krabi | The Adventure Travel Site

Unveiling Krabi’s Underwater Treasures – Diving into beauty

Krabi, a stunning province on Thailand’s Andaman Sea coast, is renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and pristine beaches. But beneath the surface lies a world of underwater treasures that beckon divers and snorkelers alike. With its vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and clear waters, Krabi offers some of the most spectacular underwater experiences in Thailand. Here’s a guide to discovering Krabi’s hidden aquatic wonders.

Exploring the Vibrant Coral Reefs

Krabi’s coral reefs are among the most vibrant and diverse in Thailand, providing a spectacular underwater landscape for snorkelers and divers. Sites like Ao Nang’s coral reefs and the nearby islands of Phi Phi are renowned for their colourful coral formations and thriving marine ecosystems. Diving or snorkelling here offers encounters with a variety of coral species, from delicate staghorn to intricate brain corals. The clear waters and abundant marine life make it an ideal destination for both novice and experienced underwater enthusiasts. Some resorts near Phi Phi Island such as the luxurious Avani+ Koh Lanta offer snorkelling as an excursion too.

Discovering Marine Life at Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi Islands, located just a short boat ride from Krabi, are renowned for their crystal-clear waters and rich marine biodiversity. Popular dive sites around the islands, such as Hin Daeng and Hin Muang, are famous for their impressive drop-offs and diverse marine life. Divers can expect to see vibrant schools of fish, majestic manta rays, and even the occasional whale shark. Snorkelers can explore shallow coral gardens teeming with colourful reef fish and other marine creatures. The Phi Phi Islands offer some of the best underwater experiences in the region.

Swimming with Manta Rays

For an extraordinary underwater adventure, head to the Similan Islands, a bit further from Krabi but worth the journey. This protected marine park is famous for its incredible diving spots, including sites where manta rays are frequently spotted. These graceful giants, known for their impressive wingspans, glide effortlessly through the water, offering divers a mesmerizing sight. The park’s clear waters and abundant marine life make it a top destination for those seeking a chance to swim alongside these magnificent creatures.

Visiting the Underwater World of Ao Nang

Ao Nang, a popular beach town in Krabi, offers easy access to several fantastic snorkelling spots. The nearby islands of Chicken Island, Poda Island, and Tup Island are great for exploring shallow waters rich in marine life. Snorkelers can encounter a variety of tropical fish, including clownfish and parrotfish, as well as sea anemones and starfish. These islands also offer beautiful sandy beaches and clear waters, making them perfect for a relaxing day of snorkelling and sunbathing.

What to know when visiting Maya Bay – Enjoying the best of Phi Phi Island

Maya Bay is a beautiful natural formation, tucked away on Phi Phi, that is surrounded by 100m tall cliffs and hides several beaches within the land. The bay itself can be considered one giant reef, whose underwater features will dazzle and delight, and whose features were once the site of a famous movie in 1999.

Things to know about Maya Bay

The best time to visit Maya Bay is between November-April, considered the high season with calm waters, providing the easiest access to the bay, all year around. The ease of access leads to some traffic at the bay through the many ferried visitors that the bay has.

What to do at Maya Bay

The bay is perfect for a session of diving and snorkelling, arguably its most popular attraction. The water has excellent visibility, and you take in an underwater adventure amongst the coral reef as you glide with the fish.

Facilities and Getting to the Bay

Getting to the bay can be done with the help of most Ao Nang beach hotels, most of which provide a service that will allow you to take a boat to the island. Examples of this would be the Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi, which not provides the service to Maya Bay, but other islands around the coast as well. Meanwhile, Maya Bay has a few things in terms of facilities – small shacks selling refreshments, and toilets further into the island.

Michael_Spencer from Perth, WA, Australia, Maya Bay (4296443625), CC BY 2.0

The Beach (1999)

Alex Garland’s The Beach was a movie about travellers who leave society to live on a hidden lagoon in Southern Thailand. Originally a novel, it was purchased by Fox Entertainment, who remodelled Maya Bay’s beach for the movie. The production brought much tourism, as many visitors since that time cited the movie as the sole inspiration for visiting Maya Bay.

