If I were to travel to a city such as Krabi for the first time, I’d want to know what goes on in the city to be able to determine if it will be worth visiting. I’d also want to know the different activities and fascinating spots the city of Krabi has to offer for me to have the best experiences. For this reason, I’ve decided to put together the best things Krabi is known for to help travelers know what to expect and how to make the most of it.
What is Krabi Known For?
The city of Krabi is best known for having some of the most beautiful Islands, astonishing beaches, and scenic views. With highlights such as limestone cliffs, sea caves, alluring marine life, coral reefs, a wildlife sanctuary, and hot springs, one can only be certain to have the best holiday/vacation experiences. Krabi is also home to some of the most intriguing national parks of Thailand, the likes of the popular Koh Lanta and Koh Phi Phi Islands. Furthermore, Krabi is where the most photogenic sunsets can be witnessed from a beachside restaurant or bar.
A town called Ao Nang which is located at the seaside is among the most visited area of Krabi. It has a strip of hotels, guesthouses, bars, souvenir shops, and restaurants. This part of Krabi has continued to witness impressive growth as travelers continue to flood here and into the northern part of Noppharat Thara, a more reserved area with a beach that’s close to Koh Phi Phi Islands and an extension of the national park.
The Most Beautiful Islands in Krabi?
Krabi is home to about 200 islets and islands, however, the majority of them do not have landing access and just protrude out of the sea. The rest are large, uninhabited, and have features such as beaches, caves, and white sand beaches. Among these islands are some of the hidden gems of Thailand, islands that look and feel like paradise, below are some of them.
- The Lading Island
If you are on the hunt for a small but very beautiful island in Krabi then Lading Island is where you’d want to be. It is not just a small island but a dream-like island that came to life from a fairytale storybook. Journeying to this destination in a long-tail boat is a fascinating experience in itself. The surrounding area of this destination includes tall limestone cliffs, a soft and fine sandy beach, and a dense jungle. The water bodies here are crystal clear and inviting. It would be nearly impossible to resist the urge to swim or snorkel. Being a part of a national park in this region, it takes only an excursion to be able to arrive here.
- The Koh Poda Island
Kho Poda Island is among the most popular islands in Krabi and a part of the islands in the four islands tour. It has proximity to Ao Nang, Klong Muang Beach, and Railay Beach, the major resort towns in Krabi. This makes Koh Poda Island easy to access by boat. Koh Poda Island has beautiful scenery that features limestone cliffs protruding from the sea and crystal clear waters perfect for diving or swimming. The beach on this Island has fine sand which makes it perfect for beach walks, sports, and building castles. Being a part of a national park makes the island uninhabited and an ideal destination for those who love nature and seek paradise.
- The Hong Island
This Island is the type to get featured on the cover of a travel magazine. Being just 6 kilometers away from the Krabi mainland, it is easily accessible by boat with an arrival time of about 20 minutes. Hong Island features wonderful limestone formations and dream-like beaches. Another highlight the Hong Island is the Hong Lagoon which is worth seeing and can be accessed through a narrow opening and by boat. Furthermore, this island is a property of the Thanbok Kharanee National Park, which makes it undeveloped and secluded, meaning hotels and other forms of accommodation do not exist here.
- Koh Phi Phi Island
This island is arguably the most famous in the city of Krabi. This may have something to do with the fact that it was featured in some of the scenes of the legendary movie called “The Beach”, which starred the famous actor Leonardo Di Caprio. Koh Phi Phi Island is made up of two separate islands; Koh Phi Phi Don and Koh Phi Phi Leh. The former is inhabited by both ex-pats and locals and is recognized as the center for tourism. Koh Phi Phi Island provides the opportunity to enjoy the best nature has to offer. You can either take part in wonderful beachside activities or enjoy being enveloped in its scenic environment.
