KRABI TOWN & KOH LANTA
Krabi is the gateway to Thailand’s most iconic landscapes—dramatic limestone karsts rising from the turquoise Andaman Sea. It blends the buzz of Krabi Town with the relaxed, long beaches of Koh Lanta.
This is a haven for island-hoppers and divers, offering laid-back Thai culture and a wealth of natural beauty. Experience vibrant markets and serene escapes in one unforgettable destination.
Most Popular Attractions
Krabi Mainland Town & Scenic Vistas
Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua): A challenging climb of 1,237 steps rewarded with panoramic views of Krabi and the Andaman Sea.
Krabi Night Market: A vibrant weekend market in Krabi Town, famous for its street food, souvenirs, and live music.
Khao Khanab Nam: The iconic twin limestone mountains that act as the gateway landmark to Krabi Town, often explored by longtail boat.
Krabi Mud Crabs Sculpture: A popular photo spot and local landmark located on the waterfront of Krabi Town, celebrating local wildlife.
Ao Nang Beach: The primary mainland tourist hub and launch point for boat tours to surrounding islands.
Nopparat Thara Beach: A quieter, expansive beach near Ao Nang, famous for its beautiful sunsets and low-tide access to small islands.
Susan Hoi (Shell Cemetery): A rare geological site featuring a slab of fossilized shells estimated to be over 40 million years old.
Krabi Town Walking Street: A smaller, weeknight market offering local crafts and unique Thai snacks.
Koh Lanta Archipelago Highlights
Mu Ko Lanta National Park: Located at the southern tip of Koh Lanta Yai, featuring the iconic lighthouse, rugged coastline, and dense jungle.
Lanta Old Town: A charming, historic village on the east coast, built on stilts over the water, offering a glimpse into the island’s traditional sea gypsy past.
Long Beach (Phra Ae Beach): The most popular and longest stretch of white sand on Koh Lanta, known for its relaxing atmosphere and beach bars.
Klong Dao Beach: A calm, family-friendly beach with shallow water, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Khlong Khong Beach: Known for its relaxed, bohemian vibe and excellent spots for watching the sunset.
Khlong Chak Waterfall: A small, jungle-hidden waterfall in the southern part of the island, accessible via a short hike.
Mai Kaew Cave: An impressive network of large, deep caves on the island, requiring a local guide to explore.
Lanta Animal Welfare: A vital sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating stray animals, open for visitor tours and volunteering.
Islands & Day Trip Adventures
Railay Beach: A spectacular peninsula (inaccessible by road) famous for its towering karsts, world-class rock climbing, and the beautiful Phra Nang Cave Beach.
The Four Islands Tour: A classic Krabi trip usually visiting Koh Poda (stunning beach), Koh Gai (Chicken Island), Koh Tub, and Koh Mor (connected by a sandbar at low tide).
Emerald Cave (Tham Morakot): Located on Koh Mook, an incredible experience where you swim through a dark tunnel to reach a hidden, sky-lit lagoon.
Koh Phi Phi Islands: The world-famous archipelago, including the stunning Maya Bay (from The Beach), Phi Phi Don, and Phi Phi Leh.
Koh Rok: A pair of protected islands known for their remarkably clear water, pristine beaches, and some of the best snorkeling in the region.
Koh Ngai (Ko Hai): A small, tranquil island south of Krabi, offering quiet resorts and excellent house reef snorkeling.
Hot Spring Waterfall (Namtok Ron): A series of naturally heated thermal pools nestled in a jungle setting near Krabi Town.
Thung Teao Forest Natural Park: Home to the Emerald Pool (Sra Morakot), a crystal-clear, brilliant blue-green natural spring for swimming.
Activities & Experiences
Go Island Hopping on a Four Islands Tour (from Krabi or Lanta): Explore the iconic Krabi coastline with a day trip to islands like Chicken Island, Poda Island, Tub Island, and the beautiful Phra Nang Cave Beach (Railay Peninsula). Typical cost: $25–$55 USD.
Kayak Through the Ao Thalane Mangrove Forest: Paddle a kayak through a stunning labyrinth of limestone canyons and mangrove forests near Krabi, looking out for monkeys and other wildlife.
