Krabi
Krabi Province – Overview
Situated along the Andaman coast of southern Thailand, Krabi is one of southern Thailand’s most picturesque provinces with perfect beaches and stunning scenery. The province is famous for its great natural beauty, which is characterized by the limestone that can be seen throughout the area. The 160 km long coastline is dotted with bays, coves, and limestone mountains rising from the sea, creating a fascinating landscape of tropical islands. Inland the limestone mountains contain a rich flora and fauna.
It is predominantly an agricultural area, with soils of sandy clay producing rubber, palm oil, fruit, coconuts, and coffee. Rubber is the most important cash crop with about 11,200 square kilometers for the production of this. Palm oil comes second, followed by coconuts. But with natural attractions such as tropical islands, palm fringed beaches, forest waterfalls, and caves attracting more and more sun lusting, adventure-seeking tourists to Krabi, Krabi is beginning to earn a significant amount of money on the tourism industry as well.
On your holiday in Thailand you should enjoy Krabi – one of the most relaxing places on the planet. The province has stunning scenery, fantastic white sandy beaches, a coastline with over 200 islands and a jungle-covered interior hiding towering limestone cliffs, caves, waterfalls, and exotic wildlife.
Less crowded than Phuket, more laid back than Koh Samui, and only an 80 minutes flight from Bangkok, with a good range of accommodation from budget to luxury, this idyllic province really is the ultimate destination for your trip to Thailand.
Krabi Town is a Thai market town that was long before the international tourists began visiting the area. It is charming and relaxed. Tourism has arrived, but Krabi Town has not jumped to making foreigners the main trade for the province, it doesn’t need to. Its unique personality is a welcoming contrast to the surrounding beach areas.
The river is the hub of the fishing boats and river taxis, ferries used by both locals and visitors going to places near and far, and the pier west of the city is the place where you can take a trip to the surrounding beaches and islands. Many visitors rush to the major destinations like Railay, AoNang, Koh Lanta, or Koh Phi Phi and thereby leave the town as quickly as possible. But for those who are interested in a dose of true Thai culture and hospitality, Krabi Town is a rewarding experience on your holiday in Thailand.
Krabi Province – Getting there
By car or bus
From Bangkok
Buses to Krabi from the southern bus terminal in Pen Klao, Bangkok, leave daily. Tickets are available at almost any travel agency and hotel tour office in the city. The trip takes about 13 hours.
From Phuket
It takes about 3-4 hours from Phuket depending on the means of transport. Take a minibus or local bus from Phuket Town bus station. Buses depart daily. Information on bus timetables, taxi or minivan shuttle service is available at hotels, travel agencies, or at Phuket Airport.
From Suratthani
Buses, taxis or mini-vans can be easily arranged at offices in the city. Travel time to Krabi is about 4-5 hours.
By boat
There is no direct regular ferries from Phuket to Krabi even though it is possible to hire a speedboat or similar.
Daily ferries operate between Phuket and Krabi via Phi Phi Island. (This often involves having to switch boats at Phi Phi Island).
It is also a possibility to rent a private speedboat from Phuket, which will bring you there in about 3 hours (not recommended in low season, when the sea is quite rough).
From Phuket – Phi Phi Island
The regular ferry trip takes about 90 minutes. In high season there are 2 scheduled trips to Phi Phi and back (early morning and lunch) to choose from.
From Phi Phi Island – Krabi
The regular ferry trip takes about 90 minutes, with 2 daily departures all year round. (Schedules are organized so you can travel from Phuket to Phi Phi to Krabi in one day).
By train
From Bangkok
There is no direct connection from Bangkok to Krabi. Instead, you can take a train from Hualomphong Station (Bangkok) to one of the following stations: Suratthani, Trang, or Tung Song (Nakhon Sri Thammarat Province) and from there take one of the buses that go to Krabi.
You can also choose to travel at night to Samui by train, which is perhaps the best option from Bangkok. The journey takes approx. 12 hours.
By air
From Bangkok
Direct flights from Bangkok to Krabi Airport are available but times vary depending on the season. It is also possible flying to Samui (211 km from Krabi) or Phuket (176 km) and drive along the well-maintained roads to Krabi.
