One of the most popular destinations in Thailand, Krabi does its fame justice! From island hopping to rock climbing, and from kayaking through mangrove forests to visiting historic temples, there is no shortage of activities to keep you entertained.
In this post, we will explore some of the most UNIQUE things to do in Krabi, helping you make the most of your visit to this amazing destination.
Also read: How to Spend 4 Days in Krabi – The Perfect Itinerary
1. Hike to the Hidden Princess Lagoon
The Princess Lagoon in Krabi is a tidal lagoon hidden inside an open ceiling cave that looks like something out of this world! The water is not clear as the bed of the lagoon is made of clay (and sharp rocks) but the color is still so vibrant you can’t believe your eyes. A magical place!
Note: The hike to the lagoon is not easy and should not be underestimated. If you plan on hiking there, make sure to read our Railay’s Princess Lagoon – All You Need to Know Before You Go! guide.
2. Kayak through the Rainforest at Klong Root
An ecotourism destination, Klong Root is a natural freshwater pool where you can go kayaking and surround yourself with the untouched rainforest.
Also known as Khlong Nam Sai, you can visit it by yourself by renting a scooter and driving to this location. You can rent a scooter for as little as 200 Baht per day in Krabi Town or Ao Nang. Alternatively, you can arrange a private taxi in town or get a Grab.
Once at Klong Root, you can rent a kayak for around 300 baht for unlimited time. The best time to visit is during sunrise when the weather is not as hot as there will be no crowds.
If you prefer to join a tour, we recommend this one that includes pick up from the hotel, the Kayaking experience, lunch, and horse riding on a secret beach!
3. Hop on a 5-Islands Sunset Cruise
Krabi is home to islands that look straight out of an Avatar movie! These beautiful islands are usually visited on what they call the 4-islands cruise, and despite being extremely popular – it’s popular for a good reason. The sights are surreal and, even after months and months of travel in Thailand, this is still one of our favorite experiences in the country!
We highly recommend the 5-Islands Sunset Cruise by Krabi Sunset Cruise! Their tour is on a traditional Siamese Junk, and although it doesn’t disembark on the islands, it cruises all around them and stops at the best snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking points, as well as a secret beach for sunset.
Also read: The Ultimate Guide to the 4-Islands Tour in Krabi
4. Relax in a Hot Springs Waterfall
Not many people know that hidden in the jungles that surround Krabi is a hot waterfall! Khlong Thom Hot Waterfall, also known as Krabi Hot Springs, is the perfect place to relax after so many days at the beach.
Krabi Hot Springs is considered the only hot waterfall in Thailand with water flowing all year round. The waterfall is not big but has a few natural hot tubs where you can sit and relax in 35-42°C water that comes from volcanic chambers.
You can visit it by yourself (more information on our guide here) or by joining a guided tour. Most tours to the Hot Springs also include a visit to the Blue Lagoon & Tiger Cave Temple, like this one here.
5. Visit the amazing Hong Islands
A boat trip to Hong Islands is one of the most amazing things you can do in Krabi! This small group of islands is known for its impressive limestone formations, stunning Emerald lagoon, and glorious beaches. We dare say Hong Islands are just as beautiful as Phi Phi Islands with the advantage of being far lesser known by tourists.
The best way to visit is by hopping on a tour. This is the one we did and we highly recommend it, but if you want the place all to yourself, arranging a private longtail tour is the best option. Once on Hong Island, make sure to hike to the stunning viewpoint!
Note: a National Part Fee of 300 baht is required to visit the Hong Islands, and should be paid in cash to the tour operator.
Also read: Hong Islands: Discover Krabi’s Best Day Tour
6. Climb 1260 Steps to Tiger Cave Temple
Lying on top of a cliff, the Tiger Cave Temple in Krabi is well-known for the 1260 uneven steps that lead you all the way to it, and we can confirm: you won’t forget those anytime soon!
It is said that a majestic tiger whose roar echoed in this very jungle every morning inspired its name and although legend has it that the tiger was never seen (or heard) again for many years, the story lives on and adds a touch of mystery and excitement to this already fascinating temple complex.
The Tiger Cave Temple is situated just 10 minutes from Krabi Town and 30 minutes from Ao Nang and can be easily reached by scooter. Alternatively, you can also join a Tiger Cave Temple Sunset Tour.
7. Watch the sunrise at Din Daeng Doi
The perfect activity for our morning people: catch the sunrise at Din Daeng Doi and enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, all while sipping some coffee!
Din Daeng Doi is located about a 30-minute drive from Krabi Town and a 16-minute drive from Ao Nang. A quick 15-minute hike up is needed to reach the viewpoint, where a small cafe serves drinks and food. The entrance to the viewpoint is 50 baht (~1.40 euros) per person.
Alternatively, this sunrise tour is a great option that includes transportation, breakfast, and later kayaking through the Rainforest at Klong Root!
8. Hike to the top of Dragon Crest Mountain
One of the most epic viewpoints in Krabi sits 565 meters above sea level atop the Dragon Crest Mountain, accessible only by a challenging 4 km hike to the top. If you make it through the 2 hours hike up the top, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most amazing views of Krabi and its surrounding islands!
