Visiting Krabi: These Top Things To Do | Must See's

Things to Do in Krabi Thailand: The 19 Best Places and Highlights to Visit

So, You’re planning to visit Krabi during your next trip to the amazing Thailand?

Well, here's our list of THE BEST places to visit in Krabi to make your next visit magical, amazing, all of the above. And we know, because we've visited Thailand as Backpackers in 2008 (just a couple, in true budget hostel style), then for a month in 2015 with our 8 year old daughter, and right now as I write this as a family of 4 that are now full time travellers / digital nomads that are currently living in Thailand and speak from experience not from AI generated content that many blogs churn out - we really have done all of THE BEST things in every destination that we visit. And some not so good things! So that we can share with you so you don't waste your precious time doing things that could be left off your itinerary and filling that space with amazing memories forever.

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In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared for you detailed itineraries in Thailand, that range from 1 week to 1 month. To make things even easier for you, I deep dive into each destination specifically so you will find within each place your detailed go-to-guide, such as this guide of the 19 best things to do there, with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

To help you plan easy and make your next trip to Thailand the best. So, where to go in Thailand? Well, today we're in Krabi. For us it's a month exploring everything this part of the world has to offer. For you, it's the 19 best best best must do things in Krabi (The Bucket List).

Top Things to Do in Krabi, Thailand: Nature, Adventure & Pure Chill

Krabi offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the whole of Thailand and it's known for being a beauty hotspot. And it does not disappoint. It's location too means it's so easy to travel out to the worlds most beautiful beaches by way of a day trip or boat hire.

Now that you've landed in paradise, it’s time to experience everything that makes Krabi one of Thailand’s most beloved destinations. Whether you’re here to chase adrenaline, soak in some sun, or explore hidden gems, Krabi serves it all up with postcard-perfect views.

Here’s our curated list of the **best things to do in Krabi** that capture the essence of this magical province:

1. Visit Ao Nang

   We based ourselves in Ao Nang to be able to island hop and explore the whole Krabi area and we were not disappointed with our choice. Ao Nang is one of the must-see spots during a stay in Krabi. It's one of the most popular and convenient beach towns in Krabi. Many people choose to stay there to be near the sea rather than in the city.The Ao Nang area itself still has several beautiful beaches:

   • Ao Nang Beach: The main large sandy beach with numerous bars, restaurants and tour / boat desks. All the tourist activities of Krabi and the surrounding area are mainly concentrated there. We didn't book anything down there as it was so bust, opting to book any trips we did online via our favourite Klook or Get Your Guide.

     This is where you can buy tickets to take a longtail boat to Railay (I’ll tell you a bit more about that soon) and many other beautiful islands and beaches. The sand is nice and soft but the sea isn't super clear because of the many boats daily. There's also lots' going on at Ao Nang Beach and is a good spot to head to around 4pm onwards as you get an amazing sunset from this beach, lot's of people watching and can catch a free fire show from 7pm onwards where you can watch from the beach. We came down to the beach with the kids with some shop bought beers and drinks in our cooler bag and set up our blanket to watch a free sunset followed by fire show by the young Thai boys. A feast for the eyes all for free. Well, apart from a tip for the boys who go round with a tip box. We live as full time digital nomad travellers so a lot of the day-to-day things that we mention on our blog are budget friendly. So we can splurge on the things that matter. Because we are not 'on holiday' for example we don't tend to visit the bars along the beach front and this is more of a holiday thing. There are plenty to choose from for your holiday and if you want to carry the party on and dance the night away there are many places to choose from.

   • Noppharat Thara Beach: another big beach with fewer people than Ao Nang. Also very pretty and wilder. However, there are no boats leaving from this beach.

   Take a walk across Monkey Trail at the end of the beach and eat at a nice cafe for lunch, visit a night market for street food and so much more.

2. Explore Railay Beach

Only accessible by boat, Railay Beach is a world of its own. Famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs, jungle paths, and world-class rock climbing, it’s also home to some of the softest sands and clearest waters in Krabi. Don’t miss the **Phra Nang Cave Beach**, where a shrine to a mythical princess adds some local legend to your beach day.

2. Take a 4-Island Tour

One of the most popular day trips from Ao Nang, the 4-island tour hits **Phra Nang Cave, Chicken Island, Tup Island**, and **Poda Island**. You'll experience snorkeling, sandbars, and stunning limestone landscapes all in one trip. Longtail boats or speedboats make for a scenic and easy way to explore.

3. Visit the Emerald Pool and Hot Springs

Head inland to the **Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve** to swim in the vibrant **Emerald Pool**—a warm, mineral-rich natural spring. Just a short drive away, the **Klong Thom Hot Springs** offer a perfect spot to relax, with water flowing through smooth rock pools in the jungle.

4. Climb the Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea)

For panoramic views and a bit of a workout, climb the **1,237 steps** to the top of the Tiger Cave Temple. The journey is sweaty but worth it—breathtaking views of the surrounding limestone karsts and forest await at the summit, along with golden Buddha statues and sacred relics.

5. Island Hop to Koh Phi Phi

Use Krabi as a launchpad to visit iconic islands like **Koh Phi Phi**, famous for Maya Bay (made famous by *The Beach*), or head to **Koh Lanta** for a quieter, more laid-back vibe. Both offer snorkeling, diving, and beach-hopping opportunities galore.

