If you’re trying to figure out where to stay in Krabi Thailand, this guide will tell you all about the best areas to stay in Krabi for families, couples, solo travelers, or backpackers.
I’ve visited Krabi multiple times and stayed in a different location during each visit so I know the area pretty well. It’s my favorite province in Thailand mainly due to all its gorgeous beaches, limestone cliffs, and adventure-packed activities.
Krabi is great for any type of traveler with Ao Nang being the perfect base for first-time visitors and families since it’s located near the beach and islands.
Klong Muang, on the other hand, is quieter and thus ideal for couples looking for a relaxing getaway while Krabi Town is your best bet for finding cheap accommodations.
So if you’re visiting soon, here’s a detailed guide to the best places to stay in Krabi Thailand and my top hotel recommendations grouped by area and budget.
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Read more about Krabi:
- 20 Unique things to see and do in Krabi
- Guide to spending 4 days in Krabi
- Best Krabi beaches + map
- Best islands around Krabi
- 8 Awesome day trips and Krabi tours to take
- Best places to visit in Krabi Town
- Khao Sok floating bungalows travel guide
Overview of the Best Places to Stay in Krabi
In this guide, I’ll explain in detail what area is best to stay in Krabi and my top hotel recommendations.
I’ll also tell you all the best things to do in each area as well as how to get there so you can decide if it’s convenient for you to stay there.
But before diving deeper into this guide, here’s a quick overview of the best places to stay in Krabi:
Ao Nang: Best for families and first-time visitors with lots of facilities and easy access to the beach and islands – Centara Ao Nang Beach Hotel
Railay: Best for island vibes with both relaxing and adventure-packed activities – Sand Sea Resort
Klong Muang: Best for couples and honeymooners looking for peace and quiet – Dusit Thani Resort
Krabi Town: Best for backpackers looking for cheap hotels and great food – Pak Up Hostel
Koh Phi Phi: Best for nightlife and those wishing to visit Maya Bay – Phi Phi Harbour View Hotel
Nopparat Thara: Best place to avoid the crowds but still with lots of facilities- Holiday Ao Nang Beach Resort
Related post: Ultimate guide to Krabi’s top 20 attractions
Ao Nang – Best Place to Stay in Krabi for families and first-timers
For those wishing to stay within walking distance of the beach and take island hopping trips, Ao Nang is definitely the best area to stay in Krabi Thailand.
It’s particularly great for first-time visitors since you can easily explore all the top Krabi attractions from Ao Nang like the 4 Island hopping tour, Railay Beach, and Hong Island.
You can also hang out on one of the many Ao Nang beaches, visit the Tiger Cave Temple, swim in the Emerald Pool and Krabi Hot Springs, or hike the Tab Kak Hang Nak Hill trail.
Another reason why Ao Nang is one of the best places to stay in Krabi is its ease of access. You can easily get from Krabi Airport to Ao Nang in less than 45 minutes and it should cost about 150 baht for a shared mini-van or 500 baht for a taxi.
Getting around is also easy thanks to the public bus (50-150 baht per trip) that runs every 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can hire a tuk tuk or Grab taxi or rent a motorbike (luckily there isn’t a lot of traffic, so it’s easy to drive around).
Ao Nang has lots of restaurants from international joints like McDonald’s and Burger King to local restaurants and night markets selling cheap and delicious Thai food.
It’s also a cheap shopping haven thanks to its numerous shops lining the main street. And finally, Ao Nang has no shortage of accommodations from budget to luxury resorts as well as family-friendly hotels.
Below are my recommendations for where to stay in Ao Nang.
Luxury Hotels in Ao Nang:
Centara Grand Beach Resort – If you’re wondering where to stay in Krabi for couples, this beachfront hotel with an infinity pool set on the secluded Pai Plong beach (located beside Ao Nang beach) is the perfect choice. It also features a private pool beachfront villa for those wanting to splurge for a special occasion.
Ao Nang Cliff Resort – Located along Ao Nang main street, about 500 m from the beach and close to many restaurants and bars. Its main draw is the infinity pool with a panoramic view of Ao Nang. Their family room has an extra bed if you’re traveling with a child.
Family Friendly Hotels in Ao Nang:
Centara Ao Nang Beach – 100 m from the beach. Spacious rooms with some of them overlooking the ocean. The hotel also has a kid’s club so it’s great for families with small children.
The L Resort Krabi – Located less than 10 m from the beach. The family suite can accommodate up to 2 adults and 2 children and has a kitchenette. It also features a swimming pool.
Mid-Range Hotels in Ao Nang:
Wake Up Ao Nang – Located along the main street about 200 m from the beach with beautifully decorated private rooms overlooking the mountains or ocean. They also have mixed and female-only dorms.
Golden Beach Resort – Reasonably-priced hotel located about 20 m from the beach with a swimming pool surrounded by palm trees and sun loungers.
