Krabi for sun-worshippers

If you want to escape a dark, cold winter and getting a tan is at the top of your holiday to-do list, then Krabi may be the perfect destination. With hundreds of beaches and islands, you can lounge, swim and snorkel your way to a deep shade of bronze*. Kiss SAD goodbye and wave hello to palm-fringed white sand, glittering emerald water and hot, hot sunshine. And all this without mentioning the other item in the “Pros” column: that an average-priced cocktail at a Krabi beach bar costs only US$5!

Do note (in the “Cons” column) that several seaside destinations in Krabi – including the main tourist base, Ao Nang – have a busy road running in front of the beach, which means that they do not offer “beach holidays” in the truest sense of the word as you can’t walk barefoot from your bungalow to the sand. They do, however, provide a much better choice of dining and shopping.

Places that do offer direct beach access include Railay, Tonsai, parts of Klong Muang, Tupkaek and most of Koh Lanta and Phi Phi. Of these, Railay and Tupkaek would be our recommended mainland spots to experience the authentic barefoot beach lifestyle.

Although there is more rain in the months of May – October, Krabi is actually sunny year round. The hottest and driest months are February and March.

Cruisin’ in Krabi!

Day 1 – Phi Phi islands
Day 2 – Hong islands
Day 3 – 4 islands (half day)

In terms of visiting islands, there are 3 main full day excursions available: Phi Phi, Hong and 4 Islands. To see them all, you will need a minimum of 2 full days, or 2.5 – 3 full days if you are doing the group tours. An alternative would be to do the Hong and 4 Islands in one day (only available with private boat charter) from the mainland and then take the ferry and stay overnight on Phi Phi, where there are plentiful beaches to soak up the rays.

*We assume you know about sun safety so will not repeat health warnings here.

The best of the Krabi islands

You can view the various group tours available to visit the Krabi islands below – click on the links to see the itinerary and guide price. All bookings can be made on site in Krabi. Note: these are all join-in tours. To have your own boat, see our private boat charter page.