AO NANG
Ao Nang is the vibrant gateway to Thailand’s stunning Krabi Province, famous for its dramatic limestone karst scenery and pristine Andaman Sea beaches. It is a central base for exploring the region’s famous islands.
This tropical paradise offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, from world-class rock climbing to idyllic island-hopping boat tours. It boasts a lively beachfront and an unforgettable sunset view.
Most Popular Attractions
Beaches, Peninsula & Longtail Boat Hubs:
Ao Nang Beach: The bustling central waterfront and primary longtail boat departure point, famed for spectacular sunset views.
Nopparat Thara Beach: A long, beautiful national park beach at the northern end of the resort area, known for its extensive tidal sand flat.
Railay Beach (West): A stunning main peninsula beach, cut off from the mainland by cliffs, accessible only by a short boat ride.
Phra Nang Beach: A postcard-perfect cove on the Railay peninsula featuring soft sand, an iconic limestone stack, and the revered Princess Cave shrine.
Tonsai Beach: A laid-back, bohemian cove on the Railay peninsula popular with backpackers and rock climbers.
Pai Plong Beach: A quieter, more secluded beach north of Ao Nang, accessible via the famous Monkey Trail cliff-side walk.
Klong Muang Beach: A more tranquil and upscale beach area located north of Ao Nang, known for quiet resorts and peaceful sunset viewing.
Island Hopping & National Park Destinations:
Koh Poda: A quintessential Andaman Sea island known for its powdery white sand and the majestic limestone stack off its shore.
Chicken Island (Koh Gai): Named for its distinctive chicken-head shaped rock formation, it is a favored spot for snorkeling.
Tup Island (Koh Tub): Famous for the phenomenon of Talay Waek (separated sea), a sandbar that links it to other islands at low tide.
Hong Island (Koh Hong): A stunning island known for its enclosed, turquoise lagoon and pristine national park status, ideal for kayaking.
Maya Bay (on Ko Phi Phi Leh): The world-famous protected bay, accessible via day trips, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and pure waters.
Phileh Lagoon: A spectacular emerald-green lagoon on Ko Phi Phi Leh, perfect for swimming and surrounded by sheer karsts.
Land-based & Cultural Sites:
Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple): A sacred Buddhist site involving a challenging 1,237-step climb to a mountaintop shrine with panoramic regional views.
Emerald Pool (Sa Morakot): A natural, vibrant green freshwater pool nestled within a lush forest national park.
Blue Lagoon (Sra Kaew): A deeper, highly mineralized pool near the Emerald Pool, known for its intense blue water.
Khao Ngon Nak Viewpoint (Dragon Crest Trail): A demanding but rewarding jungle hike leading to an incredible 360-degree clifftop panorama.
Ao Thalane Bay: A complex system of mangrove estuaries and towering limestone canyons, best explored on a guided sea kayaking tour.
Krabi Elephant Sanctuary: An ethical, no-riding facility offering visitors the opportunity to feed, bathe, and walk with rescued elephants.
Hot Spring Waterfall (Namtok Ron): Natural thermal hot springs with a small waterfall, offering a relaxing, therapeutic experience.
Adventure & Town Attractions:
Rock Climbing at Railay: A world-renowned destination for scaling the massive limestone cliffs, with classes available for all skill levels.
Ao Nang Landmark Night Market: A vibrant evening market featuring a vast array of Thai street food, souvenirs, and a lively atmosphere.
The Hilltop Restaurant: A popular dining venue that offers breathtaking, elevated views of Ao Nang Beach and the Andaman sunset.
Muay Thai at Ao Nang Stadium: The place to watch a live match of Thailand’s iconic national sport, often with local and international fighters.
Cave Shrine at Phra Nang Beach: The unique and spiritual shrine at the end of Phra Nang Beach, adorned with phallic symbols (palad khik) as offerings for fertility and safe journeys.