Krabi Province – Weather
Krabi follows a similar climate as Phuket, with average temperatures around 24 to 32 degrees Celsius all year round. The wettest months to visit Krabi are September and October. However, the area does not suffer from significant weather fluctuations and virtually all times of the year are good to visit Krabi.
Cool
The absolute best time to visit Krabi is from November to March when the temperature average is 28 degrees Celsius and cool breezes make it comfortable.
Warm
The hottest time is from April to May with temperatures ranging from 27 to 36 degrees Celsius. There are frequent short heavy downpours with thunderstorms that facilitate the high temperatures and humidity. The Thai New Year (Songkran) is held on 13 April, and here you will get a welcome break from the heat as the tradition is for everyone to throw cold water at each other. Locals enjoy June, July and August when the weather is usually fine and favorite places are not overcrowded. The usual pattern is brief but heavy showers and plenty of sunshine between the rain pours. You will also find that everything is a little cheaper this time of year. Temperatures range between 20 to 33 degrees Celsius.
Wet
During September and early October we bring out our umbrellas. It is a consolation that the beaches, the outdoor restaurants, and the streets are relatively uncluttered by visitors, and there are still long intervals of sunshine between the heavy showers. There are even plenty of activities for you to enjoy during this wettest part of the summer season, both on water and on land.
Krabi Province – Beaches
Towering limestone cliffs, soft sandy beaches, small coves, and islands of the sea. Krabi’s beautiful coastline is one of the province’s most attractive assets. Each seems to outdo the last, but the crowning glory is the stunning Railay Beach with its sense of being in another world, a kind of Jurassic Park coast, accessible only by sea. The best part of Krabi’s beaches is that they are never crowded. Here, you will always find a paradise-like place on your holiday in Thailand.
AoNang Beach
AoNang is Krabi’s bustling tourist center. It has the relaxed atmosphere of a small town, the beauty of a seaside resort, the modern comforts like home, and the unique kindness which separates Thailand from other destinations.
The town itself is small, a 30-minute walk takes you from one end to the other. Since floating buildings are impractical and steep cliffs are not suitable for development, this paradise will not be paved just now.
AoNang is a 20-minute drive from Krabi Town and KlongMuang Beach, and a minute or two from Noppharat Thara Beach. Through the sea you can get to Railay Beach including Ton Sai – and there are lots of small, intimate islands nearby. Choose a direction and give your water taxi 30 minutes. A wet world of adventure awaits you.
Nopparathara Beach
Nopparathara Beach (also spelled Noppharat Thara) is located 18 kilometers west of Krabi Town and is adjacent to AoNang. This quiet beach is located inside the Hat Nopparat Thara – Koh Phi Phi National Park and has a three-kilometer long sandy beach studded with casuarina trees.
A great beach if you prefer natural shade from the trees. As on most of Krabi’s beaches, you will not find miles of sun loungers and parasols, so buy a beach mat and find the perfect spot to lie down.
It is also possible at low tide to walk from the beach to KohKao Pak KlongIsland bay. The beach is popular with the local Thai picnickers and those who like to swim, eat, and enjoy the sun.
Railay Beach
Railay Beach is now on every knowledgeable traveler’s list when visiting Thailand, and is still one of Thailand’s most sought after beach areas. Just south of AoNang Beach, around a rocky headland and accessible only by boat, Railay presents a quiet and extraordinary world.
In just one small peninsula you will find beautiful white sand beaches, soaring limestone cliffs, viewpoints, caves, and a lagoon hidden inside the cliffs, shaped by the changing tides. Everything within walking distance!
On Railay there are no roads, only trails. No buses, no cars, only longtail boats. Although it is actually connected to the mainland, the spectacular PhraNang peninsula is effectively cut off from the rest of Krabi by limestone formations and steep jungle valleys, and so the only access is by sea. This is the perfect picture of a tropical paradise. Without roads, Railay effortlessly offers relaxing days, adventure cruises, and cool evenings on your trip to Thailand.
