No one wants a stressful holiday in Krabi!
Craving for a beach getaway without the hefty price tag? Krabi might just be exactly what you need right now! From a remarkable temple on top of a mountain to a crystal clear emerald lake, and other adrenaline-packed outdoor fun, Krabi has many spots worth hitting up!
Beach holidays often present multiple transportation difficulties, but don’t worry! This handy guide will have you navigating Krabi with ease in no time!
About Krabi
Krabi is a resort town in Thailand known for its scenic views and even more breathtaking islands and beaches. Beaches aside, Krabi is also home to several national parks and over 80 smaller islands. Island-hopping should definitely be on your itinerary and several coral-fringed islands are also great spots for coral diving.
Getting around Krabi
No matter how many times you might have visited Krabi, transportation can still be a major issue especially if you’re looking to explore.
Here’s a quick list of available transport options in Krabi so you can find the best one for your needs.
By Tuk Tuk/Taxi
In the humble town of Krabi, unfortunately, there isn’t an extensive public transportation network. The most easily available option is tuk tuks but they can be very expensive if you’re travelling far between places and visiting many spots in a day. Tuk tuks are also known for their hiked up fares. Taxis, however, are not as notorious but they are not that as easy to find in Krabi compared to Bangkok or Phuket.
By Bus
There are local buses also known as songthaew that run throughout the day. You can take these in and out of Krabi Town with multiple stops. They’re typically pretty inexpensive and have regular stops. One thing to note, however, is that certain pickup and drop off points are by the side of the road if there are not bus stops nearby. Hence, trying to catch one can be tricky if you’re unfamiliar with the routes and lack of a fixed schedule.
Renting a car
Many travellers choose to rent a car but it can be quite a hassle (and also dangerous) if you aren’t familiar with the roads and directions. If you choose to rent a car, go for international companies like Budget or National for better-maintained cars. The mini cars are typically US$26 to US$33 (฿860 to ฿1,100) per day. Larger sedans, on the other hand, can cost anywhere from US$35 to US$56 (฿1,160 to ฿1,850) per day. Also, do keep in mind that the prices may be hiked up for weekends and special holidays.
The downside, however, is that if you’ve rented the car for the whole duration of the trip, it’s a waste for days dedicated to island hopping and diving where you don’t use it at all.
By Klook Car Charter
The driver will pick you up from your hotel and drop you off wherever. You can hit up as many spots as you want, and just sit back and relax in the car. There’s also the flexibility of getting the car charter only on the days you need it, instead of having to commit for the whole duration of your trip.
This comes in especially handy if you’re planning to explore and travel around Krabi, which is always a good idea!
The car charter is inclusive of the following at no additional cost:
- 10 hours service for the following areas: Krabi Town, Aonang, Klong Muang, National Forest Park, Tiger Temple, Hot Spring, Emerald Lake
- Experienced driver
- Air conditioned vehicle
- Fuel costs
- Car seat on request
- Insurance
Highlights
Now that transportation is settled, you’re ready to explore Krabi! Aside from hitting the beaches and going island hopping, here are other exciting activities and places you should check out:
1. Dive into an Emerald Pool
An hour’s drive away from Krabi Town, hidden within the lush Thai jungle is Emerald Pool, also known as Sra Morakot and Crystal Pool. As the name suggests, the pool has an emerald hue and the clear, cool water is lovely to swim in. The water of the natural pond flows from the fresh water streaming down from the limestone hill above.
Located inside a national park, the Khao Pra-Bang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary, visitors have to walk through a 1.4km path to get to Emerald Pool. There’s also a shorter distance of 800m walk to get to the pool. Since it’s a popular spot amongst locals as well, it’s best to visit early in the morning (before 9am) before the tour groups and the local crowd starts pouring in!
2. Soak in a hot spring waterfall
Located near the Emerald Pool is a natural hot spring, perfect for relaxing dip in its warm waters. Averaging between 35° – 40° Celsius, the water in the hot spring is full of natural mineral salts that’s been said are beneficial to health.
There are hollows in the hot spring where visitors can sit in and enjoy the cascading warm water under the shade of the surrounding forest. Since it’s quite a small and cosy space, it can get crowded when large groups visit the hot spring. Hence, the best times to visit are from 7am – 8am and from 4pm to 5pm.
