Krabi Attractions: 25 Best Places to Visit (2023)
Along southern Thailand’s west coast is the scenic island of Krabi. Decked out with white-sand beaches and filled in with lush green jungles, it offers a world of adventure for those that like to take in the outdoors. Be prepared to be on the move while you’re here getting from one Krabi attraction to the next, but it won’t bother those that are in it for the thrills.
You’ll find it wild yet relaxing all in one with so many naturally beautiful landscapes, and you’ll think you’re in a dream. Instead of dreaming, pack your bags to this exotic island. Here are the 22 best places to visit in Krabi!
1. Railay Beaches & Caves
Most people say that Railay is the most beautiful beach in all of Thailand. You can only get to it by boat because there are large cliffs on both sides of it which block access from the mainland, but it’s worth it. Plus, you get to ride a boat and who doesn’t love that? Your reward, aside from the pristine waters and beaches here, is a mostly secluded place to visit in Krabi with the chill vibe of the few people who’ve arrived via boat to join you at the handful of bars there.
And as you may have guessed, due to those rocky cliffs, this is THE best place for rock climbing, if you dare!
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Free
2. Thung Teao Forest Natural Park
This natural park is an area known for extreme beauty. In particular, the Crystal Lagoon, also called the Emerald Pool, features warm, clear water. This Krabi attraction a truly spectacular place for a swim, complete with waterfall to make it feel like you’ve gone to another world, free of today’s hassles and strife. With the surrounding plants and chances to glimpse the native animals, it’s a purely relaxing experience.
Operating Hours: Daily, 7:00am – 6:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Subject to tour rates.
3. Wat Tham Sua
A completely natural wonder, deep within the jungle, you’ll find a network of caves where monks live and worship. A nature-made temple, the legend states that a tiger once lived within the cave. It’s purely spectacular though the footprint of the Buddha is one of the main Krabi attractions. If you can manage it, it is a climb up 1,237 steps to the top where you’ll get a panoramic view of the Andaman Sea and all the little islands in it.
Operating Hours: Daily, 8:00am – 5:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Free
4. Phi Phi Islands
These islands became a famed tourist destination after the movie “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio was shot here. You’ll take a boat from Krabi’s mainland to get access to the Phi Phi islands of which there are two. Phi Phi Don is where all the tourists go because of those sparkling turquoise water, a true island paradise. Beat the crowds by going early.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Subject to tour rates.
5. Klong Thom Hot Springs
Within the rainforests, you’ll find these incredible hot springs, cut into smooth rocks while the water comes from deep thermal springs from within the volcanic chambers. The waters here naturally contain mineral salts revered for their healing properties. With water that gets up to 100F, this is one of the best places to visit and relax in Krabi. The nearby Emerald Pool is excellent for a contrast in temperature, making it easy to split your time between the two.
Operating Hours: Daily, 7:00am – 6:00pm
Ticket Price(s): THB 90
6. Khao Khanab Nam
One of Krabi’s most famed landmarks, you’ll find them on both sides of the river. They sit atop a vast network of caves. It’s a deeply sobering experience with many skeletal remains from humans that were believed to have been stranded in flood. On a more cheerful note though, the mountain is ideal for climbers of all levels and afford outstanding backdrops for photos once at the top.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Subject to tour rates.
7. Koh Lanta Yai
This Krabi attraction is the place you’ll get to dive right in, literally. There are many certified diving schools where you can learn to explore the world beneath the ocean waves. If you’d rather not go diving though, the beautiful beaches are a quiet place to unwind on the sandy shores.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Subject to tour rates.
8. Krabi Town
The remarkable thing about Krabi Town is that despite the massive influx of tourists, it hasn’t changed a bit. It’s got an incredible local vibe to it. With a river running through the town, there are always fishing boats coming and going, which is nice to watch, but another good thing about that is you’ll find fresh seafood dishes at every restaurant in town. This is where you will taste the authentic, unadulterated flavours of Thailand.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Free
9. Krabi Night Market
If you’ve spent any time in Thailand before, you know night markets are a big thing all over. This Krabi attraction though is one of the best night markets with over 70 food stalls to sample tasty Thai street food from and loads of hand-crafted souvenirs. It’s a must visit!
