About
When planning a visit to Krabi, it’s important to know the best areas and places to stay in Krabi, as it can make your vacation much more comfortable if you choose the best according to your budget and preferences.
We will detail all distinct Krabi areas below, including for whom they’re best suited. But in general, Ao Nang is the best centrally-located area in Krabi, and Railay Beach is the best area to stay in Krabi for beach time and adventure activities.
The most important factor to consider when trying to figure out where to stay in Krabi is the distance from the main attractions or things you will do on your visit to this area of Thailand.
- Read our Travel Guide: Top Things To Do in Krabi
Quick Overview of Where To Stay in Krabi: Best Hotels
Before diving into detailed explanations of the best places to stay in Krabi, here is our selection of top hotels in Krabi for all budgets, from budget accommodation to mid-range hotels and luxury stays.
Best Luxury Hotel in Krabi
Rayavadee
Hidden 5-star resort with two-story pavilions, luxurious villas with private pools, four restaurants, and an activities center.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Krabi
Navinda Krabi
Within walking distance of Nopparat Thara, the hotel boasts contemporary rooms, a restaurant with all-day dining, and a rooftop infinity pool.
Best Budget Hotel in Krabi
TAN Hostel
A top-rated 2-star hostel comprising dorms, private rooms, and a café serving delicious food and drinks, including roasted coffee.
Where To Stay in Krabi: Frequently Asked Questions
Being the adventure capital of Thailand, there are lots of things to do in Krabi, from exploring the beautiful beaches and kayaking in incredible landscapes to island-hopping and training Muay Thai.
And since each area is best for something, we’ve first listed and answered the most frequently asked questions about where to stay in Krabi. Hopefully, this makes it easier to choose the best place for your visit, depending on your preferences.
The best area for you to stay in Krabi depends on your preferences, but the absolute best place to stay in Krabi is Railay Beach because of its proximity to beautiful beaches and the availability of fun activities like rock climbing.
The best area to stay in Krabi on a budget is Ao Nang, as it’s centrally located with lots of budget accommodations and cheaper travel costs.
The best areas for families to stay in Krabi are Tubkaek and Khlong Muang, as they both have lots of family-friendly resorts and hotels with fun activities, great amenities, and a more peaceful atmosphere.
The definite answer to the best area to stay in Krabi for first-timers as well as short-term visitors is Ao Nang and Krabi Town, as they’re both close to all the main attractions.
Ao Nang is a better choice to stay in Krabi compared to Krabi Town if you’re looking to enjoy more time on the beaches or do more day trips to nearby islands, as everything is closer.
Ao Nang is a better option to stay in Krabi than Railay if you plan to explore more attractions on the mainland since Railay is only accessible by boat.
Krabi is cheaper to stay in than Phuket, and the nearby islands are equally accessible with frequent transportation lines and tours.
While Phi Phi Islands is part of the Krabi province, it doesn’t make sense to stay there and explore attractions on the Krabi mainland. There are no boats going very early in the morning from Phi Phi to Krabi and no evening boats back. Check the boat schedule here.
Best Areas To Stay in Krabi
- Ao Nang: Centrally Located and Best Area To Stay for First Timers – Golden Beach Resort
- Krabi Town: Best Area To Stay For a Local Thai Experience – The Brown Hotel
- Railay: Best Area To Stay For Beaches and Rock Climbing – Railay Bay Resort and Spa
- Tonsai Beach: Best Area To Stay For Rock Climbing – Tinidee Hideaway
- Nopparat Thara: Best Quiet Place To Stay in Krabi – Navinda Krabi
- Tubkaek: Best Place To Stay in Krabi For Luxury – Phulay Bay Ritz-Carlton Reserve
- Khlong Muang: Best Place To Stay in Krabi For Couples and Families – Nakamanda Resort and Spa
- Phi Phi Islands: Best Islands To Stay in Krabi – SAii Phi Phi Island Village Resort
Ao Nang: Centrally Located and Best Area To Stay in Krabi for First Timers
If you seek a beach getaway and island hopping is your thing, Ao Nang is the best area to stay in Krabi, Thailand. This charming beach town offers easy access to Krabi’s beautiful islands, including the secluded Railay Beach.
