15 Jun 25 Things to Do in Krabi That Aren’t Island Tours
Krabi is one of the most visited regions of Thailand, famed for its surrounding limestone cliffs, blue water, sandy beaches, and magnificent islands. It’s actually impossible to walk down the street here without being made offers for island tours as the bright colored photos of paradise flash before you. Phi Phi, Hong, Poda, Sunset tour…and the list goes on!
Most people when they visit Krabi only go on island tours. Boat after boat until the islands and beaches start looking the same. But no worries, because there’s so much more to Krabi!
Whether you’re tired of islands, seasick from the boats, or just looking for more adventure, I’m here to tell you that Krabi has a ton to offer! It’s full of lush natural beauty and rich culture. So here are 25 activities to do in Krabi that are not island tours:
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1. Swim at Emerald Pool
At the heart of Thung Teao Forest Natural Park is a natural mineral pool, famous for its turquoise water which is perfect for swimming! Although Emerald Pool has grown in popularity over the years and can become quite crowded, it’s still well worth the visit to the crystal blue water!
COST | 200 baht (~$6.50 USD) entrance fee and 10 baht (~$0.30 USD).
GETTING THERE | Emerald pool is about an hour drive from Ao Nang. You can get there by renting and driving a motorbike or taking a tour booked in Ao Nang or online. Once at the Natural Park, you’ll follow signs and walk through the lush forest to reach the Emerald Pool.
TIPS FOR VISITING | Although it’s near impossible to get the pools completely to yourself, the earlier you go, the less crowds there will be. If there is a crowd, be sure to take a photo close up to make it look like you’re there alone!
2. Soak in a Hot Springs Waterfall
The Hotstreams Waterfall is a unique hot spring that has formed several tiers of natural hot tubs. It’s the perfect place to soak, even in the hot weather!
COST | 200 baht (~$6.50 USD) entrance fee.
GETTING THERE | The hot springs are about an hour away from Ao Nang. Be sure to not mix this spot up with the Saline Hot Springs, a completely different location.
TIP FOR VISITING | Because there is limited space in the hot springs, I highly recommend arriving early to be able to enjoy it.
3. Chase Waterfalls
The Krabi Region is home to many waterfalls, some magnificent in size and some although smaller, magnificent in cascade! Below is a list of all the waterfalls in the area:
Wang Tewada Waterfall
Huay To Waterfall
Than Bok Khorani Waterfall
Roi Chan Phan Wang Waterfall
Huai Sakhe Waterfall
Hin Phoeng Waterfall
Khlong Chak Waterfall
Klong Haeng Waterfall
4. Fill Your belly at Nopparattani Wednesday Market
Street food is a way of life in Thailand and this market has a lot of it. Here you will see all types of colorful and delicious foods, most being served in small enough servings that you can walk around sampling many cuisines. Even if you don’t wish to try the food, it’s a really rich cultural experience to walk around and see!
HOURS | Only Wednesday from 3pm – 8pm.
COST | Food is anywhere between 5 – 100 baht (~$0.15 – $3 USD).
GETTING THERE | Nopparattani Wednesday Market is about a 5-10 minutes drive from Ao Nang. Depending on where you stay, you could walk, ride a motorbike, or take a tuk-tuk or songthaew (a shared taxi where you jump in the back).
TIPS FOR VISITING | 1. Many vendors will not have much change, so be sure to have smaller bills. If you don’t, stop by the 7-11 at the entrance of the market to break larger bills. 2. As a foreigner, especially someone not used to street food, you should veer away from anything raw including vegetables and fruit. Only eat cooked, hot food and fruit only if you can peel it.
5. Go White Water Rafting at Songpraek River
White water rafting is a new activity in Thailand slowly growing in popularity to tourists. Although the white water rafting is not the most intense ride, it may still be just the amount of adrenaline rush for some. Plus, many tours actually include driving an ATV!
COST | Around $50 USD
GETTING THERE | About an hour and a half from Ao Nang, transportation should be part of the tour package.
TIP | You can book online, but I would shop around to get the best price and package!
