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Looking to spice up your Krabi itinerary? You’ve come to the right place!
Krabi is a tropical playground filled with epic adventures, stunning landscapes, and rich culture. From limestone cliffs to hidden lagoons, it’s a destination that never disappoints.
Having explored Krabi many times, I’ve done it all – kayaking through lush mangroves, swimming with bioluminescent plankton, and more. Some activities were unforgettable, while others fell flat. So to save you time (and money), I’m sharing the absolute best experiences that are guaranteed to make your trip one to remember!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Krabi was this full-day tour to the Phi Phi Islands! It showcases some of Thailand’s best beaches that have even been featured in movies.
Plus there’s swimming, snorkeling, scenery, and cute monkeys!
- Don't Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Krabi, Thailand
- 1. Go on a sunset snorkeling cruise to see bioluminescent plankton
- 2. See Thailand’s best beaches at Phi Phi Islands
- 3. Kayak through a jungle canyon, mangrove forest, and limestone cliffs
- 4. Learn how to cook Thai food
- 5. Explore Krabi’s jungle – Hot Spring Waterfall, Emerald Pool, Tiger Cave Temple
- 6. Visit James Bond Island
- 7. Explore Hong Island on a private long-tail boat
- 8. Get your adrenaline pumping on a zipline
- 9. Try out rock climbing at Railay Beach
- 10. Go cycling around Koh Klang Island
- Where to Stay in Krabi, Thailand
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Krabi, Thailand
1. Go on a sunset snorkeling cruise to see bioluminescent plankton
- Price: $110 USD
- Duration: 6 to 7 hours
- Time: 1 pm
- Highlights: Cruise along Krabi’s coastline to 4 different islands on a traditional “junk” boat, enjoy water sports like snorkeling and SUPing, swim with the bioluminescent plankton after dark, enjoy a Thai buffet dinner
- Inclusions: Professional guides/crew, soft drinks, buffet dinner, snorkeling equipment, paddle boards, kayak
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the 1,500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
If you’re looking for a chill yet unforgettable evening in Krabi, you’ve got to check out this Krabi Sunset Cruise. I did this tour the last time I was there, and honestly, it’s one of my favorite memories from Thailand!
The tour takes place on a traditional wooden junk boat, which adds a bit of rustic charm to the experience. You’ll set off in the afternoon, gliding past Krabi’s epic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters to 4 different islands. The vibe is super relaxed – you can snorkel, paddleboard, kayak, or just hang out on deck soaking in the views.
I opted for snorkeling, and the marine life was incredible! They provide all the gear you need, so no need to bring your own.
But the real magic happens at sunset. Watching the sky turn fiery orange over the Andaman Sea while enjoying a tasty Thai buffet dinner on board is a moment I’ll never forget. The food was fresh and flavorful, and there were vegetarian options available too.
Then, just when you think it’s over, it’s time to swim with bioluminescent plankton (my favorite part!). Each time you move, the water lights up a vibrant blue color – it’s such an incredible thing to witness firsthand!
With over 1,400 5-star reviews, this tour is hands-down the best way to experience the magic of Krabi’s coast. If you’re looking for a tour that’s equal parts adventure and relaxation, this is it!
Don’t miss out on this sunset sailing trip, book your spot here!
2. See Thailand’s best beaches at Phi Phi Islands
- Price: $105 USD
- Duration: 7 hours
- Time: 8 am
- Highlights: See Maya Bay before the crowds, go swimming and snorkeling around the Phi Phi Islands, see monkeys at Monkey Beach, enjoy lunch and soft drinks on the beach
- Inclusions: Professional guide, buffet lunch, fruit, soft drinks/water, national park fees
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the 1,000+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
If you’ve ever seen pictures of the Phi Phi Islands and thought, “I need to go there,” then this full-day tour needs to be on your itinerary! It takes you from Krabi to the most iconic spots on the Phi Phi Islands.
The best part is that it leaves early to beat the crowds, so you’re not battling for space on the beach!
The adventure kicks off with a speedboat ride to Maya Bay – yep, the famous beach from The Beach film with Leonardo DiCaprio. Getting there early means you’ll have plenty of time to soak it all in before the crowds, which is a huge bonus. The turquoise water and white sand look just as dreamy as the photos!
From there, it’s on to Pileh Bay, a stunning emerald-green lagoon surrounded by cliffs. Jump in for a swim or snorkel with tropical fish before heading to Monkey Beach, where (you guessed it) you’ll spot monkeys hanging around! We saw so many adorable monkeys and watched them play – it was so much fun!
After a tasty Thai lunch, you’ll head to Bamboo Island for some beach time or more snorkeling. It’s the perfect spot to relax before heading back to Krabi!
