Koh Phi Phi Islands

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.

Koh Yao Noi is located in Phang Nga Bay between Phuket and Krabi, offering views of limestone karsts rising from the shallow waters. Its name translates to "small long island." To its south lies the larger sister island, Koh Yao Yai.The island is predominantly Muslim and thrives on fishing, rubber cultivation, and rice farming. It features villages, a ring road, mosques, and a number of resorts and homestays, but no nightlife. You'll mostly get around by scooter.The beaches on the east coast are very shallow, and the tidal range is significant. At low tide, the sea recedes considerably. The beaches are only suitable for swimming around high tide; plan according to the tide calendar.Nonetheless, the island is an excellent base for kayak and boat tours to the bay's rocky islands. As the population lives conservatively, swimwear is inappropriate outside of beach and pool areas.

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.

Koh Lanta, part of Krabi Province, is larger and more tranquil than most Andaman Sea islands. Its main island, Lanta Yai, is elongated: beaches line the west coast, forested hills rise inland, and a single main road connects north and south.The beaches vary distinctly. In the north lie Klong Dao and Phra Ae, featuring shallow water and the densest infrastructure. Further south, Klong Khong, Klong Nin, and Kantiang Bay become quieter and rockier. The Mu Ko Lanta National Park, complete with a lighthouse, hiking trail, and macaques, adjoins the southern tip.On the east coast lies Lanta Old Town, a village of stilt houses built over the water, where the island's Chinese-Muslim trading history is evident; nearby live families of the Urak Lawoi, the original sea nomads. The island is reached by ferry from Krabi and Phuket, and via a land connection over Koh Lanta Noi. The season runs from November to April; during the rainy season, many accommodations and restaurants close.

Krabi Town is the administrative hub of the province and, for many travelers, primarily the gateway to the islands of the Andaman Sea. The town is situated on the Krabi River amidst mangroves and limestone cliffs, revealing authentic Thai daily life that the surrounding beach resorts rarely offer, most vividly at its night markets. Staying here for a night or two offers more affordable accommodation, easy access to Wat Tham Suea and the mangrove canals, and a convenient base for excursions to Ao Nang, Railay, and the islands.