Choose from 44 Fun Things to Do in Southern Thailand And Andaman Coast
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Ao Phang Nga National Park
Known for its limestone rock formations rising out of the turquoise Andaman Sea, the protected Ao Phang Nga National Marine Park covers a large swathe of water in southern Thailand. Many visitors come to the area to enjoy the scenery and take part in watersports.
The Basics
Ao Phang Nga National Marine Park was created by royal decree in 1981 to preserve area marine life. The park covers more than 40 islands in the Andaman Sea, including Khao Phing Kan, known as “James Bond Island” after its islet Ko Ta Pu appeared in the movie The Man With the Golden Gun. Diving, snorkeling, and kayaking are popular, as are island-hopping boat tours, which usually include swimming and snorkeling.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Boats and ferries visit Phang Nga Bay from Krabi, Phuket, and the Phi Phi islands.
- See multiple highlights in one day on an island-hopping boat tour.
- Many tours include lunch or other refreshments.
- Remember to wear suitable footwear if you’re planning to take part in watersports.
- Pack your sunscreen: the sun is strong here.
How to Get There
Ao Phang Nga National Park covers most of Phang Nga Bay in the Andaman Sea. Most people come by ferry or private boat from Krabi or Phuket, or they enjoy the islands as part of a pre-booked guided tour. The closest airport is Krabi.
When to Get There
To get the best of the weather, plan to visit Phang Nga from November to March. This part of Thailand is hot during April and May, and in the rainy season (late May to October), there are often heavy downpours.
See Ancient Rock Art in Phang Nga
A number of the limestone islands in Ao Phang Nga National Park have ancient wall paintings, some more than 3,000 years old. Khao Khian island is one of the best sites for viewing the cave paintings, which include depictions of humans, bats, boats, birds, fish, and elephants. While most drawings are monochrome, there are some done in color.
Address: Phangnga, Thailand
Admission: Varies
From $ 27
Koh Panyi (Floating Muslim Village)
The limestone island of Koh Panyi is home to a floating Muslim fishing village, built on stilts over the water. The village has a mosque and a school, and is home to around 100 families who make their living from fishing.
Seafood restaurants are a big hit here, and market stalls sell souvenirs, T-shirts and postcards.
An overnight stay in a traditional home with a local family, in a room hovering over the water, is a unique Thailand experience.
Practical Info
Ko Panyi (Floating Muslim Village) is an island in Phang Nga Bay, in Phang Nga province. Krabi is 1.5 hours away by bus.
To get here from Phang Nga, sail over in a traditional longboat.
Address: Highway 4144, Phang Nga 82000, Thailand
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 43
Racha Island
Racha Island is, in fact, two islands—Racha Yai and Racha Noi—both known for their excellent snorkeling and diving. Whether for day-long underwater exploring trips or stays of a few days to relax on the unspoiled beaches, the southern Thai islands are popular with water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
The Basics
Around 20 miles (40 kilometers) south of Phuket, Racha Island is quintessential Thailand—white sand, turquoise ocean, and softly swaying palm trees. Racha Yai has a small number of resorts and bungalows, and is becoming a popular place to stay for visitors to Phuket, while Racha Noi is uninhabited. Both islands offer excellent diving offshore, and you can snorkel right from the beach on Racha Yai. Many travelers choose to visit the islands as part of an organized snorkeling, diving, or catamaran tour from Phuket.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Racha Island is ideal for snorkelers, divers, and those looking for a quiet island escape from Phuket.
- Most tours leave Phuket in the morning to spend the day around both Racha Yai and Racha Noi.
- Snorkelers and divers can expect to see colorful corals and many types of tropical fish.
- If snorkeling or diving is not your thing, catamaran trips are also available.
- Many tours include lunch, refreshments, and water sports gear.
How to Get There
Racha Island, located south of Phuket in the Andaman Sea, is accessible only by boat. Speedboats travel from Ao Chalong and Rawai on Phuket, or you can book a snorkeling, diving, or catamaran tour to access the islands.
When to Get There
High season in Phuket runs from November to March, when the weather is warm and sunny. April and May can be very hot, and tropical rainstorms are possible from June to November. Some resorts and tour operators close up shop or run only limited services in the rainy season.
