As a travel journalist, I’m always searching for unique places to stay in Krabi, Thailand. In this article, I’ll guide you through the top areas and properties, from lively Ao Nang to secluded Railay Beach, highlighting the best resorts, hotels, and hidden gems that provide convenient access to Krabi’s stunning islands, breathtaking views and outdoor adventures.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Krabi
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Rayavadee • Phulay Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve
- ✨ 5-Star: VARANA Hotel Krabi
- 🏨 4-Star: Deevana Krabi Resort • Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Aonang Viva Resort • Sand Sea Resort
- 💸 Cheap: Pak-Up Hostel
- 🏢 Apartment: Aonang Cliff Beach Resort
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort
- 🏩 For Couples: Phulay Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve • The Tubkaak Krabi Boutique Resort
Quick Guide to the Best Places to Stay in the Krabi
- 👀 For the First Time: Ao Nang
- 👪 For Families: Koh Lanta
- 🛍️ For Shopping: Krabi Town
- 🕊 For Nightlife: Ao Nang
- 🏖️ For Beach Lovers: Railay Beach, Phi Phi Islands
1. Ao Nang – Best Area in Krabi ⭐️
🏖️ Beach paradise: Ao Nang is the best area to stay for exploring Krabi’s stunning natural wonders. This lively town offers convenient access to Ao Nang Beach and is close to Krabi International Airport.
🛍️ Convenient hub: Ao Nang’s main strip offers a variety of Thai restaurants, bars, tour agencies, night markets and shops. Budget-friendly accommodation is available in the heart of it all.
🚶 Walkable town: Ao Nang is walkable, stretching along the main beach road. Songthaews and tuk-tuks are available for longer journeys away from Ao Nang.
🍲 Foodie heaven: Ao Nang offers diverse dining options, from street stalls to beachfront restaurants, serving delicious Thai cuisine.
Where To Stay in Ao Nang?
⭐ Best Hotels in Ao Nang
- Nakamanda Resort & Spa – This stylish beachfront resort blew me away with its stunning views over a private bay. The serene atmosphere and heartfelt service made it feel like a true escape from the crowds.
- Rayavadee – Is an absolute paradise. It is surrounded by coconut groves and have direct access to a pristine beach. I loved the unique design inspired by southern Thai architecture.
- VARANA Hotel Krabi – This sleek 5-star hotel offered top-notch amenities like a huge outdoor swimming pool, spa, and multiple restaurants.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Whalecome Aonang Resort – this 3-star resort punches above its weight with a massive pool, lush gardens, and family-friendly vibe just steps from Ao Nang Beach.
- Palm Kiri Aonang Resort – I loved the modern, minimalist hotel at this resort surrounded by tropical gardens. The location was perfect – a quiet area but still walking distance to restaurants.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Nomads Ao Nang – This fun social hostel has an awesome pool scene with foam parties and live DJs. But it’s not just a party place – the tours and activities give you an authentic Thai experience.
- Sea Beach Hostel & Club – You can’t beat the location right on Ao Nang Beach. This lively hostel has both dorms and private beach bungalows plus a fun bar and club.
- TAN Hostel x Cafe – A modern hostel with stylish decor, co-working spaces, and an excellent on-site cafe. It’s just a short stroll from the beach and restaurants.
2. Railay Beach: Discover the Best Area to Stay for Adventure Seekers in Thailand
🏝️ Hidden gem: Railay Beach is one of the best areas to visit in Krabi. This stunning peninsula is accessible only by boat, making it the best place to stay away from the crowds in Ao Nang.
🧗 Climber’s paradise: Railay attracts rock climbers from around the world, but you don’t have to be a climber to enjoy the incredible views and natural wonders just minutes away from the beach.
🤿 Outdoor thrills: Railay’s beaches like Phra Nang and Tonsai are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring hidden lagoons and caves. When visiting Krabi, take a boat to Railay Beach and enjoy the stunning views along the way.
Where To Stay In Railay Beach?