Activities & Experiences
Go Island Hopping on a Long-tail Boat: Take the classic “Four Islands Tour” (Koh Poda, Chicken Island, Tub Island, and Phra Nang Cave Beach) or a trip to the stunning Hong Islands for a quintessential Krabi experience.
Take a Day Trip to Railay Beach: Use a long-tail boat to reach Railay, a peninsula cut off by towering cliffs. Spend the day swimming at Railay West, visiting Phra Nang Cave, and soaking in the relaxed vibe.
Learn Rock Climbing: The limestone karsts of Railay and Tonsai Beach are world-famous for rock climbing. Take a beginner’s course on the cliffs overlooking the Andaman Sea.
Hike the Monkey Trail to Pai Plong Beach: Walk the short, scenic wooden boardwalk trail at the end of Ao Nang Beach to reach the quieter, secluded Pai Plong Beach, often spotting Dusky Leaf Monkeys along the way.
Kayak Through the Mangroves of Ao Thalane: Join a guided kayaking tour through a maze of limestone canyons and lush mangrove forests, a peaceful way to see local wildlife.
Visit a Reputable Elephant Sanctuary: Spend time feeding, bathing, and interacting with rescued elephants in a responsible, no-riding environment outside of Ao Nang.
Hike the Dragon Crest Trail (Khao Ngon Nak): Tackle this challenging but rewarding hike for one of the most breathtaking panoramic viewpoints of the entire Krabi coastline and islands.
Experience a Muay Thai Fight or Training: Attend a professional fight at the local stadium or sign up for a training session to learn the fundamentals of Thailand’s national sport.
Explore the Emerald Pool and Hot Springs: Take a day trip inland to swim in the vivid, clear waters of the Sra Morakot (Emerald Pool) and relax in the nearby natural hot spring waterfalls.
Hike the Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea): Challenge yourself with the 1,237 steps to the summit of this Buddhist temple for an epic view and to see the large golden Buddha statue.
Shop and Eat at the Night Markets: Browse for souvenirs and sample an enormous variety of affordable, authentic Thai street food at the Ao Nang Landmark Night Market or the weekend Krabi Town Night Market.
Local Tips & Transport
Long-tail Boats are Key: This is the primary and most essential form of transport for accessing nearby beaches (like Railay) and islands. Boats are purchased at designated ticket booths on Ao Nang Beach and will only depart once all seats (usually 8) are filled. Prices are fixed per person for popular routes.
Local Songthaews (Shared Taxis): These covered pickup trucks with bench seating follow a fixed route, connecting Ao Nang, Nopparat Thara Beach, and Krabi Town. They are the most budget-friendly option for travel between the main areas. Fares are usually fixed and paid to the driver.
Tuk-Tuks and Motorbike Taxis: Readily available for short distances within Ao Nang. Be sure to agree on the price before you start your journey, as they do not use meters and a little friendly haggling is expected.
Ride-Hailing Apps: Apps like Grab are available and can be a convenient way to book a ride with a predetermined fare, avoiding negotiation, especially to or from Krabi Town and the airport.
Renting a Scooter/Motorbike: Very popular for independent travel to inland attractions like the Hot Springs or Dragon Crest Trail. Only rent if you are an experienced rider with a valid international license, as roads can be unpredictable and accidents are common.
Sun Protection is Crucial: The equatorial sun is intense, even on cloudy days. Apply a high SPF sunscreen regularly, especially when on the water, and carry a hat and sunglasses.
The Wai and Respect: The traditional Thai greeting is the Wai (a slight bow with hands pressed together). While not expected from tourists, a polite demeanor and using “Kráp” (for men) or “Kâ” (for women) after saying ‘thank you’ (Khòp Kun) is appreciated.
Respect for Temples (Wats): When visiting any temple, including the Tiger Cave Temple, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. Remove your shoes before entering any temple or local home.
Be Mindful of Wildlife: The area is home to monkeys, especially on the Monkey Trail and Railay. Do not feed them, as it encourages aggressive behavior. Keep all food, bags, and water bottles secure and out of sight.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially when hiking or spending time on the islands. Look for vendors selling fresh Coconut Water for a refreshing local drink.
