Krabi is one of those vast tropical Thai destinations that brings you everything you need in one location. From fantastic sights to discover on land to some of the best beaches in the Krabi coastline and neighboring Krabi islands. How about we check out some of the Krabi best beaches that you should cross off your bucket list?
As locals, we believe that Krabi’s best beaches around its coastline are Railay Beach, Phra Nang Beach, Ao Nang Beach. But if you take a boat tour to nearby islands, more beautiful beaches await, including Koh Hong, Koh Poda, Koh Pak Bia, and idyllic beaches of the Phi Phi Islands.
Railay beach
We are not even joking when we say that Railay Beach is not just one of the Krabi best beaches but easily one of the best in the world too. Railay is undoubtedly the most beautiful beach in Krabi. It is almost exclusive because you can only access it by boat. And we love how this model of transportation allows you to soak in the beauty of the Krabi Peninsula before your feet touch ground. On landing, you are exposed to a host of fun activities: from sunbathing while sitting on the sand to swimming in the beautiful waters. And to get your adrenaline pumping, there is nothing better than climbing one of the perfectly-formed rock setups surrounding Railay beach.
Phra Nang beach
Right after Railay beach, opposite a tiny island of Koh Nang, you will find Phra Nang beach with the most stunning, palm-fringed bay in the Krabi Peninsula. Like Railay beach, this gem of location can only be accessed by boat from Ao Nang. You can discover the famous Phra Nang cave in the south of Phra Nang beach, boasting its natural lighting and several climbing trails. Nearby, you can find the cave of Tham Phra Nang Nok, dedicated to the ancient goddess of fertility. With shallow water around Phra Nang beach, it is a safe place for beginners to swim while enjoying a jaw-dropping scenery.
Ao Nang beach
A more tourist developed Ao Nang beach will easily compete with, and sometimes replace, Railay beach in popularity. This view is something to take in, made up of a scintillating backdrop of mountains layered around the image of boats making their rounds on the horizon. If you are looking for a vibrant local scene, some nightlife, and more dining and lodging options – then Ao Nang will top your list of the best beaches in Krabi. However, as with all other beaches near, do not expect crystal clear waters and snorkeling off the beach. You will have to take a boat tour to nearby islands to enjoy the best of snorkeling – and Ao Nang beach is the perfect place to start your island-hopping adventures.
Best beaches on Krabi islands
Koh Phi Phi islands belong to Krabi Province, so its many beaches are technically the best in Krabi. Of all the Krabi beaches out there, Bamboo island boasts a coral-lace cocktail of beautiful sands, a dash of the most transparent waters in Krabi, and a touch of thick vegetation to complete the tiny beach experience. What better place to get your snorkeling gear out?
If Maya Bay wasn’t one of the best beaches in Krabi and the world, we doubt if the directors of the movie The Beach would have set it there. This has only done well to contribute to the fame that an already fantastic beach is enjoying. Unfortunately, you can only enjoy Maya Bay from the boat today, as the beach has been closed to revive its marine ecosystem. Those willing to have a taste of Maya Bay can try a small beach facing the once iconic getaway for thousands of people daily.
If you find yourself on the quiet beach of Tub Kaek in the Krabi coast, you are likely on your way to another Krabi island gem – Koh Hong. The beautiful beach and scenic lagoon in Koh Hong are undoubtedly among the best beaches in Krabi. You can easily visit Koh Hong island from Phuket, as well as Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai on a day trip by private boat.