- Plan on visiting Phuket? Read Where To Stay in Phuket For All Budgets
You can get around Ao Nang by public buses or hire a tuk-tuk or Grab taxi. And for more flexibility in exploring attractions in other parts of Krabi, it’s best to rent a motorbike or book a private car with a driver.
At Ao Nang, you have various choices for local restaurants and international fast-food chains. There are also countless shops along the town’s main street you can check out.
One of the downsides, however, is that the area tends to be very crowded, which means long queues for activities and fully occupied restaurants and bars. So you can expect a bit longer waiting time for food. We often experienced this in the more popular local Thai restaurants.
Since it’s the most developed part, Ao Nang is the best place to base yourself if you want to train Muay Thai in Krabi. There are also many Martial Arts Camps in Krabi that you can join for 1 week to even 1 year.
- Read more: Krabi Travel Guide
Ao Nang has lots to offer in terms of accommodation, from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts. Here are our top picks for where to stay in Krabi’s Ao Nang – best-rated accommodation options.
Best Luxury Hotels and Resorts in Ao Nang
Luxury: Anana Ecological Resort
Offering a quiet retreat in the jungle, this 5-star eco-friendly hotel features state-of-the-art amenities and rooms with breathtaking mountain views.
Luxury: Andakiri Pool Villa
Set on a hillside, this luxury property consists of private villas with pools and balconies offering sweeping views of mountains and islands.
Best Mid-Range Hotels and Resorts in Ao Nang
Mid-Range: BlueSotel SMART
It’s one of the top adult-only Krabi hotels within walking distance of the beach and town, with a fitness center, great outdoor swimming pool, and stunning views.
Mid-Range: Golden Beach Resort
This beachfront property has an elegant Thai restaurant with outdoor seating and well-designed suites & villas.
Best Budget Hotels and Hostels in Ao Nang
Budget Hotel: LaRio Hotel
This conveniently located budget hotel is not far from Ao Nang Beach and provides an outdoor swimming pool, mountain views, and well-equipped rooms.
Budget Hotel: Amorn Mansion
This budget-friendly property is close to local Thai eateries and the town’s two beaches and provides Thai rooms with modern amenities.
Hostel: TAN Hostel x Cafe
A top-rated 2-star hostel comprising dorms, private rooms, and a café serving delicious food and drinks, including roasted coffee.
Hostel: Pop-in Hostel Aonang
Set near eateries and shops, this laidback hostel offers mixed-gender or female-only dorms, as well as private double, superior, deluxe rooms and a triple room with a balcony.
Krabi Town: Best Area To Stay in Krabi For a Local Thai Experience
Krabi Town, the provincial capital, is one of the best places to stay in Krabi for its more traditional and authentic Thai vibe than the other spots in the province.
However, the settlement isn’t along the coastline with beaches, so driving is necessary to reach the closest beaches, about a 30-minute drive from Krabi Town. Thankfully, there are various options for public transportation. You can book taxis, ride songthaew trucks, or rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the area.
There might be no beaches in Krabi Town, but you have many things you can see and do there. For instance, you can visit Krabi Night Market and Krabi Walking Street for locally-made products and street food or try local dishes and drinks at the many restaurants and bars.
And visiting the nearby Tiger Cave Temple is a must-do in Krabi, as well as hiking up the 1260 steps to the viewpoint next to it.
In terms of accommodation, you’ll find several budget hostels and mid-priced hotels in Krabi Town, while there are no upscale properties in the area.
Here are our top picks for where to stay in Krabi Town – best-rated accommodation options.
Best Mid-Range Hotels in Krabi Town
Mid-Range: The Brown Hotel
The Brown Hotel is the best hotel to stay in Krabi Town, as it sits right next to the main road and street and has modern rooms, some of which have city views. Everything is located nearby, so it’s absolutely the top pick for staying in Krabi Town.