- The Popular Chicken Island
This Island is quite famous and fondly called “Chicken Island” because it has a landmark (a rock formation) in the form of a chicken head – this is a unique and distinctive feature of this island. Chicken Island is also a part of the Four Island Tour in Krabi and is arguably among the most beautiful islands in the city. You would be at a great loss if you ever come to Krabi and leave without visiting this destination. Its sandbank is white and huge and connects with a smaller island (Tup Island) during low tides, which makes crossing from one dream island to the next possible. Fantastic boat tours are arranged by organizations around here so be sure to sign up for an experience of a lifetime.
- The Pakbia Island
This is a small island and also a jewel of Krabi. Its landscape is picturesque and exceptional and features water bodies that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. These water bodies are of emerald colors, shine gorgeously, and feature much fish of different colors. Koh Hong’s archipelago is where Pakiab Island can be found and can be accessed by long-tail boats en route from Krabi. Its surrounding area is ideal for island tours as it consists of other islands such as Lading Island and Hong Island.
- The Koh Jum Island
This is a deserted and lonely island in Krabi. However, its location makes it perfect for persons who wish to take a break from the overly crowded areas and hide in a more secluded area. Koh Jum Island is undeveloped and looks like what Thailand may have been like twenty years ago. It is cozy and filled with beautiful beaches and welcoming Thai locals. The atmosphere is chilled and may make you not go back into the city. This is the ideal spot if you are looking for something secluded, authentic, and perfect for relaxation without any form of disturbance.
- Koh Lanta Island
Although this Island is quite popular, it has managed to remain on the list of the quietest island in the region. Koh Lanta Island is an ideal reflective vacation destination. The quietest beaches live on this island, all of which are famous for being picture-perfect and offering the opportunity to witness countless sunsets. With the presence of hippie bars, Koh Lanta Island is perfect for relaxation and unwinding. It is also a holiday island for educative excursions and tours. Aside from the mind-blowing beaches on Koh Lanta Island, you can also find a national park, waterfalls, caves, and other nearby islands for exploration.
- The Koh Ngai Islet
In the southern region of Krabi is where you will find Koh Ngai Islet, one of the most attractive islands in the area. The crystal clear sea and its turquoise-blue color make everything about this island seem heavenly. There exists an offshore reef that provides the perfect opportunity for snorkeling. Also, organized excursions do exist and often involve riding long tail boats to other neighboring small islands like Koh Mook and Koh Kradan. Due to the absence of nightlife and roads, this part of Krabi is excitingly quiet for those wanting an escape from the bustling and hustling part of Krabi. Here you will find a few resorts and hotels all of which offer great staying conditions as you explore the island.
The Most Remarkable Things You Should Do in Krabi
Here, you will find the best activities in Krabi that makes up for the majority of the things the city is known for. If you should run into a friend who has been to Krabi, he or she is most likely to mention some of these activities.
- Rock Climbing at Railay Beach
Climbers from different parts of the world are attracted to the imposing cliffs of Railay in Krabi. What makes the city of Krabi the perfect destination for rock climbing on the globe are the large limestone pillars in Railay, between Ao Nang and Krabi. You will also find lots of rock climbing spots in Railay Beach with each of them having its distinctive features. It will require not only agility but levels of toughness to tackle each of them as your skills are bound to be tested.
Due to the tall limestone cliffs in this region cutting through the mainland access, Railay Beach can only be accessible by boat. This is an ideal outdoor activity for persons seeking the most daring experiences.
- Bungee Jumping In Krabi
Under the supervision of trained staff, you can participate in a very high (56 meters) bungee jump in Krabi, the fifth highest in Asia, and the highest in all of Thailand. Aside from the usual bungee jump, you can opt for the catapult experience. Bungee jump in Krabi is often compared to the bungee jumps in New Zealand which is the most renowned destination in the world for bungee jumps. Those in New Zealand are also considered equivalent to that Krabi. Safety measures are always strictly adhered to under the watch of a trained staff, and all the necessary equipment is available and regularly maintained. Also, a bungee jump in Krabi cost as much as 1600 Thai Baht per person.
- Try the Local food at the Koh Lanta Market
At Koh Lanta Yai’s local food market, you will find a bunch of finger-licking skewered food packed in one place. Here, you will find lots of barbequed meals as well as other skewered foods in the weirdest of shapes. Aside from the colorful skewered pieces of meat, you will also find very good-looking milkshakes, sushi rolls, chocolate-coated strawberries, huge hips candy, and other types of mouthwatering local food.