3. Trek to the Tiger Cave Temple
Also known as Wat Tham Suea, this is a famous temple in Krabi amongst locals and tourists alike. It’s been said that the Buddha footprint can be found within the temple. The main highlight that attracts visitors to Tiger Cave Temple is the steep 1,237 steps climb leading up to the top of a small mountain. Even though the climb can be tough in the humid Thai weather, the view of the breathtaking 360° panoramic view of Krabi at the top makes it all worth it. The best time to start the hike is at 4pm to avoid the midday sun, as well as catch the sunset!
Surrounded by rich greenery, you can find monkeys roaming around freely. They can get aggressive, so try not to engage them or have your valuables easily at reach. Aside from being a well-known tourist attraction, the Tiger Cave Temple is also a sacred ground where monks reside. So, be sure to be respectful and dress appropriately when you’re there!
4. Krabi Tree Top Park
Ao Luek’s newest attraction will definitely keep your heart pumping with adrenaline. An hour’s drive away from Ao Nang and Krabi Town respectively, this place is hidden in dense jungle. With adventure activities set in the tropical rainforest, it’s bound to give you an experience that’s one-of-a-kind.
Visitors can engage in include tightrope walks, zip lines, canopy walks, tarzan swings, and more. You definitely won’t regret experiencing half day or a full day of thrilling fun in nature!
5. Explore the Krabi Walking Street (Weekend Night Market)
Held every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 5pm to 10pm, this lively market has over 70 stalls. The vendors are lined up surrounding a square with chairs and tables. It’s frequented by not only tourists, but a large number of locals too. Usually the seats get filled up pretty fast and you might have to stand around waiting for tables and chairs to free up.
From all kinds of famous Thai street food to snacks, this market also sells art and souvenirs. So make sure you walk around for a look once you’ve filled up your tummy!
6. Shop till you drop at Big C Supermarket
A short drive away from the Krabi airport is a Big C supermarket, a famous supermarket franchise in Thailand. From fresh to dried food, you’re spoilt for choices. Just remember, your eyes are bigger than your stomach!
Hoard away your favourite Thai snacks and instant noodles! Besides food, it’s also great to shop for toiletries and clothes if you didn’t pack enough with you. Inside the supermarket complex, there are also a number of other shops and a food court.
7. Go kayaking in lush mangroves
Mangrove passageways, impressive canyons and towering karst formations set the scenes of the kayak tour in Ao Thalane. Easily the most beautiful hidden bays in Krabi, you’ll surely be amazed by the beauty of nature as you paddle around.
While kayaking, you can also observe the rich tropical flora and fauna that includes king fishers, crab-eating macaque monkeys, and more. Go during higher tide and you’ll be able to kayak deeper into the forest!
8. Embark on an ATV adventure
Most travel plans are always ruined when it rains, but not when it comes to riding the ATV! A little rain actually makes it more fun if you’re not afraid of getting a lil muddy. Ride through nature, passing hidden waterfall and relax for a swim before zipping up an uphill trail. You can also enjoy a magnificent view from the peak of the mountain.
If you’re up for a something more challenging, there are also ATV tours where you can ride all the way to Phuket on a 2-hour journey or to Phang Nga on a 3-hour ride of your life!
9. Feel the thrill of white water rafting
White water rapids, waves crashing and non-stop fun. Flowing on the Song Phraek River is a man-made course with water being released once a day from a dam at top of the mountain. Although it’s an extreme activity, it’s suitable for a lot of beginners, including kids above the age of 6.
With predictable fast flowing rapids and skilled staff members, this adrenaline-pumped water activity is incredibly safe as well. Whether you’re travelling with family or friends, this is a great activity for all kinds of groups!
10. Cook up a storm with a Thai cooking class
With a reputation for having some of the best food and flavour profiles in Asia, Thailand is a hotspot for delectable and one-of-a-kind dishes. As a result, there are many cooking classes available. Learn the secrets of balancing sweet, spicy, sour and salty flavours. You can also learn the many techniques from stir-frying, to long and slow cooking, and making fresh salads and more.
With hands on training by experts, you’ll be a pro in no time. The next time you’re hit with Thai food cravings, you can whip up the dishes yourself. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime!
Just plan your itinerary, your driver will settle the rest!
With so much to do and see, you’re bound to have a packed, fun-filled itinerary! Enjoy a convenient private charter in a comfortable and modern air-conditioned car. Explore the town without any stress and get your full day or half day Krabi private car charter from Klook. After all, holidays should be fun and hassle-free!