See Phuket’s Big Buddha
For a photo opportunity extraordinaire, take a trip to see Phuket’s Big Buddha, a 150-foot-high (45-meter) statue sitting atop the Nakkerd Hills, close to Kata. The statue was constructed in 2004 and is made of concrete overlaid with glittering white jade marble. From the base of the Buddha you can enjoy panoramic views over the whole island.
Address: Racha Island, Phuket, Thailand
From $ 107
Koh Poda
Koh Poda, part of a tiny archipelago in Krabi province off the west coast of Thailand, ranks among the most picturesque of the many uninhabited and semi-inhabited islands that line the coast. Longtail boats drop visitors off along a stretch of sugar soft, white sand beach, famous for its clear waters and stunning views off offshore limestone formations. Thanks to its west-facing beach, the area is particularly lovely around sunset.
Tropical fish are visible in the waters just off the beach, but just a little further out a coral reef rings much of the island, providing excellent snorkeling opportunities for those who can pull themselves from the beach. While the island does have a single guesthouse, most visitors come on a day trip from nearby Ao Nang.
Practical Info
The only way to reach Koh Poda is by boat, typically from Ao Nang, about 5 miles (8 kilometers) away. The island is under the administration of Had Noppharatthara - Mu Koh Phi Phi National Park, and as such, visitors are required to pay a small fee.
Address: Thailand
From $ 24
Koh Yao Noi
Koh Yao Noi is situated midway between Phuket and Krabi in Phang Nga Bay. It’s a diverse and scenic island, with mangrove forests lining its west coast and white-sand beaches fringing its eastern edges. Yao Noi is around half the size of neighboring Koh Yao Yai, but is nonetheless the more developed of the two. However, beyond the 7Eleven, high-end resorts, and guest houses, local life on Koh Yao Noi continues, with farming and fishing the main source of income for the island alongside tourism.
Yao Noi is a joy to simply ride around, either on a hired motorbike or via a tuk tuk. It has one main road that circles the southern half of the island, with smaller paved roads taking off in different directions, plus a few dirt tracks leading up to the north. Along the way, it’s all about taking in the scenery – the wooden houses on stilts, rubber plantations, rice paddies, and mangrove forests. Other activities available on the island include kayaking, hiking, snorkeling, and swimming.
Insider’s Tip: Along with Koh Yao Yai, the best time to visit Yao Noi is generally between November and April, when it’s dry and warm. Some places even close during the monsoon season from May to October.
Practical Info
It’s around a 30-minute speedboat trip from Phuket’s east coast to Koh Yao Noi. Long-tail boats also make daily trips to Yao Noi and Yao Yai. Those arriving from Phuket will land at Manoh Pier on the island’s southwest corner, while boats from Krabi arrive at Tha Khao Pier on its east coast.
Address: Koh Yao Noi, Phuket, Thailand
From $ 27
Koh Haa
A tiny, remote cluster of five uninhabited islands some 10 miles off the coast of Koh Lanta in the Thai Andaman hides an underwater paradise. Here, striated granite pinnacles dotted with gnarly trees tower above some of Thailand’s clearest and bluest waters. Koh Haa’s shock of white sand beneath its central, protected cerulean lagoon affords a breathtaking backdrop for some of the best snorkeling and diving in the country.
Comprised of northerly Ko Haa Neung, central Koh Haa Sam and southerly Ko Haa Yai, as well as two tiny unnamed pinnacles guarding sentry at the mouth of the lagoon, the underwater landscape is just as rugged as the rocky islets themselves. Protected swim-through caves hide lobster, morays and schools of shimmering fish, while vibrant coral is littered with psychedelic nudibranchs (sea slugs), and drop-offs provide the occasional glimpse of deeper denizens such as sharks. Sixteen recognized dive sites with names such as Lost Pinnacle, The Cathedral, Lionfish Den and Cliff Jump Cove divulge some of what’s in store.
Practical Info
It’s not easy to get to Koh Haa, which means chances are high you’ll share this paradise with only a few other boats. However, as word has gotten out, tour operators from as far afield as Phuket—more than 50 miles away—have begun offering day-long snorkel trips to the area. These often involve long boat rides and can incorporate other island stops. An alternative allowing for more snorkel or dive time around Koh Haa is to leave from points on the island of Koh Lanta. Regardless of your point of origin, the open ocean crossing to Koh Haa can be rough even in the calmer seasons post-monsoons between November and March. Make sure that if you make the trip, you do so with a trusted outfitter.
