Looking for some fun in Thailand? Enjoying all the best things to do in Ao Nang is a fantastic idea!
When I used to live in Thailand (in Chiang Mai), I visited Ao Nang in Krabi many times and enjoyed everything about it. It wasn’t all just about good food and nice beaches.
In this part of Krabi, you can walk along Ao Nang Beach, shop at local night markets, and buy one of these popular cheese sandwiches at 7-Eleven.
There’s plenty more to do besides that, but those are just a few of the other options. In this summary, we cover the best tourist spots and beaches in the area with recommendations for Ao Nang to help you plan your next trip.
Things to Do in Ao Nang – Overview
Before we give you a complete summary of the top 15 tourist attractions in Ao Nang, let’s talk about Krabi, such as its location and how to get there, before your travel itinerary to Krabi.
Let’s touch base on all the points before we discuss the top tourist attractions in Ao Nang, like what are the must-have travel essentials, location, how to get here, etc… to plan your trip a little better.
Where is Ao Nang?
Ao Nang is a quiet town in Krabi with a main street full of restaurants, pubs and night markets. It’s right by the coast, hence why Ao Nang Beach is the most popular attraction here.
Ao Nang boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand with classic tropical white sandshores, making it an ideal base for sightseeing and at the same time enjoying in the Andaman Sea.
How to Get to Ao Nang?
From Krabi Airport, the easiest ways to get to Ao Nang are by private transfer, by shuttle, or by calling Grab Taxi from Krabi International Airport.
Check out my full guide on how to get from Krabi Airport to Ao Nang here.
Is Ao Nang Worth Visiting?
Indeed, and I recommend you plan a good 2 to 3 days in Krabi, which is the perfect base from which to explore the Krabi region. I first had the impression that there weren’t many things to do in Ao Nang, but it’s actually the opposite! Make sure to read until the end.
Also, most day trips in Krabi leave from Ao Nang, like tours to Railay Beach or the 7-island tour, adding more convenience to your trip.
Want to know more?
Check out this guide about
the reasons to visit Krabi.
Should You Stay in Ao Nang or Krabi Town?
Both Ao Nang and Krabi Town have their unique advantages, so it depends on personal preferences.
Ao Nang is a busy tourist hot spot, but on the flip side, it’s mostly only restaurants, bars, and tourist shops, making it a good base for island-hopping but not so much for staying a long time.
You can easily access various other activities such as island hopping, rock climbing, scuba diving or snorkeling. Of course, you can take amazing ocean views and photos everywhere, which is yet another pro.
On the other hand, Krabi Town offers you a distinctive and peaceful Thai environment, away from the crowds of tourists. Sending out laid-back vibes and more rush-free visitors than Ao Nang.
Ultimately, your decision will depend on your preferences and travel itinerary. However, I personally recommend Ao Nang for the convenience of day trips, as well as hotel choices.
Want to know more?
Check out this guide about
the best places to stay in Krabi.
Should You Stay in Ao Nang or Railay?
The best choice when traveling to Krabi would be to stay in Ao Nang and make an island-hopping experience across the islands with small tours.
With more than 4 days, I suggest taking the ferry to Railay and spending one night there and enjoy the night at the beach, which will easily be the highlight of your tip to Krabi.
How Long to Stay in Ao Nang?
Three days are good enough to cover the main activities in Ao Nang (don’t forget to plan a one-day trip, too). Ideally, if you want to make the most of your beach vacation, I recommend staying between 3 and 5 days in Ao Nang.
15 Best Things to Do in Ao Nang, Krabi
I visited Ao Nang several times while in Thailand, and I had an amazing time on each occasion. That said, I recommend planning your trip properly and organizing day tours and activities.
Here are some of the best guides to help you make the most of your trip, some of the best things to take in Ao Nang Krabi!
Relax at Ao Nang Beach
Ao Nang Beach offers a peaceful setting from which to take in the pristine views of the Andaman Sea, setting the perfect scene for a vacation or romance.
Ao Nang Beach is always my first stop to check in every time I visit Krabi. It’s a popular and prominent beach that’s easy to reach and is definitely great for relaxation with a beautiful panorama.
