Krabi province in Thailand, is a world surrounded by natural beauty. That\’s why its popularity has exploded in the last decade and accounts for the large number of accommodation and restaurant options you have available now. There are small hotels, large chain hotels, dorms, guest houses, private vacation villas, luxury resorts, and simple bungalow’s available to suit all budgets. So the choice can be a bit overwhelming and so many ask where to stay in Krabi?
The choice you make for your stay should take several factors into consideration when deciding where to stay in Krabi. Of course for many people the first thing they look at is the price. If you are planning an active holiday with many excursions, there is not much point to staying at an expensive resort. In the end it’s a bed where you sleep. If you are planning a relaxing holiday at the pool with only a few activities, it’s good to stay at a nice resort.
I have been living in Ao Nang for the better part of the last 11 years and have seen the town grow. Also I have been working with tourist here during this time. So from my experience here, I have complied a list of the best places to stay in different locations, budgets and itineraries. Apart from Ao Nang, you can stay in Klong Muang, Railay, Tonsai, Longbeach, Tubkaek Beach, Ao Nammao, or Krabi Town.
Ao Nang Town
It is not the most beautiful town, and has gotten busy in the last years. Yet if you want live central and have access to many restaurants, nightlife and shopping options, it’s the place to stay. From here you can reach Tonsai, Railay Beach, and Poda Island just by hopping on to a local longtail boat from the beach. Also you can rent a bike here and explore the area or join one of the many tours offered to visit the natural wonders.
Careful when booking a place here, they may say they are close to the beach, yet they are quite far out of town and you will require a taxi every time you want to go somewhere. You can visit this area all year round, though best avoid 15th of December until the 10th of January if you can, this is when it is busiest and accommodation is most expensive.
best and only places on the beach
Golden Beach Resort
A beautiful resort right next to the beach promenade. Very close to the center of town, yet quiet and away from the main road. This is also a stunning spot to watch sunset, get a massage, or enjoy a drink right on the beach without having to move far at all.
$65-$81 per night incl. breakfast
best places away from the beach
Railay & Tonsai Beach
These beaches are on a small peninsula easiest accessed by boat. It is possible to come here on low tide from Ao Nammao bay. However this is a bit of an adventure and definitely shouldn’t be undertaken with your luggage…hahaha. So basically the peninsula is like an island because it is cut off from the mainland by 300m high cliffs and mountains.
This is a climber paradise, but also great for chilling and kayaking. Here you can find all kinds of accommodation, from simple palm huts in the jungle, to one of the most expensive resorts in Thailand.
Klong Muang, Tubkaek & Long Beach
These beaches are to the north of Ao Nang, about 20-40min away by car. Long beach is very quiet, there is not much here except a few basic small resorts powered by generator. Its a bit of a journey in time, because most of Thailand was like this 15 years ago. This a perfect place to escape the crowds. Though if you stay here, best if you know how to drive a motorbike, since you are far away from everything, even 7/11 shops, which is hard to believe in Thailand.
Klong Muang and Tubkaek beaches are still in development and are slowly growing. In this area you have some of the best beaches on the mainland. Often clear water, no people, and not so many noisy longtail boats disturbing the idyllic silence. Here there are a few accommodation options, though most of them are 3-5 star resorts. This area is definitely one of the best choice when deciding where to stay in Krabi.
Long Beach
Klong Muang & Tubkaek Beach
Ao Nammao Bay
Ao Nammao bay is between Ao Nang and Krabi town, on the other side of the Railay peninsula. A very laid back spot with only a few accommodation options. There are some wild quiet beaches, and you can easily get to Railay from here by boat or Kayak. Also a very nice choice when deciding where to stay in Krabi.
where to stay in Krabi Town
Krabi town is a very laid back town. There is almost no night life here or much for the tourist. The center of town is very small where you can find a few dorms, guest houses and hotels. There is a small shopping mall, a daily morning and night market for food, and a weekend night market with some handicrafts and lots of great food. Though other than that there is not much. So if you are looking for a more authentic Thai experience, or have a tight budget, or planning to do a lot of exploring, then this is the place to stay. Food, renting a bike and accommodation is much cheaper than anywhere else. The perfect choice for proper travelers and backpackers when deciding where to stay in Krabi.
to conclude
These are some of the best places to stay in the area. Of course there are many more choices, this was a rundown of the most noteworthy. I know there are just as many restaurants as there are accommodation options, so please check out our blog about the best restaurants in Krabi. If you in the area and are interested in diving, check out our blog about diving in Krabi. If would like to see an amazing places away from the crowds, visit Crystal Lagoon Krabi. Also have a look at our page about discovering a different Thailand for some inspirational tips.
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