Address: Koh Haa Islands, Khao Thong, Mueang Krabi District 81000, Thailand
From $ 94
A-Maze Garden
Well-oriented travelers will love testing their directional skills amid the towering hedges of Puket’s A-Maze Garden. Situated just outside this popular coastal town, A-Maze Garden has become a destination for family fun and a unique alternative to the temples and beaches southern Thailand is known for. Travelers can wander (or race!) through the 1,000-square-meter labyrinth in search of a quick escape, or take their time navigating the twists and turns of this one-of-a-kind southeast Asian destination. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon—or an entire day—on a visit to Phuket.
Practical Info
The A-Maze Garden is located behind the Upside Down House in Phuket off of Route 402. The maze is open daily from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. and the entry fee is THB 150 for adults.
Address: Mueang Phuket District, Phuket, Thailand
Hours: Daily 10am-6pm
Admission: Adult: THB 150, Child Age 4-11: THB 100
From $ 5
Bangla Road
This eclectic strip of bars, discos, shops and attractions is the epicenter of entertainment in Patong. It offers a taste of some local traditions, as well as near unlimited access to plenty of western amenities. Travelers can shop for high-end fashions, flashy new swimsuits or local souvenirs at the massive Bangla Mall.
Bangla Road is also a popular drinking destination. Beer bars serving ice-cold Thai brews ice cold entice passersby with aircon and open tables filled with favorite board games. But perhaps Bangla Road is best known for its evening entertainment. Stop by Rock Hard—one of the street’s oldest institutions—for live go-go dancers, center-stage pole dancing and strong drinks, or grab a ticket to the popular Simon Cabaret in Patong’s Paradise Complex. The famous ladyboys put on one of the largest transvestite shows in all of Asia.
Bangla Road is also a popular drinking destination. Beer bars serving ice-cold Thai brews ice cold entice passersby with aircon and open tables filled with favorite board games. But perhaps Bangla Road is best known for its evening entertainment. Stop by Rock Hard—one of the street’s oldest institutions—for live go-go dancers, center-stage pole dancing and strong drinks, or grab a ticket to the popular Simon Cabaret in Patong’s Paradise Complex. The famous ladyboys put on one of the largest transvestite shows in all of Asia.
Practical Info
Bangala Road is the liveliest stretch of nightlife in Patong, but the 10 or so side streets between Beach Road and Rat U Thit Road offer even more options for dance, music, drinks and ladies.
Address: Patong, Phuket, Thailand
From $ 6
Chalong Bay Rum Distillery
Sold around the globe, Chalong Bay Rum is Thailand’s best-known rum brand. At the Chalong Bay Rum Distillery in Phuket, travelers can go behind-the-scenes to discover how the facility uses centuries-old French distillation techniques to transform freshly pressed sugarcane into smooth white rum.
The Basics
Chalong Bay Rum Distillery is the perfect destination for a laid-back morning or afternoon of rum sampling. Opt for a guided tour to learn about the rum-making process, sample rum cocktails at the distillery bar, or take part in a masterclass or cocktail workshop to learn the secrets of cocktail making and whip up favorites including Chalong Bay mojitos, Spicyrinhas, and Piña Coladas. You can also combine a rum-tasting session at Chalong Bay Distillery with a private tour of Phuket Town to see city highlights such as a local cashew factory and scenic viewpoints overlooking the city.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Chalong Bay Rum Distillery is a must-see for rum and cocktail aficionados.
- The legal drinking age in Thailand is 20 years old.
- The distillery is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Chalong Bay Rum Distillery is located on Soi Palai in Chalong Bay, roughly five miles (eight kilometers) southwest of Phuket Town. There are no public transportation options, so it’s best to arrive by private vehicle, taxi, or as part of a guided tour.
When to Get There
The distillery is open year-round but can get busy during the dry season (November through February), so opt for an early morning visit to avoid the crowds.
The Natural Rum of Chalong Bay
Chalong Bay is renowned for its natural rum production—inspired by traditional French-Caribbean methods—and uses pure sugarcane juice instead of the molasses typically used in industrial rum. The distillery is proud of its eco credentials and uses only the finest Thai sugarcane sourced from local farmers, grown without chemical fertilizers, and harvested by hand.