Apart from relaxing, the beach is lined with plenty of restaurants and bars offering traditional Thai, Indian, and Western food, which is great.
Most island-hopping tours and other excursions in Krabi start in Ao Nang Beach, and it’s overall the best place to stay, no matter if you plan to visit for a few days or more.
Take a Trip to Railay Beach
Railay is a peninsula in Krabi – and you can only reach this spot by long tail boat or kayak (due to the cliffs). It’s perfect for rock climbing where the cliffs give breathtaking views of the surroundings.
There are a lot of people who come here just for climbing the huge rocks here and it’s your chance to do the same and get that perfect view.
If you’re more of a beach person, like me, then Railay West and East beaches are where you will be most comfy laying out your towel and soaking in the lovely views.
It’s worth mentioning that Railay Beach is very popular, and Railay East is even more crowded, which is one small piece of the peninsula in particular. If you’re spending more of your Krabi time here, stick around for one night to see the beach with fewer tourists – Thank me later!
Now, if your time is limited, make sure to book the 4-island tour, which will take you to Railay Beach. You’re going to REALLY enjoy being around this place.
Did I mention that it includes snorkeling?! Could there be a better way to check out Railay for the first time than on a day trip?! More on this here below
Join the 4-Islands Tour
Take an exciting day trip in Krabi and visit 4 famous islands in 1 day at a very cheap price. This tour visits 4 stunning islands for a full day of fun.
Fall in love with Koh Poda Island, Tup Island (Koh Tub), Koh Mor, and Phra Nang Cave Beach (also called the Princess Cave). You will have plenty of time to enjoy the sea, swim as you like, tan, and laze around the beaches, with a view from the beach of each island.
First, head to Thale Waek, followed by a stop at Koh Poda Island, a small and beautiful island featuring great white sand beaches and crystal clear waters.
The rest of the experience and dimensions as you let the daybreak. So, when we reach Chicken Island, you’ll instantly understand why it’s called Chicken Island: from a specific position, at a specific point in time, this single limestone formation resembles a chicken head.
After that, your guide will take you to Tup Island, where the sandbar connecting to Chicken Island is depicted on postcards. This 200-meter strip is exposed at the lowest tide levels.
On to the final destination, Phra Nang Cave Beach in Railay Beach is the last stop before we return to Ao Nang town – home to some of the most iconic Krabi rock formations as well as Pranang Cave containing ancient paintings.
The 4 Island Tour is one of the most famous boat tours in Krabi and definitely a must-do ever since you’re in Thailand, so get them booked before anything else goes out of stock.
Take the Monkey Trail Cliff Walk
The Monkey Trail is situated in Krabi, yet another enjoyable way to see the area, on the Monkey Trail you are almost 200% guaranteed you will see some monkey’s too.
Resting in the southern end of Ao Nang Beach, it takes only 15 minutes to walk the 0.2-mile point-to-point trail. I think of it as an easy route because there are no hills, only the beach with incredible views of the islands around Krabi.
You’ll find a small temple and wooden bridge that marks the start of the trail, which takes you to Pai Plong Beach, and you can spot wild monkeys in their natural habitat.
You will see not only monkeys, but many other various animals too, from lizards to birds.
The Monkey Trail isn’t just about scaling to the summit or heading straight to Khai Nok Beach; it’s a nice little adventure – perfect if you want to take a few personal photos to take back home!
Rock Climbing at Railay Beach
If you love things that are all about adrenaline and adventure, then rock climbing at Railay Beach is an experience you don’t want to skip.
There are plenty of rock climbing routes everywhere around the peninsula since the whole areas is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs it is perfect for those just starting out or seasoned climbers.
If you book a session, you also get a training from the instructor or challenge harder climbs by yourself if you have experience already.
I’m personally not into it, but it’s one of the best activities in Ao Nang, and it’s very popular!
This will allow you to see some of Krabi’s outstanding views and create great memories along with staying fit during your travels in Thailand.
Kayak to Railay Beach
Paddling a kayak to Railay Beach offers an exceptional way to see the peninsula from a different vantage point, and it’s a fun way to spend the afternoon.