Hike the 1,237 Steps to Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua): Take on the challenging climb near Krabi Town to reach the golden Buddha and summit viewpoint for a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the Krabi area.
Explore the Emerald Cave (Tham Morakot) on Koh Mook: Join a tour from Koh Lanta to swim through a dark, 80-meter tunnel that opens into a hidden lagoon and a white-sand beach.
Relax and Swim at the Emerald Pool (Sra Morakot): Visit this natural, bright-green freshwater pool and the nearby Hot Springs Waterfall (Nam Tok Rorn) in the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve near Krabi.
Take a Thai Cooking Class: Learn to prepare classic dishes like Pad Thai, Massaman Curry, or Tom Yum in a local Lanta or Krabi school, often including a market visit. Typical cost: $45–$65 USD.
Snorkel or Dive at Koh Haa and Koh Rok: Take a speed boat tour from Koh Lanta to these protected marine areas, known for their stunning visibility, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse sea life. Typical cost: $55–$90 USD.
Stroll and Dine in Lanta Old Town: Wander through the charming historic streets lined with traditional wooden stilt houses, unique shops, and excellent seafood restaurants on the less-developed east coast of Koh Lanta.
Rock Climb at Railay Beach: Try out world-class rock climbing on the towering limestone karsts of Railay Peninsula, which offers routes for all skill levels.
Hike to Mu Ko Lanta National Park Lighthouse: Explore the rugged, scenic south end of Koh Lanta, visit the iconic lighthouse, and relax on the small beach within the park (entry fee required).
Experience the Krabi Town Night Market (Weekend): Visit the lively Walking Street on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday evening for an incredible array of inexpensive street food, local products, and live music.
Local Tips & Transport
Motorbike/Scooter Rental (Koh Lanta): This is the most popular way to explore Koh Lanta. Rentals are widely available (approx. $5–$8 USD/day). Caution: Roads are hilly and can be slippery. Always wear a helmet (it’s legally required), and ensure you have the appropriate license and travel insurance.
Songthaews and Tuk-Tuks (Krabi & Lanta):
- Krabi Town/Ao Nang: Shared pickup trucks (Songthaews) run fixed, affordable routes. Tuk-tuks are common for shorter, private trips—always agree on the fare before you get in.
- Koh Lanta: Tuk-tuks (often motorbikes with sidecars) are the main taxi option. Prices are fixed per distance/beach area, but always confirm the fare first.
Getting to Koh Lanta: From Krabi, you can travel by minivan (via two car ferries, available all year) or by passenger ferry/speedboat (mostly available during the high season, November to April). Book in advance during peak times.
Longtail Boats: These traditional wooden boats are essential for island transfers, accessing beaches like Railay from Ao Nang, and island-hopping tours. Fares are usually set and clearly posted at ticket booths.
The Low Season (May–October): Koh Lanta experiences a noticeable drop in tourism during the rainy season. While accommodation is cheaper and it’s less crowded, some ferry services cease, a few businesses close, and the sea can be rough with less-clear water.
Respectful Attire: Thailand is a deeply Buddhist country. When visiting temples (like Tiger Cave Temple), ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. Take off your shoes before entering any temple structure, and often before entering homes and some smaller shops.
Wai (The Thai Greeting): The traditional Thai greeting is the Wai (a slight bow with hands pressed together like a prayer). Tourists are not expected to Wai first, but if offered a Wai by a local, returning a slight nod or a simple Wai is a sign of respect.
Street Food Culture: Thai street food is a must-try. Don’t be afraid of the small, busy stalls; they often offer the freshest and most authentic flavors. It is very affordable (most dishes are under $3–$4 USD).
Hidden Gems:
- Khlong Dao & Long Beach (Koh Lanta): These northern beaches are excellent for families due to the calm, shallow water. They offer a relaxed vibe with plenty of sunset spots.
- Khlong Khong Beach (Koh Lanta): Known for its relaxed, bohemian vibe, reggae bars, and budget-friendly accommodation, it attracts a younger, backpacker crowd.
- Fossil Shell Beach (Susan Hoi): Located near Krabi, this site features a massive slab of shelly limestone believed to be from the Oligocene period (about 25 million years old).
