25 Things to Do in Krabi Thailand That Aren't Island Tours

Krabi is one of the most visited regions of Thailand, famed for its limestone cliffs, blue water, sandy beaches, and magnificent islands. It’s impossible to walk down the street here without being made offers for island tours as the bright colored photos of paradise flash before you. Phi Phi, Hong, Poda, Sunset tour...the list goes on and it’s honestly overwhelming to choose which one to go on, so you’ll probably end up doing more than one. In fact, most people when they come to Krabi only do island tours. Boat after boat until the islands start looking all the same. Whether you’re tired of islands, seasick from the boats, or just looking for adventure, I’m here to tell you that Krabi has so much more to offer! It’s full of lush natural beauty and rich culture. With that in mind, here are 25 activities to do in Krabi that are not island tours:

1. Swim at Emerald Pool

At the heart of Thung Teao Forest Natural Park is a natural mineral pool, famous for its turquoise water, perfect for swimming. Although Emerald Pool has grown in popularity over the years and can become quite crowded, it’s still well worth the visit.

Cost | 200 baht ($6.50 USD) entrance fee and 10 baht ($0.30 USD)

Getting There | Emerald pool is about an hour drive from Ao Nang. You can get there by renting and driving a motorbike or  taking a tour booked in Ao Nang or online. Once at the Natural Park, you’ll follow signs and walk through the lush forest to reach the Emerald Pool.

Tips for Visiting | Other people will inevitably be at the pools too, however go in the morning to avoid a complete crowd. Take a photo close up to make it look like you’re there alone.

2. Soak in a Hot Springs Waterfall

The Hotstreams Waterfall is a unique hot spring that has formed several tiers of natural hot tubs. It’s the perfect place to soak, even in the hot weather!

Cost | 200 baht ($6.50 USD) entrance fee

Getting There | The hot springs are about an hour away from Ao Nang. Be sure to not mix this spot up with the Saline Hot Springs, a completely different location.

Tip for Visiting | Because there is limited space in the hot springs, I highly recommend arriving early to be able to enjoy it.

3. Chase Waterfalls

The Krabi Region is home to many waterfalls, some magnificent in size and some although smaller, magnificent in cascade. Below is a list of all the waterfalls in the area:

Wang Tewada Waterfall

Huay To Waterfall

Than Bok Khorani Waterfall

Roi Chan Phan Wang Waterfall

Huai Sakhe Waterfall

Hin Phoeng Waterfall

Khlong Chak Waterfall

Klong Haeng Waterfall

4. Fill Your Stomach at Nopparattani Wednesday Market

Street food is a way of life in Thailand and this market has a lot of it. Here you’ll see all types of colorful and delicious foods, most being served in small enough servings that you can walk around sampling many cuisines. Even if you don’t wish to try the food, it’s still a really rich cultural experience to walk around and see!

Hours | Only Wednesday from 3pm - 8pm

Cost | Food is anywhere between 5 - 100 baht ($0.15 - $3 USD)

Getting There | Nopparattani Wednesday Market is about a 5-10 minutes drive from Ao Nang. Depending on where you stay you could walk, ride a motorbike, take a tuk-tuk or songthaew (shared taxi where you jump in the back).

Tips for Visiting | 1. Many vendors will not have much change, so be sure to have smaller bills. If you don’t, stop by the 7-11 at the entrance of the market to break them. 2. As a foreigner, especially someone not used to street food, you should veer away from anything raw including vegetables and fruit. Only eat cooked, hot food and fruit only if you can peel it. I did not get sick at this market at all and I ate so much. However, my friend ate kebab with raw vegetables and had a stomach bug for a day.

5. Go White Water Rafting at Songpraek River

White water rafting is a new activity in Thailand slowly growing in popularity to tourists. Although the white water rafting is not the most intense ride, it may still be just the amount of adrenaline rush for some. Plus, many tours actually include driving an ATV!

Cost | Around $50 USD

Getting there | About an hour and a half from Ao Nang, transportation should be part of the tour package.

Tip | You can book online, but I would shop around to get the best price and package!