Kayaking works for all levels, and I appreciate the fact that you can rent one on Ao Nang Beach. I recommend Grace Kayaking Ao Nang as they offer kayaks in good condition and for a reasonable price – Expect to pay only 150 THB for an hour!
If you prefer a bit more structure, there are guided tours that are available, the latter consisting of a professional guide with everything you are required to have, which is great, especially if you have little experience kayaking.
This adventure will be more than just a workout, as your experience will help you form a new and intimate appreciation with Krabi’s natural scenery. It’s also undoubtedly one of the top things to do Ao Nang has to offer!
Take a Thai Cooking Class
For a unique and delicious way to experience the culture of Ao Nang, Krabi, then taking a Thai cooking class is the perfect activity for you.
Thai cooking classes in Ao Nang are some of the best in Thailand, and depending on your budget and taste, you can choose from budget options to five-star courses.
The reason why I appreciate these classes in Southern Thailand is because food in the south is much more diverse than in Northern Thailand, and relatively spicier, so make sure to tell that to your teacher if you can’t handle chili!
You can either choose to take a morning class or an afternoon one. There are various menus for all the classes so no difference in choice.
They offer an option to choose from the regular set of dishes, vegetarian or vegan – isn’t that amazing!
Go on a Hong Island Tour
Next on this list of best things to do in Ao Nang is going to one of the most popular destinations in Thailand – Hong Island, also called Koh Hong, and that’s one of my favorite places in Krabi province.
The best tour I’d suggest is Hong Islands Boat Tour including a panoramic view of the islands of Koh Daeng and Hong Lagoon plus having lunch Thai style buffet.
During the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to visit some of the most beautiful spots in the area, as well as try some water activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming.
This tour includes beautiful snaps spots to take back home as memories. Also, at the end of the day, it’s only around $40 per person which makes it one of the great deals when it comes to day trips from Ao Nang!
Visit the Tiger Cave Temple and the Emerald Pool
Another of the best things to do in Ao Nang, and this is also one of my favorites, is visiting the Tiger Cave Temple, the Emerald Pool, and Krabi Hot Springs.
When it comes to transportation, you can either rent a motorbike in the Ao Nang area, which will cost you about 350 THB per day, or join a day tour to the three spots, which is more convenient and comfortable – And since the tour itinerary is ideal, I’ll go through that below, and you can follow it even if you end up renting a motorbike.
You’ll start the day in Ao Nang and head to the hot springs and Emerald Pool near Krabi Town to relax in the thermal pools, which are known to have health benefits.
After that, you’ll stop at a restaurant nearby to have lunch and get ready for the hike to the Tiger Cave Temple Viewpoint, which is just as fun and interesting as it sounds!
The Tiger Cave Temple is a sacred Buddhist site located on top of a steep hill, and the climb involves over 1,200 steps, but reaching the summit rewards you with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Andaman Sea.
The temple is also home to several monks and offers a glimpse into Buddhist practices and traditions, and you can visit it after the hike.
This tour from Ao Nang is an excellent way to experience both the spiritual heritage and the breathtaking natural beauty of Krabi in a single day and you just can’t miss it!
Of course, there are plenty of things to do near Ao Nang and many further up on this list, but a visit to the Tiger Cave Temple, Emerald Pool, and Krabi Hot Springs, is one of the most fun and unique. And my personal favorite too.
You can simply get a motorbike rented in the Ao Nang area for about 350 THB or can join a day tour taking you to all of these spots that is easy and far more comfortable. This is a budget day trip for everyone.
You will start in Ao Nang and travel to relax in the hot springs and the Emerald Pool near Krabi Town. A nice place to stretch and take a dip in hot springs.
After that, you’ll stop at a restaurant nearby to have lunch and get ready for the hike to the Tiger Cave Temple Viewpoint, which is just as fun and interesting as it sounds!
The Tiger Cave Temple is a sacred Buddhist site located on top of a steep hill, and the climb involves over 1,200 steps, but reaching the summit rewards you with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Andaman Sea.
The temple is also home to several monks and offers a glimpse into Buddhist practices and traditions, and you can visit it after the hike.
