Krabi is a paradise for nature lovers and visitors who want to enjoy the beauty and diversity of a seaside holiday in a laid–back, casual atmosphere. You’ll find fantastic beaches backed by towering limestone peaks, lovely tropical islands scattered off the coast and colourful coral reefs for diving adventures. Located 800kms south of Bangkok, Krabi is one of Thailand’s most popular destinations.
Most of the attractions in the Krabi area are natural ones, and in fact you’ll find some of the most dramatic seascapes in the world here. We’ve listed some of the most popular attractions here, and suggest that you consult one of the free tourist maps for exact locations.
Tourist Attractions of Krabi:
Ao Nang beach
This is Krabi’s main resort area, comprising a long stretch of beach, half of which has a backdrop of striking karst cliffs and the other half lined with resorts and tourist amenities along the beachfront road. Ao Nang is quite pleasant and a relaxed spot to enjoy your holiday. It’s not overcrowded like Patong in Phuket, and has a far more natural feel, but you’ll have to wander along the beach to avoid the noisy longtail boats that come and go from this point. Sunsets here are particularly good, with offshore islands as a fitting
Krabi Town
The small provincial capital that provides a glimpse into real Thai life. The town has largely escaped commercial tourism due to its lack of a beach, but it’s an interesting place to visit, having colourful markets, a pleasant walking path that follows the estuary mouth and lots of restaurants offering up local favourites, with seafood being a speciality
Railay Beach
Considered one of the most spectacular of all the Andaman coastal locations. This idyllic spot is a peninsula that canonly be reached by boat, as it’s separated from the mainland by sheer limestone cliffs. A few quiet resorts are situated between the two crescent–shaped beaches. In all, there are a number of beautiful beaches to choose from, but Phra Nang attracts most of the day–trippers as it features an ancient shrine inside a cave. Those who are fit can hike up a steep path to the top of the karst and gaze down into a hidden sinkhole lake in the middle
Koh Lanta Marine National Park
Home to Chai Leh, who are known in English as sea gypsies. They typically live in small settlements and are nomadic, earning a living from collecting shells and fishing. The Chai Leh have their own language and set of spiritual beliefs, which are animistic in nature.
At the northern and southern extremes of Koh Lanta, the mountains are covered by virgin rainforest. On the west coast, there are numerous beaches that are wonderfully situated and also heavily developed but in a natural way, such as Khlong Dao, Khlong Khong, Khlong Nin and Phra Ae, providing views of spectacular seascapes. Along the western side and at the northern tip near Laem Kho Kwang, you’ll find coral reefs. Also at the northern tip’s Saladan pier, there are banks, shops, eateries and tour operators
