Choosing where to stay in Krabi can completely change your experience of this part of southern Thailand. From lively beach towns and dramatic limestone cliffs to quiet luxury beaches and local Thai neighbourhoods, Krabi offers a wide range of places to stay depending on your preferred travel style.
This guide breaks down the best areas to stay in Krabi, explains who each area is best for, and includes handpicked hotel recommendations to help you decide exactly where to base yourself. Whether you are visiting for island hopping, a romantic escape, or a relaxed beach holiday, this is a practical guide to one of the most popular travel places in Thailand.
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Krabi is not a single resort town. It is a province made up of beaches, islands, and inland areas, each offering a very different experience.
Before choosing accommodation you should consider:
Whether you want to be near beaches or transport links
How important nightlife and restaurants are to you
Whether you plan to do island hopping tours
If you prefer luxury, budget, or boutique stays
Many first-time visitors make the mistake of booking based on price alone. Location matters far more in Krabi than in many other tourist spots in Thailand.
Ao Nang is the most popular area to stay in Krabi and is often the best choice for first-time visitors. It has a wide range of hotels, restaurants, tour offices, and easy access to boats heading to Railay, Tonsai and the surrounding islands.
This area is ideal if you want convenience, nightlife, and simple transport options. Ao Nang Beach itself is not the most beautiful in Krabi, but it is a practical base for exploring the region and hikes like the Dragons Crest Trail.
Where to stay in Ao Nang
Centara Ao Nang Beach Resort & Spa
Located directly on Ao Nang Beach, this resort offers modern rooms, multiple swimming pools, and direct beach access. It is well suited to couples and travellers who want comfort without being too far from restaurants and tours.
BOOK | CENTARA AO NANG BEACH RESORT & SPA
Railay Beach is one of the most iconic places to see in Thailand. Accessible only by boat, it feels worlds away from Ao Nang despite being just minutes across the water.
Railay is known for its limestone cliffs, calm beaches, and relaxed atmosphere. It is perfect for couples, photographers, and travellers looking for a slower pace. Nightlife is limited, but the setting more than makes up for it.
It is important to know that due to its popularity that Railay beach has become very busy over the last few years and due to its limited space it can feel crowded. Tonsai is next door to Railay and is seperated by either a jungle walk, or climbing over large boulders. It is also a more budget friendly option and can feel quieter than Railay Beach. We actually preferred Tonsai over Railay.
Where to stay in Railay
Rayavadee Krabi
Set within a national park, Rayavadee is one of the most luxurious hotels in Krabi. Villas are surrounded by jungle, with direct access to Railay and Phra Nang beaches. This is one of the best places to travel in Thailand for a special occasion.
BOOK | RAYAVADEE KRABI
Krabi Town is often overlooked by visitors, but it offers a more authentic experience and some of the best value accommodation in the province. Krabi Town is the capital of the province and sits slightly more inland away from the popular beaches.
This area is ideal for travellers who want to explore local markets, eat Thai food, and use ferry connections to nearby islands. It is less suitable if your priority is beach time.
Where to stay in Krabi Town
The Brown Hotel Krabi
A stylish boutique hotel in the heart of Krabi Town, offering modern rooms at affordable prices. It is a great base for travellers who want a quieter stay with easy transport links.
BOOK | THE BROWN HOTEL KRABI
Klong Muang Beach is a quieter alternative to Ao Nang, located north along the coast. It is ideal for travellers who want a quieter calmer beach environment without the crowds.
This area has fewer shops and restaurants, but the beaches are cleaner and less busy. It is best for couples and those seeking relaxation rather than nightlife.
Where to stay in Klong Muang
Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort
A large beachfront resort offering spacious rooms, extensive grounds, and a peaceful atmosphere. It is well suited to longer stays and relaxed beach holidays.
Tubkaek Beach is one of the most exclusive areas in Krabi, known for its quiet shoreline and sunset views over the Hong Islands.
This area is ideal for honeymooners and travellers looking for a slice of luxury away from the tourist centres. Dining options are mostly within resorts, making it perfect for relaxing stays.
Where to stay in Tubkaek
The Tubkaak Krabi Boutique Resort
A beautifully designed luxury resort set directly on the beach. Rooms are surrounded by tropical gardens, and the setting is peaceful and romantic.
BOOK | THE TUBKAAK KRABI BOUTIQUE RESORT
If you are looking for an alternative place to stay, then use our interactive map below.
If island hopping is your main reason for visiting Krabi, Ao Nang and Railay are the most practical bases. Longtail boats and speedboats depart daily from both areas, making it easy to visit Koh Phi Phi, Hong Islands, and other nearby beaches and islands.
Ao Nang is better for budget travellers and nightlife, while Railay offers a more scenic and secluded experience that feels like a mini adventure to get to.
Couples will generally enjoy Railay Beach, Tubkaek Beach, or Klong Muang. These areas offer beautiful scenery, stunning beaches, and more romantic inspired accommodation.
Luxury resorts in these areas are amongst the most popular destinations in Thailand for honeymooners and couples.
Families often prefer Ao Nang due to its range of hotels, restaurants, and easy transport. Resorts with pools and family rooms are widely available, and tours are simple to arrange.
Klong Muang is also a good option for families seeking a quieter stay with resort facilities.
Travellers looking for nightlife and convenience may find Tubkaek and Klong Muang too quiet. Those wanting beaches should avoid staying exclusively in Krabi Town unless they plan to travel daily.
Choosing the wrong area is one of the main reasons visitors feel disappointed, so matching location to travel style is essential.
First-time visitors | Ao Nang, lively, well connected, and close to tours, beaches, and restaurants
Romantic trips | Railay Beach or Tubkaek Beach, dramatic scenery, quiet beaches, and beautiful sunsets
Luxury stays | Tubkaek Beach, exclusive resorts with private beachfront settings
Local experience | Krabi Town, authentic food, markets, and a more traditional Thai atmosphere
Quiet beaches | Klong Muang, relaxed, low-key, and less crowded than Ao Nang
How many days should I stay in Krabi?
Most travellers spend three to five days in Krabi, which gives enough time to explore the beaches, go island hopping, and relax without feeling rushed. If you’re a slow-paced traveller or want to include a spa day or kayaking, consider staying closer to five days.
Is Krabi better than Phuket?
Krabi is generally quieter, more scenic, and less touristy than Phuket, making it ideal for a relaxed holiday. Phuket offers more nightlife, shopping, and entertainment options, so your choice depends on whether you prefer tranquillity or a busier atmosphere.
Can you visit Krabi without staying in Ao Nang?
Absolutely. Railay Beach, Krabi Town, and the northern beaches like Klong Muang and Tubkaek all offer excellent alternatives depending on your travel style. Each area has its own charm, from quiet beaches to local markets and adventure activities.
Is Krabi expensive?
Krabi caters to all budgets, from affordable guesthouses and boutique hotels to high-end luxury resorts. Food, transport, and activities are generally cheaper than Phuket, making it a great choice for both budget-conscious travellers and those seeking a luxury getaway.
When is the best time to visit Krabi?
The ideal time to visit Krabi is between November and April, when the weather is dry, sunny, and perfect for beaches and island hopping. The monsoon season runs from May to October, bringing heavy rains and rough seas, so some activities may be limited.
How do you get around Krabi?
Getting around Krabi is easy with tuk-tuks, taxis, motorbike rentals, and local songthaews (shared pick-up trucks). For island hopping, ferries and longtail boats are the main transport options. Renting a motorbike is popular for exploring beaches and nearby towns at your own pace.
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