Top 10 Things to Do in Ao Nang, Krabi
If you’re planning a visit to the Krabi region of Thailand, I highly recommend staying in Ao Nang. After enjoying the beautiful beaches of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, I was eager to explore the Andaman side of Thailand in the Krabi province. I had seen so many pictures of the cliffs, Railay Beach, and the crystal blue waters. I couldn’t pass up the chance to experience the beauty of Krabi, and I’m excited to share my insights with you in this Ao Nang guide.
Ao Nang is the perfect base for exploring the west coast of Thailand. From here, you can easily access Railay Beach and do some day trips to nearby islands. There you can snorkel and swim in some of the most pristine waters in the world. Unlike Krabi Town, which serves mainly as a transit hub, Ao Nang is a better place if you plan to kick around the area for a few days.
In this Ao Nang guide, you’ll find detailed information on the best places to stay, top activities, and must-visit attractions in Ao Nang. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Ao Nang has something for everyone.
So What Are the Best Things to Do in Ao Nang?
Ao Nang is the ideal starting point to explore the stunning beaches and islands of the Andaman Sea. While Ao Nang itself might not be the most thrilling destination, its prime location near Railay Beach and within easy reach of the Phi Phi Islands and Maya Bay makes it an excellent base for your adventures. No Ao Nang guide would be complete without highlighting these incredible nearby attractions.
1. Visit Railay Beach
A visit to Railay Beach is a must. This beautiful spot, with its turquoise waters and dramatic karst cliffs, is just a short boat ride away from Ao Nang. You can easily catch a fisherman’s boat to Railay from Ao Nang; ticket booths at the beach sell tickets for the ride. The boat trip takes about 15 minutes, but be prepared to wait until the boat is full (8-10 people) before it departs.
Upon arrival, you’ll be dropped off on the eastern side of Railay Beach, which, in my opinion, is the most picturesque. To secure a good spot on the beach and some shade, it’s best to arrive early. You can easily walk to the west beach by following a path that winds through hotels. The western side is famous for its rock climbing opportunities. There’s also a unique cave filled with phallic sculptures – it’s quite the sight and definitely worth a visit!
Railay Beach is perfect for a day trip from Ao Nang. It’s an excellent place to relax and soak up the sun. While I find Railay Beach a bit too tranquil for more than a day, many people enjoy staying here for several days. It’s all about what suits your travel style.
In addition to Railay Beach, consider exploring nearby attractions such as the Phi Phi Islands, known for their vibrant marine life and stunning scenery. You can also visit Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach,” for a memorable day trip. With so many incredible places within reach, Ao Nang is truly a gateway to some of Thailand’s most beautiful spots.
2. Visit the Phi Phi Islands, the Blue Lagoon, and Maya Bay
These islands are what Thailand is famous for. With their crystal-clear waters, dramatic karst cliffs, and vibrant marine life, they are a must-see when visiting the Krabi region. If you’re staying in Ao Nang, a tour of the Phi Phi Islands, the Blue Lagoon, and Maya Bay is essential. These spots are just as stunning in person as they are on Instagram, and no Ao Nang guide would be complete without including them.
Exploring the Blue Lagoon
Most of the day tours include a visit to the Blue Lagoon – one of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever seen. My photos from the Blue Lagoon look so surreal, you’d think they were photoshopped, but I promise they’re not! The crystal-clear water, framed by lush greenery and dramatic cliffs, makes it a photographer’s paradise.
These tours also typically include lunch and snorkeling gear, so make sure to bring your GoPro to capture the vibrant marine life just beneath the surface. If you’re into diving, consider a trip to the Similan Islands after visiting Ao Nang for some of the best diving spots in Thailand.
Maya Bay Experience
Maya Bay became famous after being featured in the Leonardo DiCaprio film The Beach. It’s one of Thailand’s most visited destinations, and when I visited, the sheer number of tourists was astonishing. The beach was crowded with people, almost everyone was taking selfies, which made the experience feel a bit chaotic.
Maya Bay has been closed for conservation purposes for a while and has re-open with new set of rules.
- The boats can’t drop you off directly on Maya Bay beach, instead they approach the other beach and we had to walk about 10 minutes to reach the destination. Then, the swimming is not allowed at Maya Bay either. There is a National Park fee of 400 Baht which will most probably be included in your tour.
Despite the crowds, I managed to capture a few moments of tranquility away from the people. If you’re planning to visit these iconic locations, try to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the peak crowds.
In addition to these famous spots, consider exploring lesser-known but equally beautiful locations like Bamboo Island and Pileh Lagoon. These areas offer more opportunities for solitude and are perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Ao Nang truly serves as the gateway to some of Thailand’s most breathtaking nature, making it an ideal base for your adventures.
The Phi Phi Islands
When I planned my trip to Thailand, I knew I needed to see the Phi Phi Islands. It also depends if you want to stay there or not. If not, at least a day trip would be the perfect excursion to get a taste of what these beautiful beaches and islands look like, without needing to arrange a separate stay there.