BlueSotel Smart Krabi – Adult-only hotel located about 300 m from the beach. It features a rooftop infinity pool with an amazing ocean view. Some of the rooms can accommodate up to 4 adults.
Budget Hotels in Ao Nang:
Seaworld Guesthouse – 200 m from the beach. For less than US$ 20 per night, you get a private room with double or twin beds, seating area, fan, mini-fridge, bathroom, and balcony.
J Hotel – 300 m from the beach. Upper rooms have a view of the mountains and ocean. They have either fan or air-con rooms.
Amorn Mansion – 350 m from the beach. Rooms are equipped with TV, mini-fridge, air-con, and private bathroom.
Hostels in Ao Nang:
Pop-In Hostel – 1 km from the beach. It has mixed and female-only dorms with curtains on each bed. It’s not a party hostel so you can have a peaceful sleep at night.
Fiesta Hostel – Less than 10 m from the beach. It features mixed and female-only dorms as well as private rooms.
TAN Hostel – 750 m from the beach. It has mixed and female-only dorms with curtains on each bed. Great for meeting other backpackers.
Zleepingpills – 900 m from the beach. It has mixed and female-only dorms with curtains on each bed.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN AO NANG
Railay Beach – Best for Island Vibes
Take a boat to Railay beach from Ao Nang and in less than 15 minutes, you’ll arrive at the most postcard-worthy beach with soaring karst cliffs, powdery sand, and turquoise waters.
Railay is one of the top day trips to take from Krabi and features four unique beaches namely Railay West, Railay East, Tonsai, and Phra Nang beach.
While it’s not an island, it definitely feels like one. You can only get around on foot as there’s no public transportation but luckily Railay is very walkable.
It can get pretty busy but once all the day-trippers have left, you’ll have this little slice of paradise almost all to yourself.
Related post: Full list of the most beautiful beaches in Krabi
The most popular thing to do here is rock climbing but you can also kayak between the limestone formations, hike to the viewpoints, visit the Diamond Cave, swim and snorkel with the colorful fish, or simply relax on the beach. Island hopping tours can also be taken from Railay.
The availability of restaurants and bars makes Railay one of the top locations to stay in Krabi but keep in mind that prices are slightly higher compared to Ao Nang.
Hotels as well are slightly more expensive but if you’re on a budget, you can find cheap hostels and hotels on Tonsai beach while the more upscale resorts can be found on the other three beaches.
Just make sure to book your hotel well in advance as there aren’t that many options in Railay.
Below are my recommendations for where to stay in Railay.
Luxury Hotel in Railay:
Rayavadee – Located on Railay East, these luxurious villas nestled in the jungle are perfect for couples and honeymooners.
Mid-Range Hotels in Railay:
Avatar Railay – Located on Railay East, less than a 5-minute walk from the pier. It’s an adult-only hotel so great for couples.
Sand Sea Resort – Located on the west side, next to all the restaurants and bars, this beachfront hotel features a beautiful swimming pool and spacious rooms.
Family Friendly Hotel in Railay:
Railay Bay Resort – This beautiful resort has a swimming pool overlooking Railay West. The luxury pool villa can accommodate two adults and one child.
Best Budget Hotels in Railay:
Rapala Rock Wood Resort – Cheap but great value for money with restaurants and bars nearby.
Chill Out Bar and Bungalows – These rustic bungalows are located in a quiet section of Tonsai and are among the cheapest ones you’ll find.
Hostel in Railay:
Blanco Hideout Railay – Great social vibes with lots of activities on offer. Some of the dorm rooms have an ensuite bathroom. Towels are included in the room rate.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN RAILAY
Krabi Town – Best Place to Stay in Krabi on a budget
If you’re looking for a cheap place to stay in Krabi, look no further than Krabi Town. It takes only about 25 minutes to get to Krabi Town from the airport.
It’s much smaller and less touristy than Ao Nang but still offers a nice selection of cheap hostels and hotels, making it popular among backpackers.
You might be asking yourself “is it better to stay in Krabi Town or Ao Nang?” Well, the important thing to know is that Krabi Town isn’t located near the beach and while you can still take day trips to the islands from there, the journey will take much longer.
So if don’t mind staying away from the beach, Krabi Town should be a good option for you.
One of the main reasons why some people stay in Krabi Town is to visit the Krabi Night Market which takes place in the evening from Fridays to Sundays.
Khao Khanap Nam Cave, Pak Nam River waterfront, and Wat Kaeo Korawaram temple are also some of the best things to see in Krabi Town.
Below are my recommendations for where to stay in Krabi Town.
Hostels in Krabi Town:
Pak Up Hostel – This is hands-down the best place to stay in Krabi for backpackers. It’s located along the main road, within walking distance of Krabi Night Market and tourist attractions. It features mixed and female-only dorms with curtains and free breakfast is also included. Great social vibes – they organize group trips to Tiger Cave Temple for 150 baht only.
