43 Things to Do in Krabi (The Ultimate List)
by Ithaka on 10/03/18 at 1:21 pm
Krabi is a hot favourite when it comes to planning a Thailand Trip. Its lush green mangroves, towering limestone cliffs and gorgeous beaches beckon travellers to its sandy shores. The scenic wonderland also has plenty of delightful experiences to keep you busy day and night.
Want to know which activities are the right ones for you? Well, we have cherry-picked 43 of the best things to do in Krabi to create that unforgettable experience for you.
Beaches in Krabi
1. Railay Beach Recommended
Railay beach regularly makes it to the list of best beaches in the world. The accolades are well deserved though. Separated from the mainland and surrounded by giant limestone rocks, it almost feels like a private island.
There are plenty of things to do on the beach – just laze around, try your hand at rock climbing or discover small coves walking along. Due to its popularity, the beach can get crowded once the day picks up.
2. Phra Nang Beach
Phra Nang is a beautiful beach with striking rock formations around it. On one end of the beach, you have an erect phallic shaped rock jutting skywards and on the other end, there is a cave (Princess’s cave) half hidden below a towering wall.
Like Railay, its unique geographical features draw in tonnes of travelers every year.
3. Tonsai Beach
Tonsai Beach is Railay’s hippie neighbour. Like Railay, it is also bordered by gigantic rocks, again making it the favourite haunt of rock climbers from around the world.
The vibe here is pretty chilled out, with tonnes of mellow bars along the shoreline. You will mostly find travellers lounging about these bars with a beer in hand and listening to reggae music.
4. Tub Kaek Beach
Tub Kaek Beach is one of the prettiest beaches in Krabi. The sand is golden, the water is crystal clear and the trees lean out far over the sand giving a natural cover to those lounging about. Compared to its high profile counterparts, it’s much quieter and tranquil.
5. Ao Nang Beach Popular
Ao Nang beach is Krabi’s liveliest beach and the most popular one. There is always something going on at the beach. So if you like an action-packed atmosphere this beach is for you.
The beach is also lined with parasols and sundecks where you can just lounge about while sipping some juice. And if you want to enjoy a splash in the ocean, its waters are ideal for a swim.
Islands Tours from Krabi
6. 4 Island Tour Popular
It’s the most popular island hopping tour around Krabi. True to its name, you will be taken to 4 small but pretty islands, all surrounded by shimmering blue waters.
The best part is, you can do snorkelling in these waters. During low tides, you can even walk on a narrow sandbar which connects three of the islands.
Why you should not go: Since it is the most popular tour in Krabi, it can get pretty crowded
Cost: USD 32
7. James Bond Island Tour Popular
The Island earned its name after it was featured in a James Bond movie. Travelers throng to the island for that signature selfie with a funnel-shaped rock magically standing in the water.
You can also kayak along the waters, discover submerged caves and get up-close to the famed limestone cliffs. At the end, you can savour some traditional cuisine at the fishing village of Koh Panyee.
Why you should go: Kayaking in the lagoons along the towering limestone karsts is an unique experience
Cost: USD 45
8. Phi Phi island Trip Popular
Floating between two picturesque bays, Phi Phi Island is one of the most scenic islands near Krabi. Featured in the Dicaprio movie “The Beach”, the island is like a celebrity in itself.
The biggest draw here is Maya bay, a sparkling green lagoon covered on all sides by limestone cliffs. Phi Phi is also one of the best places to scuba dive in Thailand.
And if you are a party animal, then you will love the island’s thundering beach bars and insane fire shows.
Why you should go: For an amazing diving experience and its crazy beach parties
Why you should not go: Unless you are staying away from the main area, nights can get pretty loud
Cost: USD 67
9. Hong Island Tour
Koh Hong is a group of several islands with emerald green lagoons and beautiful corals. The rock formations around these lagoons are spectacular, and they are best explored by swimming in the crystal clear waters.
Cost: USD 42
10. Sunset Dinner Cruise Recommended
The sunset cruise is a great way to unwind in the evening with your family. The cruise happens on one of the last remaining Siamese traditional junk boats.
You can just relax on the deck, sip some cocktails and watch the sun sink into the waters. If you want to spice it up, you can cliff dive, snorkel or just go for a leisurely swim.
