✅ Where to Stay in Krabi: Best Areas and Hotels (2024)

Updated: December 18, 2024

Krabi is one of the top destinations in southern Thailand, famous for its dreamy beaches and stunning landscapes. Even more importantly, it’s the gateway to Thailand’s most beautiful islands, including the Phi Phi Islands.

If you’re planning a trip to this area, you’re probably wondering where to stay in Krabi. In this guide, I’ll share the best areas to stay in mainland Krabi, each with something unique to offer depending on what you’re looking for. I’ve also included hotel recommendations for every budget.

If you’re short on time, my top picks are Krabi Heritage in Ao Nang and Anawin if you’re after something budget-friendly and well-located.

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Where to Sleep in Krabi

1. Ao Nang: The Most Popular Area

Ao Nang is probably the best place to stay in Krabi if you want convenience and plenty of options. It has everything—restaurants, shops, bars, and a wide variety of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury resorts.

The main reason to choose Ao Nang is its practicality. Most day tours to the islands like Phi Phi and Hong depart from here. It’s also a great choice if you’re looking for a lively nightlife scene.

Ao Nang is divided into two main areas: Ao Nang Beach and the town. Ao Nang Beach is where you’ll find mid-to-high-priced beachfront resorts, perfect for a relaxing stay. The town area offers more variety and is close to everything. Since Ao Nang is relatively small, renting a scooter is an easy way to get around.

Check out Ao Nang hotel deals here

Recommended Hotels in Ao Nang

Ao Nang Beach

€€€ €: Aonang Princeville: A boutique resort just steps from the beach, with spacious villas, a pool, and a spa.
€€ €: The L Resort: A modern boutique hotel featuring large rooms, two pools, and a beachfront restaurant.
€ Aonang Viva Resort: Well-located with comfortable rooms.
€ Fullmoon Beachresort: Beachfront in a peaceful area.

Ao Nang Town

€€€ Krabi Heritage: Centrally located with comfortable rooms, a pool, and easy access to the beach and town. During low season, I’ve paid as little as €30 per night!
€€€ Pakasai Resort: An eco-friendly resort with rooms surrounded by tropical gardens, an infinity pool, and excellent service.
€ Anawin: Basic bungalows with all the essentials and a fantastic location.

2. Railay: A Paradise Between Cliffs

Railay is Krabi’s crown jewel, only accessible by boat because of the dramatic cliffs that surround it. If you’re looking for a peaceful spot immersed in nature, Railay is perfect. To be honest, it’s my favorite place in Krabi.

From Railay, you can take speedboats to Phi Phi. If you’re planning to travel by ferry, though, you’ll need to go through Ao Nang.

Railay has two main areas: Railay West and Railay East. Railay West is where you’ll find the best beaches and the most luxurious hotels, while Railay East is more affordable with a chill vibe, perfect for backpackers.

Check out hotel deals in Railay here

Recommended Hotels in Railay

€€€€€ : Rayavadee: A luxury resort surrounded by nature with exceptional service and direct beach access. Perfect for a special occasion, like a honeymoon. 😍
€€€€ : Railay Village: A relaxing hotel with comfortable rooms and direct beach access.
€ : Railay Garden View: Simple cabins with jungle views—a charming, budget-friendly option.

3. Tonsai: Perfect for Rock Climbing

Tonsai is ideal if you love rock climbing or want to experience a laid-back, bohemian vibe. Although it’s very close to Railay, you can only get there by boat or by hiking from Railay—a trail that’s not for everyone.

This area is famous for its impressive cliffs and alternative atmosphere, where climbers and backpackers come together.

That said, keep in mind that accommodations in Tonsai are generally quite basic. If you’re looking for a relaxed environment, though, it’s a fantastic choice for where to stay in Krabi.

