First-time travellers to Krabi fret not! From secluded beaches to bustling tourist towns, we will be breaking down the best places to stay in Krabi to help you plan your next visit here.
Ao Nang (Best for convenience and well-developed amenities)
Ao Nang is the main tourist centre in the Krabi province. Home to the popular Ao Nang beach, there are plenty of accommodations, dining and entertainment venues here. This tourist-friendly town offers international cuisine and many souvenir shops. A prime departing point for trips to surrounding islands, Ao Nang is well-connected to most of the other tourist attractions in the province. This location is great for travellers looking for convenience, ease of accessibility to amenities and a vibrant atmosphere.
| Pros | Cons |
- Wide variety of attractions and activities - Easy access to islands - Vibrant nightlife scene - Many dining and shopping options - Plenty of accommodations from budget to luxury | - Can get quite busy - Lacks the authentic Thai experience |
Krabi Town (Best for an authentic Thai town experience)
Krabi Town is the capital city of Krabi province and one of the favourite stopover locations for backpackers since the 70s. Situated at the mouth of the Krabi River, the town offers a wide range of accommodation that are cheaper than those offered near the beaches. This authentic Thailand town features unpretentious markets, restaurants and boutiques, a great location for those who seek a local experience in Krabi. Though it has no beaches of its own, neighbouring beaches are only a stone throw away via a boat or taxi.
| Pros | Cons |
- Authentic local city life - Budget accommodation, dining and shopping | - Has no beaches of its own |
Railay (Best for its hippie island vibes)
Home to world-class rock climbing sites, the limestone cliffs a Railay make for a true island getaway. Separated from the mainland by surrounding limestone cliffs, this secluded paradise can only be reached by boat. Best described as hippie chic, you’ll find backpackers embodying the slow-paced, shoeless way of life along with the clear lack of motorised vehicles. West Railay houses most of the big resorts while the bulk of accommodations can be found in East Railey where prices are usually cheaper. Tourists planning a luxurious vacation can consider the Reyavadee Resort at on the popular Phra Nang Beach.
| Pros | Cons |
- World-class climbing sites - Beautiful beaches - Most of the accommodations are Muslim-owned so there’s plenty of Halal dining options - Remote island vibes - Plenty of activities, from snorkelling to island hopping | - Prices of accommodation tend to be higher - Can get crowded during the day when tourists visit from Krabi mainland |
Tonsai Beach (Best for budget backpackers)
| Pros | Cons |
- Great for rock climbing - Cheap accommodations - Less crowded - Plenty to do here with diving, kayaking and snorkelling offered | - Simple dining and shopping options - Lack of a vibrant nightlife scene - Not easily accessible |
Another famous rock climbing destination is Tonsai, an area located between Ao Nang and Railay. Like its Railay, Tonsai is only accessible by boat and is also the less popular option of the two. The greatest pull factor here is the cheap accommodations and lack of crowds. There are plenty of restaurants offering Western and Thai cuisine, with coffee shops and bars around almost every corner. You can find basic provisions at the minimarts here and internet connection is widely available here.
Klong Muang (Best for luxury retreats)
The rural Klong Muang is perfect for couples or families looking for a luxury retreat at a five-star resort. Although dining and shopping options are limited, there are still a handful of local restaurants and bars, boutiques and massage parlours in Klong Muang.
| Pros | Cons |
- Luxurious accommodations for privacy and relaxation - Rural atmosphere | - Lack of affordable accommodations - Lack of dining, shopping and entertainment options - Little to do in the area besides visiting the beaches |
Nopparat Thara (Best for families)
Nopparat Thara is Ao Nang’s up and coming neighbour. Situated right beside Ao Nang, the beach here is less crowded and more laidback, perfect for those who want to stay close to the action but not right smack in it. The area is still generally peaceful with most of its rustic charms intact although a growing number of shopping plazas, eateries and hotels have been popping up over the years. The main beach is also a popular departing point for boat trips to the surrounding islands Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta and Koh Yao Noi and Yai.
| Pros | Cons |
- Peaceful atmosphere - Cheaper accommodations - Easy access to the main Ao Nang Area and surrounding islands | - Few dining, shopping and entertainment options |