Mid-Range: Blu Monkey Hub and Hotel
This newly opened 4-star hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a co-working space, aside from well-equipped rooms.
Best Budget Hotels in Krabi Town
Budget Hotel: Family Tree Hotel
This small boutique hotel, close to multiple attractions and night markets, offers an on-site café and bicycle rental service.
Budget Hotel: Lada Krabi Express
This small boutique hotel, close to multiple attractions and night markets, offers an on-site café and bicycle rental service.
Best Hostels in Krabi Town
Hostel: Chanchalay Hip Hostel
This 2-star Greek-style property offers free Wi-Fi, paid airport transportation, and direct access to night markets, restaurants, and cafés.
Hostel: Pak-Up Hostel
This 2-star Greek-style property offers free Wi-Fi, paid airport transportation, and direct access to night markets, restaurants, and cafés.
Railay: Best Area To Stay in Krabi For Beaches and Rock Climbing
Railay Beach, a small peninsula far from the town’s busy streets, is the best place to stay in Krabi for complete relaxation. However, note that the main beach can get too crowded, especially when people come for a day tour. So we recommend the Phra Nang Beach.
It’s a peninsula cut off from the rest of the mainland, which means getting there involves a boat ride, and going around the place is mainly on foot. But if you want to explore offshore, you can rent a kayak.
Beaches are the highlight of Railay, but there are other attractions you can visit, including the Princess Cave, Bat Cave, and the hidden Princess Lagoon. You can also partake in many activities in Railay, like rock climbing, swimming in the clear turquoise waters, and hiking to viewpoints.
At Railay Beach, you have various choices for food and beverages, as the peninsula hosts many street food vendors, restaurants, and bars.
Accommodations are also abundant at Railay Beach, so you’ll find properties offering both cheap dorms and luxury rooms.
Here are our top picks for where to stay in Krabi’s Railay Beach – best-rated accommodation options.
Best Luxury Hotels and Resorts in Railay Beach
Luxury: Rayavadee
Rayavadee is a hidden 5-star resort with two-story pavilions, luxurious villas with private pools, four restaurants, and an activities center.
Luxury: Railay Bay Resort and Spa
This beautiful resort at Railay Beach offers tropical-style cottages, beachfront pools, and a soothing massage service at the spa.
Best Mid-Range Hotels in Railay Beach
Mid-Range: Railay Phutawan Resort
A peaceful resort surrounded by green mountains that offers well-equipped rooms and a stunning sea view from the bar and pool.
Mid-Range: Avatar Railay
This adult-only hotel provides mountain views, a superb pool, and a cocktail bar with movies and music, making it one of the best hotels to stay in Krabi for couples.
Best Budget Hotels in Railay Beach
Budget Hotel: Railay Garden View Resort
Within walking distance of Railay’s top attractions, this resort offers a rustic stay in its hillside bungalows.
Budget Hotel: Rapala Rock Wood Resort
This cheap resort has well-equipped bungalows guaranteed to make you feel at home.
Best Hostels in Railay Beach
Hostel: Blanco Hideout
This lively hostel comprising mixed-gender dorms and private bungalows is a perfect place to socialize, thanks to its daily events.
Hostel: Social Quarters
A fun Railay hostel where you can meet new people, party at night, and stay in dorms for an affordable price.
Tonsai Beach: Best Area To Stay in Krabi For Rock Climbing
Located on the western part of Railay, Tonsai Beach is a picturesque shoreline with a laidback atmosphere. Much like the rest of Railay, Tonsai Beach is cut off from the rest of the Krabi mainland, which means getting there involves a boat ride.
Tonsai Beach is the best area to stay in Krabi if you’re into rock climbing, as it boasts many overhanging rock faces and upright walls. If you prefer to do a relaxing activity, there’s a Thai massage place, as well as a yoga center.