Why you should go: You can witness bioluminescent waters up close, or better yet, swim in them
Cost: USD 78
Natural attractions in Krabi
11. Emerald Pool Recommended
Tucked into one of Krabi’s national parks is an unbelievable natural pool. True to its name, the emerald pool entices travelers with the color of its waters. As the sun hovers over the pool, the shades of the water change – a phenomenon that should not be missed.
Why you should go: A natural pool in the jungle. Changing shades of water. Respite from the tropical heat. Need we say more?
12. Hot water spring Recommended
A short walk from the emerald pool leads to nature’s very own Jacuzzi. These hot water springs are formed from the water cascading along small rocks.
It’s said the waters have minerals with healing properties. Whether that’s true or not, a dip in its soothing hot waters is definitely refreshing.
Why you should go: Set amidst trees in the middle of a jungle, the setting for a hot-water bath doesn’t get better.
13. Hang Nak mountain hike
Why you should go: It’s the perfect jungle trek for the nature lover
Why you should not go: The climb is rewarding, but challenging as well. So if you are not in a good shape, don’t attempt it.
The Hang Nak trail is a hiker’s paradise, with small waterfalls, scenic view points and gentle streams along the way.
At the summit, there is a massive boulder perched on the edge, which gives you awe-inspiring views. Make sure you click a kickass selfie here.
Note: As it’s thickly forested, it can get pretty humid here, so make sure you carry at least 2 bottles of water.
14. Khao Phanom Bencha National park
This national park is named after Khao Phanom Bencha Mountain, the highest one in Krabi standing 1,350 metres tall. The park’s popular attractions are its waterfalls with alluring natural pools.
The lower pools can be crowded, but don’t worry, a short but steep climb leads to more secluded pools with even better views.
Why you should not go: Unless you are planning to do a multiple day trek, it doesn’t make sense to travel all the way to the park
15. Khao Khanab Nam mountains
These mountains are some of the most prominent natural attractions in Krabi. Sitting on both sides of the river, these mountains rise above a series of large caves.
The caves are teeming with stalagmites and stalactites. You can also find quite a few human skeletons here.
Temples in Krabi
16. Tiger Temple Popular
If you don’t mind slogging it off to enjoy some terrific views, consider climbing 1237 steps to reach the top of tiger temple. It is literally the stairway to heaven (or hell) depending on how fit you are.
At the top sits a massive golden Buddha shining under the sunlight. From here, you will get a bird’s eye view of Krabi’s scenic beauty.
Why you should go: The fantastic views aside, it’s also a great place to just get away from it all.
Why you should not go: Unless you are in peak physical condition, do not attempt it.
17. Wat Kaew
Wat Kaew is one of the few temples Krabi has. White in colour and with golden dragons slithering down the stairway, the temple looks quite majestic. Outside the temple, you can see beautiful peacocks walking around strutting their stuff.
Why you should go: It’s beautiful, has a calm ambience and is hardly crowded.
Museums in Krabi
18. Fossilized Shell Fish Cemetery (Susan Hoi)
If you are a geology fan, you will love this place. The fossilized fish cemetery has limestone deposits in the surrounding water which preserved shellfish and snails by fossilizing them. Some of these date back to between 25 and 40 million years.
19. Krabi contemporary Art Museum
The Krabi contemporary art museum displays a blend of both traditional and contemporary art exhibits. The entrance to the museum is free and if you are an art collector, you can even buy paintings from here.
Why you should go: If you have an appreciation for local art or if you want to add to your collection, this is a good place to be.
Shopping in Krabi
20. Krabi town walking street Recommended
Krabi town walking street is the hottest shopping event in Krabi. You will see tonnes of yellow coloured tents selling everything from shoes, jewellery, accessories, funky souvenirs and Thai handicrafts to lip-smacking Thai cuisine.
The market is centered around a stage where local artists play music and school children perform traditional Thai dances. You can even get your caricature done by skilled artists.
21. Ao Nang night market Popular
Nang market is a place where you can easily get lost in the ocean of food on display. From barbecued meat, exotic desserts, Thai fruits, coconut drinks, fruit shakes and Thai ice teas, the market is a gastronomic delight
If you make it past the food stall, there are cheap shoes, second hand t-shirts and accessories on sale. If you are going with kids, there is even a trampoline to play with.
