While there’s nothing special about the town of Krabi itself, it’s an important hub for transport and the jumping-off point for many nearby islands and beaches.

Ao Nang and Railay

These two beach resorts are both on the mainland to the west of Krabi, but due to the rugged limestone landscape, Railay is only accessible by boat. Railay is particularly popular for rock climbers, as it has hundreds of bolted routes and several rock-climbing schools. Ao Nang is a more typical beach resort that is popular with families and package tours for its wide choice of restaurants, bars and shopping outlets.

Ko Phi Phi

Just 40km south of Krabi, Ko Phi Phi exerts a magnetic attraction on anyone who has seen images of its back-to-back bays of Ton Sai and Loh Dalum, a spectacular sight that can be appreciated from a viewpoint to the northeast. The island was almost wiped off the map by the tsunami in 2004, but now once again it is a favourite haunt of party animals for its lively bars that serve up Sang Som (local rum) and Red Bull by the bucketful.

Practical Info

Krabi is connected to Bangkok by regular flights, and ferries link it with all nearby beaches and islands. Ao Nang can also be reached by minivan from Krabi.