The Best Beaches in Krabi You Don’t Want to Miss – Sun-Soaked Fun & Adventure

If you are looking for a destination in Thailand which offers both coastal bliss and exhilarating adventures in equal measure, Krabi is the place to go and here are some of its best beaches.

Ao Nang Beach

Located just a short drive from Krabi town, Ao Nang Beach is a long, wide stretch of white sand beach, the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. Only around 500 metres from properties like Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort, this beach offers an ideal vantage point to catch magical sunsets, while there are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops close by.

Railay Beach

Railay Beach is arguably the most famous beach in Krabi, and for good reason. Accessible from Ao Nang beach hotels by boat due to the surrounding limestone cliffs, this stretch of shore boasts crystal clear waters and powdery white sand. It’s also a popular spot for activities like snorkelling, diving, kayaking and rock climbing, so if you’re feeling adventurous, this is the beach for you!

Klong Muang Beach

Klong Muang Beach is a quieter, more laidback beach than some of the other options on this list. With its calm waters and soft sand, it’s the perfect spot for families or anyone looking for a more peaceful coastal experience. You can also enjoy swimming here during high tide, while there are many restaurants and bars nearby, so you won’t have to go far for a cold drink or a bite to eat.

Phra Nang Beach

Accessible by longtail boat from Ao Nang Beach, Phra Nang Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand, and it’s not hard to see why. With a setting that includes clear turquoise waters, white sand, emerald jungles, and towering limestone cliffs,it’s a truly breathtaking sight. The beach is also home to the famous Phra Nang Cave, where locals come to make offerings to a fertility goddess.

Krabi Hot Springs – Discover a Wonderful Natural Attraction

The appealing Krabi Hot Springs would be a noteworthy visitor attraction, providing those who visit it with the opportunity to bathe in its pleasantly warm waters.

Image via Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort

About the hot springs

You will find the Krabi Hot Springs (also known as the Klong Thom Hot Springs) at the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve amidst lush jungle surroundings. These warm springs emanate from volcanic chambers formed in ancient times. It is believed that the waters found in these springs would relieve ailments like sciatica, rheumatism and other worrisome conditions.

Tours

You will have the opportunity to head to the Krabi Hot Springs on an organized tour which would take care of many of the details of visiting this attraction for you. These tours would typically offer air-conditioned vehicles, qualified guides and the needed transfers. One of the Ao Nang beach hotels to consider from which you could easily plan a visit to the springs would be Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort.

The Emerald Pool

The lovely Emerald Pool could easily be visited during your excursion to the hot springs. To reach this enchanting pool, you may follow a picturesque nature trail that would take visitors through the lush Thung Teao Forest. After you reach the pool, you could enjoy the appealing natural scenery surrounding it and capture some amazing photographs.

How to get there

Visitors will find that the hot springs happen to be situated around 55 km from Krabi Town and 65 km away from the town of Ao Nang. You may also conveniently combine visiting attractions like the Emerald Pool and Tiger Cave Temple along with your excursion to the Krabi Hot Springs so that you could cover several key features of East Krabi.

Visiting Ao Nang – A Holiday in Paradise

Ao Nang is a small resort town located Krabi, Thailand. Known for its stunning beaches and limestone cliffs, Ao Nang is a popular destination for both tourists and backpackers who seek peace and adventure at the same time.

Pristine Beaches

One of the main attractions in Ao Nang is the beautiful beach, which stretches for several kilometres along the coast. Therefore, choosing accommodation at Ao Nang beach hotels would be the smart way to spend your vacation in paradise. The sand is soft and white, and the water is crystal clear and perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The beach is also home to a variety of water sports, including jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.

Get Climbing

Another popular activity in Ao Nang is rock climbing. In fact, it is listed as one of the top things to do on the Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort website. The town is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs that offer a variety of routes for climbers of all skill levels. There are several climbing schools and guides in town that can provide equipment and instruction.

