15 Best Krabi Attractions, From Popular Spots to Hidden Gems

Krabi Province is a tropical paradise that seamlessly blends natural beauty, culture, and adventure. With its stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, sandy shores, and lush jungles, many Krabi attractions boast some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Thailand. 

Beyond its natural wonders, Krabi offers a rich cultural experience with its vibrant night markets, delicious Thai cuisine, and friendly locals. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the beach, adrenaline-pumping adventures, or a taste of authentic Thai culture, Krabi has something for every traveller. If those weren’t enough to entice you, keep on reading to find out what are the best places to visit in Krabi!

Also read: 13 Airbnbs in Krabi Province for a Slice of Paradise

Popular places to visit in Krabi Province

1. Ao Nang Beach

Ao Nang is a seaside paradise filled with beaches, guesthouses, hotels, resorts, bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops. Among the incredible beaches here, Ao Nang Beach is the most popular among tourists due to its high accessibility. Its strategic location by the Andaman Sea and its close proximity to Krabi Town and the Krabi International Airport make it an easy-to-reach destination. 

Along the coastline of Ao Nang Beach lies a main street, perfect for hardcore shoppers. Here, you can find everything from handbags and beachwear, to tasty snacks and other souvenirs. Besides shopping, there are many food, drinks and dessert options for you to choose from, too!

Speaking of which, make sure to stop by Ao Nang Beach Night Market. You can grab cheap street food and other budget-friendly bites, with items starting from ฿80 (~$S3). It is also worth mentioning that many of these stalls are open in the daytime, too. Despite it being a smaller-scale night market, it is still among the popular Krabi tourist places to visit!

2. Ao Nang Landmark Night Market

The Ao Nang Landmark Night Market is a vibrant and bustling market that comes alive as the sun sets. Here, you’ll find a wide array of stalls and vendors selling everything from souvenirs and handicrafts to clothing, accessories, and local artworks. 

One of the highlights of the Ao Nang Beach Landmark Night Market is the delectable street food. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste some of the region’s famous dishes, such as pad thai, mango sticky rice, and sai krok isan (fermented sausage made with pork and rice). You can also sit at the main stage area and enjoy live music and cultural performances while savouring your meal! With its wide variety of culinary delights and entertainment options, it is definitely one of the best places to visit in Krabi.

3. Krabi International Boxing Stadium – Ao Nang

Visiting the Krabi International Boxing Stadium promises an exciting and memorable experience. It offers you a chance to witness the thrilling sport of Muay Thai, which is deeply rooted in the country’s culture and tradition. 

Whether you are a fan of combat sports or simply looking for an unforgettable evening, the stadium provides an opportunity to witness incredible athleticism and feel the adrenaline of a live sporting event. Each Muay Thai fight is preceded by the athletes performing the wai khru (war dance): a traditional ritual to thank their trainers, parents, and ancestors. Each night features five to seven fights, with both a co-main and event fight. 

Do take note that Krabi International Boxing Stadium holds fight tournaments every Thursday and Sunday at 9pm. The standard seat price is at ฿990 (~$S37.12), a ringside seat is ฿1,200 (~$S45), and a VIP seat costs ฿1,500 (~$S56.25). Snacks and drinks are available at the bar, too! What’s better is that there is free transport from your hotel to the venue itself! 

4. Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi Islands are another tropical paradise that offers a breathtaking escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Start your day by exploring the mesmerising Maya Bay — which is famous for its appearance in the movie, The Beach. While you’re there, soak in the stunning views of the emerald waters and towering limestone cliffs. Meanwhile, snorkelling and diving enthusiasts can discover vibrant coral reefs and an array of marine life at sites like Shark Point and Hin Muang. 

Afterwards, stop by Phi Phi Leh to visit Viking Cave and enjoy cliff jumping at Pi Leh Lagoon. For those seeking relaxation, unwind on the soft sands of Bamboo Island. You could also enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Tonsai Bay Village: a maze of small streets on Phi Phi island where bars and restaurants come alive in the evening. 

To get to these Krabi attractions, you can opt for a guided day tour. There are many tour operators offering various packages, so it’s essential to find one that suits your preferences. Most of them have websites where you can book your tour in advance. Alternatively, you can visit their offices in Krabi and book in person. 