22. Chao Fah Night Market
Chao Fah night market is the largest food market in Krabi, with hundreds of tables and chairs laid out randomly. It looks messy, but it’s a place locals and travels throng to savour genuine Thai food.
The cuisine is varied, from local Thai food to Chinese to Muslim. The best part is , the food here is extremely cheap, starting at USD 1-2 for a plate.
Nightlife and Partying in Krabi
23. Ao Nang Centre Point
Ao Nang centre is the perfect place to spend the night in Krabi. It’s the complete entertainment package – surrounded by drinking joints and dining outlets. You can shop here, get tattoos or even watch a cabaret show.
Why you should go: It’s a one-stop party shop
24. Soi RCA
Soi RCA is the party hub in Krabi. It’s an entire street lined by bars – all look the same, play the same kind of music, have board games and pool tables. So if you are looking for a place to drink the night away, there are plenty of options.
Why you should go: Frequented by locals, this is the best place to meet up with them, or better yet, share a drink.
25. Old West Bar
It’s the only cowboy-themed bar of Krabi and a major hit among travellers. They serve great cocktails, play the Beatles and a have barman who looks from a 50’s movie.
The service is exceptional and if you have been there before, they might even remember your face.
Why you should go: It’s one of those classic places where you go to grab a drink and chat up with some people
26. Dinner at Grotto Recommended
Why you should go: This is the surprise dinner you should plan for your sweetheart
Cost: USD 125 per person for a buffet
In Krabi, romance is spelt Grotto. It has the fascinating setting for an intimate dinner. Tucked into a cave under a limestone cliff and facing the beach, the ambience is lovely. It might cost a bomb, but the experience is totally worth it.
Note: The grotto is only accessible by boat, so remember to book a boat for your return journey.
27. Watch the blue dragon cabaret show
The blue dragon cabaret show is the most famous one in Krabi. This is where you can watch Thailand’s ladyboys in action as they groove to catchy tunes dressed in jazzy costumes. Their impersonations of celebrities are just amusing, especially their versions of “Barbie Girl” and “Gangnam Style”
Why you should go: To watch Thailand’s famed ladyboys in action
Cost: USD 11
Local Experiences in Krabi
28. Krabi Town Recommended
Krabi town is the place to get a taste of the local culture. With its old world bars, quaint cafes, beautiful parks and bustling night markets, it still retains a local vibe despite the commercialization. Sitting in a bar in Krabi town is a great way to wind up after a hectic day.
29. Illumanorah Show
If you want a night away from parties and beaches, then catching the Illumanorah show at Paka park is a good choice.
The show is a riot of colours, with performers dressed as birds in fancy costumes. The light show and sound effects create the ultimate visual spectacle. Don’t forget to click photos with the performers after the show.
Cost: Dinner + Show starts at USD 31
30. Thai cooking class
If you are foodie who loves cooking as much as eating, then this is an adventure you should embark on. Think about this, you can cook your favourite lip-smacking Thai delicacies whenever you want. Tempting right?
They teach you to make authentic Thai cuisine using ingredients that you buy from the market yourself. The visit to the market is an experience in itself. And when you are done, you get to eat the fruits of your labour!
31. Fishing island of Koh Klang
Koh Klang is a simple fishing island 5 minutes from Krabi by boat. Inhabited for over 100 years, it is now home to 5000 people, most of whom are fishermen and rice farmers.
32. Take a Thai Massage Recommended
It’s a cardinal sin to leave Thailand without giving your sore muscles a taste of an authentic Thai massage.
So if you have had a tiring day, just hop into a massage parlor and submit yourself in the hands of a trained masseuse. Lie down in a lemon scented room and slip into deep slumber as your body relaxes.
You are sure to wake refreshed and ready.
Adventure Activities in Krabi
33. Scuba Diving
Cost: The cost for scuba diving is approximately USD 89 for two dives
If there is one adventure you must try in Thailand, then it is scuba diving. Krabi’s long coastline, emerald green waters, plunging limestone cliffs and a diverse marine life make it a great place for scuba diving. Gliding under the water in a zen-like state along with thousands of fishes is an unforgettable experience.
Note: Even though Krabi has plenty of options, nearby Phi Phi island is the best place around Krabi to scuba dive. And it’s easier on the wallet too.
