A Backpacker’s Guide to Krabi, Thailand

Martha Pillin
Feb 9
11 min read

Krabi is one of those places that gets thrown around in every backpacker itinerary for Thailand. You’ll hear about the stunning limestone cliffs, island-hopping tours, and the infamous nightlife in Ao Nang. But is it really worth the stop?

If you’re picturing a quiet paradise, you might be in for a surprise - Krabi can be touristy, especially in peak season. That said, it’s got its perks. From cheap longtail boat rides to hidden beaches and some of the best rock climbing spots in Southeast Asia, Krabi has a lot to offer if you know where to look. Whether you’re here to chill, party, or just pass through on your way to the islands, this guide will help you figure out if Krabi deserves a spot on your backpacking route.

Travelling Thailand? Read: The Ultimate Backpacking Guide to Thailand

Chapters

When To Visit Krabi

How to get to Krabi

Getting Around Krabi

Where to stay in Krabi

The Best Things to do in Krabi

Places to Eat and Drink in Krabi

When To Visit Krabi

The best time to visit Krabi is between November and March, when the weather is dry, sunny, and not too humid. Temperatures are comfortable, usually ranging from 25–32°C, making it ideal for beach days, island hopping, and outdoor adventures.

If you want to avoid peak-season crowds but still enjoy good weather, late March to early May can be a decent option, though it gets hotter (sometimes reaching 35°C).

The rainy season (May–October) brings heavier showers and rougher seas, which can affect boat trips and outdoor activities. That said, prices drop, and you might find quieter beaches if you don’t mind occasional downpours.

How to get to Krabi, Thailand

Krabi is well-connected to the rest of Thailand and Southeast Asia, making it relatively easy to reach no matter where you’re coming from. Whether you’re flying in, taking a bus, or arriving by ferry, here’s everything you need to know about getting to Krabi.

(Exchange rate estimates: 100 THB ≈ £2.20. Prices may vary.)

By Air

Krabi International Airport (KBV) is the main airport, located about 15 km from Krabi Town and 25 km from Ao Nang.

From Bangkok - Direct flights take about 1.5 hours. Budget airlines like AirAsia, Thai Lion Air, Nok Air, and VietJet Air frequently offer cheap tickets from 1,000–2,500 THB (£22–£55).

From Chiang Mai - Direct flights take around 2 hours (seasonal availability), costing 1,500–3,500 THB (£33–£77).

From Kuala Lumpur or Singapore - Direct flights are available with AirAsia, Scoot, and other low-cost carriers, with prices starting at 2,000 THB (£44).

Getting from Krabi Airport to Your Destination:

To Krabi Town: Shared minivans (150 THB / £3.30) or taxis (350 THB / £7.70, 20-30 min).
To Ao Nang: Shared minivans (150 THB / £3.30) or taxis (600 THB / £13.20, 40 min).
To Railay Beach: Take a taxi or minivan to Ao Nang, then a longtail boat (100 THB / £2.20) to Railay.

By Bus: The Budget-Friendly Option

If you’re traveling from other parts of Thailand, buses are the cheapest way to get to Krabi.

From Bangkok - Overnight buses leave from Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) and take 10–12 hours. Prices range from 600–1,200 THB (£13–£26) depending on the class (VIP buses are more comfortable).

From Phuket - Buses and minivans take 3–4 hours and cost 300–600 THB (£6.60–£13.20). Minivans leave from Phuket Town’s bus terminal and drop you off in Krabi Town or Ao Nang.

From Surat Thani (for those coming from Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, or Koh Tao) - Buses take 3–4 hours and cost 250–400 THB (£5.50–£8.80). If you’re coming from the islands, ferry + bus combos are available (see below).

From Penang (Malaysia) - Long-distance buses take around 8 hours and cost 600–1,000 THB (£13–£22). Minivans are a faster option (around 7 hours).

Book tickets at the bus station or online via 12Go Asia.

By Ferry

If you’re hopping between Thailand’s islands, taking a ferry to Krabi is a scenic option.