Hidden Gems
- The Last Fisherman Bar: A rustic, atmospheric beachfront bar on Ao Nang Beach perfect for enjoying a sunset cocktail with your feet in the sand.
- Khaothong Hill: A scenic café/restaurant viewpoint about 30 minutes from Ao Nang, offering incredible views over Phang Nga Bay, best visited around sunset.
- Wat Sai Thai (Standing Buddha): A smaller, peaceful temple and religious site just outside of Ao Nang that is a great local spot to visit.
Top Restaurants
D&E Jungle Kitchen [$8-$15] – Tucked away in a quiet spot, this is a must-visit for authentic, home-style Southern Thai cuisine, known for its deep flavors and local feel.
Kodam Kitchen [$10-$20] – A hidden gem slightly off the main road, highly recommended for its delicious Thai food, great prices, and a mix of classic and unique dishes.
Ton Ma Yom Thai Food Restaurant [$8-$15] – Simple in style but immensely popular, this is a local favorite for its consistently excellent and authentic Thai curries and stir-fries.
Ruen Mai Restaurant [$10-$20] – Located a short distance from the main Ao Nang strip, this beautiful, traditional-style restaurant specializes in authentic Southern Thai cuisine.
Family Thaifood & Seafood [$10-$20] – A bustling local spot on a side street, popular for its good portions, relatively affordable prices, and delicious seafood Massaman curry.
Krua Thara (ครัวธารา) [$15-$25] – Located near Nopparat Thara Pier, this is a highly regarded seafood restaurant with a wide selection of fresh catches and a clean, local ambiance.
Wang Sai Seafood [$15-$25] – A mega-seafood restaurant situated on the beachfront of Hat Noppharat Thara, offering a lively atmosphere and plenty of fresh fish, crabs, and clams to choose from.
Ao Nang Boat Noodle & Thai Food [$5-$12] – A great local restaurant known for its delicious noodle dishes, including chicken noodles and seafood options, providing an authentic street-food experience indoors.
Bussaba Thai Restaurant [$10-$20] – Located a bit further north, this long-standing restaurant is praised for its authentic Thai dishes, particularly northern-influenced cuisine.
Sandee’s Thai Restaurant [$8-$15] – A small, friendly, and family-run eatery known for serving up fresh, high-quality, and flavorful Thai classics.
Jasmin Restaurant [$10-$20] – A small but highly-rated local restaurant that offers delicious Thai food with fresh ingredients, including an excellent Pad Thai often served wrapped in an egg net.
The Heart Restaurant [$10-$20] – A charming family-owned eatery that focuses on fresh and delicious home-cooked Thai food with a variety of classic options.
The Longtail Boat – Bar & Restaurant [$15-$25] – Located on the “Seafood Street,” this restaurant offers a lovely atmosphere and serves a mix of Italian and Thai seafood dishes.
A-One Restaurant [$10-$20] – A charming hidden gem in the southern part of Central Ao Nang, offering a delightful blend of Thai and Western cuisine in a tranquil setting.
Lae Lay Grill [$25-$40] – Perched on a hill overlooking the Andaman Sea, this restaurant is famous for its exceptional fresh seafood and one of the best spots to watch the sunset (complimentary shuttle service often available).
Jenna’s Bistro & Wine [$25-$45] – An upscale bistro offering a unique menu with a perfect mix of high-quality Western-inspired dishes, steaks, and a good selection of wines.
Carnivore Steak & Grill [$30-$50] – A hotspot for meat lovers, managed by Dutch owners, offering a quality selection of grilled steaks, juicy burgers, and other carnivorous delights.
Rakhang Thai Bistro & Bar [$20-$35] – A highly-recommended choice for a slightly nicer meal, this bistro offers well-prepared Thai dishes in a stylish setting with a full bar.
