Krabi

Krabi, on Thailand's southwest coast, is a true paradise for nature lovers and adventurers. With dramatic limestone cliffs, idyllic beaches and crystal-clear water, the region offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exciting experiences. Krabi is especially known for its stunning islands like Railay Beach, Koh Phi Phi and Hong Island, which impress with breathtaking beaches and spectacular viewpoints. But there's plenty to discover on land too, from hot springs to emerald lagoons to temples with stunning panoramic views.

Wat Tham Sua (Tiger Cave Temple)Ao Nang BeachAo Nang Landmark Night MarketA massage after a day in Ao Nang

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You can often negotiate well with Grab drivers, they're also cheaper and more trustworthy than many tuk-tuks or private drivers.

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Getting to Krabi

By Lomprayah (Express), around €34 per person, roughly 4.5 hours. First we took the ferry to Surat Thani, where we could transfer straight onto a comfortable bus to Krabi. The whole route was well coordinated, without long waits. Tip: if you want to get further to your accommodation, you can book a shuttle service directly with the provider, which saves time and hassle. Arrival in Krabi was relaxed, from there plenty of options with taxis or minibuses to the various beaches or hotels.

Where We Stayed in Krabi

The Pavilions Anana

A little outside Ao Nang, with a free shuttle service to the beach, the food market and the town center. So you get a quiet setting while still staying flexible. €44.50 per night, good value for money. Free shuttle service, a stylish property with a breathtaking view of nature, a generous pool, comfortable private villas, a modern gym, varied breakfast. One small suggestion for improvement: the shuttle service could run more regularly and over a longer stretch of the day.

Verdict: A great choice for anyone looking for peace, comfort and a lovely atmosphere. We'd definitely stay here again next time we're in Krabi.

The Pavilions Anana

The Best Beach in Krabi

Ao Nang Beach

On the west coast, one of the region's best-known beaches, this is where the longtail boats depart for the famous Railay Beach. Even though the weather wasn't ideal during our stay, we still really liked the beach. A wide sandy stretch for relaxed walks, the promenade offers plenty of restaurants, bars and cafés with sea views. In good weather it's ideal for swimming, with the impressive limestone cliffs in the distance creating a dreamy backdrop.

Verdict: A lively beach with a beautiful view, good infrastructure and the chance to easily start trips to the surrounding islands.

Ao Nang Beach

The Best Food in Krabi

Kodam Kitchen

A real gem in Ao Nang with traditional Thai cuisine, made with fresh ingredients and plenty of love. A wide selection from aromatic curries to spicy wok dishes to fresh-caught seafood, vegetarians are also very well catered for. Relaxed atmosphere a little away from the bustle, friendly staff.

Verdict: An absolute must for anyone in Ao Nang looking for authentic Thai food, whether meat, fish or vegetarian.

Kodam Kitchen

Ao Nang Landmark Night Market

The perfect place to end the evening in a sociable atmosphere. Countless food stalls with a huge selection of freshly prepared Thai specialties, from spicy curries and pad thai to mango sticky rice, vegetarians are well looked after too. Plus live music, souvenir stalls and small boutiques.

Verdict: A must for anyone who wants to enjoy delicious street food, shopping and live entertainment in one authentic setting.

Ao Nang Landmark Night Market

The Best Activities in Krabi

Wat Tham Sua (Tiger Cave Temple)

One of the most impressive temples in Krabi. To reach the summit at 278 meters, you have to climb 1,237 steep steps, a challenging but rewarding experience. Once at the top you're rewarded with a breathtaking view of Krabi's landscape and the surrounding limestone cliffs. We took a Grab taxi there and arranged with the driver to pick us up again after our visit, total cost around €20, paid only on the way back.

Tip: You can often negotiate well with Grab drivers, they're also cheaper and more trustworthy than many tuk-tuks or private drivers.

Verdict: An absolute must for anyone who isn't afraid of a physical challenge and wants to be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama.

Wat Tham Sua (Tiger Cave Temple)

Massage Corner

In Ao Nang, connected by a staircase directly to the popular Kodam Kitchen restaurant, perfect for a relaxing massage after a delicious meal. Open daily 10am to 11pm. What stood out especially: before the treatment they specifically ask about any pre-existing conditions or past surgeries to tailor the massage individually, a small but important gesture that speaks to professionalism and quality.

Verdict: A well-kept massage salon in a central location with attentive therapists and a pleasant atmosphere, ideal for relaxing after a day in Ao Nang.