Top Restaurants
Ruen Mai Restaurant [$10-$20] – A beautiful, traditional wooden house setting outside Krabi Town center, specializing in authentic and fiery Southern Thai cuisine like Kua Kling (dry curry).
Chao Fah Pier Night Market Stalls [$3-$10] – Not a single restaurant, but a popular Krabi Town market along the waterfront where locals and visitors flock for incredibly fresh seafood, Pad Thai, and curries from numerous vendors.
Krabi Walking Street (Weekend Market) Stalls [$3-$10] – On weekend evenings, this market is packed with vendors offering a wide array of cheap and tasty local delicacies, grilled shellfish, and regional curries.
Khong Kha Pier Night Market Stalls [$3-$10] – A busy night market near the ferry docks in Krabi Town, popular for cheap, tasty local food, especially their fantastic Southern curries.
Krua Thara [$15-$30] – A highly-regarded seafood restaurant near Ao Nang, a short trip from Krabi Town, known for its ultra-fresh seafood (you pick it out) prepared in traditional Thai styles.
Yawee Restaurant [$5-$15] – A famous, small, family-run open wooden restaurant on the main road known for outstanding, authentic, and high-quality Thai food like Massaman Curry with crispy tofu and excellent chicken wings.
Krua Dan Thai [$5-$15] – A local spot known for delicious and authentic Southern Thai dishes, providing a true taste of local flavors away from the most central tourist areas.
Lanta Seafront Restaurant (Saladan Pier) [$10-$25] – Located right on the pier, this spot is popular with locals for fresh seafood prepared in a simple, traditional Southern Thai style.
Lay Sod [$5-$15] – A well-liked, no-frills restaurant on Klong Khong Beach road offering good, local Thai food and a relaxed, classic island vibe.
Thai Smile [$5-$15] – A beautiful, relaxed oasis off the main road in Klong Khong, serving consistently excellent, authentic Thai dishes with very friendly service.
Same Same But Different Restaurant [$10-$20] – Located in Kantiang Bay, this is a beautiful beachside restaurant known for quality Thai food, a relaxed atmosphere, and stunning sunset views.
Krua Kritsana Restaurant [$10-$20] – Located on Long Beach Road, it is a great spot for authentic, well-prepared Thai food at reasonable prices, popular with island residents.
May’s Kitchen [$5-$15] – A simple, roadside restaurant on Long Beach road that has a strong local following for its freshly cooked, authentic Thai dishes.
Phad Thai Rock n Roll [$5-$15] – A famous, small, and simple spot in Kantiang Bay known for delivering consistently solid, comforting dishes like its namesake Pad Thai and Pad See Ew.
Panpee Noodle Shop [$3-$10] – A hidden local gem in Koh Lanta specializing in excellent, cheap, and tasty local noodle dishes, perfect for a quick and authentic lunch.
Lanta Big Island Kitchen [$15-$35] – A special, rustic spot on a pier in Koh Lanta, offering an incredible fresh seafood feast with a gorgeous, authentic setting over the water.
Rak Talay Beach Bar and Restaurant [$20-$40] – Located at Pimalai Resort in Koh Lanta, it offers an exceptional sea-to-table concept with ultra-fresh seafood and stunning beachfront views in a refined, yet casual setting.
Last Fisherman Bar [$10-$25] – Situated on Ao Nang Beach (near Krabi Town), this is a classic, family-friendly spot that serves good Thai food with spectacular sunset views and a relaxed beach vibe.
Klong Muang Seafood [$15-$30] – A less-touristy option in Klong Muang (Krabi area) offering a great selection of fresh, pick-your-own seafood cooked to perfection in local style.
Sea Culture [$10-$25] – A small, family-run beachfront restaurant on Koh Lanta, ideal for admiring the sunset while enjoying authentic Thai meals and the catch of the day.
Lay Lae Grill [$15-$30] – An elevated restaurant above Ao Nang (near Krabi Town) with incredible views of the limestone karsts, known for its sumptuous seafood and creamy coconut soups.
South and Sea Beach Bar & Restaurant [$10-$25] – Located on Koh Lanta, this is a lovely beachfront spot known for its fresh seafood and casual atmosphere, perfect for a meal by the water.
