Krabi holidays

The mainland has plenty to offer, too. Not just soft sandy beaches – of which it has several more – but temples hidden high in the jungle and lively local culture. Explore Krabi Town’s mangrove swamps by kayak, swim in a waterfall at Khao Phanom Bencha National Park or go rock climbing by Railay beach.

Thailand is also well known for its exceptional cuisine – in Krabi, it’s all about the hot curries and fresh seafood. Night markets are a highlight for foodies, with stalls cooking all manner of aromatic dishes from grilled satay to steamed crab. You’ll also find a range of small local restaurants and sophisticated in-resort dining serving up remarkably cheap and tasty dishes.

July to October is the monsoon season. It’s still hot and humid, but rain regularly pours down during these months. While hotels are cheaper, some islands and boat services close down, which can make travel planning tricky.

Sitting on top of a jungle-clad hill, the Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea) is an impressive Buddhist monument. Climb around 1,260 steps to reach the top, where you’ll meet the towering golden Buddha and enjoy spectacular views out towards the ocean.

There’s also a trail that loops through the forest, passing several caves containing religious altars. Start your day early to beat the heat.

Diving in Koh Lanta

Calm, clear waters shimmer turquoise against white-sand bays on Krabi’s Koh Lanta. This irresistible island is home to some of Thailand’s best diving and snorkelling, thanks in part to its peaceful lack of motorised watersports.

Expect to see lots of colourful fish, manta rays and – if you’re lucky – whale sharks. There are many reputable dive operators in the area, so take your pick!

Night markets

A trip to the night markets is a highlight of any trip to Krabi. Watch as vendors barbeque skewers of meat and fish, and be sure to haggle with craft-sellers to get the best price for your souvenirs.

Krabi Town’s Walking Street Market – open from Friday to Sunday – is the largest in the area and has food stalls, local handicrafts and trinkets sprawled out around a stage with live shows and karaoke.

Phi Phi viewpoint

Photographers and selfie-takers get ready – this central viewpoint high above the beaches is the best place for a snapshot of the curved turquoise bay below.

The route to get there starts at Tonsai Village. It's quite a tough trek to the top, so be sure to wear good shoes and take lots of water. In peak season, it’s a popular place, so head out early to try and miss the crowds.

Hat Tham Phra Nang

If you’ve ever seen an image of a paradise beach in Thailand, chances are it was taken in Hat Tham Phra Nang. Sparkling waters lead up to soft sand that curves around a small bay in this dreamy destination, and backdrop of craggy limestone cliffs completes the postcard-perfect scene.

The best way to arrive is by wooden longtail boat, from which you can seek out a shady sunbathing spot, swim or go rock climbing. Visit outside of peak season when there are fewer crowds to see the beach at its best.

If you’re looking to do a range of activities, staying along the mainland coast is also a good bet. From here, you can kayak through the mangroves in Krabi Town, take boat trips and visit the Tiger Cave Temple.

For travellers on a budget

Krabi caters well for budget travellers and backpackers, with plenty of cheap hotels, hostels and beach huts to choose from. Krabi Town is packed with basic digs that set you close to either Klong Jilad Pier or further inland by the night market, where you’ll also find some excellent low-cost street food.

Along the coast, Ao Nang Beach also has several affordable hotels. From here, it’s easy to take an early longtail taxi boat to explore the islands and Railay beach. You’ll also find some great deals on the island’s themselves if you shop around – especially if you’re happy to stay in a hostel dorm.

For food and drink

Your taste buds are in for quite an adventure in Krabi, as the area is home to cuisine that has a kick. Regular ingredients include everything from fiery chillies to sweet pineapple, aromatic kaffir leaves and fresh turmeric. Stay awhile in Krabi Town for local haunts serving the catch of the day – even if you decide to move on later and base yourself on an island.

Many of the resorts on Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta also serve local and international food. Look for hotels with a variety of restaurants, but don’t shy away from eating out at a simple beach-shack – it could be the best food you try all holiday.

For nightlife

Koh Phi Phi is Krabi’s party island – think beachfront bars, buckets of cocktails, fire dancers and late-night beats. Many of the hotels are walking distance from Ao Tonsai pier where you’ll first arrive. If you prefer to be away from the main hub, look for a resort along the northern coast.

On the mainland, Ao Nang is also known for its lively nightlife – albeit not quite as notorious as Phi Phi. You’ll find bars, restaurants and food stalls all around the central streets. Plus, the town is packed with hotels, so you’ll have lots of choice.

For culture

Staying on the mainland gives you easy access to Krabi’s cultural highlights. You can take a taxi to the Tiger Cave Temple one day and a longtail boat trip the next. Krabi Town has one of the best night markets and, despite being a busy transport hub, still has a charming local atmosphere.

The old town in Koh Lanta – also called Ban Si Raya – is a small port town that’s also worth a visit. Here, you can stay in a traditional wooden stilt-house and eat freshly cooked fish in a pier-side restaurant.