Phang-Nga Bay

Koh Yao Noi, a jewel in Phang Nga Bay, welcomes you with a relaxed atmosphere that stands in welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of the larger islands. Here, you immerse yourself in the authentic island life of Thailand, surrounded by untouched nature, dramatic limestone cliffs, and sprawling rice fields. Let yourself be enchanted by the tranquility and discover a paradise that has preserved its authenticity.

Ao Nang is the main beach resort in Krabi province and a departure point for boat tours into the Andaman Sea. From its long sandy beach, you can gaze at offshore limestone islands, while longtail boats take you to Railay and Phra Nang beaches, which are only accessible by water. Popular options include the Four Islands Tour, featuring Phra Nang Cave Beach, Chicken Island, Tup, and Poda, as well as excursions to the Hong Islands. Boat tours are most reliable from November to April.

The Andaman Coast makes up the western side of the Thai peninsula. Its defining characteristic is the limestone cliffs that rise from the sea and the plains – undercut, often sheer, and particularly densely clustered in Phang Nga Bay.Off the coast lie the famous island groups, from Phuket and the Phi-Phi Islands, via Koh Lanta, to the distant Similans. Underwater, one encounters coral slopes and rock formations; some of the country's most abundant diving areas are located here, and several coastal sections are protected as national parks.The season is clearly structured: From November to April, it's the dry season with calm seas, while from May to October, the Southwest Monsoon brings waves and rain. During the monsoon months, many island businesses close, marine national parks like the Similans remain closed, and strong rip currents develop on some beaches – pay attention to the red flags and do not enter the water when a flag is raised.

Phuket, Thailand's largest island, is more than its famed beaches. Phuket Town's Old Town, with Sino-Portuguese shophouses, street art, and old cafes, recounts its tin mining past. In the south stand the Big Buddha on Nakkerd Hill and *Wat Chalong* temple; the west coast has bays from lively Patong to quieter Kata Noi and Nai Harn. Hokkien noodles, Moo Hong, seafood define the island's cuisine. Best travel time: November to February.

Railay is a peninsula in Krabi Province, between Krabi Town and Ao Nang, with steep limestone cliffs cutting it off from the mainland. No road leads here: you arrive by longtail boat from Ao Nang (around 15 minutes) or from the Krabi coast; departures depend on wind and sea conditions.The peninsula has several sides: Railay West (wide sandy beach, promenade, boat pier), Railay East (mangrove bay, not for swimming, but cheaper accommodation), and Phra Nang Beach (south, under overhanging rocks, famous cave shrine). North of this is Tonsai, the climbers' and backpackers' quarter.Railay is one of Asia's most renowned sport climbing areas, boasting over 700 bolted routes. Local schools rent equipment and offer courses for beginners.A steep, rope-secured path leads to the viewpoint and the Sa Phra Nang lagoon; it's slippery after rain, so sturdy shoes are required. Macaques live on the beaches, deliberately grabbing bags and edibles.