6. See the Archeological Wonder of Susan Hoi
Susan Hoi Beach, is also known as the shell cemetery which sounds really creepy, but it’s actually quite intriguing. Here you will find shells fossilized into the rock, creating a beautiful pattern. But what makes it so amazing is that these shells are estimated to be at least 20 million years old, if not over 50 million! That’s some serious natural history!
COST | 200 baht (~$6.50 USD) entrance fee.
GETTING THERE | Susan Hoi is about 10 minutes from Ao Nang. You can ride a motorbike there, take a tuk tuk or a songthaew.
TIP | This beach is famous for it archeological wonder, but is not the type of beach you would go to relax and sunbathe.
7. Kayak Around Railay Beach
This was one of my favorite activities while in Krabi! Kayaking gives you the freedom to explore wherever you please and is the perfect way to admire the surrounding limestone cliffs up close. Kayaking here is not difficult as the water is very calm, and in many places very shallow allowing you to jump out for a swim!
COST | 1 hour: 200 baht (~$6.50 USD), 2 hours: 300 baht (~$10 USD), Half day: 500 baht (~$16 USD), Full day 800 baht (~$26 USD).
WHERE TO RENT | Kayaks can be rented off the shore of Ao Nang beach or Railay Beach. I rented from Railay beach because I was all ready there, and it was the perfect place to start kayaking because you’re in the middle of the hot spots. From Ao Nang kayaking to popular cliffs to explore would take much longer.
GETTING THERE | To go to Railay beach you must take a long boat which is 100 baht ($3 USD) one way, and can be booked right on the shore of Ao Nang beach.
TIP | When renting a kayak, ask if you can just take it out without a set time. Then for however long you’re out, is what you pay (rather than committing to a time frame). I did this and it was beneficial; originally I thought I would need the kayak for a half day, but then I only used it for two hours, therefore it was cheaper.
8. Rock Climb at Railay and Tonsai Beach
Before traveling to Krabi I had no idea that it was considered a rock climbers paradise, now in hindsight I totally understand why. While the limestone walls just look like beautiful scenery to others, to a rock climber it’s a challenge to overcome and an adrenaline rush to be had. And if you’ve never rock climbed before, it’s the perfect place to try! There are many places in Ao Nang where professional climbers offer beginner packages.
COST | $40 – 150 USD depending where you book, if you do half vs. full day and if you do it in a group vs. privately.
TIP | This is one activity I would not book online, simply because (as a beginner) I would like to speak personally to who I would be climbing with, make sure I’m comfortable and voice any concerns, check out the equipment, etc. However, you can also book online if you prefer.
9. Explore Diamond Cave
Full of regal stalactites and stalagmites, Diamond Cave is a lesser known spot on Railay Beach. It is a beautiful cave and a nice place to venture to if you’re looking for something different!
COST | 40 baht (~$1.20 USD) entrance fee
GETTING THERE | To get to West Railay beach you must take a long boat which is 100 baht (~$3 USD) one way, and can be booked right on the shore of Ao Nang beach. From West Railay, you will have to walk across to East Railay beach where Diamond Cave can be accessed.
10. Climb to the Railay Beach Viewpoints
Just like Railay Beach is divided by East and West beaches, there are also two viewpoints that give you a picture perfect birds eye view of each beach. The more popular viewpoint is the East side, because although it is a difficult climb (and easy to slip), an ameteur (like me, meaning someone who is not a rock climber but still physically fit) can still do it. However the West viewpoint, should only be done by rock climbers with a rope. But either way, you’ll get an epic view of the coastline!
COST | Free
GETTING THERE | To get to Railay beach you must take a long boat from Ao Nang which is 100 baht (~$3 USD) one way, and can be booked right on the shore of Ao Nang beach. The east viewpoint starts straight up, in the middle of the pathway leading to Phra Nang Beach. At the top of the climb, take a left.
TIPS | Watch where you step and grab onto, be sure on your feet. Wear shoes with good traction, definitely not flip flops. Don’t go after a recent rain as it will be very slippery and muddy.
11. Clamber down to Princess Lagoon
Literally a hidden gem, Princess lagoon is concealed in the center of the limestone cliffs of Phra Nang Beach. Similar to water at the bottom of a well, to get to Princess Lagoon you must climb up over the wall and then down into the lagoon. It’s an an extremely adventurous activity if that’s what you’re looking for!