Just note that this tour doesn’t include pick-up/drop-off from Krabi – you’ll have to add it on for an additional cost when booking the tour. But we think it’s definitely worth it for the convenience and rare opportunity to see the best of the Phi Phi Islands without the crowds! And we aren’t the only ones – look at the hundreds of 5-star reviews here!
Check availability for my favorite beach tour here!
3. Kayak through a jungle canyon, mangrove forest, and limestone cliffs
- Price: $39 USD
- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 8 am
- Highlights: Kayak through a jungle canyon and mangroves, take in the amazing views and spot wildlife
- Inclusions: Professional guide, hotel pick-up/dropoff, kayak & equipment, coffee/tea, bottled water
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the 450+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
If you’re seeking an adventure through Krabi’s natural wonders, this kayaking tour is a must-do! This half-day excursion takes you paddling through serene mangrove forests, towering limestone canyons, and hidden lagoons, offering a tranquil escape from the usual tourist spots.
One of the highlights of this tour is its small group size, capped at just 10 people. This ensures a more personalized experience. Our guide, AK, was exceptional – his knowledge of the local ecosystem and fascinating stories made the trip even more memorable!
The tour starts early, allowing you to enjoy the peaceful morning ambiance and avoid the crowds. As you navigate through the mangroves, keep an eye out for wildlife; we were fortunate to spot monkeys, colorful crabs, and various birds.
The scenery is next-level! Towering limestone cliffs and lush mangroves create the perfect backdrop for the adventure – I’m pretty sure I filled my entire camera roll with pictures!
At just $39 USD per person, this tour offers exceptional value. The price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, kayaking equipment, and refreshments, making it one of the most affordable quality tours in Krabi. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a beginner, this tour is accessible to all skill levels and promises a memorable addition to your Krabi itinerary!
Read all of the 5-star reviews and secure your spot here!
4. Learn how to cook Thai food
- Price: $42 – $52 USD
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 9 am, 1 pm, 2 pm or 6 pm
- Highlights: Learn to prepare a variety of classic Thai dishes from a local chef, and indulge in your delicious creations
- Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/dropoff, professional chef/instructor, ingredients/equipment, water
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the 250+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
I’m a huge fan of Thai food, so when I learned about this Thai cooking class in Krabi, I knew I had to give it a try – and boy, am I glad I did!
The class kicks off with a warm introduction from the instructor, where you’ll learn about the fresh, local ingredients that make Thai food so flavorful. Then, it’s straight into cooking. Each participant gets their own cooking station, and you’ll follow step-by-step instructions to create a variety of iconic Thai dishes.
I made Pad Thai, Tom Yum Soup, and Green Curry, and I’m proud to say they all turned out delicious!
The best part? It’s a small-group setting, so you’re never left struggling on your own. Our guide was patient, knowledgeable, and happy to answer every question.
Once all the cooking is done, you’ll sit down to enjoy the meal you just made. Trust me, there’s something extra special about eating food you’ve cooked yourself. And with a recipe book to take home, you can continue making these tasty dishes for years to come!
For around $42 USD per person, this class is an absolute steal. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it an easy, must-do activity for foodies visiting Krabi. Whether you’re new to cooking or a pro, I know you’ll leave this class with a new appreciation for Thai food and some serious cooking skills!
Reserve your spot in this cooking class here and enjoy FREE 24-hour cancellation!
5. Explore Krabi’s jungle – Hot Spring Waterfall, Emerald Pool, Tiger Cave Temple
- Price: $65 USD
- Duration: 9 hours
- Time: 8 am
- Highlights: Trek through the rainforest to the gorgeous Emerald Pool, visit the Namtok Ron waterfall and hot springs, take in amazing views at Tiger Cave Temple
- Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/dropoff, professional guide, lunch, entrance fees
- Rating: 4.5 stars (check out the 240+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
Looking for a full-day adventure that’s packed with nature, relaxation, and a bit of a challenge? This Krabi jungle tour delivers all that and more! I’d heard great things about it before going, but it still managed to exceed my expectations.
The day kicks off with a visit to the Namtok Ron Hot Spring Waterfall, where you can soak in natural mineral-rich pools. It’s like being in a jungle spa, and trust me, you’ll never want to leave!
Next up is the Emerald Pool at the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve. After a short nature walk, you’re greeted by a crystal-clear pool that’s perfect for swimming. The water is cool and refreshing, and the jungle backdrop makes it truly unique. I’d recommend bringing a waterproof camera for this one!
Finally, it’s off to the Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea). Climbing the 1,260 steps to the top is no joke, but the views from the summit are absolutely worth it! Just make sure your belongings are locked up in your bag because the monkeys here love to steal things!
This tour has earned glowing reviews from travelers, and it’s easy to see why. Full of stunning natural beauty, it’s a must-do for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike!
