Krabi trips and vacations

Krabi’s striking limestone cliffs aren’t just for photo ops. This is one of Asia’s climbing hot spots, pulling in adventurers from across the globe to test their strength against the backdrop of the sparkling Andaman Sea. The best place to start is Railay, which has a handful of climbing schools catering to newbies, experts, and everyone in between.

Your vacation in Krabi should definitely involve time on the ocean, and exploring caves and waterways by kayak is an ideal way to start. The natural limestone tunnels of Ban Bor Thor are home to intriguing ancient rock art. For a unique paddling experience, check out the thick mangroves of Ao Luk and Ao Nang, where you’ll spot tropical birds and monkeys in the trees.

Exhausted after a day out in the wild? Self-care on a trip to Krabi is a breeze. Keep things traditional and book a massage at a simple beachside shack, or splurge on treatments at a luxury hotel spa. Let nature work its magic at the jungly Khlong Thom Hot Springs, where you can soak your tired limbs in thermal mineral pools.

If you want amenities at your fingertips, Ao Nang is the best area to stay in Krabi. Here you’ll find a host of restaurants, bars, nightclubs and hotels, as well as a blissful beach. When the need for adventure strikes, there’s a steady supply of outdoor activities in the form of watersports, hikes and jungle tours.

Good for: Beaches, nightlife, watersports

Base yourself at Klong Muang for maximum tranquility. This laid-back resort area is lined with upmarket hotels and beach restaurants, where quiet drinks and seafood dinners are about as energetic as it gets. The northern end of the beach has the best sunset views, with the offshore Hong Islands as a backdrop.

Good for: Sunset views, luxury, seafood

Ask locals where to stay in Krabi to be away from the vacation crowds, and they’ll point you here. The provincial capital and transport hub doesn’t revolve around tourism, giving you an unfiltered look into how people live in Krabi. Soak up the atmosphere at the town’s market, try traditional street eats and follow the riverside walkway to the port to watch fishermen go about their day.

Good for: Markets, street food, river walk

You won’t run out of active things to do with the family in Krabi. Book a trek through the jungle to spot monkeys, reptiles and tropical birds. Or spark your kids’ interest in marine life with a snorkeling session. Scuba diving can be on the cards for kids as young as 10.

Yes, there are malls, outlet stores and boutiques, but the best shopping in Krabi revolves around local markets. Both Krabi Town and Ao Nang are home to thriving night markets. Stop by to pick up clothes and souvenirs and to fill your belly with street food, all to a soundtrack of live local bands.

For a taste of Thai culture in Krabi, head to sacred Wat Tham Suea, a hilltop temple. After you’ve tackled the 1,000-plus steps (watch your footing; they’re a little uneven) you’ll be treated to dramatic views and an impressive golden Buddha statue. The intricately carved Wat Kaew Korawaram temple in Krabi Town is also worth a look.

Ao Nang and Krabi Town have the best nightlife in Krabi. Both attract a mixed local and international crowd and offer late-night bars, pubs and nightclubs. Elsewhere, the vibe is low-key, with quiet beach bars and cafes serving as the main form of evening entertainment.

With its Indonesian and Malaysian influences, Southern Thailand’s cuisine is often spicier than it is in other parts of the country. Be on the lookout for local seafood such as mud crab, mussels and baby squid at restaurants in Krabi. And due to the region’s large Muslim population, you’ll come across some excellent halal dishes.

You’ll find a healthy supply of white-sand beaches in Krabi, with soaring limestone cliffs in the background. Among the best are Tubkaek beach, known for its island views, and Railay beach, which is accessible only by boat. For some local flavor, join picnicking Thai families at Nopparat Thara beach.