From Phuket - Ferries take 2 hours and cost 600–1,200 THB (£13–£26). Speedboats are faster (1 hour) but more expensive. Ferries arrive at Klong Jilad Pier, about 4 km from Krabi Town.

From Koh Phi Phi - Ferries take 90 minutes and cost 450–600 THB (£10–£13.20). Ferries run frequently between 8 AM and 3:30 PM.

From Koh Lanta - Ferries take 1.5–2 hours and cost 500–700 THB (£11–£15.40). Speedboats take around 45 minutes but are pricier.

From Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, or Koh Tao - You’ll need to take a ferry to Surat Thani first, then a bus to Krabi. Combined ferry + bus tickets are available, costing 700–1,200 THB (£15.40–£26), with a total travel time of 6–9 hours depending on the island.

By Train

Krabi doesn’t have a train station, but you can take a train to Surat Thani and then a bus to Krabi. Take an overnight train from Bangkok to Surat Thani (8–12 hours, 800–1,500 THB (£17.60–£33) for sleeper tickets). From Surat Thani, take a bus to Krabi (3–4 hours, 250–400 THB / £5.50–£8.80).

This route is good if you like traveling by train, but taking a direct bus or flight is usually faster and easier.

Getting Around Krabi

Krabi is a laid-back province with a mix of beaches, islands, and jungle landscapes, so getting around depends on where you’re staying and what you want to explore. Whether you’re in Krabi Town, Ao Nang, Railay, or the surrounding islands, here’s how to get around easily and cheaply.

1. Motorbike Rental

Renting a motorbike is the most convenient and affordable way to explore Krabi at your own pace. Roads are decent, and traffic isn’t too crazy (except in parts of Ao Nang). Most guesthouses, hostels, and rental shops in Krabi Town & Ao Nang. Make sure you get a helmet and check the brakes, lights, and tires before renting.

Motorbike Rental Costs:

Krabi Town & Ao Nang: 200 – 300 THB (£4.40 – £6.60) per day.
Long-term rentals: Discounts available for weekly/monthly rentals.
Fuel cost: 40 – 50 THB (£0.90 – £1.10) per litre.

Travel Tips

Some roads (especially near Tiger Cave Temple and Ao Nang) have steep hills - be careful!

Police sometimes check for international driving permits (IDP). Fines are around 500 THB (£11) if you don’t have one.

Always take photos of the bike before renting to avoid scams.

2. Songthaews

Songthaews (converted pickup trucks with bench seating) are the local minibuses in Krabi. They follow fixed routes and are the cheapest way to travel between Krabi Town, Ao Nang, and other areas.

Songthaew Routes & Prices:

Krabi Town → Ao Nang: 50 – 60 THB (£1.10 – £1.30) (30 – 40 mins).

Ao Nang → Klong Muang Beach: 50 – 80 THB (£1.10 – £1.80).

Ao Nang → Nopparat Thara Beach: 20 – 30 THB (£0.40 – £0.70).

Krabi Town → Tiger Cave Temple: 50 – 80 THB (£1.10 – £1.80).

How to Use Songthaews:

They don’t have fixed stops - just wave one down.
Press the buzzer button when you want to get off.
Pay the driver in cash when you get off.

3. Taxis & Grab

Krabi doesn’t have metered taxis, so fares are negotiated or booked through ride-hailing apps like Grab.

Taxi & Grab Costs:

Krabi Town → Ao Nang: 350 – 500 THB (£7.70 – £11).
Ao Nang → Klong Muang: 400 – 600 THB (£8.80 – £13.20).
Krabi Airport → Ao Nang: 600 THB (£13.20) by taxi, 500 THB (£11) via Grab.

4. Longtail Boats – Best for Island Hopping & Railay Beach

Longtail boats are essential for getting to Railay Beach, nearby islands, and hidden beaches. They operate like taxis but on water. Buy tickets at the Ao Nang longtail boat ticket booth (near the beach). Boats leave when they have at least 8 passengers - you might have to wait. Private hire is more expensive but great for groups.