Phi Phi islands have this island life feel with pristine beaches, some of the best parties in Thailand and a wide selection of accommodation. So sure enough, I decided to stay here for a few days as well!
3. Kayaking in the Mangroves
I started my adventure with kayaking along the scenic coastline. The Ao Thalane area was a haven of tranquility, where I paddled through mangrove forests and limestone cliffs. The calm waters were a perfect canvas for the vibrant wildlife I spotted along the way. It was serene, allowing me to connect with nature on a quiet morning.
Ao Thalane, located about 30 minutes north of Ao Nang, is a picturesque bay featuring a dense mangrove forest, ancient caves, and striking limestone cliffs.
The cost for a kayaking adventure here can vary, but typically, a two-hour guided tour costs around 600 Baht ($19 USD). For those wanting a longer experience, half-day tours are also available. Most tours offer convenient round-trip transfers from Ao Nang, ensuring easy access to Ao Thalane without the need to navigate on your own.
4. Conquering the Khao Ngon Nak Hike
I tackled the hike to Khao Ngon Nak Viewpoint. Although challenging, the trail rewarded me with panoramic views that took my breath away. Climbing this trail really helped me appreciate the vastness and beauty of Krabi’s landscape.
The trail to the top of Khao Ngon Nak stretches about 3.7 kilometers one way, making for a round trip of approximately 7.4 kilometers. The hike is considered moderate to tough due to its steep inclines and rocky paths. It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the summit, with the descent taking slightly less time. The hike features several stunning viewpoints along the way, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and coastline.
Entry to Khao Ngon Nak National Park is free.
5. Rock Climbing Near Railay Beach
One of the most adventurous things to do in Ao Nang – I tried rock climbing near Railay Beach. As a beginner, I was nervous, but the climbing schools there were incredibly supportive. Climbing the limestone cliffs was exhilarating, pushing my limits while I enjoyed stunning views of the ocean below
There are numerous climbing schools and services in Railay that cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced climbers. Some of the well-known schools include Krabi Rock Climbing and Hot Rock Climbing School, which offer a variety of courses from half-day introductions to multi-pitch climbs.
The cost of rock climbing courses can vary. A half-day introductory course typically starts around $30 USD, while full-day courses can cost around $70 USD. Prices may include equipment rental, instruction, and sometimes even transportation from nearby areas.
6. The Emerald Pool, Blue Pool and Krabi Hot Springs
A day trip took me to the Emerald Pool, nestled in Krabi’s lush interior. Swimming in the warm, turquoise waters of this natural pool was like finding a hidden gem in the forest. It was a peaceful retreat from the busier tourist spots
The Emerald Pool, known locally as Sa Morakot, is located in the Thung Teao Forest Natural Park in Krabi, Thailand. It’s famed for its vividly colored waters, which derive their emerald hue from the limestone deposits. This natural wonder is surrounded by lush tropical forest, making it not just a place for a refreshing swim but also a beautiful spot for nature lovers.
Emerald Pool is approximately 50 kilometers from Ao Nang and about 60 kilometers from Krabi Town. It’s recommended to rent a car or scooter to reach the site as there is no public transport directly to the pool. The journey through rural landscapes and forested areas adds to the overall adventure.
The entrance fee for foreign tourists is 400 Baht for adults and 200 Baht for children.
Close to the Emerald Pool, you can also explore the Blue Pool, a deeper pond fed by a hot spring, known for its striking blue color. Although swimming is not allowed in the Blue Pool due to safety reasons, it’s worth a visit for its unique beauty.
7. Ziplining Through The Canopy
For a thrilling aerial adventure, try ziplining in Ao Nang. Various parks offer routes through the lush rainforest canopy, providing unique perspectives and an adrenaline rush as you zip over the stunning landscape.
- Ao Nang Fiore Adventure Park: This park offers various ziplining courses that cater to both beginners and those looking for a more extreme experience. Located just a short drive from Ao Nang Beach, it provides a convenient and quick escape into nature. The park features different courses including an advanced course with an 80-meter long double zip line and cable bike rides. Prices start at approximately 845 Baht per person.
- Thai’d Up Adventures: Located about 15 minutes from both Krabi Town and Ao Nang, Thai’d Up Adventures offers canopy zip line adventures amidst stunning natural settings. This venue is perfect for families and offers activities like top-roped climbing and abseiling along with ziplining. They provide a range of experiences from short taster sessions to full-day adventures.
8. Discovering Phra Nang Cave Beach
Phra Nang Cave Beach was another highlight. The stunning beach, bordered by massive cliffs and mystical caves, had a storybook quality. Exploring the caves and soaking in the scenery was an unforgettable part of my journey.
Getting There
To reach Phra Nang Cave Beach, you can take a long-tail boat from Ao Nang or Krabi town. The trip costs about 100 Baht per person one way, with boats typically waiting to fill up with passengers before departing. The journey takes just over 10 minutes and delivers you directly to this picturesque location.
