Long-haul
Krabi and the Phi Phi Islands: cliffs, island tours and where to stay
The limestone cliffs glow orange at sunset, and longtail boats line up at the water’s edge. The best of Krabi and Phi Phi, and which beach to choose.
The limestone cliffs glow orange at sunset, and the longtail boats line up at the water’s edge with colourful ribbons round their bows. Some are packing up after the day’s island tour, others have already found a spot in the sand with a cold drink. Krabi is Thailand at its most dramatic.
The province has mainland beaches, islands in every direction and Phi Phi a short boat ride away. Here is what to do and where to stay.
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The best things to do in Krabi and Phi Phi
Railay and Phra Nang: the peninsula reachable only by boat, with a cave beach, climbing and a viewpoint.
Four islands tour: a longtail boat to Koh Poda, Chicken Island and the sandbar at Koh Tup, which appears at low tide.
Hong Islands: a lagoon surrounded by cliffs, great for kayaking and snorkelling.
Tiger Cave Temple: more than a thousand steps to the top and views over the whole province.
Phi Phi: the viewpoint over Phi Phi Don and a boat trip to Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon.
Ferries from Krabi to Phi Phi take about one and a half to two hours, and many people take a speedboat on a day trip.
Book the experience: See island tours and things to do in Krabi
Where to stay in Krabi
Ao Nang is the busy beach town with restaurants and boats in every direction. Railay is car-free and surrounded by cliffs. Tubkaek, north of Ao Nang, is the quietest and has some of the best resorts.
Tubkaek
Phulay Bay sits on Tubkaek beach north of Ao Nang.
Tubkaek: Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Phulay Bay sits on quiet Tubkaek beach, looking out at the karst islands of Phang Nga Bay. The pool seems to float straight into the sea, and in the evening the sunset is free of boat traffic.
It is one of the most exclusive resorts in Krabi, with several restaurants and plenty of space.
Book your stay: See rooms at Phulay Bay
Railay
Rayavadee sits between three beaches on Railay.
Railay: Rayavadee
Rayavadee sits on the Railay peninsula between Phra Nang beach and the cliffs. In the evening, once the day boats have left, it turns quiet and you have the cave beach almost to yourself.
The pavilions sit in a garden of coconut palms, and guests praise the staff.
Book your stay: See rooms at Rayavadee
Tubkaek: Banyan Tree Krabi
Banyan Tree Krabi is also at Tubkaek, with pool villas and sea views. It is a good choice for a honeymoon or for anyone who wants calm between island tours.
Book your stay: See rooms at Banyan Tree Krabi
Where to stay on Phi Phi
Tonsai village on Phi Phi Don is lively and can be noisy at night. For peace and quiet, stay on the northeast side.
Phi Phi Don
SAii Phi Phi has its own beach on the northeast side of the island.
Phi Phi Don: SAii Phi Phi Island Village
SAii sits on a long beach on the northeast side of Phi Phi Don, far from the parties in the village. Boats from Krabi or Phuket dock at the resort’s own pier.
From here you can book boat trips to Maya Bay and snorkelling, and in the evening all you hear is the waves.
Book your stay: See rooms at SAii Phi Phi
When is the best time to visit Krabi?
November to April is high season in Krabi and on Phi Phi, with calm seas, clear skies and good conditions for boat trips. May to October is the rainy season, with bigger waves and heavy showers, but also greener scenery and lower prices.
When should you book?
Christmas and New Year: book hotels four to six months ahead.
Island tours: can be booked a couple of days before, but go early to avoid the biggest boats.
Maya Bay: check whether the bay is open before booking a tour, as it closes at times.
Krabi and Phi Phi FAQ
Should you stay in Ao Nang or Railay?
Ao Nang is practical, with restaurants and boats in every direction. Railay is car-free and more beautiful, but more isolated. Tubkaek suits those who want quiet and an exclusive resort.
How do you get from Krabi to Phi Phi?
By ferry from Krabi Town or Ao Nang, which takes about one and a half to two hours. Speedboats are faster and often used for day trips.
Is Maya Bay open?
Maya Bay on Phi Phi Leh closes at times to let nature recover, and swimming is restricted. Check the status before booking a tour.
When is the best time for Krabi?
November to April is the dry, high season. May to October is the rainy season, with bigger waves but greener landscapes and lower prices.
Where should I stay in Krabi and on Phi Phi?
Stay at Phulay Bay or Banyan Tree at Tubkaek for peace, Rayavadee on Railay for the cliffs and SAii Phi Phi Island Village for a quiet beach on Phi Phi.