There are a ton of cool things to do at Krabi Thailand. And we will walk you through some of the best activities you can engage in when you are in the place.
Whether you’re looking to hit the beach, check out temples and landmarks, or experience the natural wonders that this resort town has to offer, we’ve come up with a no-fuss checklist you can use as a quick guide.
Never Miss Out on These 10 Exciting Things to Do at Krabi Thailand
1. Take a dip in its pristine beaches.
No trip to Krabi is complete without spending time to soak up sea and sand. This resort town is teeming with beautiful beaches that are too tempting to pass up.
The most popular beaches in the area are Tonsai Bay on Koh Phi Phi, Long Beach on Koh Lanta, and Ao Nang. They are also the most packed with tourists.
If you prefer a more tranquil option, you can go for Kantiang Bay, Laem Tong Beach, Tub Kaek, and Pra Nang Beach.
2. Check out prehistoric marine fossils of Susan Hoi.
Susan Hoi is located along the stretch of Ban Laem Pho and features slabs of petrified shellfish dating back around 40 million years ago.
Nicknamed by locals as the “shellfish cemetery,” visiting this place gives you the feeling of traveling back in time when you examine the slabs of fossilized sea creatures.
Tourists who have already been to Susan Hoi recommend visiting the area early in the morning or late afternoon. Apart from avoiding the harsh midday sun, you can also inspect the petrified marine creatures more freely during this time.
3. Explore Koh Mor and Koh Thap.
Koh Mor and Koh Thap are small islands that belong to the island cluster called Mu Koh Poda.
Besides being known for their compact size and mushroom-like appearance, these islands are also famous for the sandbar appearing during low tide. You can walk on this sandbar to travel from Koh Mor to Koh Thap, and even to a third island called Koh Kai when conditions are ideal.
You can also get a panoramic view of the neighboring islands when you take a hike up Koh Thap’s peak.
4. Bask in the Emerald Pool.
Nestled in the Thung Teao Forest Natural Park, the Emerald Pool got its name from the rich, deep reflection that appears when the sun hits the water.
While its calm waters are already relaxing, this feeling is heightened even more by the ancient trees surrounding the area.
Apart from its rejuvenating waters, tourists also visit the Emerald Pool to spot rare animals while they’re in the area. One of these creatures is the Pitta Gurney bird, believed to be extinct.
5. Marvel at the Khao Khanab Nam Mountains.
The Khao Khanab Nam Mountains are two massive land formations that face each other. They are separated on either side by a river.
These mountains have a peculiar shape, which closely resembles a whale coming out of the water. You can scale one of them if you’re adventurous to snap some cool pictures for your social media account.
Additionally, they sit atop a series of stalactite and stalagmite caves that are said to be primeval. Scientists who explored these caves relate that they may have discovered skeletons of ancient humans in their expanse.
6. Explore Railay’s caves and beaches.
Railay is one of the not-so-hidden gems of Krabi and attracts several tourists willing to brave it out.
While most people mistakenly refer to Railay as a beach, it is a small peninsula composed of four beaches and many cave complexes.
What makes Railay appealing is that getting access to the place is not a walk in the park. You have to ride a long-tail boat from the south of Ao Nang and negotiate some rocky headlands first. But when you get there, you’re in for the time of your life.
For starters, you will meet white sand beaches seemingly untouched by time. You will also see pure limestone cliffs that stretch out to the sky. As a bonus, you can check out hidden lagoons and pools that are teeming with marine life.
And if you’re a fan of spelunking, Railay is the place for you. Its cave complexes are so diverse you can encounter many exotic animals only endemic to Southeast Asia.
You can also bring your rock climbing shoes along if you’d like to scale Railay’s limestone cliffs for a more daring touch.
7. Go sea kayaking at Ao Thalane.
One of the biggest highlights of Krabi is its rugged coastline and abundance of canyons and rock formations. Many of these are in Thalane Bay or Ao Thalane.
Compared to other beaches in Krabi, where you need a longtail boat to get around, you only have to grab a kayak to explore the place.
Besides checking out Ao Thalane’s rock formations that stretch along its coastline, you can also traverse its hidden mangrove forests. Be prepared to encounter various exotic wildlife while you’re at it.
8. Soak up sea and sand in Koh Hong.
Koh Hong should be on your list of places to visit in Krabi if you’re looking to lounge all day on the beach.
This small island not just flaunts a pristine white sand beach. It also has a hidden lagoon huddled between two rock formations.
Additionally, Koh Hong has one of the most diverse coral reefs in the area. No wonder why it’s considered a snorkeling and diving haven for tourists and nature lovers alike. There are also parts of this small island dedicated to hiking, kayaking, and fishing.
However, Koh Hong can be crowded, especially between February and March.
9. Rejuvenate at the Klong Thom Hot Springs.
The Klong Thom Hot Springs are known for their relaxing hot waters, which locals swear will help recharge your body. The volcanic chambers that are located directly under the springs raise the water temperature.
After examining the water of the Klong Thom Hot Springs, scientists discovered it has a high content of natural mineral salts. These mineral salts have healing properties that can help cure skin allergies and similar conditions.