Yang Garden [$30-$60] – An upscale, highly-rated restaurant in Koh Lanta (Sala Dan area) offering creative Thai-Continental fusion cuisine, premium steaks, and an impressive wine list in a beautiful, romantic tropical garden setting.
Drunken Sailors [$10-$25] – A popular, fun, and friendly cafe/restaurant on Koh Lanta known for its excellent Western/Fusion brunch, great coffee, and creative Thai dishes, including options with Korean and Japanese influences.
Time For Lime [$30-$50] – Part of a cooking school on Klong Dao Beach (Koh Lanta), this restaurant offers a unique, daily changing tasting menu of high-quality, authentic Thai dishes with a modern flair. All profits go to the Lanta Animal Welfare charity.
Hidden Tree [$10-$20] – A tranquil cafe on Koh Lanta’s main road, perfect for a slow morning with excellent Western and healthy brunch options, coffees, and smoothies.
Seven Seas Restaurant [$40-$70] – Located within the Pimalai Resort (Koh Lanta), this fine-dining spot offers gourmet international cuisine with sweeping views of the Andaman Sea in an elegant ambiance.
Chalita [$15-$30] – A single shop-front restaurant in Krabi Town specializing in a successful fusion of Italian (superb pizza) and Thai cuisine, run by an Italian-Southern Thai couple.
Spice N’ Rice Restaurant [$25-$45] – Situated in the Pimalai Resort (Koh Lanta), it is celebrated for authentic Southern Thai cuisine with bold, local flavors, offering a refined dining experience.
Koala Bar and Restaurant [$10-$20] – Located at Ocean View Resort on Klong Dao Beach (Koh Lanta), this is a favorite beach bar/restaurant for good quality Thai food, a wide selection of Western dishes, and killer pizzas.
Two Scoops Gelato and Desserts [$5-$10] – Without a doubt the best ice cream shop on Koh Lanta, serving a variety of delicious gelato and desserts.
Tuesday Morning Small Talk Cafe and Chill Out [$5-$15] – A lovely spot in Koh Lanta for breakfast and coffee, offering a relaxed atmosphere by the sea.
Diecks Deli [$8-$15] – A popular deli on Koh Lanta known for its fresh sandwiches, paninis, and European-style comfort food.
The Banyan Tree Poolside Café [$10-$20] – A relaxed, open-air café at Pimalai Resort (Koh Lanta) offering light salads, sandwiches, and casual Thai dishes perfect for a midday snack.
Pizzeria Italia [$15-$30] – Located on Klong Dao (Koh Lanta), this spot is a go-to for a long list of good pizza, pasta, and wine, providing a quality European alternative.
Bussaba Thai Restaurant [$10-$20] – Located in Ao Nang (Krabi area), this place is known for delivering excellent Thai dishes in a friendly atmosphere.
The Grotto (Rayavadee) [$80-$120] – A famous, high-end cave restaurant on Railay Beach (accessible by longtail boat from Krabi Town/Ao Nang) where you can enjoy fresh seafood right by the sea in a truly unique setting.
Sri Trang (Phulay Bay) [$40-$70] – A powerhouse restaurant at a Ritz-Carlton Reserve (Tub Kaek Beach, Krabi), known for its exquisite traditional Thai cuisine and phenomenal views.
Krua Phranang (Rayavadee) [$30-$50] – A very popular sea-view restaurant also on Railay Beach (Krabi), offering extraordinary traditional Thai cuisine with a beautiful backdrop.
Lae Lay Grill [$25-$45] – An impressive restaurant on an elevated location above Ao Nang (Krabi area) offering incredible views over the town and water, with great Thai food and seafood.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Why Not Bar: Situated right on the beach in the beautiful Kantiang Bay on Koh Lanta, this iconic spot is famous for its laid-back atmosphere, live music every night, and spectacular fire shows.
Majestic Bar Koh Lanta: A premier beachside retreat on Long Beach (Phra Ae Beach) in Koh Lanta, known for its excellent selection of quality cocktails, friendly service, and a perfect sunset viewing spot.
The Ozone Beach Bar & Club: Located on Long Beach in Koh Lanta, this venue offers stunning sunset sessions and is one of the island’s oldest spots, famous for hosting big beach parties with live DJs on dedicated party nights.