6. See the Archeological Wonder of Susan Hoi

Susan Hoi Beach, is also known as the shell cemetery which sounds really creepy, but it’s actually quite intriguing. Here you’ll find shells fossilized into the rock, creating a beautiful pattern. But what makes it so amazing is that these shells are at least 20 million years old, if not over 50 million! That’s some serious natural history.

Cost | 200 baht ($6.50 USD) entrance fee

Getting There | Susan Hoi is about 10 minutes from Ao Nang. You can ride a motorbike there, take a tuk tuk or a songthaew.

Tip | This beach is famous for it archeological wonder, but is not the type of beach you would go to in order to relax and sunbathe.

7. Kayak Around Railay Beach

This was one of my favorite activities! Kayaking gives you the freedom to explore wherever you please and is the perfect way to admire the surrounding limestone cliffs up close. Kayaking here is not difficult as the water is very calm, and in many places very shallow allowing you to jump out for a swim!

Cost | 1 hour: 200 baht ($6.50 USD), 2 hours: 300 baht ($10 USD), Half day: 500 baht ($16 USD), Full day 800 baht ($26 USD).

Where to Rent | Kayaks can be rented off the shore of Ao Nang beach or Railay Beach. I rented from Railay beach because I was all ready there, and it was the perfect place to start kayaking as you’re in the middle of it all. From Ao Nang you would just be kayaking further.

Getting There | To go to Railay beach you must take a long boat which is 100 baht ($3 USD) one way, and can be booked right on the shore of Ao Nang beach.

Tip | When renting a kayak, ask if you can just take it out and for however long you’re out is what you pay, rather than committing to a time frame. I did this, which was beneficial because originally I thought we would need it for a half day, when we only used it for two hours (therefore cheaper).

8. Rock Climb at Railay and Tonsai Beach

Before traveling to Krabi I had no idea that it was considered a rock climbers paradise, now in hindsight I totally understand why. While the limestone walls just look like beautiful scenery to others, to a rock climber it’s a challenge to overcome and an adrenaline rush to be had. And if you’ve never rock climbed before, it’s the perfect place to try! There are many places in Ao Nang where professional climbers offer beginner packages.

Cost | $40 - 150 USD depending where you book, if you do half vs. full day and if you do it in a group vs. privately

Tip | This is one activity I would not book online, simply because (as a beginner) I would like to speak personally to who I would be climbing with, make sure I’m comfortable and voice any concerns, check out the equipment, etc. However I would look online to check reviews and compare prices.

9. Explore Diamond Cave

Full of regal stalactites and stalagmites, Diamond Cave is a lesser known spot on Railay Beach. But it’s a beautiful art gallery of nature’s work and a nice place to venture to if you’re looking for something different.

Cost | 40 baht ($1.20 USD) entrance fee

Getting There | To get to West Railay beach you must take a long boat which is 100 baht ($3 USD) one way, and can be booked right on the shore of Ao Nang beach. From West Railay, you will have to walk across to East Railay beach where Diamond Cave can be accessed.

10. Climb to the Railay Beach Viewpoints

Just like Railay Beach is divided by East and West beaches, there are also two viewpoints that give you a picture perfect birds eye view of each beach. The more popular viewpoint is the East side, because although it is a difficult climb (and easy to slip), an ameteur (like me, meaning someone who is not a rock climber but still physically fit) can still do it. However the West viewpoint, should only be done by rock climbers with a rope. But either way, you’ll get an epic view of the coastline!

Cost | Free

Getting There | To get to Railay beach you must take a long boat which is 100 baht ($3 USD) one way, and can be booked right on the shore of Ao Nang beach. The east viewpoint starts straight up, in the middle of the pathway on the way to Phra Nang Beach. At the top take a left.

Tips | Watch where you step and grab onto, be sure on your feet. Wear shoes with good traction, definitely not flip flops. Don’t go after a recent rain as it will be very slippery and muddy.

11. Clamber down to Princess Lagoon

Literally a hidden gem, Princess lagoon is concealed in the center of the limestone cliffs of Phra Nang Beach. Similar to water at the bottom of a well, to get to Princess Lagoon you must climb up over the wall and then down into the lagoon. It’s an an extremely adventurous activity if that’s what you’re looking for!