COST | Free
GETTING THERE | To get to Railay beach you must take a long boat from Ao Nang which is 100 baht (~$3 USD) one way, and can be booked right on the shore of Ao Nang beach. You’ll start on the same climb to the East Railay viewpoint, but at the top take a right and start your way down to Princess Lagoon.
TIPS | This is highly adventurous and difficult, definitely not for everyone. But no matter your experience with climbing, do not go after a recent rain or close to dark.
12. Watch Sunset and Do Yoga at Phra Nang Beach
Sunsets in Thailand are some of the best, and Phra Nang beach is the ultimate place to see this daily performance. It frames the sun perfectly and as it sinks into the horizon you can dig your toes into the sand, float in the calm water, or even partake in yoga! Every day that I was there, a man started yoga and invited anyone who wished to join in!
COST | Free!
GETTING THERE | To get to Railay beach you must take a long boat which from Ao Nang is 100 baht (~$3 USD) one way, and can be booked right on the shore of Ao Nang beach. You’ll then have to walk to Phra Nang beach from West Railay Beach.
13. See the *cough* Interesting Shrines in Phra Nang Caves
The Phra Nang Caves are famous for their…phallic shrines. Tourists thoroughly enjoy this interesting choice of adoration and some locals come here to pray for fertility. So ladies, if you’re not looking to have a kid..don’t get too close!
COST | Free!
GETTING THERE | To get to Railay beach you must take a long boat which is 100 baht (~$3 USD) one way, and can be booked right on the shore of Ao Nang beach. You’ll then have to walk to Phra Nang beach from West Railay Beach.
TIPS | Well..there’s plenty of them there..lol
14. Paddle Board or Kayak at Night with Glowing Plankton
The coast of Krabi is known at night to glow, this is because of the bioluminescent plankton! To really be able to see these glowing creatures, I suggest taking a paddle board or even a clear kayak out at night! If you’re leaning on the budget side of things though, you can just swim out from Phra Nang Beach and sometimes see them! Also many times it is an activity included in sunset island tours.
COST | Depends. Taking a tour is around $50 USD
GETTING THERE | To get to Railay beach you must take a long boat which is 100 baht (~$3 USD) one way, and can be booked right on the shore of Ao Nang beach.
TIPS | 1. This activity can be done on a tour, or possibly on your own. You could simply rent a paddle board at night or even swim out to the plankton. Around Railay beach the water is very shallow, and the water calm. 2. Before booking an expensive tour, if you are already planning on doing a sunset island tour, check if this activitiy is included in it, many times it is.
15. Learn about Culture and Ingredients in a Thai Cooking Class
Personally, I love Thai food and think it’s some of the best! But even if you don’t feel the same way, we can both at least agree that food is a big part of Thai culture; it’s full of ingredients, color, and stories. Taking a cooking class is the perfect way to learn about all this, while stuffing your face!
COST | Around $50 USD
TIP | Compare options, some cooking classes are more extensive and include going to the market to buy ingredients while others are purely cooking.
16. Wonder through the Krabi Town Weekend Night Market
This market is huge in Krabi, and the perfect way to try a lot of cheap, tasty food and see Thai culture in action. It’s also the perfect place to get unique gifts for family and friends back at home, just don’t forget to bring your bargaining skills!
COST | Free to enter, prices vary but food typically around 5 – 100 baht (~$0.15 – $3 USD).
HOURS | Friday – Sunday 6pm – 10pm.
GETTING THERE | Krabi Town is about a 20 minute drive from Ao Nang. You can ride a motorbike there, take a tuk tuk or a songthaew.
TIPS | 1. Many vendors will not have much change, so be sure to have smaller bills. 2. As a foreigner, especially someone not used to street food, you should veer away from anything raw including vegetables and fruit. Only eat cooked, hot food and fruit only if you can peel it.
17. Kayak through Thalane Bay Mangrove Place
Another awesome kayaking experience that shows you another side of Krabi and brings you closer to wildlife in mangroves. Kayaking through is immersive and gives you a glimpse into the wild life of Thailand!