Address: 14/2 Moo 2 Soi Palai 2 Tambon Chalong Amphur Muang, Phuket 83130, Thailand
Hours: Daily, 11am - 10pm. Distillery tours start every hour from 2pm - 6pm.
From $ 125
Old Phuket Town
The prominence of Phuket’s beaches and out islands mean that Old Phuket Town is often overlooked. Yet, it offers a wealth of 19th-century architectural delights and fantastic photo ops. Beside the latticed windows of Malay-style shop-front buildings on Soi Rommanee, Old Phuket Town boasts temples, museums, and restaurants.
The Basics
Due to the compact size of Old Phuket Town, the area lends itself well to walking tours and is easy to explore in a couple of hours. It's a popular choice for visitors with limited time. The majority of Phuket sightseeing tours combine a stop at Old Phuket Town with a visit to Wat Chalong, Phuket’s most famous Buddhist temple, and the Karon Viewpoint. More in-depth tours of Old Phuket Town reveal the wet market and Chinpracha House (Baan Chinpracha).
Things to Know Before You Go
- Old Phuket Town is a must-see for travelers interested in colonial history and architecture.
- Don’t miss the Amulet Market for special Buddhist souvenirs.
- Wear comfortable shoes and a hat if you’re planning to explore old town on foot.
- By day and night, old town takes on a different identity, so it’s worth visiting twice.
When to Get There
If you’re planning to explore Old Phuket Town on foot, its recommended to do so early in the morning, before the midday heat makes sightseeing uncomfortable. If you do need a break, Old Phuket Town has a plethora of cafes and bars that you can dip into for a cold drink. At night, Old Phuket Town’s bars come to life with live music and free-flowing drinks.
How to Get There
If you’re staying by the beach, you can take either public transport or a chartered taxi to old town. If you’re staying in one of the many nearby hotels, all attractions are within walking distance.
Culinary Delights in Old Phuket Town
Phuket’s vibrant mix of cultural influences means that its cuisine is as rich and varied as its architecture. A prime location beside the sea means it’s a great place to try seafood and classic southern Thai dishes such as tom som pla krabok, a hot and sour fish soup, and gaeng sataw, a combination of green beans and prawns.
Address: Phuket City, Thailand
Admission: Free
From $ 6
Emerald Pool (Sa Morakot)
Originating from a warm stream in the lowland forest of Khao Nor Juji, the Emerald Pool (or Sa Morakot) is a hot spring located within the Khao PraBang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary in Krabi.
The dazzling Emerald Pool is 115 long, 214 meters wide, and deep enough to swim in (although, due to the high levels of calcium carbonate, visitors should avoid swallowing any water while doing so). The color of the water varies according to the reflection of the sunlight at different times of the day. To experience the most intense emerald hue, visit at dawn or as early in the morning as possible.
There are three nature trails that lead to the Emerald Pool. The first is a direct 800 meter path from the main entrance. The second is via ‘Thung TieoSa Morakot’, which is around 1400 meters long and and more challenging, but is ideal for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The third method is the longest at just under three kilometers, and is a scenic nature trail through the forest.
Practical Info
To reach the Emerald Pool from Krabi, take Highway No.4 to Khlong Thom and turn left on the road towards Thung Yai. Follow signposts to the Khao PraBang Khram Wildlife Park from here. It is also possible to take a motorcycle taxi from Klong Thom.
Address: Khao PraBang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary, Krabi, Thailand
Hours: 9am-5pm
Admission: 200 THB
From $ 35
Freedom Beach
Not far from the electric energy of the ever-popular Patong lies the small 300-meter shore of Freedom Beach—a quiet gem of a destination on Phuket’s west coast. Hop aboard a traditional long-tail boat at the southern end of Patong Beach and enjoy the cool breeze of a peaceful 10-minute ride to what many say feels like a remote island shore.
Sunbathers can stretch out on pristine beaches and relax in the sand surrounded by scenic tropical hills, while more active sorts can play beach soccer or snorkel in the crystal clear and always warm waters that wash Freedom’s shore.
Sunbathers can stretch out on pristine beaches and relax in the sand surrounded by scenic tropical hills, while more active sorts can play beach soccer or snorkel in the crystal clear and always warm waters that wash Freedom’s shore.