Activities and Attractions
Once there, you can indulge in various activities:
- Swimming: The calm and clear waters make for perfect swimming conditions.
- Exploring the Caves: The iconic Phra Nang Cave, located at one end of the beach, is filled with offerings to the Princess Goddess, which are believed to ensure safe travels at sea and bring good luck. This cave is steeped in local legend, often associated with tales of a shipwrecked Indian princess or a waiting fisherman’s wife.
- Kayaking and Water Sports: Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are available for rent, allowing you to explore the surrounding waters and limestone formations at your leisure.
- Rock Climbing: The limestone cliffs near Phra Nang are popular among climbers, offering routes for various skill levels.
9. Experiencing Thai Massage
After a day of physical activity, a traditional Thai massage was exactly what I needed. This unique form of massage, which involves stretching and deep pressure, was rejuvenating.
If you’re looking to unwind with a massage in Ao Nang, here are some top-rated places you might consider:
- Massage Corner – Known for its relaxing ambiance and skilled staff, Massage Corner is a favorite among visitors. They offer a range of massages including aromatherapy, making it a great spot to rejuvenate after a busy day.
- Royal Palm Spa – This spa is celebrated for its excellent service and peaceful atmosphere. They offer a variety of treatments, making it a perfect choice for a relaxing experience.
- SANKARA Thailand – SANKARA provides a mix of traditional Thai massage and modern treatments. Their range of services and serene setting offers a thorough pampering experience.
10. Night Market Delights
One evening, I wandered into Ao Nang’s night market. The atmosphere was electric, filled with the aromas of traditional Thai dishes and the sounds of chatter and music. Sampling local dishes like pad Thai and mango sticky rice was a treat for my taste buds. The market offered a slice of local life – and for me this was one of the best places to visit in Ao Nang at night.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Ao Nang?
The best time to visit Ao Nang in Krabi, Thailand, is during the dry season from November to April. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions, with less rainfall and more sunny days, making it ideal for beach activities and exploring the outdoors.
Details on the Best Time to Visit:
- November to April – Dry Season:
- Weather: The weather is generally sunny and dry, with temperatures averaging between 25°C to 32°C. This makes it comfortable for exploring the beaches and participating in water sports.
- Tourist Crowds: This is also the peak tourist season, especially around Christmas and New Year, which means Ao Nang can be quite crowded. Prices for accommodations and activities can be higher during this time.
- May to October – Wet Season:
- Weather: These months constitute the monsoon season, with frequent and heavy rainfall, especially in September and October. The weather is generally more humid, and seas can be rough, which might restrict certain activities like boat tours.
- Advantages: The wet season sees fewer tourists, which means less crowded attractions and lower prices. The landscape is also lush and green, ideal for nature lovers and those interested in photography.
How to Get to Ao Nang?
There are two primary ways to reach Ao Nang, both easy and relatively affordable:
- Fly to Ao Nang: You can fly into Krabi International Airport, which is about a 30-40 minute drive from Ao Nang. I flew from Ao Nang to Chiang Mai (via Bangkok) on Thai Airways, but there are numerous flights on AirAsia, LionAir, and other Southeast Asian airlines.
- Take a bus to Ao Nang: I arrived in Ao Nang from Koh Samui. My go-to website for booking travel in Thailand was always 12go.asia. This site is like your travel bible for Thailand – you can book ferries, buses, trains, and flights, often in convenient packages that connect them all. Thanks to 12go.asia, getting around Thailand was incredibly easy.
Where to Stay in Ao Nang?
Budget: Slumber Party Hostel Ao Nang
For those traveling on a budget, Slumber Party Hostel is a fantastic option. It’s known for its lively atmosphere, friendly staff, and clean facilities. It’s located just a short walk from the beach and various local eateries, making it a convenient base for exploring Ao Nang.
Mid-Range: Krabi Resort
Krabi Resort offers a perfect blend of comfort and affordability. This mid-range resort is located right on Ao Nang Beach, providing easy access to the sea and stunning views. The resort features spacious rooms, a large swimming pool, and an on-site restaurant serving delicious Thai cuisine.
Luxury: Rayavadee
For a luxurious stay, Rayavadee is the ultimate choice. This five-star resort is situated on the edge of Krabi’s National Marine Park and features stunning beachfront villas surrounded by lush tropical gardens. The resort offers world-class amenities, including a spa, multiple dining options, and private boat tours. Rayavadee is renowned for its impeccable service, beautiful surroundings, and exclusive, tranquil atmosphere, making it perfect for a lavish getaway.
Final Reflections on Best Things To Do in Ao Nang
Ao Nang offered me both adrenaline-pumping activities and moments of peace. Whether I was climbing cliffs, exploring underwater, or enjoying the local culture at the night market, every experience was enriching.
If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, make sure Ao Nang is on your itinerary. It’s a place where adventures await at every turn, ready to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.
Did this Ao Nang guide help you plan your visit? Let me know what you’d add to make it even better!