KRABI PROVINCE
This stunning Southern Thailand province is defined by its sheer limestone karsts, turquoise waters, and idyllic island beaches.
This guide will help you navigate the famous railay beaches, vibrant Andaman Sea islands, and lush national parks of one of Thailand’s most photogenic destinations.
Why Visit Krabi Province?
Iconic Landscapes: Experience the breathtaking sight of towering limestone cliffs rising dramatically from the clear blue ocean, especially around Railay and Ao Nang.
Island Hopping Paradise: Discover stunning white-sand beaches and crystal-clear snorkeling spots around the famous Phi Phi Islands and the “Four Islands” of the Andaman Sea.
World-Class Rock Climbing: Krabi is a global hub for adventure sports, offering hundreds of bolted routes up the spectacular karst formations.
Smart Travel
Peak Season (November–February): This is the most popular time with dry, sunny days and comfortable temperatures. Book accommodation and ferries well in advance, and expect higher prices.
Shoulder Season (March–May, September–October): The weather is generally hot and humid, but you’ll enjoy fewer crowds and better value on hotels and tours. March-May is very hot, while September-October brings more rain.
Green Season (June–August): This season offers the best value for money, a lush, green landscape, and a peaceful atmosphere. Be prepared for tropical downpours, but these are often short-lived.
Main Areas & Places to Explore
Ao Nang
Ao Nang is the main tourist hub and a fantastic central base for exploring the province. It offers a huge variety of hotels, restaurants, and shops, with a long beach that serves as the departure point for all major longtail boat and speed boat tours to the islands and Railay.
Your Smart Tip: To avoid the crowds on Ao Nang beach, hire a longtail boat from the pier to the much quieter and more beautiful Ao Phra Nang beach on Railay.
Railay Beach
A stunning peninsula cut off from the mainland by towering cliffs, Railay is only accessible by boat. It’s famed for its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and laid-back vibe. It is globally recognized as a premier rock-climbing destination.
Your Smart Tip: Stay a few nights on East Railay for a more budget-friendly and authentic experience, or opt for West Railay for the most stunning sunset views and luxury resorts.
Phi Phi Islands
The legendary Phi Phi archipelago is a must-see, featuring the iconic Maya Bay (from The Beach film) and vibrant coral reefs. While technically part of Krabi, the islands have a unique, bustling party atmosphere focused on Phi Phi Don.
Your Smart Tip: Book a ‘Sunrise Tour’ to Phi Phi to visit the main spots like Maya Bay before the huge crowds arrive from Phuket and Krabi’s mainland.
Krabi Town & Koh Lanta
Krabi Town is the authentic provincial capital, offering a genuine look at local life with markets and river views. Koh Lanta is a large island to the south, known for its quieter, more relaxed atmosphere, long stretches of beach, and family-friendly resorts.
Your Smart Tip: Use Krabi Town as a budget base and explore its lively night market for the best and cheapest authentic Thai street food.
Handy Tips
Weather & Climate
The climate is tropical, with consistently high temperatures and humidity year-round. The seasons are defined by rainfall, with the dry season (Nov-Feb) being the most comfortable and the rainy season (Jun-Oct) bringing heavy but often brief monsoons.
Local Customs And Etiquette
Respect for Monarchy and Religion: Show great respect when discussing the Royal Family and when visiting temples (Wats). Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) in religious sites.
The Head and Feet: Never touch a Thai person’s head, as it is considered the most sacred part of the body. Conversely, do not point your feet at people, religious objects, or food.
Bargaining: It is common to politely bargain in markets and for souvenirs, but not in department stores or at fixed-price food stalls.
Budgeting For Your Trip
Accommodation: Hostels ($10–$25), mid-range hotels ($40–$80), luxury ($100+). Prices drop significantly in the Green Season.
Food: Street food/local stall ($2–$4), dinner at a mid-range restaurant ($8–$15 per person), fine dining ($30+).
Transport: Longtail boat/ferry ($5–$20 depending on distance), shared van/bus ($5–$15).
Activities: Day trip to Phi Phi ($50–$90), Four Islands tour ($30–$50), rock climbing lesson ($40–$70).
Daily Budget:
- Budget: $40–$60 (hostels, street food, public transport/local boats).
- Mid-range: $70–$120 (mid-range hotels, restaurants, excursions).
- Luxury: $150+ (boutique resorts, private tours, fine dining).
Getting Around
Longtail Boat: The most common and iconic way to travel between beaches and islands. Always agree on the fare before you depart.
Tuk-Tuk/Songthaew (Shared Taxi): Best for short distances on the mainland. Always confirm the price beforehand.
Ferry/Speed Boat: Essential for traveling to the Phi Phi Islands and other distant islands like Koh Lanta.
Motorbike Taxi: A quick and inexpensive option for solo travelers, but be mindful of safety.
Must-Try Food
Phad See Ew: Wide rice noodles stir-fried with Chinese broccoli, egg, and a dark, sweet soy sauce.
Massaman Curry: A mild, rich, and slightly sweet curry with influences from Indian and Malay cuisine, often made with chicken and potatoes.
Tom Yum Goong: The quintessential Thai soup, hot and sour, featuring lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and prawns.
Som Tam (Papaya Salad): A spicy, sour, and savory salad made by pounding shredded green papaya, chiles, lime juice, and fish sauce.
Gai Yang (Grilled Chicken): Chicken marinated in a mix of spices and grilled over charcoal, a staple of local Thai cuisine.
Hoi Tod (Oyster Omelet): A crispy, starchy omelet packed with oysters or mussels, often served with a sweet chili sauce.
Khao Phad (Fried Rice): Simple, customizable fried rice, a reliable and delicious option found everywhere.
Mango Sticky Rice (Khao Niao Ma Muang): Sweet glutinous rice soaked in coconut milk, served with sliced fresh mango.
Roti: A Thai-style fried flatbread, often topped with banana and condensed milk for a sweet dessert.
Kanom Krok (Coconut Pancakes): Small, sweet, creamy coconut milk pancakes cooked on a griddle.
Must-Try Drinks
Thai Beer (Singha/Chang/Leo): The main local lagers; often served with ice in the glass.
Mekhong/SangSom (Thai Spirit): Locally produced spirits (often called ‘whiskey’) that are traditionally mixed with soda or Coke.
Bucket (Cocktail): A plastic bucket filled with a potent mix of local spirits, energy drinks, and mixers, popular on the islands.
Thai Iced Tea (Cha Yen): Strong black tea brewed with spices and milk (often condensed milk) for a sweet, creamy, orange-colored drink.
Fresh Coconut Water (Maphrao): Served directly from the chilled young coconut—the ultimate tropical refreshment.
Fruit Shake (Paan): Blended fresh fruit (mango, pineapple, watermelon, etc.) with ice and sometimes a little sugar or yogurt.
Nam Manao (Lime Juice): Freshly squeezed lime juice, water, and sugar—a simple, tart, and refreshing drink.
O-Liang (Thai Iced Coffee): Very strong, dark-roasted coffee sweetened with condensed milk.