10 Best things to do in Krabi, Thailand, in 3 to 4 days

Introduction

Krabi is one of Thailand’s most iconic regions, known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush green forests. It’s the kind of place that delivers on all the postcard-perfect promises.

Krabi Province is anchored by its two main hubs: Krabi Town and Ao Nang. Ao Nang is the busier, more popular beach town, and it’s your gateway to island hopping adventures to nearby gems like the Phi Phi Islands, Koh Lanta, or the smaller Hong and Poda islands.

But Krabi is more than just beaches. Beyond the turquoise water and limestone cliffs, you’ll find dramatic temples perched on hillsides, vibrant street markets, and some of the best Thai street food around. Whether you’re here to relax, explore, or feast, Krabi has something waiting for you.

Read: The Perfect 3-week Thailand Itinerary from North to South

Getting there

Krabi is well-connected and easy to reach, whether you’re coming from within Thailand or abroad.

The easiest way is by air: Krabi International Airport (KBV) has direct domestic flights from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, plus international connections to places like Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. From the airport, it’s about 15–30 minutes by taxi or shuttle to Ao Nang or Krabi Town.

If you’re coming from Phuket, you can take a bus or a private transfer (about 2.5–3.5 hours) or even a ferry during high season. Buses also run from Bangkok, but it’s a long haul (10–12 hours).

For island-hoppers, regular ferries connect Krabi with Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, and even Railay Beach.

It’s a flexible destination, and planning your arrival is straightforward with plenty of transport options.

Moving Around

Moving around Krabi is easy and offers options for every type of traveler. In Ao Nang and Krabi Town, you’ll find plenty of songthaews (shared pickup taxis) and local buses that connect main points affordably. Tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis are everywhere for quick, flexible rides.

For more freedom, renting a scooter (around 200–300 THB/day) is popular and lets you explore at your own pace—from beaches to temples to hidden viewpoints. Just be cautious if you’re new to driving in Thailand.

If you want a more comfortable ride, you can hire a private car with driver or use taxi apps in some areas. And for island hopping? Long-tail boats and ferries are your best bet to reach Railay, Koh Phi Phi, and beyond.

It’s all pretty easy to figure out once you arrive—and part of the fun of exploring the region.

When to Visit

Krabi is a year-round destination, but when you visit will shape your experience. Here’s what to expect season by season:

• Dry Season (November to March): The best time to visit Krabi. Expect sunny skies, little rain, and pleasant temperatures of 24–32 °C (75–90 °F). Perfect for beach days, boat trips, and exploring islands. It’s peak season, so book accommodation in advance.
• Hot Season (April to May): Temperatures climb to 27–36 °C (81–97 °F). It can feel very hot and humid, but you’ll find fewer crowds and lower prices. Great if you plan to spend most of your time swimming and relaxing in the shade.
• Rainy Season (June to October): Expect daily showers and occasional storms, with temperatures of 24–31 °C (75–88 °F). While it’s wetter, rain usually comes in short bursts. The landscape is lush, prices are cheaper, and crowds are minimal.

If you want reliable sunshine and ideal beach weather, aim for November to March. That’s when Krabi really shines.

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Where to Stay in Krabi

We’d recommend basing yourself in Ao Nang Beach—it’s the most convenient spot for exploring Krabi’s highlights, with easy access to islands, beaches, restaurants, and nightlife. Whether you’re traveling on a budget or looking for a treat, here are our picks:

(€) @Aonang Guesthouse – A solid budget choice with friendly service and a great location close to Ao Nang’s main street.

(€€) Lux Family Villas Krabi Ao Nang – Ideal for families or groups, with spacious villas and a pool set in a peaceful garden environment.

(€€€) Anana Ecological Resort Krabi – SHA Extra Plus – A stylish eco-friendly resort with organic gardens, mountain views, and thoughtful sustainability touches.

Here are all your accommodation options in Ao Nang Beach

What to Eat

hailand is famous for its incredible food—and Krabi is no exception. Whether you’re grabbing street food at the night market or dining at a beachside restaurant, here are some must-try classics:

• Pad Thai – Thai-style fried noodles, a staple dish that’s hard to resist.
• Som Tam – Spicy green papaya salad, fresh and tangy with a chili kick.
• Pad See Eiw – Thick stir-fried noodles in soy sauce with vegetables and meat.
• Khao Pad – Classic Thai fried rice, often served with lime and cucumber.
• Gaeng Keow Wan – Fragrant green curry with coconut milk, basil, and vegetables.
• Pad Phak – Stir-fried mixed vegetables, simple and satisfying.
• Kao Niew Ma Muang – Sweet mango with sticky rice and coconut cream, perfect for dessert.

And be sure to try the coconut ice cream from the night market—served in a coconut shell and topped with peanuts or sticky rice, it’s one of the most refreshing (and photogenic) treats you’ll find.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Things to do in Krabi

Relax at Noppharathara Beach

Spend some quiet time at Noppharathara Beach, a smaller, less crowded spot just outside Ao Nang. Best enjoyed in the morning during low tide, the beach offers warm, calm waters and beautiful scenery without the busyness of more popular spots.

It’s perfect for a peaceful walk along the sand, a morning swim, or just soaking up the views of the limestone cliffs and nearby islands. With fewer longtail boats cluttering the shoreline, it feels more laid-back, making it a great choice if you want to unwind away from the crowds.

Explore Ao Nang Beach

Ao Nang Beach is the bustling heart of Krabi’s coastline. While it may not be the prettiest beach in the region, it’s known for its lively atmosphere, easy access to tours, and busy nightlife. If you’re looking for energy, bars, restaurants, and plenty of people-watching, this is your spot.