Cost | Free

Getting There | To get to Railay beach you must take a long boat which is 100 baht ($3 USD) one way, and can be booked right on the shore of Ao Nang beach. You’ll start on the same climb to the East Railay viewpoint, but at the top take a right and start your way down to Princess Lagoon.

Tips | This is highly adventurous and difficult, definitely not for everyone. But no matter your experience with climbing, do not go after a recent rain or close to dark.

12. Watch Sunset and Do Yoga at Phra Nang Beach

Sunsets in Thailand are some of the best, and Phra Nang beach is the place to see this daily performance. It frames the sun perfectly and as it sinks into the horizon you can dig your toes into the sand, float in the calm water, or even partake in yoga! Every day that I was there, a man started yoga and invited anyone who wished to join in.

Cost | Free!

Getting There | To get to Railay beach you must take a long boat which is 100 baht ($3 USD) one way, and can be booked right on the shore of Ao Nang beach. You’ll then have to walk to Phra Nang beach.

13. See the *cough* Interesting Shrines in Phra Nang Caves

The Phra Nang Caves are famous for their...phallic shrines. Tourists thoroughly enjoy this interesting choice of adoration and some locals come here to pray for fertility. So ladies, if you’re not looking to have a kid..don’t get too close!

Cost | Free!

Getting There | To get to Railay beach you must take a long boat which is 100 baht ($3 USD) one way, and can be booked right on the shore of Ao Nang beach. You’ll then have to walk to Phra Nang beach.

Tips | Well..there’s plenty of them there.

14. Paddle Board or Kayak at Night with Glowing Plankton

The coast of Krabi is known at night to glow, this is because of the bioluminescent plankton! To really be able to see these glowing creatures, I suggest taking a paddle board or even a clear kayak out at night!

Cost | Depends. Taking a tour is around $50 USD

Getting There | To get to Railay beach you must take a long boat which is 100 baht ($3 USD) one way, and can be booked right on the shore of Ao Nang beach.

Tips | 1. This activity can be done on a tour, or possibly on your own. You could simply rent a paddle board at night or even swim out to the plankton. Around Railay beach the water is very shallow, and the water calm. 2. Before booking an expensive tour, if you are already planning on doing a sunset island tour, check if this activitiy is included in it, many times it is.

15. Learn about Culture and Ingredients in a Thai Cooking Class

Personally, I love Thai food and think it’s some of the best! But even if you don’t feel the same way, we can both at least agree that food is a big part of Thai culture; it’s full of ingredients, color, and stories. Taking a cooking class is the perfect way to learn about all this, while stuffing your face.

Cost | Around $50 USD

Tip | Shop around online to make sure you’re getting a good price and the package you want. Some cooking classes are more extensive and include going to the market to buy ingredients while others are purely cooking.

16. Wonder through the Krabi Town Weekend Night Market

This market is huge in Krabi, and the perfect way to try a lot of cheap, tasty food and see Thai culture in action. It’s also the perfect place to get unique gifts for family and friends back at home, just don't forget to bring your bargaining skills!

Cost | Free to enter, prices vary but food typically around 5 - 100 baht ($0.15 - $3 USD)

Hours | Friday - Sunday 6pm - 10pm

Getting There | Krabi Town is about a 20 minute drive from Ao Nang. You can ride a motorbike there, take a tuk tuk or a songthaew

Tips | 1. Many vendors will not have much change, so be sure to have smaller bills. 2. As a foreigner, especially someone not used to street food, you should veer away from anything raw including vegetables and fruit. Only eat cooked, hot food and fruit only if you can peel it.

17. Kayak through Thalane Bay Mangrove Place

Another awesome kayaking experience that shows you another side of Krabi and brings you closer to wildlife in mangroves.

Cost | Around $20 - 35 USD

Tips | Shop around online to find the best option! Also watch out for macaques!

18. Witness the Natural Beauty of Huay To Waterfall

I know I already mentioned chasing waterfalls in Krabi, but Huay To waterfall in particular I highly recommend visiting. And you can spends hours here. Made up of 5 tiers, it’s good fun to climb (just be highly cautious of slipping) and swim in each pool. I loved it here!

Cost | The Khao Phanom Bencha National Park entrance fee is 200 baht ($6.50 USD), and parking 20 baht (60¢ USD)

Hours | Online: 8am - 4pm; when I visited they opened at 9am.