Practical Info
Roundtrip boat rides to Freedom Beach are offered on a sliding scale, between 1,000 and 1,500 baht. The beach is also accessible by car, with a public parking lot a short—but challenging—walk from the bay near Avista Hideaway Resort. Locals keep watch on the lot and charge about 100 baht to park.
Address: Phuket, Thailand
From $ 44
Ao Luk
Located about 30 miles (50 kilometers) north of Krabi, Ao Luk provides visitors a playground of outdoor adventures. While Krabi might bring to mind images of idyllic beaches, Ao Luk is more about the jungle, especially within Than Bok Khorani National Park. Here, eco-tourists find abundant treks, waterfalls, caves, mangrove forests and the stunning (and swimmable) Bok Khorani pond. The park also contains a series of small islands popular for canoeing, snorkeling and diving.
An alternate way to explore the Ao Luk district is in the tree tops themselves. Tree Top Adventure Park, one of the area’s most popular attractions, takes visitors through the canopy from platform to platform by way of rope walks, zip lines, Tarzan swings, rope bridges and flying skateboards.
Practical Info
Buses traveling between Krabi and Phuket stop in Ao Luek.
Address: Ao Luek, Thailand
From $ 31
Morakot Cave (Emerald Cave)
Morakot Cave, aka Emerald Cave due to the water’s emerald color that is refracted from the sunlight, is one of the most popular attractions in Thailand’s Trang islands. At first blush the cave looks like only a hole in a limestone cliff—but once you venture inside the dark entrance, a paradisiacal, sunny white beach appears.
The Basics
The tricky-to-access Emerald Cave is well worth the adventure. To reach the beautiful lagoon, you must join a guided tour that leads you on a swim through a 260-foot (80-meter) lit up by provided headlamps. Your destination is a large hall illuminated by sunlight shining through a small opening, and a sandbar surrounded by trees.
Most tours to Morakot Cave are included in the 4-island tour from Koh Lanta to Koh Chuak, Koh Muk, Koh Kradan, and Koh Ngai. These tours allow time for visitors to spend the day swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking in and around the four islands, discovering the underwater marine life and admiring the picturesque island scenery.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Morakot Cave is a must-visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
- Be sure to bring sunscreen, preferably one that is coral-reef friendly, and a towel.
- Do not attempt to visit the cave without a knowledgeable guide to direct you through the tunnel.
- Most tours offer snorkeling equipment, a buffet lunch, and light refreshments.
- Lifejackets are provided but be prepared—and fit enough—for a lengthy swim to access the cave.
How to Get There
The Emerald Cave is located on the western coast of Koh Muk, in the Trang province. You can access the cave only via one of the many tours offered on the Trang islands, and then by swimming through the narrow tunnel.
When to Get There
You can access the cave only during low tide, generally between 10am and 2pm, as the entrance passage is small and low. The best time to visit Koh Muk, and Thailand is general, is during the dry season (November to April).
Koh Muk
Branch out beyond the Emerald Cave and spend more time on Koh Muk. A 45-minute ferry ride from Khuan Tuang Ku Pier on the mainland, the small island has a handful of budget and mid-range accommodations (that generally operate only during the high season). Koh Muk’s beautiful beaches and great snorkeling spots offer spectacular ways to enjoy a relaxing holiday.
Address: Koh Mook, Thailand
From $ 31
Chalong Big Buddha
The Chalong Big Buddha is hard to miss. Built on a patch of virgin rain forest on Khao Nakkerd Hill high above Phuket, this gigantic 148-foot (45-meter) statue is one of the island's most prominent landmarks, easily seen from most places in the south. From the statue’s base, visitors enjoy panoramic views of Chalong Bay and Phuket town.
The Basics
As one of Phuket’s most recognizable attractions, the Chalong Big Buddha features on most sightseeing tours of the island, along with beaches and other notable religious sites. Those who enjoy hiking can book a tour that includes a trek through lush jungle before a visit to the Big Buddha, as well as a trip to Wat Chalong, the largest Buddhist temple in Phuket. A small museum at the base of the statue chronicles the history of the project. Private tours often visit this site.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Chalong Big Buddha is a must-see for photographers and first-time visitors.
- Entry to the Big Buddha is free, but donations are accepted.
