Krabi, Thailand - Things to Do in Krabi

Things to Do in Krabi

Krabi, Thailand - Complete Travel Guide

Krabi's limestone cliffs rise straight from turquoise water like something from a fantasy novel, but this isn't just postcard scenery. The province draws visitors with impressive islands and beaches, yet the mainland deserves attention—fishing villages operate at half-speed, mangrove forests hide secret channels, and locals practice southern Thai hospitality that feels genuine. No tourist theater here. What sets Krabi apart? You can tackle excellent rock climbing on towering limestone, discover quiet lagoons during island-hopping trips, and eat everything from excellent street food to beachfront restaurants where sand gets between your toes. The whole area encourages you to slow down and enjoy yourself rather than frantically checking boxes.

Top Things to Do in Krabi

Four Islands Tour by Longtail Boat

This classic day trip hits Railay Beach, Phra Nang Cave Beach, Chicken Island, and Poda Island via traditional longtail boat. You'll snorkel in crystal-clear waters, relax on clean beaches, and see limestone formations that make this coastline famous. The cave beach at Phra Nang stands out with dramatic cliffs and powdery sand. Total tourist magnet—but worth it.

Booking Tip: Tours cost around 1,200-1,500 THB per person and typically run 8am-5pm. Book through your hotel or local operators rather than beach touts for better boats and equipment. Look for operators that include snorkeling gear, lunch, and insurance in the price.

Rock Climbing at Railay Beach

Railay's limestone cliffs offer some of the world's best tropical rock climbing with routes for complete beginners through advanced climbers. The setting works—you climb above clean beaches with views of the Andaman Sea. Half-day courses include instruction and equipment, usually with climbs on different routes. Genuinely impressive.

Booking Tip: Half-day climbing courses cost 1,500-2,500 THB including all gear and instruction. Book with established operators like Hot Rock or King Climbers who have proper safety equipment and experienced guides. Morning sessions tend to be cooler and less crowded.

Emerald Pool and Hot Springs

The Emerald Pool sits deep in Krabi's jungle interior—a natural swimming hole with remarkably clear, warm water colored by minerals and algae. Nearby natural hot springs offer relaxing soaks within a lush rainforest preserve. The short jungle hike to reach the pools becomes part of the experience.

Booking Tip: Entry costs 200 THB per person, and it's about 70km from Krabi town. Most tours cost 800-1,200 THB including transport and often combine this with other jungle attractions. Go early morning to avoid crowds and heat - it gets busy after 11am.

Sunset at Tiger Cave Temple

This Buddhist temple complex demands a challenging climb up 1,237 steps to reach the summit. Serious effort required. The panoramic views over Krabi's landscape make it worthwhile, and the temple itself interests with monks who often chat. Sunset views from the top work well. The climb takes 30-45 minutes for most people.

Booking Tip: Entry is free, but bring water and wear proper shoes - the steps are steep and uneven. Start your climb about 90 minutes before sunset to allow time for the ascent and photos. Taxis from town cost around 300-400 THB return, or rent a scooter for more flexibility.

Kayaking Through Ao Thalane Mangroves

Paddling through these clean mangrove forests feels like entering another world with towering limestone cliffs, caves, and incredible wildlife variety. You'll likely spot monkeys, exotic birds, maybe monitor lizards while navigating narrow channels and open lagoons. The scenery impresses and stays much quieter than popular beach destinations.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours cost 1,000-1,500 THB including kayak, guide, and usually lunch or snacks. Choose operators that use proper sea kayaks rather than cheap plastic ones, and check that life jackets and dry bags are included. Morning tours are generally cooler and offer better wildlife viewing.

Getting There

Krabi International Airport connects directly to Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and several regional cities. Easy access for an island destination. From Bangkok, overnight buses take ~12 hours for 600-800 THB, or catch a train to Surat Thani then bus to Krabi. Regular buses run from Phuket (3 hours), Koh Samui (5 hours via ferry), and other coastal spots. Airport to Krabi town takes 20 minutes—600 THB by taxi, 150 THB by airport bus.

Getting Around

Krabi town works for walking. Everything else needs wheels. Songthaews run regular routes to popular spots like Ao Nang for 60-100 THB per person—they leave when full, not on schedule. Scooter rental gives you the most flexibility at 200-300 THB daily, but those hills demand experience. Taxis and tuk-tuks work if you negotiate first. Island hopping means longtail boats and speedboats from various piers—prices change dramatically by destination.

Where to Stay

Krabi Town
Klong Muang Beach
Tubkaek Beach
Nopparat Thara Beach

Food & Dining

Krabi balances tourist restaurants with authentic local spots that serve genuinely excellent southern Thai food. Worth the hunt. The night market in Krabi town offers fantastic street food at local prices—grilled seafood, som tam, and massaman curry that shines in this region. Ao Nang has plenty of beachfront restaurants where sand gets between your toes, though quality varies wildly. Family-run places in Krabi town serve traditional dishes like gaeng som and fresh seafood prepared southern Thai style—ask for authentic preparation if you can handle real heat.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Thailand

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Khao-Sō-i Soi Convent Silom

4.8 /5
(3862 reviews)

Moom Muum Park Soi 11

4.8 /5
(2415 reviews)

The Family

4.8 /5
(2317 reviews) 1

Try Me Thai & Vegetarian Restaurant

4.8 /5
(2081 reviews) 1

Suda - Thai & Vegetarian Restaurant

4.9 /5
(1416 reviews)

THE SIXTH 6th

4.7 /5
(1356 reviews) 2
Explore Local Cuisine →

When to Visit

November through March delivers the most reliable weather with sunny days, calm seas, and lower humidity that makes outdoor activities pleasant. Peak season means higher prices and crowds. But the weather works. April and May turn hot and humid, though you'll find better deals and fewer tourists. Monsoon season runs June through October with heavy rains and rough seas that cancel boat trips—you might catch beautiful clear days between storms. Rock climbing and jungle activities work well during shoulder seasons, and you'll pay much less.

Insider Tips

Book longtail boat trips directly from the pier rather than through hotel concierges. You'll often pay 30-40% less and choose departure times more flexibly.
Railay Beach requires boat access only. But you can walk between its four different beach areas at low tide. Each offers completely different vibes and crowd levels.
Local buses between Krabi town and beaches operate on Thai time. They leave when full rather than on schedule. Build extra time for connections.

Complete Krabi Travel Guide

Explore our dedicated guide to Krabi with detailed neighborhood guides, activities, and local tips

Explore Now →

Explore Activities in Krabi

Plan Your Perfect Trip

Get insider tips and travel guides delivered to your inbox

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe anytime.