Fortunately, these foods are remarkably affordable and very delicious. For an immersive experience, you’ll have to sample these foods from not only one stall as certain vendors are bound to be more skilled at preparing these meals than others.e
- Explore the Hot Springs in Klong Thom
Natural occurring hot tub Jacuzzis can also be found in Krabi. Locally known as Nam Tok Rawn, they are among the most sought-after tourist attractions in the region. They can be seen in the dense jungle near Khao Phra Bang Nature Reserve, 70 kilometers away from town. The water temperatures are around 35 to 42 degree Celsius. A dip in any of these hot springs is good for health as the waters contain natural healing minerals.
- Find your way up to the Khao Ngon Viewpoint
Trekking through a fascinating trail to the Khao Ngon viewpoint is an outdoor experience hikers often look out for when in Krabi. This viewpoint is breathtaking and it cost nothing except for the exciting and adventurous trails to get here. Arriving at this spot will require passing through a 4-kilometer trail that features lots of beautiful scenery, a waterfall, 2 viewpoints, and a stream. The Kho Ngon viewpoint is overwhelming and may not be like something you’ve ever seen before. It provides the perfect opportunity for taking pictures.
- Experience the Nightlife in Krabi
While in Krabi, you may want to visit some of the happening places that only come to life at sundown. There are plenty of things to do at night in Krabi that promise as much fun, if not more than a few daytime activities. Some of the best places to go to for the best nightlife experiences are; Joy Beach Bar, The Last Café, Phi Phi Reggae Bar, and Ao Nang Center Point.
At joy Beach Bar, you will find good beer, smoothies, cocktails, and even irresistible pizza. Enjoy these and many more while staring into the magnificent view of Railay Beach and listening to soft soul music to go with the mood. Make sure to come in some comfortable clothes and get ready for an intense party till sunrise.
In Ao Nang is where you will find The Last Café. This is an ideal spot to chill and relax after having a long day at the beach (Ao Nang Beach). Here, they serve delectable sandwiches alongside beer.
Experience live Thai kickboxing fights while downing a jug of beer at Phi Phi Raggae Bar. This spot has the reputation for being very entertaining and keeping customers in high spirits.
In the middle of the nightlife scenes in Ao Nang is Ao Nang Central Point. Located near the beachfront, it is filled with restaurants and stalls serving some of the best Thai and international delicacies.
- Explore and shop at Krabi Walking Street
Krabi Walking Street provides the perfect opportunity to shop until you become exhausted. It is the most popular night market in Krabi and features lots of stalls offering all types of goods and services. At the center of the market is a stage where local acts take on live performances. And just in front of the stage are seats meant for spectators. There also do exist food vendors selling mouthwatering dishes you cannot afford to miss.
- Participate in Paintball Shooting
You can’t afford to not partake in paintball shooting in Krabi. Get dressed up in soldier-like clothes and hunt down your enemies with paintballs. You’ll be amazed by how thrilling and exciting this activity is. If you are a solo traveler, you can team up with total strangers and still have the fun of your life. If you are either with friends or family, good for you as there’ll be lots to talk about on your way home.
Conclusion
The city of Krabi is known for a lot of things. However, its highlights are beautiful beaches, amazing viewpoints, picture-perfect islands and islets, diverse marine life, intriguing caves, coral reefs, and huge limestone cliffs. It is also known to be an ideal destination for adventurous activities as there are landscapes that provide opportunities for thrilling activities such as rock climbing, bungee jumping, hiking, etc. also, be sure to take part in the well-organized 4 island tour which involves exploring four of the most beautiful islands in Krabi in a long-tail boat. Some of these Islands are; Chicken Island, Tub Island, Koh and Poda Island.
Be sure to experience the nightlife in Krabi before heading back home. Although the nightlife here can’t be compared to that in other neighboring cities, it still has a lot to offer for a memorable holiday vacation.