Things to Do in Krabi | Best Beaches & Island Tours + Jungle Attractions

Krabi is an outdoor adventurists’ wonderland, so things to do in Krabi revolve around treks through the jungle, rock climbing and diving and snorkeling. The region’s crisp turquoise waters and preserved marine life are recognized as some of the best and most beautiful in the world. In fact, many people have probably seen parts of Krabi already in photos, videos and films, like “The Beach,” which was set in Phi Phi Islands. The best thing about Krabi is that it is not reserved for “the stars.” It’s magnificence can be enjoyed by all, any time of year. Krabi’s magnificent beauty and top attractions are waiting to be explored!

Explore Krabi’s beaches

Most visitors to Krabi have one thing in mind, and that’s lounging on the beach. With miles and miles of shoreline available, it’s easy to find a private spot in the sand. Some of Krabi’s best beaches offer swimming and water sports, but many spots also feature rock cliffs and jungle trails, so outdoor activities are endless, depending on where guests decide to spread out their beach towels.

• Railay Beach – sometimes spelled, Rai Leh, this small and very cozy peninsula is accessible by boat only due to the limestone cliffs that wall off the area. Adventurists are welcome to climb the cliffs, as well as stay on the beach. Several backpacker hostels and beachfront bungalows are available for guests who want to stay awhile. Restaurants and shops with basic necessities provide everything a backpacker needs while exploring Railay Beach.
• Ao Nang Beach – the main beach of the resort town Ao Nang can be reached via a promenade that offers gorgeous sunset views. While Ao Nang Beach is small and used mostly for swimming and strolling, the area also is a perfect spot to watch longtails boats dock and move out to sea every few minutes. On the eastern edge of the beach, visitors will find a choice of local restaurants, bars and massage parlors.
• Nopparat Thara Beach – this sandy spot lined with shade trees offers a respite from the busy streets of Ao Nang. Nopparat Thara is less developed than many beaches, so guests will need to take their own beach chair or mat.

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Krabi Island Hopping

One of the top reasons people visit Krabi is to tour the islands for which the region is so famous. Island cruises can be booked through travel agencies or hotels, but it’s also easy just to hop on a ferry and go any time of the day. Some islands offer accommodations so that guests can spend the night, while others make for great spots to explore during a day trip from the mainland.

• Phi Phi Islands – perhaps the most famous islands in Thailand, Phi Phi Islands is part of a marine national park that features pristine waters, limestone cliffs, prehistoric caves and out-of-this-world scenery. Guests may feel like they are starring in a feature film while exploring Phi Phi. Yes, the landscape is truly that gorgeous. The bay area is popular for snorkeling, diving and taking in some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.
• Hong Island – swimming, kayaking, snorkeling and scuba diving are the most popular activities for tourists who venture to Hong Island, but doing nothing at all is perfectly fine, too! This island features a lagoon area with white sand beaches that are so cozy that guests never want to leave.
• Lanta Island – one of the most popular islands in Krabi, Ko Lanta is a backpacker’s paradise and a tourist’s sightseeing haven. Attractions on Ko Lanta tend to be busier than on most of Krabi’s islands, so tourists trying to avoid crowds may not want to stay on Ko Lanta. Visiting, however, is a must-do activity! The island is covered with hiking trails, beautiful beaches and dozens of outdoor attractions.

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Wat Tham Seua (Tiger Cave Temple)

Speaking of hiking adventures, Wat Tham Seua – also known as Tiger Cave Temple – provides one of the best experiences in Krabi for outdoor enthusiasts. To enjoy a panoramic view of the region, visitors must hike up more than 1,000 stairs. At the top of the climb, guests are treated to stunning views of limestone cliffs and the surrounding rainforests, as well as a tour of the temple grounds, which features the “Footprint of Buddha,” one of the main attractions inside this ancient religious site. Wat Tham Seua is about 2 miles (5 kilometers) northeast of Krabi Town.

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Emerald Pool

Set in Khao Pra-Bang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary, Emerald Pool is a one-of-a-kind experience, to say the least. Visitors are invited to soak their cares away in crystal blue mineral waters and explore the surrounding rainforest through walking trails and jungle pathways. Birdwatchers and nature lovers won’t want to miss this experience. The journey begins in a wildlife sanctuary, which protects some of the rarest species of animals and birds in Thailand.

Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Admission fee (for foreigners): 200 THB (6 USD) for adults and 100 THB (3 USD) for children

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Krabi Elephant Sanctuary

A rescue facility and safe-haven for retired elephants, Krabi Elephant Sanctuary offers guests an opportunity to hang out with elephants in the wild for a day. Recognized as the first ethical tourism experience in Krabi, the elephant sanctuary provides plenty of space to roam, freshwater lagoons and daily care for elephants who have spent their lives in the entertainment industry. Guests can help bathe and feed the animals while strolling with and observing elephants in their natural habitat.

Hours: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
Admission fees: 2,500 THB (75 USD) for adults and 2,000 THB (60 USD) for children

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Discover hotels & places to stay in Krabi

Ava Sea Krabi Resort

Chaofar De Hostel

Tetris Hotel