KlongMuang Beach
KlongMuang has only recently emerged on the tourist radar – its natural rural beauty fits well with the calm of the area and offering a bit of the ‘real’ Thailand, it is hard to beat. Shopping, restaurants, and nightlife is quite modest, but it is a very charming place. If you want lots of tourism go to AoNang or Phuket, but if you want a peaceful oasis on your holiday in Thailand, KlongMuang is the place for you.
Tubkaak Beach
Tubkaak Beach is located north of KlongMuang and it is quiet, very quiet. So quiet, that there are only a few hotels there.
You will find a long sandy beach and not much else, making this an ideal place to relax and recharge your batteries while enjoying your holiday.
The islands that make up Ko Hong archipelago can be seen from the beach.
Krabi Province – Attractions
Krabi Crystal Lagoon
ThungTeao Forest Natural Park
Krabi is known for areas of outstanding natural beauty and a place that should be on your must-see list on your Thailand trip is Crystal Lagoon in ThungTeao Forest Natural Park. This is an unusually low land forest rich in flora and fauna, complete with a nature trail, and a crystal lagoon.
Located in KhaoPra – Bang Kram area, nature trekking here is great for spotting rare animals and plants, including the PittaGurney bird that was once thought to be extinct. The forest is lush with ancient trees stretching up into the sky, unusual woodland creatures, and limestone at the base that opens up into a dazzling green pool.
Krabi Tiger Cave Temple
The Tiger Cave Temple or WatThamSua offers a true spiritual experience in beautiful surroundings. Located close to Krabi town is a temple of Thailand’s finest natural wonders, and it is definitely worth a visit. The temple here has a labyrinth of natural caves formed inside a lush jungle and is home to monks who worship and live in these beautiful surroundings.
There are interesting icons and relics in the main temple cave, but the real attraction here is “Buddha’s footprints”. To get to this historic site, you need to walk 1,272 steps up a limestone tower, and it is a challenging climb, especially in the Thai climate. Those who reach the top are rewarded with a 360 degree panoramic view of the stunning Andaman Sea, tropical islands, dramatic limestone rock formations, lush rainforests, and of course “Buddha’s footprints”. The incomparable view is especially impressive at sunrise and sunset which are also the best times to do the climb in order to avoid the heat and humidity.
There is a park office near Ban Bang Teao that can give you some information, although their primary goal is to ensure that no hunting is taking place, and that no one gets hurt in this naturally beautiful sanctuary.
Krabi Hot Springs (Klong Thom)
Krabi Hot Springs are therapeutic and soothing. A hot tub is crafted in smooth stone and the water comes from the deep roots of thermal springs located in volcanic chambers. The average water temperature is 35-40 degrees, and holds natural mineral salts, which are claimed to cure all kinds of problems, including arthritis and sciatica. The sensation is quite relaxing, and the environment is certainly unique: imagine sitting in a bathtub eroded from natural stone, being surrounded by rainforest. These jungle-baths flow into a cool stream that is perfect for taking a dip on your trip to Thailand.
Around 70 kilometers from Krabi town, the hot springs are located in the heart of a small preserved jungle close to KhaoPhra Bang Khram Nature Reserve. Located in the same sanctuary as the Crystal Pool or Lagoon (also known as Emerald Pool) in ThungTeao Forest Natural Park, it is worth taking the time to combine all these wonderful eco-spots on a nature-filled day on your holiday in Thailand.
Krabi Fossil Shell Beach (Susaan Hoi)
Susaan Hoi is an archaic “graveyard” with fossilized shells, located 17 kilometers from Krabi town center on a 200 meter stretch at Ban Laem Pho. It is considered by scientific experts to date back to about 40 million years ago, but local people argue that it is even older, perhaps more than 75 million years. Fossil Shell Beach was created due to limestone deposits in the water that covered and fossilized shellfish, snails, and a variety of other sea creatures that create sheets of complex geological relics.
This is a great place to visit on your trip to Thailand if you are interested in geology or historical artifacts. The Fossil Shell Beach is claimed to be one of the only ones of its kind in the world. Additionally, there are mangrove forests worth exploring close by, and a Chinese temple which is open to the public.
