The southern resort town of Krabi is a dream location for honeymooners, romantics, and the stressed and overworked alike. Should the peace and quiet prove to be too much, there’s always a little nightlife to be found on Ao Nang Beach.
Location
Just 15 km from the provincial capital, Krabi International Airport (KBV) services flights from Bangkok (1 hour), Koh Samui, as well as international flights from various Asian countries, also operating as a gateway to such resorts as Had Yao, Ao Nang, and Rai Lay. Krabi International Airport’s new four-storey international terminal was opened in 2006, and can accommodate up to 600 incoming and 600 outgoing passengers at any one time.
Beach Vacations
The province as a whole keeps tourists coming back for its varied landscapes, sheer limestone cliffs, secret coves, relaxing hot springs, and deep caves. The beaches found here are some of the best in the country, the most well-known of which is Ao Nang. Daytime excursions to nearby islands offer incredible conditions, while back on the island, the Seung Sahn Hoy – Fossil Shell Beach, made of limestone is something to see.
Located in southern Krabi, the nearby Koh Phi Phi archipelago consists of seven small islands with rocky terrain, famous for its backdrop used in various Hollywood blockbusters.
Sights
The sights in Krabi are numerous and almost all naturally-occurring: Emerald Lake, Krabi Hot Springs, Huay Toh Waterfall, Tham Phet Cave, and Khao Khanap Nam caves.
Located in the hills, the Khao Phanom Bencha National Park, with small rivers and waterfalls cutting through its thick teak forests, sees varied wild animals playing in the thicket. While Than Bok Khorani National Park is where you’ll find 121 km2 of limestone mountains, mangrove trees, and tiny islands in the most unpredictable shapes. Located in the south of Krabi province, the Mu Ko Lanta National Park comprises several islands including Koh Lanta Yai. Here, the Chao Ley clan, or “Sea Gypsies”, continue to practice many of their ancient customs and traditions, as they have been doing for centuries.
Activities and Entertainment
Diving is great off of Ao Nang Beach, where 200 or so species of fish and more than 80 species of coral grow just off the coast. Daytrippers could rent a boat and explore the nearby Hat Rai Leh, Po Da, Tap, and Mo islands.
As an unusual option in Thailand, Krabi is great for climbers, as large rocks and cliffs of different complexity are abundant. Railay Beach and Ton Sai are especially popular in this regard.
In terms of infrastructure, resorts in Krabi are being developed at a moderate pace. Though there is a good variety of restaurants and other options to spend your free time, little more than that is available. The vast majority of entertainment is in Ao Nang.
Prices
Prices at resorts on the mainland are usually lower than on the islands. Though much similar to Phuket in terms of its natural habitat, Krabi is much cheaper.
Please note:
the international language spoken throughout Krabi province is predominantly English. Also, the eastern part of Cape Riley, Tonsai, and to a lesser extent western Rayleya are exposed to low tide, the occurrence of which and duration depend on the season and phases of the moon.