Sea Salt Krabi [$25-$45] – A rooftop restaurant on the 6th floor of Phranang Place, known for its mountain views and Mediterranean-inspired open-fire grill dishes and wood-oven pizzas.
CRU Kitchen & Bar [$20-$40] – A lively, casual restaurant near the Ao Nang Night Market serving modern Western cuisine, including pizza, tapas, and customizable protein bowls.
Umberto’s Cuisine [$25-$40] – A renowned Italian restaurant known for its genuine Italian food, focusing on quality ingredients, located on the ground floor of Alisea Boutique Hotel.
“Azzurra” Authentic Italian Restaurant – Pizzeria – Enoteca [$20-$35] – Offers a truly authentic Italian dining experience with an owner from Italy, known for its genuine pasta dishes and good wine list.
Café 8.98 Ao Nang [$10-$20] – A popular Western eatery that offers a diverse menu, great coffee, and wholesome options like Buddha bowls and hearty breakfasts.
Diver’s Inn Steak House [$25-$40] – Established in 2000, this popular spot offers high-quality steaks and other Western dishes, known for its consistent quality.
The Cliff Restaurant [$30-$50] – Located at Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort, this restaurant offers elevated dining with great views and a menu of bites and delights.
The Glass House Restaurant [$30-$50] – Known for its stunning modern architecture and unparalleled views of the coastline, offering innovative menus with international and Thai fusion influences.
The Hilltop Ao Nang [$30-$50] – Famous for its spectacular panoramic views of Ao Nang and the Andaman Sea, this iconic restaurant is a perfect spot for sunset and offers a menu of Thai and international dishes (reservations and transport recommended).
The Last Fisherman Bar [$15-$30] – Located at the quiet southern end of Ao Nang Beach, this unique spot has a laid-back, rustic ambiance with driftwood and bamboo furniture, perfect for a casual barbecue feast by the sea.
REEVE Beach Club Krabi [$20-$40] – Offers a stunning beachfront location with direct access to the sand, breathtaking sunset views, and a delightful menu of food and drinks.
Khaothong Terrace Restaurant [$20-$35] – Located a short drive from Ao Nang in Khao Thong, this restaurant is a top choice for panoramic views and delectable original Thai dishes.
The Grotto (Rayavadee) [$80-$150] – Located on Railay Beach (accessible by longtail boat), this is a famous cave restaurant that offers a truly unique fine dining experience with fresh seafood right by the sea.
Inn Asia Restaurant [$25-$45] – Located atop the lobby of Holiday Ao Nang Beach Resort, it offers an elevated dining experience with sweeping views of Ao Nang Beach.
Wave Restaurant & Bar [$20-$40] – A charming beachfront restaurant at Holiday Ao Nang Beach Resort, offering all-day dining with panoramic views of Ao Nang Beach.
Hagi @ Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi [$30-$50] – A genuine Japanese dining experience tucked away within the resort, known for its high-quality Japanese cuisine.
Mr.m Coffee & Cocktail [$8-$15] – A great casual spot for a refreshing break, offering Thai iced coffee, mango sticky rice, and sundowner cocktails with a view.
Ao Nang Landmark Night Market [$5-$15] – Not a single restaurant, but a vibrant night market with numerous food stalls offering affordable Thai street food, a great spot for a casual, diverse meal.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
The Last Fisherman Bar: A classic, rustic beach bar situated directly on Ao Nang Beach (near the southern end). Known for its huge outdoor seating area, tropical bamboo roof, and prime position for watching the sunset while enjoying a cocktail.
Boogie Bar: A centrally located, well-established bar on the Ao Nang strip (near the junction with the main beach road). Famous for its vibrant, old-school 70s-style atmosphere, pool table, and excellent live cover bands playing a wide range of music.
Reeve Beach Club: An upscale, stylish beach club directly above Ao Nang Beach, offering stunning sea views and a luxurious atmosphere. It’s a fantastic spot for signature cocktails and sunset vistas, run by the owners of Panan Krabi Resort.
