Krabi Itinerary - how to make the most of your time in Krabi

Whether you're paddling through glowing lagoons or stumbling upon a secluded beach, Krabi has a way of surprising you. From cheeky monkeys at ancient temples to night markets where grandmothers dish out the best pad thai, this guide will help you plan the ultimate Krabi itinerary.

Krabi itinerary overview

We'll get into the details of our ideal Krabi itinerary below, but for a quick overview:

• Day 1: Ao Nang, Railay Beach, Phra Nang Cave, optional viewpoint hike
• Day 2: 4 Islands Tour - Phra Nang Cave Beach, Chicken Island, Poda Island, Tup Island
• Day 3: Hong Islands - main beach, lagoon, kayaking
• Day 4: Tiger Cave Temple (1,237 steps), Krabi Town markets
• Day 5: Klong Thom Hot Springs, Emerald Pool

How many days do you need in Krabi?

In an ideal world, we would all have months to spend getting to know Krabi! But realistically, you'll want around 3-5 days.

• 3 days: This is perfect for hitting the main spots. Railay Beach is a must—take a longtail boat there and spend the day either climbing the limestone cliffs or just enjoying the views. Add a day for the Four Islands tour, with great snorkeling around Chicken Island, and wrap up your trip exploring Ao Nang's beachfront and local markets.
• 4 days: With an extra day, you can dive into the cultural side of Krabi. You'll get all the highlights from the 3-day plan, plus tackle the 1,237 steps at Tiger Cave Temple (the view is worth the effort).The Krabi Town night market is a fantastic addition here - you'll get a real taste of local life.
• 5 days: This is really the ideal amount of time. You'll get everything from the shorter plans, but with more time to relax. You can add a day trip to Hong Island's beautiful lagoon and visit Tubkaak Beach—one of those spots most tourists skip. Plus, the extra day gives you a cushion if the weather doesn't cooperate.

3 to 5 day Krabi itinerary

Here’s our favorite Krabi itinerary. You can spend the first three days, or take the whole five here and both would be fantastic trips. If you want to see more of Thailand beyond Krabi, be sure to see our Thailand itineraries:  7 days - 10 days - 14 days - Chiang Mai - Phuket - Northern Thailand - Southern Thailand

Day 1: Ao Nang and Railay Beach

Start your first day in Ao Nang, Krabi's main beach town, which is surprisingly peaceful in the morning. It's the perfect spot to get your bearings while watching long-tail boats glide through the Andaman Sea. Pick up a fresh coconut from a local vendor to kick off your day.

In the afternoon, take a 15-minute long-tail boat ride to Railay Beach, one of Thailand's most famous coastal spots. At the southern end, you'll find Phra Nang Cave Beach, home to a mystical shrine dedicated to a mythical sea princess and one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Look out for the wooden offerings at the shrine.

For those seeking a challenge, hike to Railay Viewpoint. It’s a steep climb with some scrambling, but the panoramic views of the peninsula and emerald waters make it all worthwhile. Just be sure to wear proper shoes for the hike. 

Day 2: Island hopping: 4 Islands Tour

Day two of this short itinerary is spent on the 4 Islands Tour. This route is popular for good reason - it's simply the best way to see Krabi's most stunning spots in a single day. 

You'll want to start early with a morning visit to Phra Nang Cave Beach when it's at its most serene. 

From there, you'll head to Chicken Island - and yes, it really does look like a chicken's head. The snorkeling here is fantastic: keep your eyes peeled for families of clownfish in the reefs. 

Next is Poda Island, where you can take a breather on some seriously perfect white sand beaches. The limestone karsts in the background make for an incredible backdrop.  The day ends at Tup Island, where a sandbar emerges at low tide, connecting it to nearby islands for a unique walk.

Day 3: Hong Islands day trip

The Hong Islands, part of a protected national park, are some of Thailand’s last pristine island environments and the perfect place to spend day three. The main beach on Hong Island has everything you’d want—white sand and excellent snorkeling with incredible water visibility.

You absolutely will want to also venture into the Hong Lagoon, a  hidden paradise surrounded by towering limestone cliffs that create an atmosphere that's almost otherworldly. The acoustics here are something you'll notice as soon as you arrive. 

Take advantage of the calm waters by renting a kayak and check out the islands' hidden coves and secluded beaches that can’t be accessed any other way. Keep an eye out for monitor lizards sunbathing on the rocks and hornbills in the trees. If you're up for it, there are also short hiking trails to explore the island's interior.

Day 4: Tiger Cave Temple and Krabi Town

The Tiger Cave Temple, named after the tiger paw prints found in the cave, stands as one of Thailand's most famous meditation centers and offers what many consider the best viewpoint in Southern Thailand and is the focal point of day four. 