Caves in Krabi
The limestone landscape that dominates the entire region offers a fascinating network of cave systems, both inland and along the coast. Many have wonderful crystal formations, stalagmites, and stalactites. A number of them are said to be the home of spirits and are frequented by local people with Buddha images and objects used for spiritual worshipping.
Many of the coastal caves open onto collapsed caves also known as karsts or ‘hongs’ in Thai. Inside the hongs are many interior lagoons with sky light and accessible only through the tunnels in the rocks when the tide is right. Local kayak boat companies offer nice walks around the inside of the cave systems that provide a spectacular vision of a unique ecosystem.
Many of the caves also contain prehistoric paintings, stone tools, and pottery shards, which gives an indication of Krabi’s rich past.
Moreover, Klong Thom Museum, south of Krabi Town, has a collection of pottery, stone tools and bronze gear found at various sites throughout the area.
National parks in Krabi
Recognized as an area of outstanding natural beauty, a large part of Krabi province is incorporated into several national parks that cover the coast, beaches, and offshore islands. The marginal areas also include the beautiful Phi Phi islands and Koh Lanta island group.
Several national parks also include the mainland covered with rich forests and offers refreshing rock pools, waterfalls, caves, hot springs, and nature reserves with walking trails. These inner beauty spots are often busy on weekends with large family groups and local excursions. At all other times, you will most likely experience that it is quiet, calm, and incredibly peaceful. Entrance fee at the national parks is 400 baht.
Eco Tourism
Low-impact tours with small groups are available to various national parks in Thailand. The trips often include activities such as kayaking or trekking with a knowledgeable guide who can provide interesting information about the plants and the local wildlife.
Camping
Camping is possible in some of the parks (bring your own tent), but they also have regular bungalows. It is often very busy during holiday periods, and so it is not always possible to order.
Krabi Province – Shopping
Shopping in AoNang
Shopping in AoNang is not as intense or diverse as in Bangkok or Phuket. But then again, everything in AoNang is more relaxed and less intrusive (except for some annoying tailors of course) than what is the norm for Thai beach holiday destinations.
There are countless shops selling T-shirts, flip-flops, beach hats, and copies of brand-name goods such as Rolex diving watches that you should not even wear in the shower, and Levi’s with a short lifespan. Depending on your home country, you must be wary when it comes to buying fake brand handbags and fashion accessories, as customs can be very strict regarding illegal copies.
Apart from shops with fixed prices, such as opticians, supermarkets, and brand stores, bargaining is part of shopping here and shop owners will try and sell their goods for a higher price to figure out how much you can afford. You will experience that prices drop significantly when you show that you know how much an item is worth.
Ananya
This is a stylish boutique selling silk cushion covers, stylish bags, scarves, ceramics, handicrafts, and many handmade products in Thai silk and Pashima. The charming owner, Khun Oranut will help you choose items that fit your taste.
Opening hours: 9 AM to 11 PM
Location: Beach Road opposite Krabi Resort
Beachwear
Further down the road from Ananya, you can increase your stock of beachwear, beach toys, snorkeling equipment, and all marine related stuff. Here it is necessary to haggle because the initial prices are somewhat increased. As always, try soft negotiations with kindness and a smile.
Opening hours: 10 AM to 10 PM
Location: Beach Road next to Beccofino Italian Restaurant
Chok Dee Handmade
Chock Dee (which means ‘Good Luck’) sells fine jewelry, gems, old beads, boxes, necklaces, bracelets, rings, and even fossils. There are two shops along Beach Road which are both attractive and impeccably presented. You can have silver and gold jewelry made to order, and while the prices are higher than other nearby shops, the quality is top-notch, and it certainly does not hurt to haggle a bit.
Opening hours: 10 AM to 10 PM
Location: Central Beach Road and the ‘Walking Street shopping arcade’
King’s Fashion
As with opticians, there are many tailor shops in AoNang. King’s Fashion is one of the more established ones and does not have those pesky vendors outside. The store offers free shuttle service for customers and a 24-hour service, although it is wise to take your time and have several fittings to make sure the cut is just right.