Getting There | About 45 minute drive  from Ao Nang. To get here you must rent a motorbike or hire a driver.

Tips | If you go in the morning you will most likely have this place all to yourself!

19. Hike Through Khao Phanom Bencha National Park

When you visit Huay To waterfall, you pay an entrance fee to Khao Phanom Bencha National Park, where there are many trails and even another waterfall. Make a day trip out of it and do some more exploring!

Cost | The Khao Phanom Bencha National Park entrance fee is 200 baht ($6.50 USD), and parking 20 baht (60¢ USD)

Hours | Online: 8am - 4pm; when I visited they opened at 9am.

Getting There | About 45 minute drive from Ao Nang. To get here you must rent a motorbike or hire a driver.

20. Trek Up to Tiger Cave Temple

Tiger Cave Temple, also known as Wat Tham Suea, towers above the land. This Buddhist temple is known for the tiger paw prints within the cave, and for the incredible views! It’s also a great personal challenge for anyone who ventures there, before entering the temple you must first make it up 1,260 steps!

Cost | Free! No entrance fee

Getting There | About a 25 minute drive from Ao Nang. You can rent a motorbike and drive there, take a tuk tuk or songthaew, or book a tour online or from your hotel/hostel.

Tips | Bring water! Those stairs can be tiring especially on a hot day.

21. Venture through Than Bok Khorani National Park

Full of lush greenery, waterfalls, caves, and limestone cliffs, Than Bok Khorani National Park is the perfect place to explore of anyone who is a lover of nature!

Cost | 300 baht ($10 USD) entrance fee

Getting There | About a 45 minute drive North of Krabi. To get here you must rent a motorbike or hire a driver.

22. Hike to Magnificent Views of Krabi

The Hang Nak Mountain Trail. Khao Ngon Nak Nature Trail. Tub Keak Hike. Dragon Crest Mountain Summit. Khao Ngon Nak Hike. Tab Kak Hang Nak Hill...I’ve heard this hike called so many things and I still don’t know what it’s called! But all you need to know is it has some awesome views and is a MUST DO in Krabi. The hike itself is strenuous, but the view at the top is well worth it.

Cost | Free, but should donate 100 baht for preserving the park

Getting There | About a 30 minute drive from Ao Nang. You can rent a motorbike and drive here, or take a tour booked online or at your hotel/hostel. Below is the entrance to the hike.

23. Take in the Panorama at Tubkaek Beach

Close to the entrance of the Dragon Crest hike is Tubkaek Beach. Along this beach is many pricey resorts and hotels. However, you can walk onto the beach and enjoy the panoramic view of the limestone mountain in the distance and enjoy a cocktail.

Cost | Free

Getting There | About 25 minute drive from Ao Nang. To get here you must rent a motorbike and drive or hire a driver.

Tip | Sunset is nice here, you can see all the shadows of the limestone.

24. Get a Thai Massage

You cannot visit Thailand without getting a thai massage. Not only are they cheap, but it’s just what you need after all the hiking and exploring I’ve recommended you do!

Cost | Around 300 baht ($10 USD) depending on what kind of massage you get

Where to go | There are massage parlors all over Ao Nang and Krabi Town. Be sure to check online for reviews if you’re picky. Walk ins are always welcome though.

25. Visit The Floating Village Koh Panyi

I know I said 'things to do that aren’t island tours,' and Koh Panyi technically is an island. But this floating village is very different from the islands you’ll visit on a typical island tour. Koh Panyi is a Muslim village built on stilts by fishermen and farmers. Because the people there find it difficult to survive off of only fishing, they have invited tourists there to help support their economy. The village is really interesting to see and has amazing seafood. If you do visit, remember to show respect to the people and their community, no alcohol is allowed as it is a muslim community.

Cost | There is not an entrance fee, rather you buy food and take a tour here which vary in cost.

Getting There | You can rent a boat from Ao Nang to get there , or partake in a tour. Many island tours to James Bond Island include stopping at the floating village for lunch (just double check).

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And there you have it! 25 Things to do in Krabi that aren't island tours! Leave questions or comments below or contact me through Instagram or my email carolinerosetravel@gmail.com 😊