⭐ Best Hotels in Railay Beach
- Rayavadee – Rayavadee was an absolute paradise on the secluded Railay peninsula. The luxurious two-story pavilions are surrounded by coconut groves and have direct access to a pristine beach. I loved the unique design inspired by southern Thai architecture.
- Bhu Nga Thani Resort & Spa – This 5-star beachfront resort blew me away with its stunning infinity pools overlooking Railay East Beach. The service and amenities like the spa were top-notch.
- Sand Sea Resort – A tranquil oasis right on Railay West, one of the quieter beaches. This modern hotel have private pools and the resort’s infinity pool overlooks the stunning bay.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Railay Phutawan Resort – This family-run 3-star hotel offers excellent value with its modern yet affordable houses surrounded by lush gardens. The location between Railay’s East and West beaches is very convenient.
- Avatar Railay Resort – I loved the unique setting of this resort built into the limestone cliffs. The clean, modern rooms have balconies with stunning views over Railay Beach.
- Railay Garden View Resort – Offering rustic accommodations surrounded by nature, Railay Garden View Resort features hillside bungalows on the eastern coast of Railay. It provides free Wi-Fi throughout the property.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Sea Beach Hostel & Club – Featuring a private beach area, the hostel is close to several noted attractions, around a few steps from Ao Nang Beach. The property has nightclub and free WiFi throughout the property.
- KOKO Party Hostel – Located in Ao Nang Beach and with Ao Nang Beach reachable within a 3-minute walk, KOKO Party Hostel provides a tour desk, non-smoking rooms, a garden, free WiFi throughout the property and a bar.
- Nomads Ao Nang – Located in Ao Nang Beach, a 8-minute walk from Nopparat Thara Beach, Nomads Ao Nang provides accommodations with a garden, free private parking and a bar.
3. Phi Phi Islands – The Best Place to Stay for Families 🏝️
🏝️ Island paradise: The Phi Phi Islands, located in the Krabi province in Thailand, are one of the best areas to visit for families seeking an idyllic island escape.
🌴 Tropical bliss: Accessible by boat from Ao Nang, the Phi Phi Islands offer a tropical paradise with stunning views of Krabi’s coastline. Explore iconic spots like Maya Bay and enjoy snorkeling hotspots around Phi Phi Leh.
🐠 Underwater wonders: The Phi Phi Islands offer some of the best snorkeling and diving in Krabi, perfect for families with children who love exploring marine life.
Where To Stay in Phi Phi Islands?
⭐ Best Hotels in Phi Phi Islands, Krabi
- Paradise Pearl Bungalows Phi Phi Harbour View Hotel – Features a garden, terrace, restaurant and free WiFi
- Zeavola Resort – This charming retreat is a jungle resort and themed to be a Thai Village from over 30 years ago, without missing all the amenities and services of a characteristic 5 Star Hotel.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- P.P. Casita – Don’t let the affordable rates fool you – P.P. Casita offers excellent value with its modern, stylish rooms just steps from the beach. The rooftop pool was a highlight.
- Dee Dee Sea Front – I loved the beachfront location and laidback vibe of this simple but charming hotel right on Loh Dalum Beach. The sea view rooms are worth the modest splurge.
- Viking Nature Resort – Set amid lush gardens, Viking Nature Resort gives a tranquil escape just a short walk from the beach. The bungalows are basic but clean and well-priced.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Ivory Hostel – This modern boutique hostel exceeded all my expectations with its stylish design, social vibe, and prime location just minutes from the beach.
- Blanco Beach Bar – You can’t beat the setting of this fun party hostel right on the beach. I loved the lively bar and beach club scene, but the dorms were still quiet for sleeping.
- Hangover Hostel – Hangover has a great social atmosphere with lots of opportunities to meet other travelers. The friendly owner adds to the hostel’s charm and homey vibe.