You can also enjoy swimming in Tonsai Beach’s crystal clear waters, except during low tide, as the place becomes rocky and slippery. Nonetheless, you can still hang out in one of the beach bars while watching the sunset or enjoy Thai dishes at the nearby restaurants. Although there aren’t that many to choose from on Tonsai itself.
You can easily wander the place on foot, but you can rent canoes or kayaks to explore the bay and nearby beaches like Railay West and Phra Nang.
Accommodations are limited on Tonsai, too, so it’s best to book in advance. Moreover, Tonsai Beach only hosts mid-range hotels and hostels; there are no luxurious properties.
Best Mid-Range Hotels in Tonsai Beach
Mid-Range: Tinidee Hideaway
Surrounded by palm trees and soaring cliffs, this 3-star hotel offers paradisiacal accommodations with a swimming pool and on-site restaurant.
Mid-Range: Tonsai Bay Resort
A simple and clean resort featuring villas with private balconies right next to one of the climbing walls. It’s a perfect base for rock climbers, as well as a great chillout spot.
Best Hostels in Tonsai Beach
Hostel: Chill Out Bar and Bungalows
A charming hostel in a tranquil jungle section of Tonsai with cheap and rustic bungalows.
Nopparat Thara: Best Quiet Place To Stay in Krabi
If you want to avoid the busy streets of Ao Nang, consider Nopparat Thara when planning where to stay in Krabi. This 3-km long unspoiled beach is famous for its tranquility and white sand mixed with tiny seashells.
Besides relaxing, you can go swimming to pass the time. However, the beach isn’t suitable for swimming during low tide. A great thing to do then is to enjoy the walk in the shallow waters to the small rocky nearby islands like Ko Liao.
The only drawback of staying in Nopparat Thara is that there isn’t much to do on the beach. You need to book trips to the surrounding islands for snorkeling and diving. Which is super easy to do from Nopparat Thara, as there is a big pier close by with frequent lines and tours to many nearby locations like Phi Phi Islands, Hong Island, and Phuket.
Nopparat Thara is part of the Ao Nang area, but it lies outside the main (busy) part. However, you’ll still find many restaurants, beach bars, shops, and night markets. You can reach them by foot or riding a tuk-tuk and songthaew truck. There are also taxis and Grab available.
Accommodations are also plentiful in the area but are generally hostels and cheap or mid-priced hotels., except for a few more luxurious properties.
Best Mid-Range Hotels and Resorts in Nopparat Thara
Mid-Range: Navinda Krabi
Within walking distance of Nopparat Thara, the hotel boasts contemporary rooms, a restaurant with all-day dining, and a rooftop infinity pool.
Mid-Range: Apple A Day Resort
Within walking distance of Nopparat Thara, the hotel boasts contemporary rooms, a restaurant with all-day dining, and a rooftop infinity pool.
Best Budget Hotels in Nopparat Thara
Budget Hotel: The Meeting House
The hotel offers value for money in a quiet location just a short walk from the beach and town facilities.
Budget Hotel: Baan Thara Guesthouse
This 2-star property has comfortable air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi and friendly staff and offers motorcycle rental services.
Best Hostels in Nopparat Thara
Hostel: Sanim Hostel
This cozy hostel is close to everything in town and has private rooms and mixed or female-only dorms overlooking the beach and mountains.
Hostel: Nomads Ao Nang
Nomads Ao Nang is one of the best Krabi hostels, as it provides epic parties, mouthwatering food, and comfortable rooms, all within a 5-minute walk from Nopparat Thara.
Tubkaek: Best Place To Stay in Krabi For Luxury
When it comes to absolute serenity and luxury accommodation, Tubkaek is the best area to stay in Krabi. This secluded place is a 2-km stretch of golden sand with a relaxed atmosphere that’s second to none.
The only available transport in Tubkaek is by private vehicle, taxi, and motorbike rental, making the beach more isolated and exclusive. Because of its location, you may not find a large amount of restaurants and bars nearby. But no worries, as most resorts and hotels on the beach have on-site eateries.