Operating Hours: Friday – Sunday, 6:00am – 9.30pm
Ticket Price(s): Free
10. Soi RCA
What’s excellent about Krabi is you can find tranquil settings, like at Railay Beach. And then you can set the night on fire at Soi RCA. This is where you want to be if you’re looking for a lively atmosphere. You’ll find many bars and restaurants in this tourist hotspot. You can also enjoy this beach by day though as it has a ton of tour operators that generally offer lower prices for their tours than other places in the area.
Operating Hours: Daily, 6:00pm – 3:00am
Ticket Price(s): Free
11. Phra Nang Beach
Some say this is one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole world. Check it out and see if you agree. This Krabi attraction has astounding scenery with massive cliffs at either end of the beach and pristine white sand everywhere in between. This is a chill spot, so plan on swimming and relaxing here. There are no noisy jet skis to interfere with your relaxation.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Subject to tour rates.
12. Krabi Elephant Sanctuary
Learn more about how majestic these gentle giants are. The elephants located in this Krabi attraction are treated wonderfully. You can help wash and feed them and take them for walks too. Spending time with elephants is a beautiful and unique experience you’ll treasure forever.
Operating Hours: Daily, 7:00am – 6:00pm
Ticket Price(s): THB 2,500
13. Wat Kaew Temple
This temple is right in the middle of Krabi Town. A gold-lined staircase leads you to the top where you’ll instantly be mesmerised by the temple. It’s unlike the others you’ll have seen because it is white with a roof covered in dark blue tiles, a stark contrast to the typical red and gold Thai temples all over the places. The beautiful painting contained within as well as the relics are also worth the climb up.
Inside the walls are blue and adorned with Buddhist drawings. There’s also the obligatory large golden Buddha. No matter how many of those you see in Thailand, it’s always a fantastic experience to see one more, plus the food stalls in front of it have some tasty eats while the other vendors have temple-related souvenirs to take home with you.
Operating Hours: Daily, 8:00am – 5:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Free
14. Songprak River
The white water rapids you’ll find on Songprak River are quite the adventure. You’ll get a full training session before you get on your way. It’s not very difficult even for beginners, and the instructors stay with you, making it a great time to try this adrenaline-jolting sport for the first time.
Operating Hours: Daily, 8:00am – 7:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Subject to tour rates.
15. Old West Bar
A fun and slightly silly thing to do is head to the famed Old West Bar. As the name suggests, it has a wild west theme, and it’s great fun for both locals and tourists. There’s a lengthy list of cocktails to keep you buzzy and happy plus unlike the other bars in the area, you’ll find American music from the 90s onward. If you’re craving something from home, this will hit the spot, especially the pizzas.
Operating Hours: Daily, 1:00pm – 2:00am
Ticket Price(s): Free
16. Koh Klang Island
This island is a simple place where the people make their living off of fishing from the ocean. You’ll get a taste of the local life as the people here have been doing for over 100 years. The locals in this area are Muslims so be sure to dress respectfully for your stop there. It takes just 5 minutes by boat from Krabi Town.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Subject to tour rates.
17. Khao Ngon Nak
Get a great hike in by going to Nong Thale. This is where you begin your journey on a trail about 2.5 miles long. Along the 2 and a half hour hike, you’ll be treated to a stunning array of scenery. It’s here you’ll see a stream, waterfall, and gorgeous viewpoints. Of course, the best is yet to come when you get to the top of Khao Ngon Nak, which means Dragon Crest Mountain. It’s an ideal adventure with the ultimate payoff of a panoramic view over 1,800 feet above sea level.
