Best Beaches in Krabi — Railay, Ao Nang, Hong Island & Hidden Lagoons

If Phuket feels like a big island city, Krabi feels like a natural movie set. This guide helps you understand the difference between Railay, Ao Nang, island tours and quieter bays so you can choose where to base yourself — and which beaches and islands to visit on your Krabi days.

Think of Krabi as two layers: beaches you stay on (like Ao Nang, Railay, Klong Muang) and islands you visit (like Hong Island and the 4-island trips). This page introduces both.

Main Beach & Island Areas around Krabi

These are the key areas that most travellers include in a Krabi itinerary:

Railay Beach – Krabi’s Postcard Peninsula

Technically part of the mainland, Railay is cut off by cliffs so you can only reach it by boat — which makes arriving feel like stepping into another world. The beaches here are framed by limestone walls, with longtail boats anchored in turquoise water.

• Best for: nature lovers, couples, people who like slow days between beach, viewpoints and caves.
• Highlights: Railay West for sunsets, Phra Nang Beach for views, Railay Viewpoint hike for photos.

Ao Nang – Easy Base for Everything

Ao Nang is the practical heart of Krabi’s tourism. The beachfront road is lined with restaurants, tour shops and massage places. You can book almost any island trip from here — Hong Island, 4-island tour, sunset cruises and more.

• Best for: first-time visitors, families, anyone who wants options at their doorstep.
• Vibe: casual and convenient; not as dramatic as Railay, but very practical as a hub.

Phra Nang Beach – Caves, Cliffs & Clear Water

Phra Nang sits near Railay and often feels like a natural cathedral — cliffs around you, clear water in front, and caves tucked into the rocks. Longtail boats often sell food directly on the sand, adding to the unique beach day feel.

• Best for: a must-do beach day if you’re staying in Railay or taking a longtail from Ao Nang.

Tonsai – For Climbers & Chill Backpackers

Tonsai has a more rugged, bohemian feeling. Paths are less polished, and the crowd is often made up of rock climbers and travellers who like basic bungalows and campfires more than big resorts.

• Best for: backpackers, climbers, travellers who prefer simple life and a tight-knit community vibe.

Klong Muang & Tub Kaek – Quiet, Wide Horizons

North of Ao Nang, Klong Muang and Tub Kaek beaches offer quieter resorts with big views across the islands. This is where many people stay if they prefer reading by the pool and watching sunsets from a quieter balcony.

• Best for: honeymooners, long-stay travellers, people who want calm nights.

Where to Stay in Krabi (By Experience)

Instead of only thinking by budget, it helps to think by experience type:

Best Time to Visit Krabi Beaches & Islands

Weather in Krabi can change by day, but this simple guide helps:

• November – February: usually the best mix of sun and less rain. Popular and busier, with more tours running.
• March – May: hotter and humid; seas can be calm but days feel warm. Good for pool and beach lovers.
• June – October: rainier season; some days perfect, some days stormy. Fewer tourists and better prices if you accept some weather risk.

Practical Tips for Krabi Beach & Island Trips

• For island tours (Hong, 4-Island), carry a small dry bag, reef-safe sunscreen and water shoes if you have sensitive feet.
• Ask tour operators whether the trip is by longtail boat or speedboat – speedboats are faster but can feel bumpier.
• Respect any rules about entering lagoons or bays during certain times to protect nature.
• For Railay, check tide times if you plan to explore caves or certain paths near the water.