Moreover, Tubkaek is short in stores, so you must buy your needs in the nearby towns like Khlong Muang. The nearest 7-11 is about 30 minutes walk away, and there is a local store about 10 minutes walk from the beach.
Much like many Krabi beaches, during low tide, the water becomes unsuitable for swimming, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding.
Regarding Tubkaek accommodations, you can choose from luxury resorts and mid-range or budget hotels. Hostels are unavailable in the area.
Best Luxury Hotels and Resorts in Tubkaek
Luxury: Phulay Bay Ritz-Carlton Reserve Resort
It’s one of the best resorts in Krabi, as it provides outstanding amenities and services, including a spa with hot tubs and therapies, a gallery, and five restaurants.
Luxury: Banyan Tree
It provides a perfect retreat where you can unwind and recharge with its relaxing spa treatments, delectable dishes, refreshing drinks, and evening entertainment.
Best Mid-Range Hotels and Resorts in Tubkaek
Mid-Range: Tup Kaek Sunset Beach Resort
Surrounded by lush foliage, the resort offers a relaxing stay in its tropical-style deluxe units and private beach.
Mid-Range: Krabi Home Resort
It’s a perfect home away from home with its air-conditioned bungalows with sea or island views, relaxing Thai massage service, and home-cooked cuisine.
Best Budget Hotels in Tubkaek
Budget Hotel: Baan Tubkaek Hotel
Set in a quiet location, this affordable hotel features a private beach area, scenic rooms or bungalows, and a seafood restaurant.
Khlong Muang: Best Place To Stay in Krabi For Couples and Families
Khlong Muang is another best place to stay in Krabi to escape the crowds and rejuvenate. This golden sand beach offers a tranquil paradise with lots of facilities around.
You can find good options of restaurants along the main road and right on the beach. There are also bars with live music, food stalls, and a convenience store within walking distance.
Additionally, various accommodations line the beachfront area or the main road, most of which are 4-star and 5-star choices. Still, there are affordable hotels for budget travelers. There are no hostels in the area, though.
On the other hand, Khlong Muang only has limited shops, so shopping isn’t something you can enjoy doing here.
Given that eating or drinking places and accommodations in Khlong Muang are close to each other, you can move around on foot. You may take a tuk-tuk or a motorbike taxi to explore places further from the beach. Otherwise, a taxi is the best choice.
Best Luxury Hotels and Resorts in Khlong Muang
Luxury: Nakamanda Resort and Spa
Its tropical Thai-style villas and superb amenities are all enclosed by deep mangrove forests and face the Andaman Sea.
Luxury: Varana Hotel
A luxurious hotel with some of the best-equipped rooms with fun activities like training Muay Thai, free bicycles, and a complete gym and wellness experience.
Best Mid-Range Hotels and Resorts in Khlong Muang
Mid-Range: The Elements Resort
A 4-star accommodation with a sauna, well-furnished rooms, a big outdoor swimming pool, gym, games room, and diverse food choices all day at its on-site restaurant.
Mid-Range: Beyond Krabi
This family-friendly resort houses a variety of deluxe accommodations plus excellent facilities like a meeting or wedding space.
Best Budget Hotels in Khlong Muang
Budget Hotel: Mukrada House Boutique Hometel
It’s one of the top Krabi hotels for travelers on a budget, as it offers comfy rooms and top-notch services at reasonable prices.
Budget Hotel: JR Place
A charming resort where you can stay in well-equipped rooms, use an outdoor pool, and enjoy the beach without breaking the bank.
Phi Phi Islands: Best Islands To Stay in Krabi
If you’re looking for islands to stay in Krabi, Phi Phi Islands are the best choice.
Phi Phi Islands are the famous paradise islands part of the Krabi province, reachable by speedboat in about 45 minutes or 2 hours by ferry from Ao Nang or Krabi Town.
The islands are known for their beautiful beaches, nightlife, great snorkeling and diving opportunities, and the famous Maya Bay.