Begin your day four with an early morning visit to climb the 1,237 steps to reach the summit, where you’ll find the golden Buddha statue alongside breathtaking 360-degree views of the Andaman Sea and surrounding landscape. Get there before 7 AM to beat the heat, and be ready for the monkeys—they might try to swipe your stuff!

After the climb, head into Krabi Town. Despite the tourist crowds, it’s still got an authentic Thai feel. Make sure to stop by the white Wat Kaew Korawaram temple and check out the local markets. Don’t leave without trying yellow curry crab—it’s a local specialty.

If you're lucky enough to be there during the weekend, don't miss the Krabi Walking Street. The roti vendors there make some of the best in Southern Thailand.

Day 5: Klong Thom Hot Springs and emerald pool

On your last day in Krabi, it’s time to unwind. Start with a visit to the Klong Thom Hot Springs, natural thermal pools that come from ancient volcanic chambers deep underground. These jacuzzi-like pools, carved into smooth stone, stay at a steady 40°C (104°F) and are great way to relax in the jungle. There are several cascading pools to choose from. 

This natural pool lives up to the hype, with striking turquoise water surrounded by lush rainforest. The color comes from minerals in the limestone rocks, which are also great for your skin. It’s the perfect spot to take a refreshing swim to wrap up your time in Krabi.

Is Krabi nicer than Phuket?

Both Krabi and Phuket are known for stunning beaches and tropical experiences, but they each offer distinct atmospheres and cater to different types of travelers. Truly you could plan a fantastic itinerary in Krabi or Phuket (in fact, be sure to see our Phuket itinerary). Here's a comparison:

• Price: Krabi generally gives you more bang for your buck. You’ll find that accommodations, dining, and activities are more affordable here. Mid-range hotels in Krabi are often 30-40% cheaper than in Phuket, and local meals usually cost between 60-150 THB in Krabi, compared to 100-250 THB in Phuket.
• Crowd: Krabi offers a more relaxed, authentic Thai vibe with fewer tourists. Beaches like Railay and Tonsai are less crowded, even during peak season. In contrast, Phuket's popular areas like Patong and Kata can become quite busy.
• Activities: Krabi excels in natural experiences, featuring world-class rock climbing, kayaking through mangroves, and hiking to hidden lagoons. While Phuket offers diverse entertainment options, including water parks and shopping malls, Krabi's limestone cliffs, secluded beaches, and pristine islands are better for that raw, natural Thailand experience. 

Best things to do in Krabi

You can relax in hot springs tucked away in the jungle or chase sunsets over the Andaman Sea—Krabi has something for everyone.

Beaches to visit

• Railay Beach: You can only get here by longtail boat, which gives the whole place a private island feel. Surrounded by massive limestone cliffs, the soft white sand and clear water make it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. If you like rock climbing, you’ll find some pretty impressive spots to scale.
• Ao Nang Beach: This beach is the hub of Krabi’s coastal scene. You’ll see longtail boats alongside plenty of places to eat and shop. The sunsets here are incredible, with the silhouettes of limestone islands in the distance.
• Phra Nang Beach: Famous for the Princess Cave, this beach is a peaceful escape with emerald waters and towering cliffs. Local vendors cruise by in boats selling fresh coconut water and tasty snacks.
• Tonsai Beach: Tonsai has a relaxed vibe, especially loved by climbers and adventurers. It’s quieter than some of the other beaches, with bonfires on the sand and a welcoming community of international travelers.

Island hopping tours

• 4 Islands Tour: This tour takes you to some of Krabi’s best known spots, like Chicken Island, known for its unique rock formation. Swim in the clear waters of Koh Tup, walk along the sandbar to Koh Mor, and snorkel through coral gardens.
• Phi Phi Islands: The Phi Phi Islands are famous for a reason. You can visit Maya Bay, see beaches with monkeys, and snorkel in some of the clearest water you’ll ever find. Plus, the viewpoints here give you fantastic views over the islands.
• Hong Islands: This archipelago is truly a hidden paradise, with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. It’s perfect for snorkeling and kayaking through narrow limestone channels.  

 Adventure activities

• Rock Climbing at Railay: If you enjoy climbing, Railay is a must. The limestone cliffs offer routes for all levels, from beginners to experts, with breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea as a backdrop.
• Hiking Tiger Cave Temple: If you’re up for a bit of a challenge, climb the 1,237 steps to the top of Tiger Cave Temple. The panoramic views of Krabi are worth it, and along the way, you’ll pass through beautiful cave shrines and meet a few monkeys.
• Kayaking at Ao Thalane: Ao Thalane is perfect for kayaking, with narrow mangrove channels and hidden lagoons to explore. You’ll also see plenty of wildlife, from monkeys to kingfishers. 