4. Krabi Town – The Main City with Local Life 🌆
🚶♀️ Riverside strolls: Wander along the Krabi River and side streets to experience the local atmosphere, passing street food vendors and colorful shophouses, all within walking distance of the town center.
🍲 Authentic eats: it is a foodie paradise, offering some of the best Thai street food in the area, perfect for families looking to sample delicious local dishes.
🌃 Local vibe: it offers a laid-back local atmosphere, making it the absolute best place to stay in Krabi for families looking to experience the “real” Thailand. It’s definitely worth splitting your time between the city and the beaches for a full Krabi experience.
Where To Stay in Krabi Town?
⭐ Best Hotels
- The Apex Private Pool Villa Krabi This luxury villa complex features accommodation with mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking. Guests can make use of the year-round outdoor pool or the terrace, or enjoy views of the pool and garden.
- Anana Ecological Resort Krabi The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk, room service and luggage storage for guests.
- The Shell Sea Boasting an unsurpassed spa experience and sauna for guests’ casual enjoyment, the resort features an outdoor pool overlooking the views of the sea.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Simple House Ao Nang B&B This 3-star hotel provides accommodation with terrace, around 1.9 km from Ao Nang Beach. The bed and breakfast features rooms with air conditioning, free private parking and free WiFi.
- Sita Krabi Hotel provides accommodation with a shared lounge, free private parking and a terrace. Built in 2018, this 3-star hotel is within 3.4 km of Thara Park and 4.7 km of Krabi Stadium.
- Aonang Inn Aonang Inn offers a restaurant, non-smoking rooms, free WiFi throughout the property and a bar.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Pak-Up Hostel Guests can enjoy a variety of beverages at the bar or arrange for massage treatments at the front desk. Hostel Pak-Up is 15-minute drive from the airport.
- Chanchalay Hip Hostel SHA Extra Plus Set 600 metres from Wat Kaew Korawaram, the hostel offers 2-star accommodation, free WiFi and has a garden, a shared lounge and a restaurant.
- 8 SLEEPER STREET Hostel The hostel offers express check-in and check-out, allergy-free rooms, a shared lounge, free WiFi and a terrace.
5. Koh Lanta – Perfect for Families 🏖️
🏖️ Family-friendly: Koh Lanta, a beach in Krabi, is ideal for families seeking a relaxing vacation with kids. It offers quiet beaches, hiking trails, and water activities.
🌴 Peaceful shores: Klong Dao Beach is perfect for little ones to play. Mu Ko Lanta National Park offers hiking and wildlife spotting.
🌊 Island escape: Koh Lanta is the best place to stay for families visiting Krabi, with stunning scenery, activities, and easy beach access. It’s a short drive from Krabi Airport, making it convenient for families.
Where To Stay In Koh Lanta?
⭐ Best Hotels in Koh Lanta
- The Houben - Adult Only This stunning adult-only hotel offers luxurious villas with private pools and breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea. The resort features a beautiful infinity pool and a restaurant serving delicious Thai and international cuisine.
- Pimalai Resort & Spa - SHA Extra Plus An elegant and luxurious property overlooking the azure waters of the Andaman Sea. The resort boasts spacious rooms with private balconies, several leisure facilities, including an infinity pool and a fitness center.
- Layana Resort & Spa - Adult Only - SHA Extra Plus This adult-only resort is surrounded by tropical greenery and offers a serene and romantic atmosphere. The resort features an outdoor infinity pool and beautifully appointed rooms with modern amenities.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Lanta Lapaya Resort This charming hotel offers comfortable rooms and bungalows set in a tropical garden, just a short walk from Long Beach.
- LaLaanta Hideaway Resort Surrounded by tropical forest, this resort has private beachfront, 2 swimming pools free WiFi access throughout and is near the national park.
- Coco Lanta Resort This 3-star resort offers modern air-conditioned rooms. Approximately 9 km from Saladan Centre, the resort is equipped with an outdoor pool, massage service and free Wi-Fi.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Aha Lanta Cozy Hostel This modern and stylish hostel is located just a 5-minute walk from the beautiful Kantiang Bay. The hostel offers comfortable cabin-style beds, a delicious breakfast, and a great atmosphere for socializing with other travelers.