6. Go Sea Kayaking in Ao Thalane

For a peaceful way to connect with Krabi’s natural beauty, try sea kayaking through the mangrove forests and limestone canyons of **Ao Thalane**. You’ll glide past hidden coves, monkeys, and dramatic cliffs—a must for nature lovers and photographers.

7. Take a Sunset Cruise

There’s nothing quite like watching the sun melt into the Andaman Sea from a boat. Many companies offer **sunset cruises** with dinner, snorkeling stops, and even plankton night swims that make for a truly magical experience.

8. Dine on Fresh Seafood at the Night Markets

Back on dry land, don’t miss **Krabi Town’s night market** or the beachfront stalls in **Ao Nang**. Feast on grilled fish, spicy papaya salad, mango sticky rice, and fresh coconut ice cream. It’s cheap, authentic, and full of flavour.

9. Island Hop to Hong Island

An alternative to the more popular and busier Phi Phi Island trips but that's equally as beautiful and we think is better! Check out our Hong Island Vlog here

🛏️ 11. Stay in a Hotel Long-Term (Yes, It’s Possible!)

We spent an entire month living in a hotel in Krabi — and it wasn’t as expensive as people think! With no utility bills, free housekeeping, daily water, and sometimes even breakfast included, it was a simple, stress-free way to stay.

➡️ Read our full post: Hotel Living in Krabi – What It’s Really Like + Budget Tips

🐠 12. Snorkel in Crystal-Clear Waters

You’ll find amazing snorkeling around Krabi and some of our favourite snorkel spots were on Hong Island or Koh Poda. The kids loved spotting colourful fish, and the water’s calm and shallow in many areas.

🧗 13. Try Rock Climbing in Railay

One of the world’s best climbing spots! Guided climbs are available for beginners to pros — all with incredible sea views.

🔥 14. Soak in Krabi’s Natural Hot Springs

Just 10 minutes from the Emerald Pool, the hot springs offer a relaxing soak in naturally warm mineral water

🛕 15. Climb 1237 Steps at Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea)

Climb 1,237 steps for panoramic views and a peaceful mountaintop Buddha. Go early to beat the heat — and bring water!

 🌅 16. Catch a Sunset at Ao Nang Beach

Ao Nang offers some of the most dramatic sunsets we saw in Thailand. Grab a coconut or cocktail and enjoy the natural sunset show, followed by nigh time fire show.

🛶 17. Kayak Through Ao Thalane Mangroves

A peaceful paddle through mangrove forests and canyons. Keep your eyes peeled for monkeys, birds, and hidden lagoons.

🏝️ 18. Spend the Day on Koh Lanta

Take a ferry to this laid-back island with quiet beaches, cute cafes, and a perfect vibe for slow travel. We stayed a month and loved it!

🧋 19. Try Local Thai Street Food

You don’t need fancy restaurants — some of the best meals we had were under $2 at local stalls! Try mango sticky rice, satay skewers, pad Thai, and roti.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Activities in Krabi

• 🦎 Krabi Elephant Sanctuary (ethical and no riding)

• 🛶 Private longtail boat ride to a quiet beach (kids love it!)

• 🍦 Ice cream at Icy Bar in Ao Nang

• 🦀 Explore low-tide beaches to find shells and crabs

🚍 How to Get Around Krabi

• 🚖 Taxis & Private Transfers: Best for families with luggage

• 🛵 Scooter Rental: Cheap but not ideal with kids

• 🚐 Songthaews: Shared trucks for short trips — very budget-friendly

• 🚶 Walking: Easy in towns like Ao Nang or Krabi Town

📍 Where to Stay

• Ao Nang – Best for easy beach access and tour options

• Krabi Town – Budget-friendly and local feel

• Railay – Great for a few nights in a tropical escape

👉 We stayed in a budget-friendly hotel with a pool for the month! Look for long-stay discounts and book direct when possible.

Bonus Tips 💡

• Best Time to Visit: November to April (dry season)

• Transport: Songthaews, longtail boats, and Grab are the easiest ways to get around

• Family Tip: Always carry sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water — Krabi is hot year-round!

  
  

🌟 Final Thoughts

Whether you’re here for just a few days or planning a longer escape, Krabi’s combination of adventure, natural beauty, and local charm makes it impossible not to fall in love. Krabi truly is one of Thailand’s most beautiful and diverse regions. Whether you’re hopping islands, hiking to temples, or simply soaking up the sunset from the sand, you’ll find magic around every corner.

It’s also a great place to slow travel — especially with kids — and discover the joy of tropical living without breaking the bank.

Got a favourite thing to do in Krabi I didn’t mention? Let me know in the comments—this list could go on forever.

Want help planning your island-hopping adventure from Ao Nang? Let me know in the comments & I can help you create the perfect itinerary for you. I hope you found this post helpful. In the meantime keep up with our daily updates below:

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💡HELPFUL PLANNING TOOLS FOR YOUR THAILAND TRIP 💡

✈️ - FLIGHTS - Check your dates and flight costs to on our Flight Planning Page fore more

🏨 - ACCOMMODATION - We use this to check dates and costs to hotels and hostels in Thailand now or go to our Accommodation Planning Page for more

🧭🗺️👣 - THAILAND TOURS & GUIDES - We use Get Your Guide for all of the trips in Thailand. But we also love Klook too. TIP: Use both to compare offerings as trips will be different.

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