Local culture and markets

• Krabi Town night market: This is the place to get a real feel for local life. You can try street food, pick up handmade souvenirs, and enjoy live music. The market’s vibe is authentic and full of energy.
• Wat Kaew Korawaram: This beautiful white temple in Krabi Town sits on a hill with views of the surrounding area. It’s a peaceful spot to learn about Thai Buddhism, with intricate architecture and lovely gardens.

Where to stay in Krabi

There are a lot of great places to stay in Krabi, but here’s a pick of our favorites:

• Ao Nang: A great spot for first-timers and families. You’ll find a lively beachfront with lots of food options, plus easy boat access to nearby islands. It's laid-back but still packed with conveniences.
• Railay Beach: Ideal for a secluded escape and adventure seekers. No cars, just longtail boats and jaw-dropping limestone cliffs perfect for climbing. Expect a mix of casual beach bars and luxury resorts nestled in the jungle.
• Krabi Town: If you want to experience authentic Thai life without the tourist price tag, this is your place. Enjoy morning markets, local vibes, and easy access to everything Krabi has to offer.

When is the best time to visit Krabi?

The best time to visit Krabi is the dry season, which runs from November to April. The weather at this time is pleasant with less rainfall, making it ideal for beach vacations, island-hopping or exploring the natural beauty of the region. The peak tourist season, on the other hand, is between December and February, when the weather gets cooler. 

You can also consider the shoulder months of November and March-April - at this time there are fewer crowds and quite favorable weather conditions.

For a clearer understanding of the weather conditions throughout the year, study our guide to the best time to visit Thailand.

Travel tips for visiting Krabi

Planning the perfect Krabi itinerary can feel tricky, but it all starts with how long you want to stay. Whether it's a quick 3-day getaway, a standard 5-day trip, or a relaxed 7-day adventure, knowing your time frame helps narrow things down. 

Next up, pick the right base. Ao Nang, Railay Beach, and Tubkek Beach each have their own vibe, so think about what fits your style best. Once you’ve chosen your spot, dive into Krabi’s iconic beaches. Railay, Ao Nang, and Phra Nang Cave Beach are all stunning in their own way and will definitely leave you wanting more.

How to get to Krabi

Getting to Krabi is pretty easy, with several transport options available. The most common way is to fly into Krabi International Airport, which connects to major cities like Bangkok and Phuket. From there, you can catch a cab or shuttle to your accommodation. 

How to get around Krabi

Once you're in Krabi, getting around is simple. You can use taxis, tuk-tuks, or rent a scooter to explore the town and nearby areas. For a more local experience, songthaews (shared pickup trucks) are also a popular and affordable option.

If you want to explore nearby islands or more remote spots, longtail boats are the way to go. They're great for island tours and accessing secluded beaches.

To reach neighboring provinces or more distant places, buses and minivans depart from the Krabi Bus Terminal. You can also book private transfers or join organized tours if you prefer a more comfortable and hassle-free trip.
For more transportation tips check our guide to getting around Thailand.

Packing tips for Krabi

When packing for Krabi, think practical and prepared. You’ll need quick-dry clothes for everything from jungle hikes to swims. Don’t forget modest clothing for temple visits—many places won’t let you in if your shoulders are exposed. 

If you’re into climbing, bring your gear, but rentals are easy to find if you don’t. A dry bag is a must for longtail boat trips, and reef-safe sunscreen is essential (it’s more expensive here). Water shoes are key for beaches like Railay, where sharp rocks can be hidden beneath the sand. 

Cost of traveling in Krabi

Daily spending in Krabi depends on your preferences. Budget travelers can spend between $40 and $70, enjoying affordable accommodation, local restaurants and basic transportation. Mid-level travelers can expect to spend between $70 and $150 per day, in turn getting more comfort and more varied dining options. 

Luxury travelers whose budgets exceed $150 can indulge in upscale resorts, fine dining and private transfers.

Ready to plan your Krabi adventure?

Daunted by the prospect of planning? No problem! Talk to our local Thailand travel experts. We'll craft a personalized itinerary just for you.

Prefer to do it alone? Feel free to browse our pre-designed Thailand itineraries for ideas, and remember that all can be tailored to meet your specific needs. For more inspiration, discover some of the best things to do in Thailand.

Prefer to do it alone? Get yourself a copy of The Rough Guide to Thailand's Beaches & Islands and start planning your trip with our Thailand travel tips.