Opening hours: 10 AM to 9 PM
Location: Central Beach Road
KlongMuang Shopping
KlongMuang is quiet. Its beach and sunset are the main attractions, and if you want good shopping, you should choose AoNang. In fact, apart from several small shops and isolated 7-Elevens, the only good shopping in KlongMuang is in and around KlongMuang Plaza (spelled “KlongMoung Plaza” on the sign).
KlongMuang Plaza
This shopping plaza with antique and craft shops, massage and beauty salons, cafes and shops, is the opposite of Bangkok shopping because it is clean, quiet, and relaxed. Shoppers can take their time, have a snack, or even get a massage before checking their emails – everything is central, and practical.
Hours : 10 AM till late
Location : 50 meters before the entrance to the Sheraton Krabi Beach Resort
Asian Arts
The shop offers antiques, replicas, and fun wooden artifacts and souvenirs. Asian Arts is a charming shop run by a lovely lady from Chiang Mai. Her products are mostly from northern Thailand, or neighboring Myanmar, and they are selected with taste.
Hours : 10 AM till late
Location: KlongMuang Plaza
Railay Shopping
Railay is certainly not going to win big prizes as the best shopping destination in Krabi, but a few new shops have opened during recent years. Without worries and car free, Railay is perhaps the most peaceful destination you will ever experience.
You will experience that Railay East and Railay West are very different from each other. Railay West is distinguished, striking, and downright expensive if you think in Thai baht, while Railay East, with its mudflats, mangroves, fishing vessels, and hippie-like atmosphere is decidedly down to earth, and a great deal cheaper. Around 300 baht for a cocktail at certain hotels in Railay West and Railay East you can buy a big bottle of Chang beer for 70 baht.
Railay East
If you are looking for hippie paraphernalia, used books and the like then Railay East is a place for you. Between pancake stalls, restaurants, and bars you will find several places that sell gems, flip-flops, wooden souvenirs, Frisbees, beach bags, and beach tennis equipment.
Near SunriseTropical Resort is the area’s only pharmacy (open 9:30 AM to 11 PM) and in between the beaches of Railay Bay Resort is an ATM machine and a mini market that sells just about everything you could possibly need during your stay, very overpriced. This is due to the fact that the resort owns the store.
Railay West
While shopping is significantly better in Railay West it is still not a destination for those who are specifically looking for good deals on souvenirs or fashion. Adjacent to the Sand Sea Resort is a newly built attractive square. This area offers beautiful beach dresses, T -shirts, sarongs, and even has a tailor!
One of the most useful things you will need after dark in Railay is a battery-powered torch, which can be found here. There is also a shop that sells handmade silver. Inside the Sand Sea Resort is a well stocked mini market.
Krabi Province – Restaurants
If you like to enjoy the beautiful scenery while you eat, you will be pleasantly surprised when visiting Krabi. Home to many exotic beaches, islands, views, and plants, the coastal province also offers a variety of dining options, from five-starred to simple serving on the beach. Krabi Town has typical Thai restaurants, while AoNang is more internationally geared. Railey Beach adds views of its majestic limestone peaks to your dining experience. Check out the colorful markets for fresh produce and fully experience this wonderful part of the world.
AoNang Restaurants
Azzurra
Azzurra considers itself to be an “authentic Italian restaurant” and with good reason, since the owner is Italian and ensures authenticity and not just tomato sauce thrown on too much pasta. Here you will find a wide assortment of pasta, pizza, bread, focaccia, soups (try the creamy carrot soup), cheese, yogurt, and more. It is entitled to charge slightly higher prices than normal for imported Italian food products, but unfortunately Azzura’s Thai food is also horribly overpriced. Wine is not, however, and quality of food (nothing is prepared in advance) possibly makes Azzurra the best Italian in AoNang.
Bamboo & Thatch Dining
Further up the airport road on the right is eight bamboo and thatch bars/restaurants serving typical Thai dishes like chicken fried rice, phad thai, and Tom Yam Goong with ice-cold beer at very affordable prices. It can be a bit noisy later in the evening, but with a good atmosphere and the good thing about this environment is that it is a common experience. Although prices are geared to AoNang standards, it is nevertheless a genuine Thai experience and more genuine than the tourist-oriented places situated on the beach.