- Blanco Hostel Lanta Situated just a 2-minute walk from Long Beach, Blanco Hostel Lanta offers cozy dormitory-style rooms with free WiFi. The hostel features a garden area with hammocks, perfect for relaxing and mingling with other guests.
- Hub of Joys Hostel Located just a short walk from Long Beach, Hub of Joys Hostel offers comfortable dormitory-style rooms with air conditioning and free WiFi. The hostel features a shared lounge, a restaurant, and a tour desk to help guests make the most of their stay on Koh Lanta.
6. Tubkaek Beach – Ideal for Couples 🏝️
🌴 Serene shores: This beach offers access to turquoise waters and fine sand, surrounded by luxurious hotels. Couples can take day trips to nearby islands.
👩❤️👨 Couples’ retreat: Tubkaek provides a sense of being in a private paradise, making it an ideal place to stay in Krabi for couples seeking a romantic getaway.
🚗 Best of both: Despite its secluded feel, Tubkaek is just a short drive from Ao Nang, allowing couples to explore the area around Krabi while staying on a budget.
💫 Romantic bliss: Tubkaek Beach offers the ultimate romantic escape in Krabi, with the convenience of being on the mainland and close to Krabi Airport.
Where To Stay In Tubkaek Beach?
⭐ Best Hotels in Tubkaek Beach
- Amari Vogue Krabi Nestled on the pristine Tubkaek Beach, Amari Vogue Krabi offers a luxurious escape with stunning views of the Andaman Sea and lush mountains. The resort features elegant Thai-inspired rooms and suites and beachfront infinity pool.
- The Tubkaak Krabi Boutique Resort It is a hidden gem on the secluded Tubkaek Beach, offering a tranquil and intimate atmosphere. The resort boasts beautifully designed rooms and villas with private pools.
- Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve An eco-friendly luxury resort that seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings. The hotel offers spacious and elegantly appointed villas with private pools.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Krabi Home Resort Located along Khlong Muang Beach, a 15-minute drive to the entertainment area at Ao Nang Beach. The resort offers an outdoor pool, free WiFi 6 available in all rooms, public areas and a restaurant.
- Krabi Nemo House It is a charming beachside hotel offering simple yet comfortable rooms with balconies overlooking the Andaman Sea. The hotel has a laid-back atmosphere, a beachfront restaurant, and comfortable access to the quiet Tubkaek Beach.
- Tubkaek mansion Just a 8-minute walk from Tubkaek beach and 0.6 miles from Laem Bong Beach, Tubkaek mansion features accommodations in Tab Kaek Beach with a garden, terrace, free private parking, and free Wifi.
FAQs About Trip To Krabi
Which is the best part of Krabi to stay in?
The best areas to stay in Krabi are Ao Nang, Railay Beach, and Tubkaek Beach. Ao Nang is the most popular area, offering simple access to beaches, nightlife, and activities. Railay Beach is one of the most beautiful places, with stunning limestone cliffs and a secluded paradise feel. Tubkaek Beach is perfect for couples looking for a relaxing, romantic getaway with luxury resorts and private beaches.
Where is the most beautiful part of Krabi?
Railay Beach is considered one of the most beautiful areas in Krabi, with its dramatic limestone cliffs, pristine white sand beaches, and clear turquoise waters. It’s only accessible by boat, adding to its secluded and adventurous allure. Railay is a paradise for rock climbers and offers incredible viewpoints, caves, and lagoons to explore.
What is the most popular area of Krabi?
Ao Nang is the most popular area to stay in Krabi, especially for first-time visitors. It’s a vibrant beach town with convenient access to stunning beaches like Ao Nang Beach and Nopparat Thara Beach. Ao Nang offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly to luxury resorts, as well as restaurants, bars, and nightlife.
