Krabi

One of the oldest, continually inhabited places in Thailand, Krabi is thought to have been home to homo sapiens since 25,000 to 35,000 B.C. While the area suffered considerable damage during the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami of 2004, Krabi has since recovered - though tsunami evacuation signs are a common sight throughout its streets.

Today, Krabi is best known for its surreal, finger-like limestone karst formations that sit on the edge of the cerulean Andaman Sea, alongside mangrove forests, coral, outlying islands, and lovely beaches. This natural wealth draws kayakers, adventurous rock climbers looking for an outdoor challenge, and travelers curious about the strange, otherworldly topography of the region.

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

Adventure Sports

Krabi is an ideal location for outdoor adventures: rock climbing on the surrounding limestone cliffs, snorkeling and diving in the Andaman Sea, hiking, and sea canoeing or kayaking around the outlying islands and in remote mangrove channels.

Canoeing

Take a canoe on a private tour into some of the caves and interior rooms of Krabi’s limestone formations, called hongs in Thai. Coral formations, in shallow and deep water, offer great snorkeling, and of course, the quiet, unobtrusive approach of the sea canoe is ideal for spotting some of the seabirds and wildlife to be found here.

Kao Kanab Nam

Hop on a longtail boat and pass by Kao Kanab Nam, the most famous mountain in Krabi. During World War II, it is believed that Japanese soldiers hid weapons inside the mountain.

Koh Klang

Continue cruising through the Andaman Sea through magnificent mangrove forests and a fish farm. Arrive at Middle Island, or Koh Klang, and chat with the villagers here who live in this idyllic atmosphere; most work as mini-longtail boat builders or rice field farmers. On this island and at other stops on this afternoon excursion, you might see monkeys, lizards, kingfishers, red-arm crab and other native wildlife.

THAILAND Regions

Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below on the right.

Northern

Central

Beaches

National Parks

PREFERRED HOTEL

Phulay Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Phulay Bay offers a total of 54 spacious, well-appointed one-bedroom villas or pavilions with contemporary Thai décor and either a private tropical garden or ocean view. All accommodations feature distinctive touches such as flat screen televisions, large indoor baths, spacious walk-in wardrobes and delightful verandas furnished with lounge beds. The villas have enhanced amenities, including private outdoor baths and plunge pools. The resort’s spa, part of the renowned ESPA spa group, has 11 treatment rooms designed to accommodate both individual or couples’ treatments. Phulay Bay has four restaurants offering both casual and formal dining. Guests can also design their own culinary adventures beyond traditional restaurant settings, such as a beach barbecue, a sunset dinner, or a picnic on the beach. The resort also features a fitness center and shopping boutiques. Finally, to ensure that all your needs are met, a personal butler is available 24 hours a day. Phulay Bay is 40 minutes from Krabi International Airport.

PREFERRED HOTEL

Rayavadee

Situated between Railay and Phranang beaches in Krabi Province, the luxurious Rayavadee is accessible only by boat from Krabi pier, for the ultimate secluded and peaceful getaway. Framed with dramatic limestone cliffs, with access to both stretches of sands and views of sunrise and sunset, there is perhaps no more beautiful setting in Thailand. Guest will find themselves ensconced in elegantly-appointed Thai-style pavilions, some of which boast a private pool, or suites, in which they are served by a personal butler. The cuisine ranges from international favorites to carefully-crafted Thai delicacies, in restaurants overlooking the ocean or hidden in a cavernous grotto. There is no better way to enjoy the stunning scenery and world-class service than by lounging by the freeform infinity pool, or with indulgent treatments at the internationally-renowned spa.

PREFERRED HOTEL

Six Senses Yao Noi

This Six Senses property is spread over almost 24 acres of Yao Noi Island amidst the dramatic limestone pinnacles of Thailand’s stunning Phang Nga Bay. All villas have infinity pools with sundecks, with sea-view villas overlooking the bay and mountain-view villas nestled in the island’s tropical forests. As with all Six Senses properties, the spa is world-class, offering a range wellness treatments and high-end natural products. The Dining Room restaurant offers fine-dining with an emphasis on Italian cuisine, as well as the special Chef’s Table private dining experience (maximum eight guests). The Living Room, meanwhile, presents a range of international dishes, specializing in Thai and including tandoori ovens for Indian fare. Six Senses Koh Yao Noi is situated half way between Phuket and Krabi and accessible from either airport. From Phuket, it is a 20-minute drive followed by a 45-minute speedboat ride; from Krabi, it is a 45-minute drive followed by a 20-minute speedboat ride.

Banyan Tree Krabi

The new Banyan Tree Krabi is located on Tab Kaek Beach, tucked away in tropical rainforest on the shores of some of Thailand most scenic sands. The property is comprised of 72 suites and villas, all of which boast their own private pool and balcony. Decor is contemporary, with light neutral tones and minimalistic furnishings. Hotel amenities include a shared outdoor swimming pool, kids club, gallery, ballroom, fitness center, sauna and table tennis, as well as the renowned world-class Banyan Tree Spa. For dining, guests can enjoy all-day fare at The Nga Kitchen, Thai dishes at Saffron, casual beachfront drinks and snacks at Kredkaew Bar, or even destination dining experiences - perfect for celebrating a special occasion.