Blue Mango
Blue Mango offers Swedish, Italian, and Thai dishes. There is a decent wine list with brands at reasonable prices (for Thailand) and a full bar. The restaurant is Swedish owned, and focuses on families and has created a children’s menu and a children’s playground (unique to AoNang) with DVD and a comfortable couch for children who get bored during dinner. Here’s something for the entire family.
Blue Orchid
Blue Orchid aims to please its guests, but is perhaps trying a little too hard, as it serves both Thai food, seafood, Mexican, and international cuisine, all under one roof – things may get confusing in the kitchen… Still, it looks attractive with a theme of light blue and white colors, and an airy and clean feeling. Plus, it is located on a pedestrian street away from AoNang’s persistent traffic.
Eden
With a fairly extensive Thai menu, adequate space and staff, good ventilation and views, Eden provides food at a slightly higher price than its competitors.
KlongMuang Restaurants
Balini
Swiss-owned Balini is popular among the German-speaking visitors and is a simple, open-air restaurant located in a side street. The restaurant seats 20 guests, serving Thai cuisine with Swiss undertones, and is well-liked and quite clean. No loud TV, brash music, or talking waitresses, making it a quality place.
Malati Indian Restaurant
It seems contradictory that people on their trip to Thailand eat Indian food. But when the Thai cuisine is mixed in, it is an entirely different matter. Malati in Sheraton Krabi Resort has exactly this combination. But do not expect entirely similar dishes – Malati doesn’t – choosing instead alternative and complementary dishes in a good combination of two of the world’s most popular and tasty cuisines.
Monkey Restaurant and Bar
Serving British food, American breakfast, and Thai cuisine makes Monkey varied in its appeal. The restaurant also offers baguettes, curries, and pancakes, so you are sure to find something you like here. There are also live sport on TV.
Krabi Town Restaurants
Blue Juice
What Blue Juice lacks of finesse in cooking, it makes up for with a warm welcome, healthy menu choices, and a very nice atmosphere. Blue Juice is also a guesthouse and an extremely popular dive shop, therefore you are likely to meet many people in Blue Juice. With baked potatoes, meaty club sandwiches, and natural vegetable soups, this is the place to eat if you are health conscious. Occasional live music, a pool table, and impromptu celebrations make the restaurant popular among visitors.
Choke Dee
At the corner of Uttarakit and Chaofa roads, Choke Dee which is both a travel agency and a restaurant, is conveniently located near both the river and the city. Thai food served with hot snacks and cold beer, and good people are just some of the reasons Choke Dee is popular.
Florence
With a wide menu of pizzas and pastas, Florence is geared to deal with the many visitors’ and locals’ needs. It is also a great place for people watching, relaxing with a glass of house wine at 90 baht, while watching the world go by.
Nopparat Thara Restaurants
A-One
This place has a good reputation with locals, a friendly British owner, and staff that are always keen on sharing a joke. A-One is highly recommendable. The restaurant serves mainly Thai and international cuisine with a British touch. A-One has soft lighting, and good background music.
Kruathara
Although you will find that many of the restaurants here are largely the same, Kruathara (“Thara Family”) stands out in a very nice way. Featuring live aquariums, fresh fish and seafood baskets, bright light, and welcoming staff, it is a long away from fine dining, but delivers the goods – fresh seafood – in an unpretentious way.
La Casa
There are three La Casa’s in the AoNang area, but this is the only true Italian one (the other are “Ithailian” and “Indialian”). With a wood-fired pizza oven, ample space, and happy employees, this La Casa is definitely worth a visit during your trip. Sitting behind the road, guests can enjoy views of the surrounding limestone cliffs and peaks while having lunch or early dinner.
Pakarang
This stylish restaurant is part of SalaTalay Resort and specializes in fish, seafood and Thai dishes. Pakarang is obviously quite high class, and with a Swiss chef, English speaking staff, professional service, and a live guitarist in the evenings, the stage is set for a romantic evening with good food.