- Make sure your knees and shoulders are covered during your visit; avoid beachwear.
- Be prepared to remove your shoes before entering the temple at the Big Buddha.
- There’s a public restroom at the statue about halfway down the stairs.
How to Get There
The Big Buddha is located along a 4-mile (6-kilometer) road just off the main route from Phuket to Chalong. Turn down Soi Yot Sane and follow the signs up the hill. Public transportation to the statue is scarce, so it’s a good idea to hire a taxi or visit as part of a guided tour.
When to Get There
The statue is at its busiest around sunset (a beautiful time to visit to be sure), but if you want to enjoy the sight when it’s a little less crowded, plan to visit at sunrise when the eastern-facing statue is illuminated by the rising sun.
Messages of Faith
Look closely at the Big Buddha statue, and you’ll see thousands of white-marble slabs engraved with messages from those who donated toward the construction of the statue. Some are words of good luck, while others are in memory of loved ones who’ve died.
Address: Soi Yot Sane 1, Phuket, Southern Thailand and Andaman Coast, Thailand
Admission: Donations accepted
From $ 11
Railay Beach
Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and backed by thick forest, the interconnected fairy-tale beaches of Railay are accessible only by boat. The four beaches—Tonsai, Phra Nang, East Railay, and West Railay—offer powder-soft white sand, clear calm waters, and a decidedly bohemian vibe perfect for those looking to get away from it all.
The Basics
While the talcum-soft sand is certainly a compelling reason to visit Railay Beach—visitors can easily find day trips by longtail boat from Phuket and Ao Nang—the other big draw is the rock climbing here. It’s considered some of the best in Thailand, especially on the rocks around Railay East, and you don’t need any special experience to try it. Guided climbing tours cater to climbers of all ability levels, including newbies.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Railay Beach is a must-visit for sun seekers and adventure travelers.
- Don’t forget to bring a towel, swimsuit, and sun protection for time on the beach.
- Excursions to Railay Beach can take anywhere from four to eight hours, depending on the option chosen.
- Bring sturdy shoes if you plan to rock climb or hike to some of the area viewpoints.
- Purchase sunscreen, snacks, and drinks before you arrive, as prices tend to be higher in Railay.
- Be sure to keep your electronics and valuables in waterproof bags during the boat ride to Railay Beach.
- Island-hopping day tours that include Railay often stop at Chicken Island, Poda Island, and Tup Island.
How to Get There
Though on the mainland, Railay Beach is only accessible by boat, either from Krabi (90 minutes) or Ao Nang (15 minutes). There are no motorized vehicles in the area, but all the points of interest can be reached on foot.
When to Get There
For the best balance of good weather and sparser crowds, plan to visit in either May or October. The dry season falls between December and April, when the beaches become busy with day trippers. September is the wettest month in this region.
Other Attractions in Railay Beach
Aside from the soft sand and limestone rocks, Railay Beach has a couple of other notable points of interest. Just to the north of Railay East sits Phra Nang Cave, also called Diamond Cave, where visitors can follow a boardwalk past glittering cave formations. Phra Nang Shrine, located at the northern end of Phra Nang Beach, has become known for the collection of carved phalluses left there by local fisherman asking safe journeys of the drowned princess the beach is said to be named for.
Address: Railay Beach, Krabi, Thailand
From $ 24
Maya Bay
The stunning Maya Bay became a major tourist attraction after the 2000 film, The Beach, was filmed here. It’s situated within Thailand’s Phi Phi Islands, off the coasts of both Krabi and Phuket on the mainland, and is distinguished by its beautiful white-sand beach sheltered by limestone cliffs on three sides.
There are in fact several beaches here, but most are small and some only exist at low tide. The main beach, where most boats drop passengers just offshore, is a 200-meter long strip of silky white sand. It’s surrounded by clear waters filled with colorful coral and an abundance of exotic fish, making it an absolute haven for snorkelers. Walking inland is also a treat, with a path that winds through lush greenery and reveals some simply spectacular scenery.
It’s true that Maya Bay’s popularity has taken a certain degree of the shine from this once little-heard of slice of paradise. It’s become so well-known that its shores are filled with hoards of boats dropping visitors off and picking them up throughout the day, particularly in peak season. Visitors should arrive early in the morning to avoid the larger part of the crowds.
