Thailand has a well-deserved reputation as a dream destination forbeach lovers. With its endless stretches of picture-perfect beaches andhundreds of jaw-droppingly beautiful islands, much of Thailand is aseaside paradise. Southern Thailand in particular offers some of themost beautiful beaches in the world, and Krabi is renowned as one ofthe kingdom’s best places to explore.
In Krabi, crystal blue waters lap at soft white sand fringed with palmtrees and jungle, all framed by imposing and otherworldly limestonekarsts. A visit to any of Krabi’s top-rated beaches is sure to be anunforgettable experience.
With so much natural beauty calling your name, you will be spoiled forchoice when planning your Krabi itinerary. Wondering which beachesto visit in Krabi? This quick Krabi beach hopping guide can help youplan an amazing trip.
The Most Beautiful Beaches in Krabi
1.Phra Nang Cave Beach
Considered by many travellers to be the best beach in Krabi, Phra Nang Cave Beach is not one to miss. There’s something magical about the gorgeous white-sand beach contrasting with the towering cliffs and the mystery of the fantastic Phra Nang Cave.
Visitors can explore the beach and the area around the cave, discovering mesmerising stalactite and stalagmite formations, gazing across the pristine water and taking in the wide-open horizon that is punctuated by the inviting islands in the distance.
In addition to exploring the cave and rock formations, lazing on the beach and swimming in the sea, travellers can enjoy snorkelling, rock climbing among the impressive limestone cliffs or kayaking around in the surf. And yes, the beach faces west, so with proper timing, it’s easy to capture some astounding sunset shots!
Phra Nang Beach is just around the corner from Ao Nang Beach, but the cliffs form a natural barrier, making it inaccessible by land. You can easily take a longtail boat taxi to enjoy this spectacular beach and cave.
2.Ao Nang Beach
For travellers ready to experience the “slow life” of Southern Thailand without being too far from luxurious accommodations, revitalising wellness experiences and some of the most mouthwatering beachside dining in Krabi, Ao Nang is widely known as the best Krabi beach.
Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple or with your family, a stay on Ao Nang Beach puts you right in the heart of everything. The many beachfront resorts, inns and hotels in the area make it the perfect home base and a great point of departure for setting out on Krabi adventures.
Lined with picturesque longtail boats that beckon visitors to further explorations, Ao Nang Beach is a 1-kilometre stretch of fine golden sand nestled among massive karst walls. Its crystal-clear, tranquil waters are great for swimming, and it is one of the most popular beaches for water sports in Krabi.
Ao Nang’s charms are well known, so its amenities attract a fair share of tourists. Although it’s not the quietest beach in Krabi, it is still possible for travellers to find a quiet little spot to call their own.
For those looking to experience the best of what Krabi has to offer, the restaurants, bars, shops, nightlife spots and tour boats dotting this gorgeous beach make it a perfect place to stay. Plus, Ao Nang’s ample amenities make it one of the most family-friendly beaches in Krabi.
3. West Railay Beach
A well-known Krabi beach destination that’s equally suited to relaxation or engaging in unforgettable activities, Railay Beach has something for everyone. Its stunning natural beauty and soft ivory sand have earned it a reputation as one of the best beaches in Krabi.
This stunning beach is part of the mainland Krabi peninsula, yet it’s isolated by limestone cliffs and accessible only by longtail boat from Ao Nang or other nearby beaches.
It features a generous amount of amenities such as upscale beachfront resorts, restaurants with local Thai cuisine, reggae bars, massage services with tables set up right on the sand and water sports rental shops offering kayaks and snorkelling gear. Local rock climbing schools provide unforgettable experiences among the limestone cliffs for climbers of all levels from beginner to advanced.
Railay West has a wide-open feeling that welcomes sunbathers and swimmers to drift off into peaceful relaxation. Just off the beach is a series of footpaths through the lush jungle. With so much to do and explore here, it’s no wonder that many Krabi visitors can’t get enough of this beach.
4. Maya Bay / Koh Phi Phi Leh Beach
Whether your trip is a once-in-a-lifetime getaway or you’re a regular visitor to the area, no Krabi holiday is complete without a stop at Maya Bay. This iconic Thailand attraction is just a short boat ride from Ao Nang Beach. Maya Bay and Koh Phi Phi Leh Beach are so stunningly beautiful that we’ll understand if you aren’t sure if you’re dreaming when you arrive!