Longtail Boat Routes & Prices:

Ao Nang → Railay Beach: 100 THB (£2.20) one-way, 200 THB (£4.40) return (10 – 15 min).
Ao Nang → Tonsai Beach: 100 – 150 THB (£2.20 – £3.30) (depending on demand).
Ao Nang → Phra Nang Beach: 100 THB (£2.20).
Island-hopping private hire: 1,500 – 3,000 THB (£33 – £66) for a half-day trip.

5. Ferries & Speedboats – Best for Visiting Other Islands

If you’re heading to Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, or Phuket, ferries and speedboats are the way to go.

Ferry & Speedboat Costs:

Ao Nang → Koh Phi Phi: 450 – 600 THB (£10 – £13.20), 90 min.
Ao Nang → Koh Lanta: 500 – 700 THB (£11 – £15.40), 1.5–2 hours.
Ao Nang → Phuket: 600 – 1,200 THB (£13 – £26), 2–3 hours.

Buy ferry tickets through travel agencies, hostels, or ferry terminals. Booking online via 12Go Asia can sometimes be cheaper.

6. Walking – Best for Railay Beach & Small Areas

In places like Railay Beach, Ao Nang, and Krabi Town, walking is often the easiest way to explore.

Walkable Areas:

Railay Beach: No roads—everything is within a 10–15 min walk.
Ao Nang Beachfront: Stroll along the beach road for cafes, bars, and shops.
Krabi Town Night Market: A short walk from most accommodations.

Where to stay in Krabi

Here are some of the best hostels in Krabi for backpackers:

Krabi Town

Pak-Up Hostel – Social and boutique-style with great facilities.
Play Poshtel & Café – Stylish, modern, and quiet with great coffee.

Ao Nang

K-BUNK Hostel – Friendly, social, and close to bars and restaurants.
Slumber Party Hostel – Famous for its party atmosphere.
Tan Hostel x Café – Laid-back, modern, and great for meeting other travelers.
Pop-in Hostel – Relaxed, with cozy vibes.

Railay Beach & Surroundings

Blanco Hideout Railay – Social vibe with a pool and stunning views.

The Best Things to do in Krabi

Relax at Railay Beach

Railay Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Thailand, known for its soft white sand, turquoise waters, and dramatic limestone cliffs. It’s only accessible by boat, which adds to its secluded and relaxed feel. Beyond lounging on the sand, visitors can explore Phra Nang Cave Beach, home to a unique fertility shrine and impressive stalactites. Railay is also a world-class rock climbing destination, with routes suitable for beginners and experienced climbers alike. If you prefer a more laid-back experience, you can kayak along the coast to discover hidden caves and lagoons. Boats to Railay depart regularly from Ao Nang Beach, taking about 10-15 minutes.

Explore the Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi Islands are a must-visit when in Krabi. These iconic islands, with their crystal-clear waters and towering limestone formations, offer some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in Thailand. Maya Bay, made famous by the movie The Beach, is one of the main attractions, although visitor numbers are now restricted to protect the marine environment. The waters surrounding the islands are teeming with colorful coral reefs and marine life, making it an unforgettable snorkeling or scuba diving experience. The best way to visit is by booking a speedboat or longtail boat tour from Krabi or Ao Nang, with prices typically starting at around ฿1,200–฿1,800 (£25–£40) for a day trip.

Visit the Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea)

For those who don’t mind a challenge, climbing the 1,237 steps to the top of the Tiger Cave Temple is one of the most rewarding experiences in Krabi. At the summit, you’ll be greeted with panoramic views of lush rainforest, limestone cliffs, and the Andaman Sea. The temple itself is home to a golden Buddha statue and several caves where monks still live and meditate. Legend has it that the temple was named after a tiger that used to roam the cave. The climb can be tough, especially in the heat, so it’s best attempted early in the morning or late afternoon. Entry is free, but donations are appreciated.

