Things to Do in Krabi

Krabi’s landscape of karst rock formations, palm trees, turquoise seas, and golden sands, make it a nature’s playground and there are plenty of things to do other than lie on the beach and top up your tan – which is tempting, we know.

From exploring the multitudes of islands (there are over 130!) and scaling the rock faces of the mountainous cliffs, to discovering the exotic sea life under water, and visiting one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the province, you certainly won’t be bored.

island hopping

The Andaman Sea is home to some of the most beautiful islands in Asia, so it would be a crime not to spend a day island hopping. If you’re visiting Koh Phi Phi, the island hopping tours will take you around the most popular bays, beaches, and coves, which include Monkey Beach (yes, full of monkeys!) and the famous Maya Bay where The Beach was filmed, as well as cliff jumping spots from the limestone, and the chance to see a beautiful sunset if you take the afternoon tour.

Koh Lanta also offers a similar island hopping experience called the 4 Islands Tour, which involves snorkelling, a delicious Thai picnic on the beach of chicken, rice, and fresh fruit, and exploring the Emerald Cave. There are various agents and accommodations that sell these tours, so make sure they are legitimate and don’t be afraid to haggle the price.

diving & snorkelling

The Andaman Sea is also a popular spot for diving and snorkelling and you can organise a day trip from Krabi, Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi or Koh Lanta where you can happily spend hours submerged in the warm waters admiring the majestic beauty below the sea of bright corals and exotic fish (sometimes even sharks!).

There isn’t a shortage of companies offering PADI, especially in Koh Phi Phi, if you are not already qualified and some of our favourite diving spots are the King Cruiser wreck, the Anemone Reef, and Shark Point.

Don’t miss the two sister islands that make up Koh Rok, near Koh Lanta, for a beautiful snorkelling experience, either. It also might be worth investing in an underwater camera, if you haven’t already.

Tiger Cave Temple – Wat Tham Suea

Krabi Town, while not a beachside destination like the other popular areas in the province, does have its own cultural offering. One of the most important Buddhist sites in Southern Thailand is the Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple) – a must to appreciate the rich culture that bolsters Thai history and its traditions.

The pièce de resistance, however, is the climb up the 1,272 steps to the top where you can see the ‘footprint of the Buddha,’ not to mention panoramic views across the mountains and surrounding area. Don’t forget; this is a sacred place of prayer and meditation so pay your respects, cover up, and moderate your behaviour.

Hotsprings & The Emerald Pool

While the idea of hot springs (or in Thai nam tok rawn) might not sound so appealing in the warmer months, they are a must visit nonetheless. The beautiful thermal baths are found in a jungle near the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve, where you will find naturally hollowed-out tubs filled with natural mineral salts which some believe aid in rheumatism, sciatica, and other skin ailments.

After taking a dip in the warm waters, take a short trail through the Khao Nor Chu Chi forest to cool off in the crystal clear Emerald Pool and swim in one of nature’s true beauties amid the tropical trees and exotic birds. Entry fees apply: THB90 for hotspings and THB200 for the pool.

rock climbing

Whether you’re a serious climber or not, Railay (20-minute longboat from Ao Nang), is a great destination for rock climbing. The steep limestone cliff faces are an ideal natural wall to scale and they offer amazing views of the ocean and island itself, up unbeatable vantage and viewpoints.

There are many climbing spots around and rental shops where you can hire the equipment (ropes, harness, carabiners) so you don’t have to fly across the world with your own kit! If you’re a newbie, there are guided climbs and lessons you can sign up to, to learn in one of the most beautiful places in the world.