The Emerald Pool is in the same area as Klong Thom Hot Springs. Many tourists visit one after the other while they’re in the place for an unforgettable experience. Locals share taking a dip in the springs is one of the best things to do at Krabi Thailand.
10. Scale the Wat Tham Sua.
The Wat Tham Sua, otherwise known as the Tiger Cave Temple, is located 5 kilometers away from the center of Krabi. Besides the temple built inside a natural limestone cave, the wat is also known for its “Buddha footprints.”
What pulls tourists and adventurers to the Wat Tham Sua is its stairway composed of 1,237 steps. You have to climb this to the top to access the main temple and the other attractions. The climb to the peak can be tricky, especially during midday when the sun is at its harshest.
Apart from the giant Buddha statue that radiates during sunset, you’ll also see ancient pottery shards and stone tools.
11. Experience laid-back island life vibrations in the Phi Phi islands.
Located 45 minutes away from mainland Krabi, the Phi Phi islands have become instantly famous after being used as the setting for the 2000 adventure drama film, The Beach.
The Phi Phi islands are composed of Phi Phi Leh and Phi Phi Don. Only the latter is inhabited and furnished with facilities for tourists. For its emerald waters and lush marine life, visitors consider Phi Phi Don as a tropical haven.
Besides snorkeling, swimming, and diving, Phi Phi Don also offers rock climbing and hiking tours.
Remember to visit the Phi Phi islands early in the morning to keep clear from the crowds.
Moreover, go for the speedboat ride if you’re planning to visit the Phi Phi islands. The trip is going to be much faster and more comfortable compared to the ferryboat.
12. Join the festivities at Ao Nang.
Tourists consider Ao Nang Beach as one of the best nightlife hotspots in Krabi. Apart from serving a wide range of Thai delicacies, this place also offers a variety of unique and sumptuous cocktails.
Ao Nang Beach is a must-visit if you’re looking to enjoy the best of both worlds when you’re in Krabi. It does not only have the seemingly untouched white sand beaches that the place is well-known. It’s also got a world-class nightlife scene.
And if you’re a tourist who loves the nightlife and picturesque beaches, Ao Nang is the place for you.
13. Experience the night market in Krabi Town.
Apart from its spectacular beaches and other natural wonders, Krabi holds a regular night market for tourists and locals alike. These night markets are open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
While souvenirs are the stars in the Krabi night market, you can also try a variety of Thai delicacies. Moreover, you can catch performances by schoolchildren to collect money for charity or some other worthy cause.
14. Live the laid-back life of Krabi Town during the daytime.
Despite the influx of tourists and development, Krabi Town has remained easygoing. You can feel and sense this casual atmosphere when you stroll around the town center during the day.
Although you will notice modern buildings in the area, most of the establishments in Krabi Town have an old-fashioned aura. Visitors will feel a unique sense of belonging and welcome. Simply admiring the simplicity of the place is should be on your list of things to do at Krabi Thailand.
You can also see several river taxis and water boats going to and from the river. You can even hop on one to take your Krabi experience to a whole new level.
And don’t forget to check out the traditional Thai architectural pieces that are predominant in the area. Besides flaunting lines and curves that seem to dance when you look at them, their colors are also magnificent.
15. See exotic flora and fauna in Ao Luk.
Set in the northern part of Krabi, Ao Luk houses two national parks, namely Than Bok Khorani and Khao Phanom Bencha. Both national parks are teeming with wildlife you don’t commonly see outside Southeast Asia.
Towering limestone cliffs surround Ao Luk’s vast mangrove forest. Kayakers can take a tour of the mangrove forests to check out many types of birds, fish, and reptiles calling the place home.
Rock-climbing enthusiasts can scale the limestone cliffs to have a panoramic view of the area. Some visitors jokingly share that the sights are so clear and spectacular that you can even see as far as Phuket from there.
Important Reminders When Getting Around Krabi Thailand
Go for durable walking shoes.
The best way to get around Krabi is by walking.
Believe it or not, putting out some leg work is one of the most satisfying things to do at Krabi Thailand. Tourist sites like the Wat Tham Sua primarily require hiking some ways to enjoy the attractions. Make sure you grab a pair with padded soles to help you stay comfy.
Avoid the sun during midday.
Even if you are planning to get a nice tan, remember to protect yourself against the midday sun. Midday is the hottest time in Thailand, and it is much more intense than you would expect.
It is also crucial to bring lots of water and sunscreen to keep clear from sunburn and other adverse effects caused by the heightened temperatures.
If you’re not sure how much water to drink, make it a point to take a couple of quick sips when you already feel warm. Re-apply sunscreen frequently while you’re at it.
Always travel early in the morning.
If you’re looking to catch a ferry boat ride from one area of Krabi to another, make sure you travel early in the morning. Apart from avoiding large crowds, there will also be less traffic during your trip.
Order what the locals are having.
There are many splendid dining places in Krabi serving authentic Thai delicacies. Never stick to the dishes you are familiar with and be more gastronomically adventurous when you are there.
The rule is if it looks good and the locals seem to can’t have enough of it, order a serving to enjoy for yourself.