Krabi is one of Thailand\’s most beautiful provinces — a dramatic Andaman coast landscape of limestone karsts, mangrove forests, turquoise bays, and offshore islands. Ao Nang is the main tourist hub, Railay Beach is the peninsula that stops traffic, and Koh Lanta is the long, quiet island to the south. This guide covers how to get to Krabi, where to base yourself, and what to do across the region.
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How to Get to Krabi
By Flight
Krabi International Airport (KBV) is the main gateway, served by AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Thai Lion Air, and Nok Air from Bangkok. Flight time from Bangkok is approximately 1 hour 20 minutes. Fares start from around $30–50 USD one way when booked ahead.
From Kuala Lumpur: AirAsia flies directly from KLIA2 to Krabi — approximately 1 hour 40 minutes, from ~$25 USD. This is the best value way to reach Krabi from Malaysia.
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By Bus from Bangkok
Overnight buses from Bangkok\’s Southern Bus Terminal to Krabi take approximately 12 hours and cost around 700–1,000 THB (~$20–28 USD). Government buses and private operators (Nakhon Si Travel, Phantip) both cover this route. A decent option if you want to save on accommodation.
By Ferry from Koh Lanta or Koh Phi Phi
High-season ferries connect Krabi (Klong Jilad Pier) with Koh Lanta (~1.5 hours, ~400 THB) and Koh Phi Phi (~1.5 hours, ~350–450 THB). Useful for island hoppers coming up the Andaman coast.
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Where to Base Yourself in Krabi
| Area | Vibe | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Ao Nang | Most developed, restaurants, bars, easy transport | First-timers, convenience, Railay day trips |
| Railay Beach | Isolated peninsula, no roads, dramatic scenery | Rock climbing, beach lovers, romantic stays |
| Krabi Town | Local, authentic, cheap food, mangrove walks | Budget travelers, authentic experience |
| Klong Muang | Quiet, upscale, long empty beach north of Ao Nang | Families, luxury resorts |
| Koh Lanta | Quieter island south of Krabi, multiple beaches | Longer stays, diving, less crowded |
Top Things to Do in Krabi
Railay Beach
The limestone peninsula that\’s become Krabi\’s signature image — accessible only by longtail boat from Ao Nang (100 THB, 15 minutes). Phra Nang Beach on the south side is one of Thailand\’s most beautiful. Rock climbing, hidden lagoon, viewpoint. See our full Railay Beach guide →
4 Islands Day Trip
The classic Krabi boat tour visiting Koh Poda, Koh Gai (Chicken Island), Koh Tub, and Koh Mor — a half-day of snorkeling, clear water, and white sand. From ~600 THB by longtail or 1,200–1,500 THB by speedboat. Departs from Ao Nang and Railay.
Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Seua)
1,237 steep steps up a karst hill 3 km from Krabi Town — the reward is a 360-degree panorama across the province from a golden Buddha at the summit. Go early morning (before 08:00) to avoid heat. Free entry, modestly dressed required.
Emerald Pool and Blue Pool (Than Bok Khorani)
Natural swimming pools in the jungle inland of Krabi — the Emerald Pool is a large hot spring-fed pool (naturally warm and mineral-rich), while the Blue Pool 1 km further is smaller, more vivid blue, and stunning. National park entry ~200 THB. Best visited before 09:00 or after 15:00 to avoid tour group crowds.
Koh Phi Phi Day Trip
Koh Phi Phi (famous for Maya Bay from The Beach) is 1.5 hours from Krabi by speedboat — most operators run day trips from Ao Nang visiting Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, and Pileh Lagoon. From ~1,200 THB. Maya Bay has restricted daily visitor numbers to protect the coral — book ahead.
Best Time to Visit Krabi
- November–April: High season — dry, calm seas, boats run reliably, best snorkeling visibility. Peak December–February.
- May–October: Monsoon season — heavy rain possible, seas can be rough. Railay longtails sometimes suspended. Prices drop significantly, crowds disappear. Landscape is vivid green.
Where to Stay in Krabi
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Related Guides
- Railay Beach: Complete Guide
- Kuala Lumpur to Koh Lanta
- Koh Lipe to Koh Lanta Speedboat
- Andaman Island Hopping Route
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