This tour from Ao Nang is an excellent way to experience both the spiritual heritage and the breathtaking natural beauty of Krabi in a single day and you just can’t miss it!
Want to know more?
Here’s a complete guide about
visiting the Tiger Cave Temple in Krabi.
Get a Thai Massage
Thailand is famous for its massage scene, and getting one in Ao Nang is one of the best ways to relax and recharge during your trip, especially if you’ve hiked the Tiger Cave Temple!
Known for its healing properties, Thai massage combines techniques that typically include pressing, circular movements, and stretching, similar to yoga but where the therapist does most of the work for you.
Thailand’s massage culture is one-of-a-kind, and having one in Ao Nang can serve as one of the trip’s best ways to relax if you are in the region, especially after making a climb on Tiger Cave Temple.
Thai massage, proverbial for its remedial nature, includes methods like pressing, circular and stretching – nearly like yoga but dialed up a few notches, and requiring far less effort given that the masseuse does all the work.
The following are the top-tier venues for a massage in Ao Nang,
- All Day Massage And Sea for a regular Thai massage
- Royal Palm Spa for a luxurious experience that is not pricey
Be it a sweet foot massage after a hard day’s work or one of the full-body options that provide relief from stress, you’ll appreciate the fact that you receive a genuine experience when you come down for a Thai massage in Krabi.
Go to an Elephant Sanctuary
While visiting the Elephant Sanctuary in Ao Nang, you may come across these magnificent beings face-to-face in an environment that is both responsible and ethical.
Elephant Sanctuary focuses specifically on rescued elephants, with the aim of providing them care and later rehabilitation.
Take advantage of your time at the sanctuary to learn about each elephant’s individual story and learn about the efforts toward their rehabilitation and protection, The entry consists of feeding the elephants, observing them play in their natural habitat and learning about daily care routines.
It’s considered as the Ultimate Elephant Life Dream! This means that tickets for entry do fill up quickly and you can only enter with one guide or a representative, so I recommend booking now to avoid missing out.
Also, while half-day and full-day tours are available, you will probably get enough in half a day, and that’s my personal preference.
Snack Your Way Through the Night Market
It’s no secret that the best moments of the day in Thailand is about eating, drinking and souvenir shopping – And that’s exactly why the night market is one of the best things to do in Ao Nang.
Indeed, as this market gets lively, plenty of vendors offer great food and drinks that are anything from ulteriorly sweet to savoury, and that’s your chance the try all the amazing dishes and snacks!
Additionally, except for the food to buy, you will find that some artists with handmade crafts or souvenirs that you can take as a memory of your trip.
There’s a night market behind Ao Nang and it’s only 10 minutes walk from the beach. Alternatively, you can take a shuttle to Krabi Town, which is only 150 baht per person, and you’ll get to see another part of Krabi while enjoying a delicious, local dinner!
Take a Sunset Cruise
A sunset cruise in Ao Nang, Krabi is the perfect way to take in the beauty of the area and see the sunset on a boat ride with your other half or group of friends.
You can take a longtail boat or a speedboat and tour the nearby islands, enjoying the stunning vistas of beautiful beaches and secluded coves.
Or, you can join one of the island hopping tours offered by tour operators, which will take you to some of the most picturesque spots in the area during unset. No matter which option you choose, you’ll love the trip!
That being said, when you choose the second option, the island-hopping tour with sunset, you’ll get to visit 7 islands around Ao Nang during the day first, and that adds even more uniqueness to your vacation.
All in all, for a magical experience, take a sunset cruise and enjoy the stunning views of the limestone cliffs, the Andaman Sea and the magical islands that dot the horizon – That is one of the best things to do in Ao Nang!
Rent a Motorbike and Drive to Krabi Town
Can you drive a motorbike? Then you’ll want to rent one from the agencies in Ao Nang and drive over to Krabi town for a short trip and discover the best things to do in Krabi.
Renting a motorbike is the best way to explore Ao Nang and the main Town, as it gives you the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want.
With a motorbike, you can easily get around to all the popular attractions in the area, such as the Tiger Cave Temple, the Emerald Pool, and I recommend you book a 1-hour boat trip to Khao Khanap Nam.