The famous setting of the film “The Beach,” Maya Bay has been revitalised during a brief closure. Now the beach is open to visitors again. As of 2024, beachgoers can only wade into the crystal blue sea up to their knees; no swimming is allowed while the sea life and coral continue to benefit from the government’s nature-conservation efforts.
You can expect to see thriving corals, tropical fish and baby sharks, but please don’t be tempted to swim as this will get you a hefty fine from the authorities!
The countless pictures of Maya Bay speak for themselves. However, there’s no substitute for actually surrounding yourself with this unearthly beauty in real life. The technicolour aqua blue water, the pure white sand, and the ring of majestic limestone cliffs must be experienced to be believed.
Because of its breathtaking beauty, Koh Phi Phi Leh Beach attracts large crowds and is known as one of the best white sand beaches in Krabi. You can time your visit for the beginning or end of the day for a little more tranquillity.
5. Tonsai Beach
Tonsai Beach, sometimes written Ton Sai Beach, is one of many hidden gems on Krabi’s coastline. It offers a serene escape for travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Visitors can spend leisurely days basking in the tranquil atmosphere and admiring the dramatic limestone cliffs and lush foliage, or they can engage in exhilarating Krabi beach activities such as rock climbing, bouldering around the hidden caves and kayaking.
Perhaps because it’s a little more secluded and difficult to access than mainstays like Ao Nang and Railay, Tonsai Beach is a haven for travellers who prefer a laid-back vibe. Along the beach, budget-friendly accommodations and hippie bars cater to the eclectic mix of backpackers, climbers and slow-life travellers.
Tonsai is easily accessed via longtail taxi, and it’s also possible to walk over from Railay West, either through the water at low tide or over a short trail through the trees. While it’s possible to enjoy the sea at Tonsai, the current can be quite strong, so it’s probably not the best Krabi beach for swimming. Spend a day or more at this relaxed Krabi beach, and you’ll understand why it’s a favourite.
6. TubKaek Beach
Another off-the-beaten path gem is TubKaek (or Tub Kaek) beach. One of the most secluded beaches in Krabi, its soft white sand and turquoise waters also make it one of the most beautiful beaches in Krabi.
It’s a favourite sunset spot because of its surrounding rainforest and mountain landscape, and the sea view here presents the dramatic outlines of Hong Island and Koh Lao Lading.
For travellers looking to get closer to nature, TubKaek Beach is a must-see Krabi beach. Its location puts you at the doorstep of popular Krabi attractions like the Tab Kak Hang Nak nature trail, Hat Nopparat-Mu Koh Phi Phi National Park and the breathtaking Dragon Crest viewpoint.
The rocky sea floor at TubKaek Beach makes it less than ideal for swimming, but this also keeps the crowds away, making it one of the most secluded feeling and best beaches in Krabi.
TubKaek is accessible by taxi or motorbike, and the ride will take around 30 minutes. Since it is a little out of the way, travellers appreciate its unspoiled beauty and relaxing atmosphere. Amenities near the beach are a little more limited than at the more popular beaches in Krabi, but it’s easy to find dining options at the luxury resorts and budget hotels near the beach. If you are looking for one of the most quiet and peaceful beaches in Krabi, TubKaek may be the one.
7. Klong Muang Beach
Located north of Ao Nang, Klong Muang Beach is one of the best secluded Krabi beaches. It’s an idyllic and tranquil getaway that is perfect for solo contemplation, romantic relaxation with a loved one or a memorable day of Krabi beachcombing and shelling with the family. Its understated charm and local feel are great for travellers who want to experience Krabi’s crystal clear waters and clean, white sand away from the hustle and bustle of other tourists.
The vibe on Klong Muang Beach is very tranquil, and the boutique hotels and upscale resorts that dot the beach take nothing away from its appeal. This Krabi beach lends itself to long strolls, while cozy beach bars and restaurants featuring Southern Thai cuisine welcome wandering beachgoers.