Wangsai Seafood
Large, busy and entirely made for tourists is Wangsai beach dinner with seafood. Not very intimate, but what it lacks in atmosphere it makes up for in location and food. This restaurant has an open kitchen, a large parking area, and ample space.
Railay Restaurants
Railay East
KruaYaYa
KruaYaYa is more organized than its neighbors and in the daytime it is cool from the shade of tamarind trees, and you can enjoy the fresh sea air. In the evening, the al fresco place is beautifully lit, making it a romantic spot, especially on full moon nights. If you are here during peak season, you will also experience live music.
Sailon/Sunrise Restaurant
Sailon enjoys almost the same view and position as KruaYaYa and is part of SunriseTropical Resort. Nice pizzas, and steaks at the usual tourist prices. Here you will be able to enjoy the cool eastern breezes from November to April and watch the lights in the trees dance in the wind. There is not much of a wine list, and for some reason the restaurant sells only large Singha beers, but the overall experience here is enjoyable.
SawasdeeCorner
For a large selection of Thai pancakes in every possible flavour, go to SawasdeeCorner on Railay East. There is also a good selection of pizzas, baked potatoes, sandwiches, burgers, shakes, and even a “farmer’s breakfast“. Haute cuisine it certainly isn’t, but it’s good, solid food.
Railay West
Railay Bay Restaurant
This spacious semi al fresco restaurant has thick teak tables and chairs, and cooling sea breezes with great sunset and beach views. It is the ideal place to watch the sunset over an early meal. Take your time, night life on the beach takes place quite late.
Rayavadee
It is a seriously extravagant place, and Rayavadee’s prices are higher than those in surrounding restaurants. This resort actually has four restaurants: KruaPhranang, Raya Dining, RaitalayTerrace, and The Grotto on Phranang Beach next to Railay. The surroundings are perfect – but no better than at the surrounding restaurants, perhaps with the exception of The Grotto, which is actually pretty unique. If you are looking for quality in a semi-formal setting, Rayavadee will deliver it – but at a high cost…
Real Coffee
This restaurant is on the corner of Railay West’s only Shopping Plaza, and has a perfect location for watching the sunset. This place has friendly staff, and good music (Have you ever heard Bob Marley songs in Brazilian Portuguese?). Real Coffee, which quite recently opened, is a winner you should give a try – serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Sand Sea Restaurant
This popular place has a large terrace similar to Railay Restaurant with prices that will not ruin you. Take your time and admire the spectacular sunset, and join the beach life later on.
Krabi Province – Nearby
Islands around Krabi
It is estimated that there are about 200 islands around Krabi’s coastline, many are small rocky outcrops which rise steeply from the sea and have no access. Others are larger and uninhabited, with characteristic small white sand beaches, coral reefs, and intricate cave systems.
Go island hopping on your trip to Thailand. Hire a local boat from Krabi, AoNang, or Railay. Alternatively, you can explore these wonderful islands with a guide and go on a trip that includes snorkeling or kayaking. Note: Not all islands can be visited during the monsoon season (May-October) when the weather can be unpredictable.
Phi Phi Islands
Just southwest of Krabi’s coastline, you can experience the beautiful Phi Phi islands, part of a marine national park that is one of the most unforgettable destinations. Phi Phi Don, the larger island, features steep limestone cliffs, fine sandy beaches, and hidden coves. Not far away, the coral gardens and deeper reefs are sensational for diving and snorkeling. There are no cars on Phi Phi, just simple small tracks criss-crossing the island, so it’s easy to get around – simply take a local longtail boat, or walk.
The smaller Phi Phi Leh is uninhabited and consists of steep limestone cliffs rising out of the turquoise waters. There are also caves and small rocky coves. There are several coves that are ideal for snorkeling, and on the northeast side is the famous Viking Cave, where there is claimed to be prehistoric paintings. Phi Phi Leh is also a popular place for nesting swallows, and workers collect the nests used to make the lucrative bird’s nest soup, a much underrated Chinese gourmet delicacy. Day trips to Phi Phi are easily accessible from Phuket and Krabi and offers snorkeling on Phi Phi Leh. If you are already on Phi Phi Don, it is possible to hire a local boat or join a tour to visit Phi Phi Leh.
Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta consists of 52 islands, including the largest, Koh Lanta Yai. It is located about 70 kilometers south of Krabi Town.
Koh Lanta’s natural beauty can not quite compete with other areas of the province. But if you’re looking for total peace and quiet away from the busy tourist areas, this island is worth a visit.
The slowly developed and unspoiled nature is Lanta’s main attraction. Mountainous and rugged in some areas, especially near the southern tip, green forested hills, gravel and sand beaches, beautiful coral reefs, emerald clear waters, and traditional lifestyle provide a charming break from modern life. Only 20,000 people live on Lanta including a clan of Chao Ley, or Sea Gypsies. This distinct ethnic group still follows their traditional customs and culture. Along with the Muslim and Chinese locals they add to the island’s unique atmosphere.
Although several locals are involved in the tourist industry, many remain unaffected by tourism and still earn a living from rubber plantations, shrimp farming, and fishing. You will definitely see the traditional houses and friendly faces on your trip to Thailand.
Just south of Koh Lanta is Koh Ngai, Koh Kradan, and Koh Muk which offer fantastic beaches, great snorkeling, and total privacy.
Trang
Due to mass tourism not taking place here, Trang remains an undiscovered paradise with many stunning beaches.
This destination is located just a few hours’ drive south of Krabi, and new roads and an airport have made the province more accessible over the last few years, but you will still see that tourism here is relatively low.
Every year on Valentine’s Day, Thai Airways Trang Underwater Ceremony on Koh Kradan attracts hundreds of visitors to see couples with masks and snorkels exchanging vows in the clear waters of the Andaman Sea!
Krabi Province – Article
It’s official, Krabi Rocks!
March 16, 2012
Written by Webmaster
Do not miss the 2012 Krabi Rock and Fire International Contest, which will soon come to Tonsai and Railay beach!
Krabi’s eagerly anticipated international climbing competition will be held at Railay and Tonsai Beach between 16 and 17 April 2012. To guarantee your place at this exciting event, book your trip to Krabi immediately!
Krabi is a major Thai holiday destination, known for its spectacular scenery, lovely tropical climate, and delicious local cuisine, plenty of leisure activities, quality accommodation, and incredibly welcoming hospitality. And thanks to Krabi’s dramatic landscape of iconic limestone cliffs and towering rock formations and radical hangar, this beautiful province is also a premier climbing destination. Krabi boasts over 700 bolted routes and also have a great selection of reputable climbing schools too. This, combined with ideal weather provides some truly world class climbs that attract climbers of all levels and from all corners of the globe.
Tonsai and Railay is by far the most popular climbing areas in Krabi – both can be found on an isolated yet readily available peninsula, only a short boat ride from the lively tourist town AoNang and the bustling provincial capital, Krabi Town. Between them, Tonsai and Railay offer more than 600 beautiful hikes, suitable for varying levels and reward those who try with outstanding views over the Andaman sea.
Between 16 and 17 of April Tonsai and Railay will transform into one sizzling activity. Enthusiastic crowds of excited participants and their devotees are expected to come in galore, all eager to enjoy the 2012 Krabi Rock and Fire International Contest. Competitors from around the world will be able to test their climbing skills in two separate, high-profile events designed to test their power and endurance to the absolute maximum. The first, a grueling marathon climbing, is as much a test of mental endurance, as it is a challenge of physical strength. This demanding competition will be followed by a punishing speed-climb that promises to push participants to their limits. This two-day sports event will culminate with a dazzling fire-competition, a thrilling finale that will get the audience on their feet.
It’s not too late to book for this sensational annual event! A number of low-cost but stylish Krabi villas located conveniently close to AoNang, are still available via Krabi Villa, Krabi ‘s leading pool villa providers. Their fully serviced villas provide the perfect base from which to explore Krabi and a welcome sanctuary from the competition. You can even arrange a rejuvenating in-house Thai massage to help soothe those tired limbs and aching muscles and prepare you for the next day’s climbing!