Ready for some good old-fashioned fun in Thailand? Enjoying all the best things to do in Ao Nang is a great idea!
I visited the Ao Nang area in Krabi countless times while living in Thailand (I used to live in Chiang Mai) and I always had a great time, and it’s not only for the delicious food and gorgeous beach.
In Ao Nang proper, you can head to Ao Nang Beach and work on your tan for hours, go shopping at the night markets, and try the famous cheese sandwich at 7-Eleven.
Of course, there’s much more, and in this guide, we’ll go through all the best things to do in Ao Nang and beyond, for you to make the most of your time in Krabi.
Things to Do in Ao Nang – Overview
Before going through the best tourist attractions in Ao Nang, let’s discuss the essentials, like the location, how to get there, and much more before planning your travel itinerary to Krabi, here below.
Where is Ao Nang?
Ao Nang is a central point of the coastal province of Krabi, Thailand. Located in the south of Thailand, Ao Nang is a popular base for tourists in Krabi, and you’ll find dozens of hotels, resorts, restaurants, and bars to make your vacation perfect.
The town consists mainly of a main street, which is dominated by restaurants, pubs, and other amenities.
With its close proximity to some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand, Ao Nang offers plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy.
How to Get to Ao Nang?
The best ways to get to Ao Nang from Krabi Airport are to get a private transfer, book a shuttle bus to Ao Nang, or call a Grab Taxi.
Check out my full guide on how to get from Krabi Airport to Ao Nang here.
Is Ao Nang Worth Visiting?
Definitely, Ao Nang should be your base when spending a few days in Krabi, and I highly recommend visiting.
Also, most day trips in Krabi leave from Ao Nang, like Railay Beach, 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 what you are looking for in your stay.
Ao Nang is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches and nightlife. It offers a wide range of accommodation options, including luxury resorts and budget-friendly hostels.
There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops to explore in the town, and activities such as island hopping, rock climbing, and snorkeling are easily accessible.
On the other hand, Krabi Town is a quieter and more laid-back option that offers a more authentic Thai experience.
It has a relaxed vibe and is much less crowded 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?
If you have limited time in Krabi, I recommend staying in Ao Nang and taking an island-hopping tour to visit Railay. On the other hand, if you have 4 days or more, I suggest you spend a night in Railay, as it’s the most beautiful place in town.
How Long to Stay in Ao Nang?
3 days in Ao Nang is enough time to see the main attractions, but there are many other things to explore in the area that you may want to consider if you have more time.
Ideally, if you want to make the most of your vacation, I recommend staying between 3 and 5 days in Ao Nang.
15 Best Things to Do in Ao Nang, Krabi
Ao Nang is an amazing destination in Thailand, and you’ll love spending a few days here, no matter what your plan is, hitting the beach and relaxing, or going to Railay Beach for the day to go rock climbing.
That said, I recommend planning your trip properly and organizing day tours and activities, and this is where this section comes in, with the best things to do in Ao Nang Krabi.
Let’s get started, I’m sure you’ll love every single one of them.
Relax at Ao Nang Beach
Ao Nang Beach is the perfect place to relax and take in the stunning views of the Andaman Sea, and this is always the first place when I visit when taking a trip to Krabi.
This beach is known for its easy accessibility and gorgeous scenery, featuring long stretches of soft sand and clear waters – Ao Nang is 2 km long, which is amazing, and gets crowded very rarely. It’s a great place for a leisurely swim or just lounging under the sun.
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 Beach is a stunning peninsula in Krabi accessible only by boat and kayak from Ao Nang, due to the towering limestone cliffs that cut it off from the mainland.
It’s a popular spot for rock climbing, and it’s your chance to scale the cliffs for breathtaking views. If you’re less inclined to climb, which is my case, Railay West and East beaches offer plenty of space to relax and enjoy the environment.
It’s worth noting that Railay Beach is very popular and it gets very crowded, especially Railay East, which is a smaller spot on the peninsula.
If you have more time available in Krabi, I suggest you spend one night in Railay in order to see the sunset here, that will definitely be something for the books!
On the other hand, if you have little time available, then make sure to book the 4-island tour, which includes a stop at Railay Beach, and I’m sure you’ll love it here!
Did I mention that this tour includes a snorkeling session?! There’s simply no better way to discover Railay than this day trip!
Join the 4-Islands Tour
If you’re looking for a memorable way to explore the stunning islands of Thailand’s Krabi province, then the Island Hopping Tour is for you.