Operating Hours: Daily, 8:00am – 4:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Free
18. Chicken Island
The Chicken Island is also known as Koh Kai and got its name from the odd rock formation that resembles a chicken. You can head to Chicken Island as part of the “four islands tour” that includes Phra Nang Cave, Tup Island, and Poda Island. These long boats go out and give you enough time to enjoy the sights on each. Go for a swim, sunbathe, or taste the cuisine. These tours are in English so you’ll be able to learn more about the sights as you sail by these Krabi attractions.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Subject to tour rates.
19. Tup Island
Tup Island or locally known as Koh Tup is another popular Krabi attraction, located in between Chicken Island and Poda Island, forming part of the “four islands tour”. Once here, you will be greeted with pristine white beaches and crystal clear sea, making it an excellent choice for snorkelling. However, it is recommended that you wear something on your feet as you walk along the sandbar as the sharp corals and shells can otherwise make it an unpleasant experience.
Another plus point of this island if you are travelling with young kids is the shallow waters (making it a relatively safe place), while it is deep enough for you to relax and cool down.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Subject to tour rates.
20. Poda Island
Another island part Mu Koh Poda archipelago and “four islands tour” is the Poda Island or Koh Poda. Fewer tourists compared to other islands like the Phi Phi Islands but offers the same majestic beauty. This Krabi attraction is a designated National Park; hence there will be a small admission fee to be paid. It’s a rather interesting island because on one end you have all the tourists and little food stands while a short walk away, you are greeted with wide and white sand beaches with fewer people.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Subject to tour rates.
21. Fossilised Shell Fish Cemetery (Susan Hoi)
Whether you love geology or not, it’s hard not to be captivated by this fossilised fish cemetery. Some of the fossils here date back to 40 million years ago. There are only 3 shell cemetery sites like this anywhere in the world, making this Krabi attraction an ultra-rare experience that you shouldn’t miss.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Free
22. The Grotto
Hidden within Rayavadee Resort, The Grotto is an upscale cave dining overlooking the Andaman Sea. This is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a good meal surrounded by nature. The area is shaded by the rugged limestone cliffs and is a romantic place for sunset dining. Currently, this place is only open to resort’s residents, but you might want to call and check your luck for an opportunity to dine in this beautiful place.
Operating Hours: Daily, 12:00pm – 8:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Free
23. Ao Thalane
Ao Thalane is a fishing community that is located in the south of Ao Luk sub-district. Known for its lush mangrove forest, Ao Thalane sea kayaking is a popular activity to do in Krabi. There will be tour operators who can lead you on this wonderful journey of exploring not only the mangroves but the sea of Krabi; traversing through limestone caves and hidden canyons.
Operating Hours: Daily, 11:00am – 4:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Subject to tour rates.
24. Railay Walking Street
For a relaxing day, Railay Walking Street will be a perfect choice for you. Stretches up to 7 metres long, you will find a plethora of shops, cafes and massage parlours here. Here you will also come across a cooking class if you are interested to learn how to cook authentic Thai cuisines. The class is taught in English and provides clear step-by-step cooking instructions. Due to its popularity, we would recommend booking in advance to secure spaces.
Operating Hours: Daily, 9:00am – 11:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Free
25. The Hilltop
The Hilltop is a restaurant that is perch on top of a hill, offering a spectacular aerial view of Ao Nang and the Andaman sea. This spot is not only famous for its view but its authentic Thai cuisines as well. Many people will visit this place for its beautiful sunset view where you will get to decide to either dine in the restaurant or chill at the beanbags just located in the front of the restaurants.
Operating Hours: Daily, 11:00am – 11:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Free
Krabi has a bit of everything. It’s ideal for nature lovers. It’s perfect for the adventurous set that needs thrills from scaling up cliffs to diving in the sea and plenty of other extreme sports too. It’s got plenty of places to completely relax and unwind. Plus, don’t forget all the incredible food, shopping, and fun nightlife!
If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, be sure to schedule a stop in Krabi where you’ll get to experience a place unlike any other anywhere in the world!