Practical Info
Visiting Maya Bay is such a popular activity that arranging transport is incredibly easy. You can visit from both Phuket and Krabi on organized tours, or, if staying on Koh Phi Phi, simply hop on a tour from there or charter your own longtail boat for the day. If not visiting as part of an organized tour, you’ll need to pay a National Park entry fee (currently 200 baht).
Address: Maya Bay, Krabi, Thailand
Admission: 200 baht
From $ 27
Ao Nang Beach
Luxury beach resorts with pampering garden pools and high-end add-ons attract a jet-set crowd to Ao Nang Beach on the Andaman Sea. Ao Nang is an ideal base for island-hopping trips, sea-kayaking adventures and day tours to local attractions like snake farms, pineapple plantations and hot springs.
Diving excursions head off from Ao Nang to nearby Raillay or further afield to Koh Phi Phi. The seafront promenade at Ao Nang is lined with souvenir shops, tailors and restaurants.
Practical Info
Ao Nang Beach is 22 kilometers (13.5 miles) west of Krabi. Ferries run from here to Koh Phi Phi, and minibuses run to Krabi.
Address: Highway 4203, Ao Nang 81000, Thailand
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 6
Hong Islands
The Hong Islands are a group of rocky blips in the Andaman Sea, located just off the coast of Krabi in southern Thailand. A popular day trip destination from Ao Nang or Krabi, the islands are fringed with rain forests, hidden lagoons, and white-sand beaches.
The Basics
The Hong Islands are rife with secluded beaches, coral reefs, and sea caves to explore. There’s something for every type of outdoor enthusiast—Railay is popular with rock climbers, Koh Hong's Hong Lagoon is a calm place to kayak, and Phang Nga Bay has scenic views and great sunbathing.
Longtail boat or speedboat tours are a good way to visit the islands and typically depart from Krabi or Phuket. Some excursions include snorkeling or kayaking, and often feature stops at Khao Phing Kan, Ao Nang Beach, Phi Phi Island, and Lading Island.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Some of the islands are located within Ao Phang Nga National Park, so fees may apply. Be sure to have cash on hand as most tours don’t include the national park fee.
- The sea can be choppy, so those prone to seasickness should prepare ahead of time—especially if you’re traveling by longtail boat.
- Because of the bumpy waters, most boat operators won’t serve pregnant women or children under 1 year old.
How to Get There
The Hong Islands are located about 15.5 miles (25 kilometers) southwest of Ao Nang. Organized tour boats and sea kayaks leave for the islands from Ao Nang’s ferry dock, as well as from Krabi town.
When to Get There
The tropical coast of southern Thailand is warm year-round, but April through May and September through October are the hottest and rainiest periods. November through March is a great time to visit, as breezes keep the temperature warm but comfortable.
James Bond Island
Khao Phing Kan and Ko Ta Pu, two towering limestone karst islands, are collectively known as James Bond Island thanks to their appearance in the 1974 film The Man with the Golden Gun. These islands served as the setting for an enemy hideout and later became part of the National Park. While you can still visit Khao Phing Kan, it’s now forbidden for boats to approach Ko Ta Pu due to threat of erosion.
Address: Highway 4203, Ao Nang 81000, Thailand
Admission: Free
From $ 7
Ao Thalane (Thalane Bay)
Krabi is famous for its towering limestone cliffs, idyllic beaches and peaceful mangrove forests, and Ao Thalane (Thalane Bay) represents one of the most beautiful mangrove forests in all of Thailand. On this stretch of coast 12 miles (20 kilometers) from Krabi Town, dense mangroves shroud the karsts and cliffs, hiding caves, small inlets and secluded lagoons.
The best way to explore Ao Thalane is with paddle in hand. Shaded by the canopy, kayaking through the winding network of mangrove roots gets visitors close to nature, where it’s possible to spot kingfishers, crab-eating Macaques, river otters, herons, monkeys, monitor lizards and snakes. It’s an ideal place to escape the bustle of Ao Nang or Krabi for a day spent surrounded by only the sounds of nature.
Practical Info
Generally, mid-tide is the best time for kayaking in Ao Thalane, as it will be possible to explore more areas. Low tide, however, offers better access to caves and better chances to see the critters living on the muddy banks.
Address: Khao Thong Subdistrict, Krabi, Thailand
From $ 34