34. Rock climbing Popular
Krabi’s limestone towers make it a popular haunt for rock-climbers from around the world. It’s not just for the professionals though, even beginners can try.
Climbing these towering cliffs against the picture perfect background of the turquoise sea makes it worth the experience.
Cost: The price for rock climbing in Krabi ranges from USD 15 to USD 180, depending upon the duration of the course (usually one-day and three-day courses are available)
35. White water rafting
Nothing matches the adrenaline rush of tackling the frothing rapids of the Songprak River on an inflatable boat. The exciting plunges and the sudden drops as you are pushed around by the raging rapids is sure to give you the thrills.
The 3-mile stretch of Songprak River in Krabi offers rapids of all difficulty levels.
Cost: A 5 kilometer stretch of river rafting costs about USD 35 per person.
36. Kayaking Recommended
Kayaking around Krabi is the best way of exploring its hidden natural beauty. You will discover hidden coves, sea caves and spectacular lagoons by gliding along the water.
It’s a leisurely activity, so young or old, all are welcome. You can go for guided tours or just hire a kayak and roam around by yourself. Whatever you pick, you are sure to have a great time.
Cost: Prices start from 24 USD for half a day of Kayaking or Canoeing.
37. Giant rope swing
If live without fear is your motto in life, then you need to try the Giant Rope Swing. It’s the largest rope swing in Asia which will take you flying at breakneck speeds 100 metres above the forest floor.
Just the climb to the jump point itself is enough to scare most. With a 100 foot free fall and a nerve wrenching flying experience, it has made it to the bucket list of daredevils around the world.
Cost: They offer various customised packages starting from USD 90 ranging up to USD 151.
38. Ziplining
Zipling is the most fun way of exploring the wild. Strapped to a safety harness, be prepared to zoom through the jungle at super speeds.
You will swing from one tree top to another, just like Tarzan. If you are going with family, the kids would love ziplining. It’s safe and fun for everyone.
Cost: USD 27
39. Windsurfing
Wind surfing combines the thrill of surfing and sailing. Zooming through the water, propelled by the blowing ocean breeze feels like riding a high speed car on water.
Krabi’s picturesque views, perfect weather and good breeze just make it ideal for the sport.
Note: This sport requires proper training as it utilizes both the force of wind and the buoyancy of water for the board’s movement.
Cost: USD 120
40. Kitesurfing
Like pushing yourself to the next limits? Love splashing into the waters? Then Kitesurfing is just perfect for you. All you need to do is hold a steerable kite and use the force of giant waves to jump high in the air. Once you get a hang of it, you will be hooked.
Professionals can jump up 50 feet in the air or fly in the air for 10 seconds, when the conditions are right. Incredible isn’t it? Although it sounds pretty tough, it can be learned through a 3 day course.
Cost: One hour of kite surfing can cost you about USD 34
41. Wakeboarding
Wakeboarding is a rising star in the world of watersports. You need to balance yourself on a board and hold a cable tight as you whizz through the water pulled by a speedboat. It’s the ultimate combination of speed, thrill and fun.
Cost: Wakeboarding can be done for as little as USD 9
Places to visit Near Krabi
42. Koh Lanta Recommended
Koh Lanta is one of those islands which still remains deliciously unspoilt. With a jungly interior and bordered by flour like beaches, it’s one of the best places to escape mainland Thailand tourism.
You will mostly find travelers lounging by virgin beaches, marveling at sunsets from a beach bar or diving into its magnificent waters.
Why you should go: Its crystal clear waters, corals which are a splash of colors and diverse marine life make it one of the best places to dive in the world
Why you should not go: Since it’s one of the lesser developed islands, you may not have a lot of choices when it comes to shopping, partying and dining
43. Khao Sok National Park Recommended
Khao Sok National Park is the ultimate paradise for nature lovers and photographers. There are tonnes of adventurous things to do – you can hike in the jungles, discover caves and hidden waterfalls, canoe leisurely along the river or just lie in a raft house floating on an emerald green lake.
Why you should go: There are wonderful stays at the Khao Sok national park.
Why you should not go: If you just have a day’s time to spare, then it’s not worth going, as a lot of time will go in travel. So make sure you plan at least for 2 days in Khao Sok.
The post 43 Things to Do in Krabi (The Ultimate List) appeared first on Ithaka Travel.