Klong Muang Beach is just a quick 15-kilometre day trip from Ao Nang and Krabi town. Taxi or motorbike are the recommended ways to reach this relaxing spot that is easily one of the most romantic beaches in Krabi for couples.
8. Nopparat Thara Beach
Nopparat Thara Beach, sometimes written as Noppharathara Beach, is a tranquil 3-kilometre stretch of gorgeous sand located near the more lively Ao Nang Beach and all its conveniences. The relative calm of Nopparat Thara Beach makes it a great spot to check out for a day of relaxation and beachcombing. At low tide, the peaceful scene is even more enticing as sandbars and small islands emerge, begging to be explored.
Nopparat Thara Beach is the ideal place to spend a lazy day sunbathing, taking photos of the dramatic coastline and swimming in the crystalline sea. Adventurers may look for crabs, shore birds and other wildlife in the area, and it’s also possible to kayak among the dramatic trees in a nearby mangrove forest.
From Ao Nang, the allures of Nopparat Thara Beach can be easily accessed by a quick 15-minute walk, or by motorbike, taxi or songthaew. The road adjacent to the beach is lined with restaurants, bars and food stalls, so travellers can refresh themselves here without needing to return to Ao Nang. Farther up the beach, the area near the national park features fewer amenities, but this area boasts a uniquely calm and peaceful atmosphere, making it one of the best Krabi beach relaxation spots.
9. Koh Poda
Koh Poda is a very special, postcard-perfect island with a beach that feels like paradise on Earth. For travellers looking for the best places to visit in Krabi, Koh Poda is well worth the 6-8 kilometre longtail trip from the mainland. There are no resorts or restaurants on the island, so visitors can immerse themselves in the raw beauty of nature at one of the most scenic beaches in Krabi.
Koh Poda is a must-see spot in Krabi, especially for photographers looking to capture iconic shots of Southern Thailand’s charms. All the famous elements are present in colourful harmony: crystal turquoise waters gently rock the brilliantly decorated longtails as lush green vegetation and palms sway in a gentle breeze, the karst formations rising in the distance. Sunrises and sunsets are particularly epic from this peaceful island.
Koh Poda is perfect for strolling along the beach or for snorkelling. Its distinctive solitary limestone rock formation located just offshore provides a gorgeous backdrop for swimmers exploring vibrant coral reefs and other amazing marine life. Koh Poda is located within Haad Noppharatthara-Mu Koh Phi Phi National Park, an invaluable aquatic sanctuary.
Koh Poda is a featured stop on the popular 4 Islands Tour day trips from Ao Nang or Railay, but daytrippers can schedule a trip with most local longtail taxi boats. Since the island is a little out of the way and offers no amenities, travellers should bring food, water and everything they need and be sure to set up the details of their trip back to the mainland in advance. Bring back-up power, too, because Koh Poda is a perfect spot for some serious Krabi beach photography!
10. Pai Plong Beach
Pai Plong Beach is one of the most convenient beaches to visit for travellers staying near Ao Nang Beach. The beach is accessible by a quick longtail boat ride, but there is also a more adventurous way to get there.
The famous Monkey Trail offers an exciting experience in nature as families and vloggers alike spot wild macaques and make their way through the jungle along a trail and a wooden path — truly a unique Krabi experience!
The beach itself features the soft sand and dreamy clear-blue waters that make Krabi famous. It’s possible to rent kayaks and snorkelling gear if you’re up for exploring.
Pai Plong Beach is a little more secluded than neighbouring Ao Nang or the popular Railay Beach, so it’s the perfect spot to take in the picturesque Krabi beach views of sea, sky and cliffs away from the crowds. Visitors find the morning hours here particularly serene.
Pai Plong Beach is sometimes called Centara Beach, as that is the only hotel on this stretch of sand. Only hotel guests may use the restaurant, though, so if you want to spend a day here, be sure to bring your own food. Nevertheless, Pai Plong Beach is a wonderful option that isn’t too far from the heart of Krabi.
Finding the Perfect Krabi Beach
With so many unbelievably beautiful beaches, Krabi is easily one of the most amazing seaside destinations in the world. Hopefully this guide to Krabi beaches has helped you plan your Krabi itinerary, but remember: not only is it hard to make a bad choice, but you can always come back to Krabi to find your perfect beach!