On this full-day tour, you will not only visit Phi Phi Islands but you’ll also go to the stunning islands of Koh Poda, Tup Island (Koh Tub), Koh Mor, and Phranang Cave Beach.
Of course, you’ll have plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and taking in the stunning views of each island.
The first stop after the trip to Phi Phi Islands will be Koh Poda, a small island with white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. Here you can relax on the beach or take a dip in the warm waters.
Next up is Chicken Island, so named for its unique shape that resembles a chicken head! After that, you’ll visit Tup Island, where you can explore the long sandbar connecting it to Chicken Island at low tide.
Last but not least is Phranang Cave Beach, in Railay Beach, which is home to some of Krabi’s most iconic rock formations as well as a hidden cave filled with ancient paintings, before coming to Ao Nang town.
The 4-island tour is one of the most popular tours in Krabi, and for a good reason, so make sure to book now before they sell out!
Take the Monkey Trail Cliff Walk
The Monkey Trail in Krabi is a great way to explore the area and get up close and personal with some of the local wildlife.
Nestled at the southern end of Ao Nang Beach, this 0.2-mile point-to-point trail takes only about 15 minutes to complete and is generally considered an easy route.
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.
Along the way, you might also be able to spot other animals such as birds and lizards, which only adds some uniqueness to the experience!
The Monkey Trail is a great option for a short adventure or if you want to take in some of Krabi’s stunning scenery. It’s also a great place to take photos or relax and enjoy nature.
Rock Climbing at Railay Beach
Rock climbing at Railay Beach is an amazing experience if you’re into adrenaline and adventure.
With towering limestone cliffs all around the peninsula, there are plenty of climbing routes for everyone, whether you’re just starting out or you’re an experienced climber.
When you book a session, the instructor will teach you the ropes or help you take on tougher climbs, in case you already have experience. I’m personally not into it, but it’s one of the best things to do in Ao Nang, and it’s very popular!
Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with amazing views of Krabi’s landscapes and the ocean, and it’s a great way to stay fit while traveling around 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 is accessible for all skill levels, and you can easily rent a kayak in 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, guided tours are also available. This tour includes an expert guide and transportation, which is everything you need, especially if you have little experience kayaking.
This adventure not only gives you a workout but also allows you to connect with Krabi’s natural beauty in an intimate, memorable way, and it’s one of the best things to do in Ao Nang!
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.
Ao Nang is home to some of the best Thai cooking classes in Thailand, offering both budget-friendly and five-star experiences – Let’s face it, what else do you need?
You’ll have the possibility to join the morning or afternoon classes, which both offer different dishes yet the same experience.
The best part? You can pick regular, vegetarian, or vegan dishes – How amazing is that!
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.
The best tour you can take is the Hong Islands Boat Tour with Panorama Viewpoint, which also includes a stop at Koh Daeng and Hong Lagoon, as well as a delicious Thai style buffet lunch.
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.
Of course, the expert guide will stop at the most beautiful viewpoint and spots for you to take the best memories back home!
All this for only $40, is there a better way to explore around Ao Nang and the island trips?
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!
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.
The best places I found in Ao Nang to get a massage are:
- All Day Massage And Sea for a regular Thai massage
- Royal Palm Spa for a luxurious and affordable spa experience
Whether you opt for a soothing foot massage after a day of exploring or a full-body massage to work out all the tension, you’ll love having a real, authentic Thai massage in Krabi!
Go to an Elephant Sanctuary
Visiting the Elephant Sanctuary in Ao Nang offers a unique opportunity to interact with these animals in a responsible and ethical setting. The sanctuary focuses on the care and rehabilitation of elephants that have been rescued from harsh conditions.
During your visit, you can learn about the elephants’ histories and the conservation efforts aimed at protecting them. The entrance includes feeding the elephants, observing them as they roam and bathe in natural ponds, and learning about their daily care routines.
This experience not only allows for close-up encounters with elephants but also educates you on the importance of wildlife conservation.
It’s worth noting that entry tickets are limited and you can only go with a guide or a representative, I recommend booking as soon as possible as they always sell 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
After a day of relaxing at the beach or taking a day trip, the best way to end the day is to eat, drink, and shop for souvenirs at the night market.
The market comes alive in the evening with stalls selling countless sweet treats and savory snacks. You can try everything from grilled meats on skewers, fresh tropical fruits, to Thai pancakes, which are my favorite and I’m sure you’ll love.
It’s also a great place to observe local life and enjoy the casual atmosphere. Apart from food, you’ll also find vendors selling handmade crafts and souvenirs, making it a perfect spot to pick up 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 and Railay beaches 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 trip around Krabi.