The Sand Beach Club: Located at the Centara Ao Nang Beach Resort & Spa Krabi, this bar is open to all guests and non-guests. It faces the ocean, offering lush beachside benches and hammocks perfect for a relaxed sunset cocktail.
Full Moon Beach Bar: A newly transformed beachside spot at the far northern end of Ao Nang Beach (a few sandy steps from Reeve Beach Club). It features an incredible tiki-vibe, fairy lights, and an Insta-worthy tree swing.
Luna Beach Bar: A well-known nightlife spot near Nopparat Thara Beach, featuring a large covered wooden terrace. It offers a mix of entertainment and is a good option for those seeking a more sheltered beach vibe.
Frog Beach Bar: Found near the quieter Nopparat Thara Beach, this bar sets up tables and chairs along the beachfront under a large tree every night, offering a more peaceful, tranquil atmosphere for evening drinks.
C2 Beach Club Ao Nang: Situated at the far end of Ao Nang Beach near the Monkey Trail. This secluded spot provides unspoiled views of the ocean and the famous Ao Nang Beach ‘rock’ Tower, ideal for unwinding with a drink.
Nang An Beach Bar: Located near the Ao Nang Night Market, this bar has an unpretentious, casual charm. It’s an ideal spot for a sunset drink with a selection of refreshing cocktails and local beers.
Amy’s Bar: A lively and welcoming nightspot located in the Soi RCA entertainment area. It’s run by a vivacious owner and is one of the best places on the strip for a fun, friendly night out with great drinks.
Longhorn Bar: Also centrally located on the Ao Nang strip, this venue is known for its energetic rock performances and a more rustic, authentic bar feel. Great for live music enthusiasts.
Fullmoon Bar And Cocktails (Separate from beach bar): A brilliant bar known for having a fantastic live band (often covers a great mix of music), great food, and, as the name suggests, a solid selection of cocktails.
Get Rad’s: A dedicated mixology bar with a laid-back atmosphere. Located on the main street, it focuses on taking cocktails to a new level, offering both expertly crafted classics and unique original creations.
Hubert Jazz Club: For those seeking a different pace, this club in Ao Nang offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere with a focus on jazz music. A perfect choice for a sophisticated late-night drink.
Smile Bar Central Point Ao Nang Beach Krabi: Located inside the lively Center Point complex, this is a friendly and vibrant bar known for its welcoming atmosphere and well-priced drinks.
Chang Bar Ao-Nang: A popular and lively club located in the Center Point complex near Ao Nang Beach. It’s known for hosting live bands and DJs playing late into the night, offering affordable drinks and a spacious dance floor.
Ao Nang Center Point Complex: While not a single venue, this three-story modern entertainment complex (located on the main beach road) is the heart of Ao Nang’s late-night scene. It houses multiple bars, clubs, and various entertainment options under one roof.
Ao Nang RCA Entertainment: This complex, located just off the main beach road, is another dedicated nightlife area, known for its concentration of bars and a more ‘traditional’ party atmosphere. It’s where you’ll find places like Amy’s Bar.
Tribe Beach Bar: Set on the beach, this bar is a gathering place for lovers of trippy electronic dance music (EDM) and heady cocktails. It offers a relaxed vibe that builds into a proper beach party as the night progresses.
The Last Bar (on Railay West): While technically a short longtail boat ride away (on Railay Beach), this is a legendary late-night spot. It’s famous for its unique mix of a lively bar scene, live Thai boxing, and stunning fire shows right on the beach.
Slumber Party Hostel Bar: Located a bit further back from the beach but famous for its lively party scene, especially if you’re looking for a younger crowd. Known for its pub crawls, beer pong, and body shots.
The Beach Club: A lively and energetic beachfront bar in Ao Nang known for its vibrant atmosphere, live music, and late-night food. A popular spot for socializing and enjoying the sea views after dark.
Kokomo Club: A proper nightclub located in the Ao Nang Center Point complex. It often features DJs playing a mix of commercial and electronic music and is a popular choice for dancing until the early hours.