Unwind at the Emerald Pool and Hot Springs

Hidden in the lush Thung Teao Forest Natural Park, the Emerald Pool is a natural pond with stunning turquoise water, perfect for a refreshing swim. The water gets its vibrant color from mineral deposits, and the surrounding jungle makes it feel like a secret oasis. A short walk away, the Krabi Hot Springsoffer a completely different experience. These natural thermal pools, set among rocks and trees, provide a relaxing soak at around 35-40°C, making them perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring. The entrance fee for both attractions is around ฿400 (£9) per person.

Experience the Krabi Night Market

Located in Krabi Town, the Krabi Walking Street Night Market is the best place to soak up local culture and try authentic Thai street food. Open every Friday to Sunday evening, the market is packed with food stalls selling everything from fresh seafood and grilled meats to mango sticky rice and Thai pancakes. There are also handmade crafts, clothing, and souvenirs, making it a great spot to pick up unique gifts. Live music and street performances add to the lively atmosphere. Prices are budget-friendly, with delicious meals costing as little as ฿50–฿150 (£1–£3).

Go Rock Climbing in Railay

For adventure seekers, Railay Beach is one of the best places in the world for rock climbing. The limestone cliffs provide a range of climbing routes, from beginner-friendly walls to challenging overhangs. There are plenty of climbing schools in Railay offering half-day and full-day courses, with prices starting at around ฿1,000 (£20) for beginners. Even if you’re not into climbing, watching climbers scale the dramatic cliffs while enjoying a drink at a beachfront bar is an experience in itself.

Take a Four Island Tour

A Four Island Tour is one of the most popular day trips from Krabi, taking you to some of the most scenic islands in the area. The tour usually includes Phra Nang Cave Beach, known for its unique rock formations; Chicken Island, famous for its chicken-shaped limestone rock; Tup Island, where you can walk across a sandbar connecting two islands at low tide; and Poda Island, which has postcard-perfect white sand beaches. Most tours include snorkeling stops and a buffet lunch, with prices starting from around ฿500–฿1,500 (£10–£30) depending on the boat type.

Discover Khao Phanom Bencha National Park

If you are looking to escape the crowds, Khao Phanom Bencha National Park is a hidden gem. This lush rainforest is home to stunning waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, and diverse wildlife, including gibbons and hornbills. The highlight of the park is the Huay Toh Waterfall, a multi-tiered cascade surrounded by dense jungle. Hiking trails range from easy walks to more challenging treks that take you deeper into the forest. The entrance fee is ฿200 (£4.50) per person, and it’s best visited early in the morning when it’s cooler.

Kayak Through Mangroves in Ao Thalane

Ao Thalane is one of the best places in Krabi for kayaking, with a network of mangrove forests, limestone caves, and hidden lagoons. Paddling through the narrow waterways, you can spot wildlife such as monkeys, monitor lizards, and colorful birds. The calm waters make it suitable for all skill levels, and guided tours typically include stops at secluded beaches. A half-day kayaking tour costs around ฿500–฿800 (£10–£18).

Visit Koh Lanta

If you’re looking for a more laid-back island experience, Koh Lanta is a fantastic alternative to the busier Phi Phi Islands. Just a ferry ride from Krabi, Koh Lanta is known for its long sandy beaches, relaxed atmosphere, and stunning sunsets. The island is great for diving and snorkeling, with several dive shops offering trips to nearby reefs. The old town is worth visiting for its charming wooden houses, seafood restaurants, and cultural heritage. Scooter rentals are the best way to explore the island, costing around ฿200–฿300 (£4–£6) per day.

Hike Dragon Crest Viewpoint

Hiking to the Dragon Crest Viewpoint (also known as Khao Ngon Nak) is one of the most rewarding outdoor adventures in Krabi. The trail takes you through dense jungle, offering glimpses of the surrounding mountains, limestone cliffs, and lush greenery along the way. The hike is moderately challenging, with a steep ascent that can take about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the summit, but the effort is well worth it. At the top, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Krabi, including Ao Nang Beach, Railay, and the Andaman Sea. The viewpoint’s stunning scenery makes it a favorite among nature lovers and photographers. Be sure to bring plenty of water, wear sturdy footwear, and start early to avoid the midday heat.