Renting a motorbike in Ao Nang typically costs around 350 Baht a day, so it’s a great way to explore the area without breaking the bank. Make sure to wear a helmet when driving!
Alternatively, you can call a songthaew, the local buses, from the main strip to Krabi town, which is another way to get there.
Enjoy Ao Nang’s Vibrant Nightlife
Ao Nang is the place to be for those looking for an unforgettable night out. Whether you’re looking for a wild party or a chill atmosphere, Ao Nang’s nightlife has something for you.
There are plenty of bars, clubs, and cabaret shows to explore, so you can pick and choose what type of nightlife experience you want.
Popular bars around include Boogie Bar and Reggae Town Bar, and you can discover the Bluedragon Cabaret, which is an experience you won’t forget!
For a more laidback atmosphere, check out the beachfront restaurants and bars on the beachside and see the fire shows on the quiet beach. With its chill vibes, it’s the perfect spot for a Friday night out.
Overall, living the night is one of the fun things to do in Ao Nang and you should definitely enjoy with live music, a fire show, great vibes, and some drinks!
Things to Do in Ao Nang, Krabi – FAQ
Now that we’ve discovered the best things to do in Ao Nang Krabi, let’s answer some questions from first-time visitors!
Is Ao Nang Touristy?
Yes, Ao Nang is very touristy as this is the place where all boat trips leave. Plus, the main hotels and resorts are located here, as it’s the best place to stay in Krabi.
Is Ao Nang Expensive?
While Thailand is an affordable travel destination Krabi is one of the more expensive places to visit in the country. Krabi doesn’t have the same high-end luxury resorts that you’ll find in Phuket, it still has its fair share of upscale hotels and restaurants.
If you’re on a budget, you can still find plenty of affordable accommodation and food options, but you’ll need to be a bit more selective. All in all, I recommend planning at least $50 per person per day when visiting Krabi and $70 per person when planning to take day trips.
Where to Stay in Krabi?
Last but not least, let’s talk about some nice hotel options, whether you travel on a budget or looking for a premium property.
While many people stay in Railay Beach, and I did too, you’ll want to stay near Ao Nang Beach if you limited time in Krabi.
The reason for that is obviously convenience, so you won’t carry your luggage everywhere, but also because you can see most things in Railay on a day out, like I mentioned in this Krabi itinerary.
Luxury: Centara Anda Dhevi Resort and Spa
Centara Anda Dhevi Resort and Spa offers a luxurious stay near Nopparat Thara Beach, which is an amazing location, featuring a large outdoor pool with a water slide, a day spa, kids’ club, and 24-hour concierge services.
Rooms boast free Wi-Fi, swimming pool views, and modern amenities. Dining options include international buffets at Palm Court and room service, with various services such as laundry. It’s a short drive from Ao Nang Pier and 40 minutes from Krabi Airport.
Mid-Range: Aonang Viva Resort
This Ao Nang Beach resort is a short walk from Nopparat Tara Beach, provides comfortable accommodations with free WiFi, a restaurant, and a bar.
Rooms are air-conditioned with modern conveniences, and you can enjoy international and Thai cuisine on-site. Additional services include a 24-hour front desk, airport shuttle, and free parking.
Budget: The Krabi Forest Homestay
The Krabi Forest Homestay offers a serene escape amidst tropical landscapes, close to Nopparat Thara and Ao Nang Beaches. It features rooms and bungalows with traditional Thai décor, free Wi-Fi, and a range of activities including fishing, diving, and horseback riding.
Dining options serve Thai and international dishes, with easy access to Railay Beach and a 45-minute drive to Krabi Airport.
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Summary – Ao Nang Things To Do
That concludes our list of 15 exciting things to do in Ao Nang, Thailand. Whether you’re looking for thrills, relaxation, or simply an unforgettable experience, Ao Nang is the right place to be when visiting the Kingdom.
From the gorgeous Ao Nang to Railay to Phra Nang Beach to adventurous excursions like rock climbing and kayaking, there’s plenty to keep you active and entertained.
Each activity in Ao Nang promises not just fun but an opportunity to create lasting memories!
Thanks for reading until the end and I hope this complete guide helped you plan your next trip to visit Ao Nang!