COST | Around $20 – 35 USD
TIPS | Don’t forget mosquito repellent and watch out for macaques!
18. Witness the Natural Beauty of Huay To Waterfall
I know I already mentioned chasing waterfalls in Krabi, but Huay To waterfall in particular is a place I highly recommend visiting. You can spends hours here! Made up of 5 tiers, it’s good fun to climb (just be highly cautious of slipping) and swim in each pool. This place will blow your mind!
COST | The Khao Phanom Bencha National Park entrance fee is 200 baht (~$6.50 USD), and parking 20 baht (~60¢ USD).
HOURS | Online: 8am – 4pm; when I visited they opened at 9am though.
GETTING THERE | About 45 minute drive from Ao Nang. To get here you must rent a motorbike or hire a driver.
TIPS | If you go in the morning you will most likely have this place all to yourself!
19. Hike Through Khao Phanom Bencha National Park
When you visit Huay To waterfall, you pay an entrance fee to Khao Phanom Bencha National Park, where there are many trails and even another waterfall. Make a day trip out of it and do some more exploring!
COST | The Khao Phanom Bencha National Park entrance fee is 200 baht (~$6.50 USD), and parking 20 baht (~60¢ USD).
HOURS | Online: 8am – 4pm; when I visited they opened at 9am.
GETTING THERE | About 45 minute drive from Ao Nang. To get here you must rent a motorbike or hire a driver.
20. Trek Up to Tiger Cave Temple
Tiger Cave Temple, also known as Wat Tham Suea, towers above the land. This Buddhist temple is known for the tiger paw prints within the cave, and for the incredible views! It’s also a great personal challenge for anyone who ventures there because before entering the temple, you must first make it up 1,260 steps!
COST | Free! No entrance fee
GETTING THERE | About a 25 minute drive from Ao Nang. You can rent a motorbike and drive there, take a tuk tuk or songthaew, or book a tour online or from your hotel/hostel.
TIPS | Bring water! Those stairs can be tiring especially on a hot day.
21. Venture through Than Bok Khorani National Park
Full of lush greenery, waterfalls, caves, and limestone cliffs, Than Bok Khorani National Park is the perfect place to explore for anyone who is a lover of nature!
COST | 300 baht (~$10 USD) entrance fee
GETTING THERE | About a 45 minute drive North of Krabi. To get here you must rent a motorbike or hire a driver.
22. Hike to Magnificent Views of Krabi
Hang Nak Mountain Trail. Khao Ngon Nak Nature Trail. Tub Keak Hike. Dragon Crest Mountain Summit. Khao Ngon Nak Hike. Tab Kak Hang Nak Hill…I’ve heard this hike called so many things and I still don’t know what it’s called! But all you need to know is it has some awesome views and is a MUST DO in Krabi. The hike itself is strenuous, but the view at the top is well worth it.
COST | Free, but should donate at least 100 baht for preserving the park.
GETTING THERE | About a 30 minute drive from Ao Nang. You can rent a motorbike and drive here, or take a tour booked online or at your hotel/hostel. Below is the entrance to the hike.
23. Take in the Panorama at Tubkaek Beach
Close to the entrance of the Dragon Crest hike is Tubkaek Beach. Along this beach is many pricey resorts and hotels. However, you can walk onto the beach and enjoy the panoramic view of the limestone mountain in the distance and enjoy a cocktail.
COST | Free
GETTING THERE | About 25 minute drive from Ao Nang. To get here you must rent a motorbike or hire a driver.
TIP | Sunset is nice here, you can see all the shadows of the limestone
24. Get a Thai Massage
You cannot visit Thailand without getting a thai massage!. Not only are they cheap, but it’s just what you need after all the hiking and exploring I’ve recommended you do!
COST | Around 300 baht (~$10 USD) depending on what kind of massage you get.
WHERE TO GO | There are massage parlors all over Ao Nang and Krabi Town that welcome walk-ins. Or you can book ahead of time online for the same price but a reserved spot.