Check availability and book your spot on this jungle tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
6. Visit James Bond Island
- Price: $115 USD
- Duration: 8 hours
- Time: 9 am
- Highlights: Visit James Bond Island to see the famous pinnacle, take a speedboat through the limestone rock formations at Koh Yao Noi, snorkel in the Hong Islands, enjoy lunch on the beach
- Inclusions: Professional guide, National Park fees, buffet lunch, snacks, soft drinks
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the 550+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
“James Bond Island” was made famous by the 1974 James Bond film The Man with the Golden Gun and the best way to see it is on this full-day tour!
On this adventure, you’ll get up close to those towering limestone cliffs you’ve seen on screen. They’re breathtaking, and knowing you’re standing in a real film location makes it even more unforgettable.
But this tour isn’t just about movie magic. You’ll also explore the stunning Hong Islands, known for their hidden lagoons, crystal-clear water, and epic snorkeling spots. We snorkeled here and spotted colorful fish darting around the coral – it’s an ocean lover’s dream!
After all that snorkeling, you’ll refuel with a delicious Thai buffet lunch on a secluded beach. It’s the perfect break before heading back to more island hopping and exploring.
We love that this is a small-group tour, meaning personalized attention from the guides. They’re great at timing the stops to avoid crowds (which we really appreciated!) and they share interesting stories about the islands’ history and wildlife.
If you’re ready for a day packed with natural beauty, adventure, and a touch of Hollywood magic, this is the tour for you. It’s super popular (just look at these amazing reviews!) and tends to sell out, so book early to secure your spot.
Book this Island tour here before it sells out!
7. Explore Hong Island on a private long-tail boat
- Price: $145 – $168 USD (depending on group size)
- Duration: 6 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times (confirm with tour operator)
- Highlights: Visit the Hong Islands on a private longtail boat, choose to visit 2 or 4 islands, go snorkeling at Koh Pak Bia
- Inclusions: Guide, fruit, bottled water, cooler, snorkeling equipment
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
If you’re looking for a personalized island-hopping experience, this private Hong Island boat tour is a fantastic choice! This private tour allows you to explore the stunning Hong Islands at your own pace, away from the crowds.
The adventure begins with a traditional long-tail boat ride, offering panoramic views of Krabi’s coastline. Upon reaching the Hong Islands, you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, relax on pristine beaches, and explore hidden lagoons. The flexibility of this private tour means you can customize your itinerary to suit your interests, whether that’s spending more time snorkeling or simply soaking up the sun.
One of the highlights of this tour is the chance to visit the Hong Lagoon, a secluded spot accessible only by boat. The lagoon’s emerald waters, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, create a serene and picturesque setting that’s perfect for swimming or photography.
When booking this tour you can choose to visit either 2 or 4 islands depending on how relaxed you want the pace to be. Prices are per group and you can book for up to 10 people, making this private tour actually more affordable per person than many of the other boat tours on this list!
Book this private tour here and don’t pay a thing until just before you leave!
8. Get your adrenaline pumping on a zipline
- Price: $54 USD
- Duration: 3.5 hours
- Time: 9 am or 2 pm
- Highlights: Go on an 11-line zipline course, do a 230-foot (70-meter) abseil/rappel off a limestone cliff, enjoy the views in the tree canopy
- Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/dropoff, guide, snacks, safety equipment
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the 100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
If soaring through the treetops and rappelling down cliffs sounds like your kind of adventure, then this half-day ziplining and rappelling adventure in Krabi needs to be on your list! It’s the perfect mix of thrill and nature, and since it’s suitable for kids aged 5 and up, it’s a great family-friendly option too.
The experience kicks off with a safety briefing and gear fitting before heading straight into the action. You’ll tackle 11 ziplines of varying lengths, including a massive 250-meter (850-foot) line that lets you fly high above the jungle canopy. The views from up there are absolutely wild with lush greenery stretching as far as the eye can see.
But the real heart-pounding moment is the 70-meter (230-foot) abseil/rappel down a towering limestone cliff. It’s one of those “wow, I can’t believe I just did that!” moments that’ll stick with you.
Throughout the adventure, friendly guides are by your side, ensuring everyone’s safe and having fun. Even if it’s your first time, they make you feel confident and ready to take on the challenge.
With hotel pickup, snacks, and expert guidance included, this tour makes it easy to add a little adrenaline to your Krabi itinerary. It’s an unforgettable adventure that’s fun for everyone!
Click here to book this adrenaline-filled experience!
9. Try out rock climbing at Railay Beach
- Price: $45 USD
- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 9 am or 2 pm
- Highlights: Get a taste of rock climbing at the famous Railay Beach cliffs, learn basic safety and techniques from your guide, try beginner and intermediate routes
- Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/dropoff, professional guide, climbing gear, National Park fees, bottled water
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the 140+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
Ready to swap your beach towel for a harness? This half-day rock climbing tour at Railay Beach is your chance to climb one of the world’s most famous limestone cliffs. Even as a beginner, I felt like a pro with the guidance of expert instructors who made every step feel safe and achievable!
