location gives way to spectacular views of the Andaman Sea (along the cliff) from any of the common areas, including the majestic blue pool. Stunning sunrises are experiences in themselves, and a daily occurrence. The three-storey restaurant and bar provides international and Thai cuisine, as well as international breakfast. Just the perfect place for a Railay holiday!
Located at the tip of the Phranang Peninsula, sandwiched between Ao Nang Beach and Railay, is the five- star Rayavadee. Several features of this resort are unique on their own, just as stunning as the surrounding landscape. The resort sits next to Krabi Marine National Park, and despite it’s seclusion still offers a full-service spa, four dining options, an outdoor pool and jacuzzi. Guests can choose to stay in any of its six, two-storey pavilions and five luxurious villas which sit alongside tropical gardens and and coconut groves. A variety of pavilions means choice are aplenty: f rom Deluxy to Terrace pavilions and Spa Pavilions. The Incomparable Pavilions come with a living room, outdoor lounge, and private 3x12-metre swimming pool with jacuzzi. On top of that, the restaurant is truly an unforgettable place. While The Grotto features a menu of delicious light snacks and cocktails, it’s spectacular location right up against the limestone cliffs, it’s perfectly situated for stunning sunsets and views of the ocean. Fresh lobster and delicious western dishes are on offer at Raya Dining, punctuated by its five-star service. The resort is also a great choice for honeymoons and weddings.
Travel Guide 2019/2020 Phuket & Krabi (E-BOOK VERSION)