5. Ko Kai, Ko Thap, and Ko Mor

Embark on an adventure to these three neighbouring Krabi attractions: Ko Kai (Chicken Island), Ko Thap, and Ko Mor. This cluster of islands is a natural treasure trove nestled in the azure waters of the Andaman Sea. 

Among them, Ko Kai stands out with its distinctive rock formation resembling a chicken’s head and neck. It’s a popular spot for snorkelling, thanks to its vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. Meanwhile, Ko Thap and Ko Mor (collectively called Tub Islands) are smaller, but are also ideal for snorkelling! During low tide, these two islands are connected by a beautiful sandbank known as Thale Waek. 

To get to these destinations, there are many tour agencies that offer guided day tours. You can choose to take either a speedboat or a long-tail boat (a type of watercraft native to Southeast Asia). The best time to start your island hopping tour is typically in the morning, around 8.30am to 9.30am. Starting early allows you to enjoy the islands when they are less crowded and provides ample time to explore various locations and participate in activities. The meeting place for tour groups vary, but the most common departure points are Ao Nang and Nopparat Thara Beach. 

6. Phra Nang Cave Beach – Railay Peninsula

While not an island of its own, Phra Nang Cave Beach is usually included in the same tours as the three islands mentioned above. Nestled in between towering cliffs, it is the perfect spot for rock climbing expeditions. This beach is not only picturesque, but also houses a sacred cave where fishermen pay tribute to the spirit of princess Phra Nang. According to a legend, she was an Indian princess who was killed in a shipwreck, and her spirit continues to occupy the cave. 

7. Emerald Pool –  Khlong Thom Nuea

Another among the popular Krabi attractions is the Emerald Pool or Sa Morakot: a captivating natural wonder tucked away in Khlong Thom Nuea, a district of Krabi. The vivid colours of the waters are a result of the mineral deposits and underwater plant life, giving it a beautiful and distinct appearance. 

The pool is fed by a natural spring, creating a serene oasis amidst the verdant surroundings. Visitors can take a refreshing dip in the cool waters, which are known for their therapeutic properties. Because it is enveloped by dense vegetation and limestone cliffs, it offers a sense of tranquillity and seclusion for those seeking a peaceful forest escape. 

8. Tiger Cave Temple – Krabi

Looking for a spiritual retreat? Then Tiger Cave Temple (locally known as Wat Tham Sua) should be on your list of places to visit in Krabi. The temple itself is a place of worship and meditation, featuring intricate statues and religious relics. It’s named after a cave within the complex that is said to resemble a tiger’s paw print, adding to the mystique of the site. 

What sets this temple apart is its stunning setting amidst a lush jungle and dramatic limestone cliffs. To reach the main temple complex, visitors must climb a steep flight of approximately 1,237 steps. Once you reach the summit, you will be greeted with a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside. 

This remarkable Buddhist temple complex is not only a spiritual haven and a place of profound serenity. Hence, it’s one of the must-visit Krabi attractions for both cultural enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

9. Klong Root (Clear Water Canal)

Kayaking through the enchanting Klong Root (Clear Water Canal) is a serene and immersive experience. It’s among those Krabi attractions that allow you to connect with nature on a deeper level. As you gently paddle through a network of narrow waterways, lush greenery and towering limestone cliffs surround you, creating a sense of tranquillity. The canals meander through a pristine mangrove forest, offering a glimpse of unique flora and fauna, including colourful birds and curious monkeys. 

Whether you’re an experienced paddler or a novice looking for adventure, it is certainly one of the best places to visit in Krabi! Do take note that the ideal time for kayaking in Krabi is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. This period offers the best weather conditions, with minimal rainfall and calm seas, making it perfect for kayaking adventures.

10. Reeve Beach Club – Ao Nang

Looking for a perfect blend of relaxation, food, and entertainment? Reeve Beach Club is for you! Its beautiful beachfront location provides stunning views of Ao Nang Beach, making it an ideal spot to unwind and indulge in good food and drinks. 

What truly makes this bar stand out is that it’s at a perfect spot to catch the sunset. So, sunset lovers, you can request one of the patio tables to have a better view! 