Read more
Best Luxury Hotels and Resorts in Phi Phi Islands
Luxury: SAii Phi Phi Island Village Resort
This resort, situated in the peaceful Loh Ba Kao Bay, is one of the most luxurious resorts in Phi Phi Islands and offers beautiful rooms, a stunning beach, great snorkeling opportunities, and free bike rental.
Luxury: Zeavola Resort
Much like SAii Phi Phi, this resort offers a getaway experience a bit further away from the busy part of Phi Phi Islands with superb rooms and great amenities in a beautiful setting.
Best Mid-Range Hotels and Resorts in Phi Phi Islands
Mid-Range: Viking Nature Resort
For a budget-friendly resort in Phi Phi Islands, consider the Viking Nature Resort, a charming and locally-run accommodation accessible by a short longtail boat ride from Tonsai, with access to three different beautiful beaches.
Mid-Range: PP Princess Resort
Another great mid-range resort option is PP Princess Resort on Loh Dalum, which offers deluxe rooms, pool villas, and a big pool with an amazing view of the Loh Dalum Bay.
Mid-Range: Paradise Pearl Bungalows
A great mid-range option is the Paradise Pearl Bungalows on Long Beach, as it’s still close to the main pier and town but a bit secluded from it all. And the food in their onsite restaurant is heavenly.
Best Budget Hotels in Phi Phi Islands
Budget Hotel: Blue View House
For Phi Phi Islands, this hotel offers great value for money, with simple yet comfortable air-conditioned rooms and friendly staff. Each room has a balcony, and some of them have amazing sea views.
Best Hostels in Phi Phi Islands
Hostel: The Pier 519 Hostel
Centrally located in the main village at Tonsai, but still somewhat quiet with simple but clean dorms and comfy beds.
Hostel: Dee Dee Seafront Hostel
Located right on the Loh Dalum Beach, it’s a clean hostel with a great common space, comfortable beds, and friendly staff.
Things to know before visiting Krabi
Stay connected with an eSIM
Instantly connect to the internet on your arrival in Thailand by buying an eSIM package in advance.
- eSIM packages on Thailandesim (get 5% off your purchases with code SHIPPEDAWAY)
- eSIM packages on Airalo (get $3 off the first purchase with code MATEJ1033)
Book trusted tours
Krabi has some amazing island-hopping and lots of activities. Book some top-rated Krabi tours on Viator or GetYourGuide.
Get travel insurance
While Krabi is a safe destination, we recommend getting travel insurance for any trip outside your country. We highly recommend an insurance package from Heymondo. And as our reader, you get 5% off the price.
ATM fees
Krabi still relies heavily on cash. So we recommend taking out a good amount each time you visit an ATM. Note: There is an 8.5 USD fee for each withdrawal (most Thai ATMs).
Get a Wise card to save money on additional conversion fees and ATM transactions from your bank.
Travel map
We have compiled a Krabi Travel Map, which you can refer to when exploring.
Things to do in Krabi
We compiled a comprehensive list of the top things to do in Krabi in our Krabi Travel Guide, full of first-hand travel information and everything you need to know for your visit to this part of Thailand.
How to get to Krabi
Krabi is well connected to other south Thai destinations like Phuket with frequent buses and ferries, as well as affordable domestic flights from Bangkok and international flights from Dubai, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur.
If you’re flying into Krabi, we recommend booking a private airport transfer to your hotel.
How to get around Krabi
The best way to get around Krabi is by renting a scooter, as it’s the most convenient and affordable option.
Otherwise, you can also rent a car in Krabi, or you can book a private car with a driver if you prefer not to drive but want to visit the main attractions in a more flexible way.
And if you’d like to avoid planning it all yourself, the best way to see some of the top sights is on an organized Krabi tour.
Looking for more travel guides and Thailand travel inspiration?
Chiang Mai – Chiang Rai – Pai
Phi Phi Islands – Maya Bay – Koh Hong
Koh Samui – Koh Tao – Koh Phangan
Similan Islands – Surin Islands