25. Visit The Floating Village Koh Panyi
I know I said ‘things to do that aren’t island tours,’ and Koh Panyi technically is an island. But this floating village is very different from the islands you’ll visit on a typical island tour. Koh Panyi is a Muslim village built on stilts by fishermen and farmers. Because the people there find it difficult to survive off of only fishing, they have invited tourists there to help support their economy. The village is really interesting to see and has amazing seafood. If you do visit, remember to show respect to the people and their community, no alcohol is allowed as it is a muslim community.
COST | There is not an entrance fee, rather you buy food and take a tour here which vary in cost. Support the locals!
GETTING THERE | You can rent a boat from Ao Nang to get there , or join a tour. Many island tours to James Bond Island include stopping at the floating village for lunch (just double check).
Getting To Krabi
Krabi can be reached in several ways: flying, train, and bus.
FLYING
To fly to Krabi, you can fly directly to Krabi International Airport. Another option is to fly to Phuket International Airport, which is about 2 hours drive away from Krabi. From here take a van to Krabi.TRAIN
If you’re coming from the south, Krabi can be reached by taking a train to Trang station and then taking a taxi or van the rest of the way. If you’re coming from the north, Krabi can be reached by taking a train to Surat Thani station and then taking a taxi or van the rest of the way.
Bus
Overnight buses are to Krabi are popular for backpackers especially coming from Bangkok. You can take one to Krabi Bus Terminal, and from here take a taxi or songtheaw to your accommodation.
Where to Stay In Krabi
When searching for accommodation in Krabi, Krabi Town may be the first destination that shows up. However, it’s about 30 minutes drive from the beach. I suggest staying in Ao Nang! This is the more popular area with plenty of hostels, hotels, etc.
Booking and Getting To Activities
Some of the activities mentioned in this post can be done on your own or with a tour. To do them on your own, you will most likely need to rent a motorbike in Ao Nang. If you’re not comfortable riding a scooter though, do not rule these activities out! Many times tours are available or you can hire a private driver! You can use resources such ask Klook to find tours, or ask your hotel/hostel where you are staying.
More Resources for Your Trip to Thailand
Planning your own trip? Here’s some resources I used to book and coordinate my itinerary through Thailand along with some recommendations:
Hostels
If you’re a budget traveler or looking for an easy way to meet others, Hostelworld is the best place to search. Below are some of my recommendations, click to search for availability!
- Bangkok: NapPark Hostel OR Niras Bangoc Cultural Hostel OR The Yard Hostel
- Chiang Mai: Stamps Backackers OR Big & O’s House 2 OR Potae’s House
- Pai: Nola Hub Pai OR Baan Mai Sak
- Krabi: @Aonang Guesthouse OR The Bananas Off the Beaten Path Hostel OR KBunk Hostel
- Phuket: Lub d Phuket Patong
- Koh Phangan: Na-Tub Hostel
- Koh Tao: Summer Hostel Koh Tao OR Deishaview Jungle Hostel
- Koh Phi Phi: Blanco Beach OR Voyagers Hostel
Hotels
Booking.com is the way to go when search for hotels in Thailand because they typically offer free cancellation with plenty of affordable to more luxurious stays – also for cheap!
Flights
Flights to Thailand are typically cheapest to Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. Domestic flights within Thailand can also tend to be pretty affordable especially if traveling light. To find the best deal & prices I recommend using Skyscanner.
BUSES
The easiest way to search for and book buses in Thailand is with 12GoAsia where you can easily compare options and use a platform in English. It’s actually great for planning all Asia travels as it shows ferry and flight options as well. Check 12GoAsia out here.
Insurance
Travel insurance is a must for every trip to ensure you’re covered in unexpected situations. My go to travel insurance is always WorldNomads which is made for backpackers. You can search for coverage here.
If you’re a digital nomad looking for travel medical emergency insurance, I also suggest Safety Wing.
Tours & Experiences
There’s a lot of free thing to do in Thailand and experiences you can do on your own. I always recommend checking blog posts for inspiration. If you’re interested in tours to markets, islands, and more then I suggest checking on GetYourGuide & Klook for Thailand.
Know Before You Go
Check out my Thailand Destination Page here for information on visas, health requirements, currency, outlets, and more.
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