The adventure kicks off with a safety briefing and a quick lesson on climbing techniques. Then, it’s time to get on the wall! With a secure top rope, you’ll climb alongside stunning views of the Andaman Sea and the iconic limestone cliffs of Railay Beach.
I’m not going to lie – it’s a challenge – but every time I reached a new height, the sense of accomplishment (and the view) made it all worth it!
This tour is beginner-friendly, but experienced climbers will love it too, thanks to a variety of climbing routes for beginner and intermediate skill levels. Plus, all the equipment is provided, so you’re all set to climb.
With small group sizes and personalized guidance, this adventure offers the perfect dose of adrenaline for your Krabi trip. Whether you’re new to climbing like me or looking for your next thrill, this experience lets you see Krabi from a whole new perspective – literally!
Check availability and book this popular climbing experience here!
10. Go cycling around Koh Klang Island
- Price: $61 USD
- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 8:30 am
- Highlights: Take a long-tail boat to Koh Klang, go on an easy bike ride around the island, visit a traditional Muslim village, and learn about the local culture
- Inclusions: Professional guide, bicycle, helmet
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
If you’re looking to slow things down and have an authentic cultural experience, look no further than this half-day Koh Klang island bike tour. Just a short long-tail boat ride from Krabi, Koh Klang feels like a world away. No big crowds, no touristy chaos – just calm, local charm.
The tour starts with a scenic ride in a long-tail boat across to the island, where you’ll hop on a bicycle and pedal through quiet village roads. The ride is super easy – flat and laid-back – so don’t worry if you’re not a pro cyclist.
I loved cruising past rice paddies, fishing villages, and locals going about their day. Our guide shared fascinating stories about the island’s unique Muslim culture and traditional ways of life.
The highlight for me was visiting the local workshops. We watched artisans craft traditional batik fabric and build long-tail boats from scratch. It’s not every day you see this kind of craftsmanship up close! We even got to chat with some of the locals, which made the whole experience feel so much more personal.
This small-group tour includes both bikes and helmets, making it super convenient. If you’re looking for a cultural experience that’s equal parts active and meaningful, this one’s for you!
Learn more about this cultural cycling experience here!
Where to Stay in Krabi, Thailand
Krabi is a stunning province in southern Thailand with plenty of options when it comes to where to stay. With that said, we recommend staying in Ao Nang. This vibrant area offers easy access to Krabi’s famous beaches, as well as a great selection of shops, restaurants, and bars.
Plus, it’s super convenient – all of the tours we’ve recommended above pick up from Ao Nang, making it the perfect base for exploring everything Krabi has to offer. So to help you out, I’ve picked out my top Ao Nang hotel choices for every type of budget below:
Luxury – $$$
For an eco-luxury experience in Krabi, the Anana Ecological Resort is an excellent choice. Located near Ao Nang, this sustainable resort features spacious, modern rooms with stunning mountain or garden views. Highlights include a natural saltwater pool, an on-site spa, a restaurant, and a rooftop bar with incredible panoramic views!
Prices range depending on the time of year and the room category you select but usually range from around $300- $500 USD per night. Check all the options and book this hotel on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
The Anda Sea Tales Resort is a great mid-range option in Ao Nang, offering spacious rooms with balconies, a rooftop infinity pool, and an on-site restaurant. Its convenient location near beaches, shops, and restaurants makes it an excellent base for exploring Krabi.
There are a variety of room options available that range from around $100 – $300 USD per night. We recommend booking the room with a private outdoor plunge pool if your budget allows – it was so much fun! Check availability for your travel dates and book this stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
The Sabai Aonang Resort is a great budget-friendly option in Ao Nang, offering both dorm rooms with shared bathrooms and private rooms with en-suite bathrooms and balconies overlooking the garden or pool. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a relaxing outdoor pool.
With dorms starting at only $19 USD per night and private rooms around $90 USD, this resort combines comfort, convenience, and excellent value for budget-conscious travelers! Visit Booking.com to make your reservation.
For more options, see all of Krabi’s hotels listed here!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
If you’re planning on exploring Thailand, I hope our guide has made you put Krabi on your itinerary! The stunning beaches, adventure, and culture are around every corner here and it’s always one of our favorite places when we’re in the country.
If you found this blog helpful, be sure to check out our other travel guides, including our other Southeast Asia blogs! We love helping fellow adventurers plan their dream trips. For more tips, here are a few related reads that might come in handy:
10 Best Things to do in Bangkok, Thailand