Krabi holidays

More than a diver’s paradise, Krabi is imbued with an air of laid-back seclusion and tropical rainforests.

The province of Krabi is just a one-hour flight to the south of Bangkok, set on the shores of the glorious Andaman Sea. Relatively low-key compared to the likes of Phuket, Krabi’s main resort town is bustling Ao Nang, but the region also plays host to the beautiful isthmus of Railay and peaceful offshore islands.

Top hotels in Krabi

Centara Grand Beach Resort

from £1,091

Centara Anda Dhevi Resort & Spa

from £822

Rayavadee

from £1,498

Amari Vogue Krabi

from £1,071

Show all 5 hotels

Best time to visit Krabi

Thailand’s peak season is between November and February when the climate is drier and slightly cooler, while the hottest period is April to May. May to October tends to have higher rainfall but there should still be plenty of sunshine and this is the time to benefit from the greatest value and less crowded beaches.

Krabi holiday highlights

Broken highlands and flat plains make up the charming resort of Krabi – a province that covers over 130 islands. Here, verdant forests are home to mangroves and cassia trees, while the rich soil offers the perfect conditions for growing rubber trees, palms, oranges, coconuts and coffee.

For sun worshippers, Krabi is popular for its many relaxing beaches. Palm-lined Ao Nang is Krabi’s main beach town, offering a variety of accommodation, restaurants and souvenir shops. With daily excursions by long-tail boat to explore secluded offshore islands departing from here daily, this is a also a great base from which to discover the beauty of the wider region.

Just 20 minutes by road, plus a 20-minute long-tail boat ride from Ao Nang, lies beautiful Railay. Although part of the mainland, this wonderful isthmus is only accessible by boat and has a real island feel. Its pristine panoramas have graced many a guide book and poster print, with its jungle-clad cliffs the backdrop to some of Thailand’s best white sand beaches. On its shores, colourful long-tail boats bob in front of limestone karsts rising up out of the clear emerald waters. With Railay’s east dominated by mangroves, the west is the main attraction.

Ao Phra Nang beach is a breathtaking spot to visit in the early morning, but can get incredibly busy later in the day. Rock climbing is hugely popular in Railay, with visitors flocking here to ascend to the limestone cliffs from across the globe.

Away from Ao Nang are a number of other pretty beaches, including the quieter Klong Muang and Tub Kaek, as well as Phai Plong Cove where you’ll find the Centara Grand Beach Resort. Accessible only by boat, yet still close enough to visit Ao Nang in the afternoon and evening, the Centara Grand offers a great location.

There’s more to Krabi than just good beaches. If you’re after adventure, as well as rock climbing, you can try out plenty of watersports including sea kayaking, while nature lovers can explore beautiful natural environments and spot rare animal and birdlife, such as the Gurney’s pitta.

Khao Phanom Bencha National Park is home to a stunning rainforest filled with cascading waterfalls, including the famous 11-tiered Khao Phanom Bencha. For trekking enthusiasts, a number of wildlife trails lead you straight into the heart of the forest, where you can spot monkeys. Walk deep into the beautiful Tham Pheug Cave to stand among glistening stalactites and stalagmites.