The starting point of the hike is located around a 40-minute drive from Krabi Town and a 25-minute drive from Ao Nang. The correct starting point is “Checkpoint Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park”, where you can park your scooter and pay the entrance fee of 200 baht per person.
9. Go Waterfall Chasing
Tucked away in the rainforest of Krabi are quite a few waterfalls! Here are some of our favorites:
- Huay To Waterfall
- Khlong Thom Hot Waterfall or Krabi Hot Springs
- Namtok Hin Phoeng Waterfall
- Roi Chan Phan Wang Waterfall
- Than Bok Khorani Waterfall
Note: waterfalls in Krabi are both annual and seasonal, which means that during the dry season, some of them will most likely be dry.
10. Visit the surreal Blue Lagoon & Emerald Pool
Hidden in the mystical jungle of Krabi’s Nature Reserves is a series of freshwater ponds and hot springs that are probably some of the most fun places to visit aside from the beaches in the area! Some of those special places are the Blue Lagoon, supplied by a hot underground spring, and the Emerald Pool, a natural turquoise blue swimming pool.
You can visit it by yourself (more information on our guide here) or join a guided tour that also includes a visit to the Hot Springs and the Tiger Cave Temple, like this one here.
11. Go Rock Climbing
Krabi is a world-renowned destination for rock climbing, attracting climbers from all over the world. The towering limestone cliffs provide a stunning backdrop for climbers, and the more than 600 bolted climbing routes offer something for climbers of all abilities.
Some of the most famous climbing spots in Krabi are both Railay & Phra Nang Beach, which provide climbing experiences for both novice and experienced climbers.
Book this tour: Krabi: Rock Climbing Tour at Railay Beach >
12. Explore Krabi Town & the Night Market
Krabi Town is a great place to experience the local culture and try some delicious Thai food at the night market next to the river. If you’re traveling on a budget this is also the best place to base yourself when exploring the region.
Some of the must-visits in Krabi Town are Wat Kaew Korawaram, a beautiful white temple that sits in the center of the town, the Tiger Cave Temple, and the Night Market which opens every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 5 PM. From here it’s also much easier to organize a visit to the Hot Springs and the Blue Lagoon.
13. Visit Bamboo Island near Koh Phi Phi
Bamboo Island is a tiny island shaped almost like a heart and covered in bamboo trees and soft white sandy beaches, that look straight out of a travel magazine!
It is a popular spot and most of the local operators add it to their Phi Phi Islands Day Tour, including those coming from Krabi. It can get quite crowded during the early afternoons, so the best way to visit is by arranging a private tour in the early morning.
Also read: The Complete Guide to ALL of Phi Phi Islands Beaches
14. Kayak through Sea Caves & Mangrove Forests
Besides beautiful beaches, Krabi is also home to a series of Mangrove Forests and sea caves that occur on natural waterways that are connected to the Andaman Sea. The best way to visit those is by hopping on a kayak tour.
Two of the best tours are the ones at Ao Thalane and Ao Luk Noi, both of which include mangrove forests, canyons, caves, and hidden lagoons. The latter also includes stops at a local community, a beekeeping collective, and a goat farm.
Another great option is to get a longtail in Krabi Town to visit the Khao Khanab Nam Mountains, which sit on both sides of the Krabi River and on top of a large series of caves. Make sure to hike to the top of the mountain for breathtaking views of the area!
15. Visit Koh Lanta & Go Snorkeling on Remote Islands
Located just off the coast of Krabi, Koh Lanta is still considered a bit of a hidden gem and you can still have deserted beaches all around the island just for yourself.
From here, you can go snorkeling on remote islands such as Koh Rok and Koh Haa, and also take a day tour to even lesser-known islands such as Koh Ngai, Koh Mook (where the Emerald Cave is located), Koh Kradan, and Koh Chuek, where the corals reefs are still in perfect condition.
Pro tip: If snorkeling is your thing, then you should definitely include the island of Koh Lipe in your Thailand Itinerary!
16. Go Jungle Hiking on Phi Phi Island
The northernmost part of Phi Phi Don hosts some of the nicest beaches on the island, and they’re accessible by a 2-hour adventurous jungle hike. You can do it yourself by following Google Maps up to Loh Lana Bay or you can join a guided tour with @jungletrekphiphi, which includes all Viewpoints on the way north, sunset on a secret beach, and the boat back with a quick stop to see the glowing plankton.
Also read: 9 BEST Things to Do on Phi Phi Islands
17. Spend a day at Railay & Phra Nang Beach
Surrounded by high limestone cliffs and only accessible by boat, Railay Beach is a hippie paradise divided into four main beaches, each with its own unique atmosphere. Head to East Railay for an adventurous hike to Railay’s Viewpoint and the Princess Lagoon, and to Tonsai Beach for some rock climbing experience. If beach therapy is your thing, then make your way to Phra Nang Beach, and don’t forget to check out its peculiar Princess Cave!
Where to Stay in Krabi
Krabi is one of the biggest provinces in Thailand, and being so, choosing a place to stay here can be quite a task! Whether you’re a budget traveler looking for a clean and cheap hostel or a luxury seeker, our Where to Stay in Krabi – The Best Areas & Hotels post has the perfect option for you.
