Krabi Travel Guide: Where to Stay, What to Do & Hidden Gems to Avoid the Crowds
Discover the best of Krabi, Thailand — from local guesthouses and quiet beaches to the breathtaking Railay Beach and Dragon Crest hike. A slow travel guide for mindful explorers
Krabi – A Gateway to the Andaman Coast
Krabi was my first stop in southern Thailand, and it was the perfect starting point to explore the stunning Andaman Coast. The beauty is undeniable — limestone cliffs arching over the town give it a charming island feel, even though you’re on the mainland. Whether you’re in the mood to be a beach bum, take on an adrenaline-fueled hike, or explore the cultural side of Thailand, Krabi offers something for everyone.
Where to Stay in Krabi
Ao Nang makes a convenient base for exploring Krabi — it’s well-connected, with easy access to Railay Beach, nearby islands, and plenty of massage spots and restaurants. However, the main strip can feel overcrowded, commercial, and a little overpriced, especially during peak season.
👉 My tip? Stay just outside of the Ao Nang centre. That’s where you’ll find the true hidden gems: quiet beach bars, family-run guesthouses, and local restaurants full of flavour and character — larb Koi Roi Et is a personal favourite. It’s where Krabi starts to feel like Krabi.
We stayed at Meechok Organic home, and it was easily one of the most memorable stays of our trip. The heart of this place is Meechock himself — a warm, resourceful host who greeted us with a home-cooked meal around his kitchen table. We sat with fellow travellers, swapping stories and tips, and instantly felt part of something.
Every morning, Charlie and I would sit with Meechock over coffee and fruit, talking about local life and learning more about the area. These slow, gentle mornings are ones I’ll always hold dearly.
Best Beach in Krabi – Railay
Railay is one of the most famous beaches in Krabi, and for good reason.To reach Railay Beach, you’ll take a short longtail boat ride from Ao Nang — and it’s a thrill in itself. On the way, you’ll spot adventurers rock climbing the towering limestone cliffs, giving the journey an almost cinematic feel.
Railay is cut off from the mainland by those cliffs, which makes the water incredibly calm. To reach West Railay Beach, walk ten minutes through the centre of the peninsula, where smoky barbecue aromas drift out from small restaurants.
The beach itself looks like something out of a dream: clear turquoise water, caves, and powdery white sand. There are no restaurants on the beach itself, which helps preserve its natural beauty. Spend the day exploring caves, climbing cliffs, swimming to nearby islands, or just lying under the sun.
Dragon Crest Hike (Khao Ngon Nak)
The Dragon Quest Hike in Krabi, also known as Khao Ngon Nak, is easily one of the best hikes in southern Thailand.
While it requires moderate fitness, the reward is more than worth it. The path winds through dense jungle, and you’ll often find yourself climbing over roots, using vines for support, and ducking under branches — it’s wonderfully wild.
At the top, the views are breathtaking: panoramic scenes of the deep blue sea, endless green jungle, and limestone cliffs in the distance. I felt completely immersed in nature — grounded, free, and proud of my effort.
Is Krabi worth the visit?
Krabi is more than just a tourist hotspot — it’s a gateway to authentic connection, raw natural beauty, and peaceful adventure. Whether you’re swinging from tree roots in the jungle or sipping coffee with a local host, it’s a place that stays with you.
🌿 Planning to explore more of Thailand? Don’t miss my Chiang Mai Itinerary for slow travel in the north.