Check out hotel deals in Tonsai here

Recommended Hotels in Tonsai

€€€: Tinidee Hideaway Tonsai: A beachfront resort with elegant rooms and a stunning natural setting.
€€: Tonsai Bay: A comfortable seaside resort with a laid-back atmosphere and great facilities.
€: Garden View Tonsai: VERY basic, budget-friendly bungalows in a natural setting, offering a simple and peaceful stay.

4. Tubkaek: Luxury and Tranquility

Tubkaek (also spelled Tab Kaek Beach) is ideal if you’re looking for a peaceful escape surrounded by nature and breathtaking scenery.

This area is home to some of Krabi’s most exclusive resorts, making it perfect for a romantic getaway or simply disconnecting on a quiet, mostly deserted beach.

Check out the hotel deals in Tub Kaek here

Recommended Hotels in Tub Kaek

€€€€€: Banyan Tree Krabi: A luxury resort known for its outstanding service.
€€€€ : Amari Vogue Krabi: A high-end resort with direct beach access.
€ €€: Krabi Home: A cozy resort with charming cabins and beach views.

5. Nopparat Thara: Peace Close to Ao Nang

If you want to stay near the action in Ao Nang but prefer a quieter setting, Nopparat Thara is a great choice. The beach is long, peaceful, and much less crowded than Ao Nang.

This area works well if you don’t mind driving or taking a taxi to Ao Nang for dining and nightlife. Plus, Nopparat Thara is a starting point for several boat tours, making it a convenient base for exploring nearby islands.

Check out hotel deals in Nopparat Thara here

Recommended Hotels in Nopparat Thara

€€€€€: Poonsiri Varich: Private villas with pools in a serene, nature-filled environment.
€€: Centara Anda Dhevi: A resort with elegant rooms, multiple pools, and a spa. This is one of my favorite options. 👍
€: Loma Place: Budget-friendly accommodation with basic rooms in a quiet spot near the beach.

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6. Pai Plong Beach: The Hidden Gem Near Ao Nang

Pai Plong Beach is a peaceful hidden gem just a short distance from Ao Nang. Separated by a scenic cliffside path called the “Monkey Trail,” it offers a quiet retreat while staying close to the lively town.

This small beach is home to a single luxury resort, Centara Grand Beach, which occupies the entire area. It’s an excellent option if you want tranquility without being too far from Ao Nang.

Recommended Hotel in Pai Plong Beach

€€€€ : Centara Grand Beach: An exclusive resort with direct beach access, top-notch amenities, and great seasonal rates.

7. Krabi Town: For a Local Experience

Krabi Town is perfect if you’re after an authentic and less touristy experience. Although it’s not by the beach, it’s a budget-friendly option and a great place to soak in the local vibe.

Here, you’ll find the best night market in Krabi, traditional Thai restaurants, and a more relaxed nightlife. It’s also conveniently located near the airport and main bus station, making it a practical base for exploring the region or heading to other parts of southern Thailand.

Check out hotel deals in Krabi here

Recommended Hotels in Krabi Town

€: The River Scene: A well-located hotel near the river, with modern and comfortable rooms.
€: Sleep Whale: Affordable accommodation with clean, cozy rooms and excellent value for money.

👍 Friend's tip: If you’re visiting Thailand during high season (December to March), I recommend booking your stay a few months in advance. The best accommodations at great prices sell out quickly!

Map of Places to Stay in Krabi

Final Thoughts

I hope this guide on where to stay in Krabi helps you decide. Whether you're looking for luxury, tranquility, or adventure, Krabi has something for every taste and budget. Enjoy this slice of Thai paradise!

In this guide to Thailand you can keep reading the main articles I’ve written about this beautiful country.

If you have any questions, leave me a comment below and I'll help you as much as I can. If you found the article useful, share it with other travelers. Have a good trip! 😘

More about Krabi and Thailand

Andrea Rodriguez

Hello, I’m Andrea, the creator and writer of Viajeros Activos (Active Travelers). I’m a nomad, so I consider myself a full-time traveler. I’m passionate about good food and always looking for new adventures.