Relaxing Strolls

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, there are plenty of options for lounging on the beach or taking a leisurely stroll along the coast. There are also several spas and massage parlours in town where you can enjoy a traditional Thai massage.

Delectable Cuisine

When it comes to food, Ao Nang has a wide variety of options to suit all budgets and tastes. From street food vendors selling delicious Thai food to upscale restaurants offering international cuisine, all palates will be treated well.

The best things to do on your vacation – Vesting Krabi Island

The greatest activities in Krabi make the most of the region’s endless stretches of breathtaking coastline, verdant hinterland, and wealth of recreational opportunities. With a variety of extreme sports accessible, Krabi is something like a huge adventure playground because of its rocky landscape. Here are some things you want to add to your itinerary.

Railay beaches and caves

One of Thailand’s most popular beach destinations is Railay. Only reachable by boat and situated just south of Ao Nang, Railay offers a glimpse into a bygone, tranquil era. Four stunning white-sand beaches, towering limestone cliffs, vistas, caverns, and a lagoon tucked away inside the cliffs may all be found on a single little peninsula. It’s not surprising that Railay is one of Krabi’s most popular destinations.

Koh Poda

Located just 6km from most Ao Nang beach hotels, Koh Poda is definitely one of the more popular destinations in Krabi. You can get here on a long tail boat in just under 25mins. You can see stunning vistas everywhere encircled by a soft sandy beach, lined with palms and pines. If you’re into snorkelling, there’s a diverse coral reef just 20m away from the beach.

Emerald Pool

In the Thung Teao Forest Natural Park, there is a naturally colourful pond known as the Emerald Pool. The park is a lowland forest with a nature walk and a wealth of wildlife. The Blue Pool, which is equally lauded for its vibrant and unusual colour, is located next to the breathtakingly lovely Emerald Pool. These mesmerizing sites are a one-hour drive away from resorts in Krabi such as the Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort.

Koh Hong

You can unwind on Koh Hong, an island off the coast of Krabi. On these islands, you are free to do nothing except relax on pristine sands all day. The gorgeous scenery, gentle white sand beaches, coral reefs, and stunning lagoon are all features of this amazing collection of little islands.

Things to Do at Ao Nang, Thailand – Traverse the Paradise

An enchanting beach town in Thailand far away from the capital city is Ao Nang. Filled with natural spoils such as rainforests, beaches, and waterfalls, it is the perfect destination to relax and unwind. There are ample activities to keep you busy throughout your stay.

A Laid-back Holiday at Noppharat Thara Beach

If you enjoy some quality time at the beach with less crowd around you, Noppharat Thara Beach is the ideal place to be. You can have a thirst-quenching sundowner and enjoy the sunsets. This beach is only a 10-minute walk away from the main beach area and most Ao Nang hotels. If you’re looking for accommodation, you can choose Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort close by.

Hong Island Tour

A mesmerising island surrounded by turquoise blue waters and powdery beaches, Koh Hong Island boasts natural beauty, leaving you in awe. You can engage in a range of watersports such as snorkelling, swimming, and fishing.

The Emerald Pool

If you’re an avid nature lover, you will be lost in the beauty of the lush greenery and serenity around you. Hikers and wildlife explorers from all over the world visit Ao Nang to witness the Emerald Pool. This freshwater pool has the most unique and stunning shades of turquoise.

Maksym Kozlenko, Emerald Pool (Sa Morakot), CC BY-SA 4.0

Railay Beach

One of the most stunning beaches in Ao Nang, Railay Beach with many outdoor activities to get some adrenaline rush in your body. From trekking, rock climbing, and kayaking to swimming, you will find many enjoyable things you can do. You can even relax by the beach and sip a Margherita for a change too.

The Most Picturesque Beaches in Ao Nang – A Moment in Tranquillity

Ao Nang is home to many beaches, located in the Krabi Province. Some of the best beaches in Thailand are in Ao Nang, and the view, the waters, and the relaxing time you spend will be the most memorable. Here is the list!