Bamboo Bar: A lively, open-air beach-style bar in Railay Beach (accessible from Krabi Town), found just behind Railay Walking Street. It’s known for its fantastic cocktails and is a popular spot that transitions into a vibrant party venue after sunset.
Tew Lay Bar: Located on the quieter Railay Beach East, this rustic bamboo bar is a hidden gem that offers a tranquil beachside escape with soothing tunes and stunning views from its unique, rustic setting.
Funky Monkey: A popular, large bar on the main road near Long Beach in Koh Lanta, known for its lively atmosphere, unique and vibrant décor, good cocktails, and often featuring live music, darts, and pool tables.
Chilling Bar & Restaurant: A popular local spot on Chaofa Road, Paknam in Krabi Town, known as a great sports bar with a relaxed atmosphere, offering good food, chilled beer, and live sports on big screens.
Lighthouse Beach Bar: Found on Klong Khong Beach in Koh Lanta, this bar is known for its party nights, featuring live DJs playing deep tech house and a chilled vibe with live fire shows on the beach.
Korner Bar: Tucked away in the southern part of Long Beach in Koh Lanta, this popular beachside bar is another venue that hosts a weekly Insomnia Party, drawing a lively crowd.
Sunset Bar: Located directly on Klong Muang Beach in Krabi, this unpretentious venue is built from recycled materials and offers a perfect spot to unwind with an affordable drink while watching the sunset over the Andaman Sea.
Amy’s Bar: A cozy and vibrant bar tucked in the Soi RCA Entertainment complex in Ao Nang (near Krabi Town), renowned for its friendly atmosphere and great for enjoying cocktails and shots for an awesome party night.
Blue Moon Bar: Located on Klong Nin Beach in Koh Lanta, this wooden bar offers a great spot for sunset drinks, live music, and sometimes hosts fire shows on the beach.
Racuda Bar: Situated near a diving spot on Koh Lanta, this bar allows you to enjoy the cool sea breeze while sipping on their expertly crafted cocktails and enjoying live music performances.
The Irish Embassy Pub: A popular Western-style pub on Long Beach Road in Koh Lanta, offering a break from the beach bars with quiz nights and live music/open mic sessions, alongside a selection of drinks and a great social atmosphere.
Irie Bar and Restaurant: Known for some of the best live reggae music and a laid-back, friendly atmosphere on Long Beach Road in Koh Lanta. It’s a great spot for an early meal followed by a lively music session.
The Ozone Beach Bar & Club: It functions as a super club on the sand on its designated party nights on Koh Lanta, featuring an amazing sound system, light show, and deep house/tech house DJs playing until late.
Fusion Bar: Located on Relax Bay Beach in Koh Lanta, this beach bar offers a lively party on Friday nights, often playing house, tech house, and progressive music, with a full dance vibe.
Lighthouse Beach Bar: In addition to being a great cocktail spot on Klong Khong Beach, it turns into a vibrant dance spot on its dedicated party nights with DJs pumping out deep tech house.
Boogie Bar: A lively ’70s-style bar in Ao Nang (Krabi), known for its talented cover bands playing pop-rock classics and a lively atmosphere, making it a popular dancing spot.
Ao Nang Center Point: The main nightlife center in Ao Nang (Krabi), a multi-story complex with several bars and clubs, including the popular Little Longhorn Sedan and places for late-night dining and entertainment.
Pangea: Located on Long Beach in Koh Lanta, this spot offers a great place to hang out during the day and watch the sunset, but also hosts a “Deep Sundays” session focused on unwinding with great music.
Liberty Beach Bar: A popular party venue on Klong Khong Beach in Koh Lanta, known for hosting lively beach parties with DJs on certain nights of the week.
Mushroom Bar: A well-known party destination on Klong Khong Beach in Koh Lanta, famous for its vibrant nightlife, delightful drinks, and lively music.
Korner Bar: In addition to being a cocktail spot on Long Beach in Koh Lanta, this secluded spot hosts the popular “Insomnia Party” on certain nights, turning it into a high-energy beach club.
Drunk with Me: A popular late-night chillout spot and after-party venue on Koh Lanta, often mentioned as a great place to wind down after the main beach parties, with a focus on a relaxed social atmosphere.