Also, be sure to stay till 8pm to catch the free fire show at the beach right in front of you. The fire show will bring you into a mesmerising world of light, heat, and rhythm. As the sun dips below the horizon, the beach comes alive with anticipation, making it one of the best things to see in Krabi. 

Underrated Krabi attractions

11. Khao Khanap Nam

Board a long tail boat from Krabi town and arrive at a cave called Khao Khanap Nam. This captivating natural wonder showcases the region’s stunning limestone formations and extraordinary geological features. As you climb up a staircase leading to the cave, you can admire intricate stalactites and stalagmites formations that have taken centuries to develop. 

You will also find many ancient human skeletons that were dug up. Many believe these are the skeletons of a group of people who settled there but died in a sudden flood. There is also a corner replicating the Japanese soldiers’ shelters back in the 1940s. 

So, are you more of a nature enthusiast or a history buff? Either way, Khao Khanap Nam is one of the Krabi hidden gems you have to visit!

12. Krabi Town Night Market

A more underrated marketplace to visit would be Krabi Town Night Market. This spirited venue offers a more local experience as compared to the other night markets previously mentioned.

As the sun sets over Krabi town, the night market comes to life, overloading your senses with a display of colourful lights and mouth-watering delicacies. It features a wide array of Thai street food, including authentic seafood dishes, potato twisters, fruit juices, alcohol, and many more. More intriguingly, the night market introduces a culture of fried insects being eaten as a delicacy. 

Do give sago grubs (larvae of the red palm weevil) a try! Its plump, white or cream-coloured bodies and soft textures might not be visually appealing to some. However, once you get past its rather unpleasant appearance, you might discover a meaty consistency with a bacon-like flavour. While sago grubs are usually roasted, you can try them raw if you fancy a challenge!

The price of the food on average costs around ฿30 to ฿200 (~$S1.13 to ~$S7.5), which is fairly affordable. So, eat and drink to your heart’s content and you will certainly leave the night market feeling satisfied. 

13. Krabi Shooting Range – Ao Nang

For those looking to try their hand at firearms in a safe and controlled environment, Krabi Shooting Range offers an exhilarating experience to spice up your vacation. Here, visitors can test their marksmanship skills with various firearms, including handguns and rifles.

Fret not as there are expert instructors in charge of safety and guidance. It’s a good opportunity for both beginners and experienced shooters to have a thrilling time hitting targets. A target practice session cost ranges from ฿1,150 to ฿2,950 (~$S43 to ~$S110). 

14. Saithai Mountain ATV Adventure – Mueang Krabi district

Explore the region’s rugged terrain and natural beauty at Saithai Mountain ATV Adventure. Their all-terrain vehicles are designed for off-road adventures, making them perfect for traversing the challenging landscape of Krabi. This includes dirt trails, jungle paths, and even shallow rivers. 

As you rev up your engine and embark on the journey through the lush rainforests, you might even encounter wildlife! The experience is not only about the thrill of driving but also immersing yourself in Krabi’s breathtaking landscapes. 

Don’t worry as there are guided tours available! These tours come with experienced instructors who prioritise safety. So, go ahead and have an unforgettable adventure at one of the most enjoyable Krabi attractions! 

15.  Krabi Urban Forest – Mueang Krabi district

Enjoy more outdoor adventures with fewer crowds at Krabi Urban Forest. This 1.3km trail takes you through the stretch of a mangrove forest along the Krabi River. You can enjoy various types of plants and wildlife along the way. Among the various activities you can partake in are bird watching, hiking, biking, walking, jogging and picnicking. 

As you meander through the walkway that weaves through mangrove swamps, it will lead you to a watchtower overlooking Krabi town. Climb up six flights of stairs to get to the very top. You will be rewarded with an aerial view of the river with Khao Khanap Nam mountains in the backdrop. It’s truly one of those Krabi attractions with a breathtaking vista one shouldn’t miss!

Also read: 10 Best Destinations in Thailand for Culture and History

There you have it: the best Krabi attractions! We hope this guide will help you better plan your trip to Krabi. Afterwards, let us know how much fun you had on our Facebook or Instagram page!

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Featured image credit: Balazs Simon via Canva Pro