Railay Beach

Undoubtedly the number one beach in Ao Nang and one of the most scenic beaches in Thailand as well, this beach is popular for the turquoise blue clear waters, the white glistening beaches and paradise-like views. If you’re staying in any Ao Nang beach hotels, this would be a minute’s ride for you, especially from resorts like Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort.

Pai Plong Beach

Another picture-perfect beach is located quite close to Ao Nang beach; this beach is hidden behind a gigantic limestone cliff. You can enjoy a luxury private beach experience here without having to pay any money. The palm tree hues, surrounding cliffs, and longtail boats resting on the sand make the view even more beautiful.

Tonsai Beach

Tonsai beach has many breathtaking views and a few limestone cliffs surrounding the beach, where you will see many backpackers and rock climbers often wander. There are several reggae bars around the area and budget-friendly dining options too. So if you’re on a tight budget and need to save some cash, Tonsai beach is the best place to relax and enjoy your vacation.

Solo Traveling in Ao Nang, Krabi – Enjoy the Solitude!

Located in Southern Thailand in Krabi Province, Ao Nang is a small town filled with adventures for a solo traveller. The vibe is amazing, and the people are always welcoming. Here are some tips to make your journey of solitude easier.

Where to Stay

Solo travellers are more than welcome on the island, and there are plenty of Ao Nang beach hotels that will happily accommodate you. Try resorts like Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort where you can find good deals for solo travelling, while you indulge in freedom and relaxation.

What to Eat

You can try all the Thai food and a few local fusion dishes during your stay in Ao Nang. Most restaurants will look simple and humble; however, the taste of the food will blow your mind! The authentic dishes made with fresh ingredients and island spices will keep you craving for more.

What to Visit

You can try visiting a few Buddhist temples for a relaxing meditation experience to cleanse your mind. Kayaking is another way to enjoy the beauty of nature on a serene ride. A walk down the beach or taking a fishing boat with the locals on a sailing adventure.

What to Keep in Mind

You will be safe and treated with the best hospitality though be mindful to be respectful of the locals, the Thai Royal Family and Buddhism as well as other religions. Rudeness will be strongly frowned upon or even get you in trouble legally in some cases, so be on your best behaviour!

The Elevated Tiger Cave Temple – A Home for the Monks, Religion and History

A visit to the Tiger Cave Temple is a mandatory checklist item during a stay in Krabi, the beautiful island of coral reef vistas, alluring beaches and breathtaking views. This Buddhist temple situated in the northeast part of Krabi is a worthy uphill climb.

Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua) — kallerna, Wat Tham Sua 9, CC BY-SA 3.0

The History of the Temple

Located only 33 minutes away from Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort, the Tiger Cave Temple, also known as Wat Tham Suea attracts guests from so many Ao Nang beach hotels. The story of the temple dates back to B.E. 2518 when a Jumnean Seelasettho, a Vipassana monk arrived at the caves to meditate, where tigers roamed around the cave. However, another legend states that a large tiger occupied the caves, and the temple was given its name due to the tiger paw prints on its walls.

Geographical Location

The Tiger Cave Temple, which is also a meditation centre is surrounded by a rainforest and mighty old trees that have stood the test of time. The surrounding grounds of the temple have been a source of ancient artefacts where Thanu artefacts had been discovered. However, the small caves in the Tham Sua region are not accessible to tourists.

Statues Worth a Click

The holy grounds of Wat Tham Suea are decorated with a statue that depicts the religious significance of the temple. The most prominent of all is the golden Buddha statue situated right at the top of the mountain. As one reaches the shrine at the top of the stairs, the statue, along with other temple buildings and the town of Krabi can be viewed.

The Stairway

Pilgrims and visitors can reach the top by climbing up the stairs or taking the lift at the left of the stairs. A recent update was made to the stairs which increased its number from 1,237 to 1,260. At an elevation of 278 metres, the Tiger Cave Temple is also home to monks. Monkeys are known to roam about the stairway and visitors are often warned to act cautiously around them.