But if you want a quieter, more scenic setting, consider hopping over to nearby Railay Beach instead. Ao Nang is a great base for exploring Krabi’s islands and for arranging boat trips and adventures.

Here are all your accommodation options in Ao Nang Beach

Chill at PhraNang Cave Beach

PhraNang Cave Beach is often ranked among the most beautiful beaches on earth. With its dramatic limestone cliffs, clear turquoise waters, and white sand, it’s an essential stop when exploring Krabi’s coast. It’s perfect for swimming and relaxing with incredible views all around.

Be aware, though, that during peak season it can get crowded and a bit dirtier as a result. Still, it’s well worth the visit for its stunning scenery and iconic Thai beach experience.

Explore Krabi Night Market

Krabi Town’s Night Market is a must-see for anyone wanting an authentic local experience. Open every Friday to Sunday, it boasts over 70 food stalls and plenty of vendors selling local crafts and souvenirs. It’s the perfect place to sample Thai street food at its best.

Don’t miss trying the coconut ice cream with peanuts, a classic treat that hits the spot on a warm evening. Stroll, shop, eat, and soak up the lively atmosphere of Krabi after dark.

Relax on Railay Beach

Railay Beach is one of Thailand’s most beautiful and iconic beaches. Accessible only by boat, it offers powdery white sand, breathtaking limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. Whether you’re sunbathing, swimming, rock climbing, or just soaking up the scenery, Railay delivers a truly unforgettable beach experience.

Go on an Island Hopping Tour

With over 200 islands scattered just off the Krabi coastline, island hopping is a must-do experience. Rent a longtail boat from Krabi Town or Ao Nang to explore at your own pace, or join a guided tour where everything is taken care of for you.

Visit famous spots like Phi Phi Islands, Monkey Bay, Pi Leh Lagoon, Viking Cave, and Maya Bay. Enjoy snorkeling, swimming, relaxing on white-sand beaches, and end your day watching a romantic sunset at Tup or Poda Island. It’s the perfect way to soak up the stunning beauty of the Andaman Sea.

Tip: Check out the Phi Phi & 4 Islands Sunset Boat Tour

Explore Wat Tham Sua (Tiger Cave Temple)

One of Thailand’s natural and spiritual wonders, Wat Tham Sua is a must-see while in Krabi. Nestled in lush jungle, this complex features a warren of caves where monks live and worship. Wander through the atmospheric caves filled with icons and relics, and if you’re up for it, climb the famous staircase of over 1200 steps to reach the hilltop pagoda for breathtaking panoramic views over the surrounding limestone cliffs and forests.

Here are all your accommodation options in Ao Nang Beach

Enjoy on Koh Lanta

About 2 hours from Krabi Town, Koh Lanta is an island paradise known for its laid-back vibe. Unlike the busier resort areas, it’s filled with guesthouses and small resorts, making it perfect for unwinding on quiet beaches.

Whether you want to lounge all day, rent a scooter to explore the coast, or even get your scuba diving certification, Koh Lanta is a top spot to slow down and soak up Thailand’s island charm.

Visit Ao Nang Elephant Sanctuary

Spend quality time with rescued elephants at the Ao Nang Elephant Sanctuary on a half-day visit from Krabi. This ethically-run sanctuary lets you feed and bathe the elephants while learning about their history and behavior. It’s a more mindful way to get close to these majestic creatures, support their care, and see them living in a safe, respectful environment.

Tip: The Ao Nang Elephant Sanctuary Half-Day Tour is highly rated

Tour the Emerald Pool

Take a trip inland to the famous Emerald Pool (Sa Morakot), a natural hot spring in a lush forest setting. Enjoy an easy walk along jungle paths before reaching the crystal-clear green-blue pool where you can take a refreshing dip. It’s one of Krabi’s most popular inland attractions and perfect for cooling off on a hot day.

Tip: Take the Tiger Cave Temple, Emerald Pool and Hot Springs Tour

Krabi Itinerary

Day 1: Ao Nang & Beaches

• Relax at Noppharathara Beach during low tide for a quiet, scenic start to the day.
• Stroll along Ao Nang Beach, take in the lively vibe, and maybe grab a coconut ice cream.
• Take a longtail boat to Railay Beach and PhraNang Cave Beach. Enjoy the white sand, swim, and admire the limestone cliffs.
• Return to Ao Nang for dinner or drinks on the beach.

Day 2: Island Adventures

• Go on an island-hopping tour from Ao Nang or Krabi Town.
• Visit Phi Phi Islands, Monkey Bay, PiLeh Lagoon, Viking Cave, Maya Bay.
• Swim, snorkel, relax on white-sand beaches.
• Watch sunset at Tup or Poda Island.
• Evening:
• Return to Ao Nang. Chill out at one of the beach bars or enjoy the local restaurants.

Day 3: Inland Krabi Highlights

• Head to Wat Tham Sua (Tiger Cave Temple). Climb the 1,200+ steps if you’re up for it for panoramic views.
• Relax at Emerald Pool. Walk through lush forest trails and enjoy a swim.
• (Optional) Nearby Hot Springs for an extra stop.
• Head into Krabi Town for the Krabi Night Market (Friday–Sunday). Enjoy street food, shop for souvenirs, and don’t miss the famous coconut ice cream with peanuts.

Day 4: Animal Encounters & Day Trips

• Visit Ao Nang Elephant Sanctuary. Feed, learn about, and bathe the rescued elephants in an ethical experience.
• (Optional extension) Take a day trip to Koh Lanta (about 2 hours away) if you want to unwind on quieter beaches or try scuba diving.

Read: The Perfect 3-week Thailand Itinerary from North to South