The iconic draw of Krabi is unquestionably Railay Beach and its surroundings. Accessible from Krabi town or Ao Nang by long-tail boat, Railay is in fact a peninsula carved up by cliffs — its 4 distinct beaches offer as many atmospheres. Railay West is the most beautiful for swimming: white sand, turquoise water, cliff backdrop — the perfect postcard. Railay East is the main boat arrival, muddier and less suited to swimming but directly accessible to trails towards the caves and the viewpoint. From Railay, a 20-minute path climbs to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the bay with its karst islets — the climb is physical (ropes) but the view is worth every effort. Phra Nang Beach, accessible on foot from Railay East, is one of the most spectacular in Thailand: a natural cave at the foot of a 100-metre cliff, exceptionally clear water and a coral floor visible from the surface.
Climbing on the Railay cliffs is a top-tier international activity: the limestone walls offer routes for every level, from 4a to 8c, in an incomparable landscape setting. Local agencies (King Climbers, Wee's Climbing School) offer half-day introductions with all equipment for 800-1,200 THB. Tonsai Beach, next to Railay (accessible on foot at low tide), is the HQ of confirmed climbers with its dramatic overhanging routes.
Sea kayaking is the other flagship activity around Krabi. Phang Nga Bay kayaking trips explore flooded caves at low tide (Thalane caves), mangroves and hongs (closed inner lagoons accessible through fissures in the rock). Phang Nga Bay, shared with Phuket, holds the most spectacular karst formations in Thailand — a day of guided kayaking (800-1,200 THB) through this scenery is an unforgettable experience.
The boat excursions round out the offering: the four-islands tour (Koh Poda, Chicken Island, Koh Thap, Koh Mor) by long-tail or speedboat — snorkelling on colourful reefs and a picnic on deserted beaches. The trip to Koh Phi Phi from Krabi (1h30 by speedboat) gives access to Maya Bay and the beaches of Phi Phi Don. Further out, the Bamboo Islands (Koh Phi Phi Leh) are also accessible from Krabi as a day trip. For divers, local clubs offer outings around the Phi Phi reefs and out to the more distant Similan sites by liveaboard.
Read also
- Southern Thailand — the complete region — Phuket, the Phi Phi Islands and every beach destination on the Andaman coast.
- Phuket, the great southern island — Two hours by ferry from Krabi, Thailand's largest island and its legendary nightlife.
- Thailand — complete country guide — Formalities, budget, regions and best time to visit Thailand.