The Guest Hotel – Clean hotel featuring private rooms as well as mixed and female-only dorms. Also close to the night market.
Budget Hotels in Krabi Town:
Lada Krabi Express – Great budget hotel with air-con located less than 400 m from the night market. The family room can accommodate up to 4 adults.
OYO 1118 KL Boutique Hotel – It features double and twin rooms with air-con, private bathroom, mini-fridge, and kettle.
Mid-Range Hotel in Krabi Town
The Brown Hotel – Centrally-located hotel with a modern design. The triple room is great for groups or families and has a balcony and seating area.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN KRABI TOWN
Klong Muang – Where to Stay in Krabi for Couples
If you’re wondering what part of Krabi is best to stay for couples, look no further than Klong Muang beach.
It’s located about a 20-minute drive from Ao Nang. The beach is about 2 km long with only a few resorts lining down the beachfront area, making it very peaceful and quiet.
You can find a good selection of restaurants along the main road and a few directly on the beach as well. For those on a budget, you can eat at the local food stalls found near the beach entrance.
The best thing to do here is swimming and relaxing on the beach. The ocean is calm and crystal-clear, and since it isn’t too deep, it’s ideal for kids.
You can also take an island hopping tour from Klong Muang with the most popular one being Hong Island since it’s located nearby or hike the Tab Kak Hang Nak trail (also known as Dragon Crest Mountain).
Below are my recommendations for where to stay in Klong Muang.
Luxury Hotels in Klong Muang:
Dusit Thani Resort – A 5-star luxury property situated on a quiet section of the beach with spacious and modern rooms. It’s also family-friendly with the availability of a kid’s club.
Nakamanda Resort & Spa – Affordable beachfront resort with individual villas and a huge swimming pool overlooking the ocean.
Mid-Range Hotels in Klong Muang:
Beyond Resort Krabi – Beachfront property with excellent value for money. Features an outdoor swimming pool, double rooms with sea view, and individual villas.
Anyavee Krabi Beach Resort – Bamboo bungalows only a couple of steps from the beach and equipped with air-con, TV, mini-fridge, and a private bathroom. Some room types can accommodate up to 4 adults.
Budget Hotels in Klong Muang:
JR Place – A clean and cozy guesthouse with a swimming pool located about 700 m from the beach and close to restaurants and convenience stores.
The Beach At Klong Muang – Budget accommodation with double or twin rooms and a swimming pool also located within walking distance of the beach.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN KLONG MUANG
Koh Phi Phi – Best Area in Krabi for Nightlife
The island of Koh Phi Phi might not be everyone’s cup of tea but it sure is the best area to stay in Krabi for those who love to party.
The main strip is lined with party hostels and you’ll also find beach clubs organizing parties almost every day on Loh Dalum beach.
But even if you’re not a party animal, Koh Phi Phi is still a great place to visit. There are lots of beautiful white-sand beaches on Phi Phi like Maya Bay and activities such as snorkeling, island hopping, or hiking to the viewpoint.
Just keep in mind that since Koh Phi Phi is very popular, everything is much more expensive, at times, 2-3 times more compared to Ao Nang.
Daily ferries and speedboats are available from Ao Nang to Koh Phi Phi or you can also travel from Phuket, Koh Yao Noi, or Koh Lanta by boat. Be sure to read my guide to getting to Koh Phi Phi from Krabi for more details.
If you want a good night’s sleep, it’s best to stay away from the main strip where most of the restaurants and bars are found. There are a few quiet hotels located near the viewpoint but be warned that you’ll have to walk up several steps to reach them.
Below are my recommendations for where to stay in Koh Phi Phi.
Luxury Hotel in Koh Phi Phi:
SAii Phi Phi Island Village – Located on a private beach on the north coast, this luxury hotel is very peaceful and quiet. Families with children can book the 2-bedroom bungalow.
Mid-Range Hotels in Koh Phi Phi:
PP Blue Sky Resort – Beachfront property located on Long beach, on the east coast. Rooms are well equipped with air-con, mini-fridge, TV, and private bathroom.
U Rip Resort – Beachfront property situated about a 15-minute walk from Tonsai pier. It features modern rooms with a private bathroom and a swimming pool.
Family Friendly Hotel in Koh Phi Phi:
Phi Phi Harbour View Hotel – Located 1 minute away from the pier with lots of restaurants nearby. Massive swimming pool. Their triple room has an extra single bed for families with kids.
Budget Hotel in Koh Phi Phi:
Blue View House – Cheap and quiet hotel located near the viewpoint with a private balcony overlooking Tonsai and Loh Dalum beach. Located at the end of very steep stairs. Luckily they provide free pick-up from the pier.
Hostel in Koh Phi Phi:
Sweed Dee Hostel – Cheap hostel located on Loh Dalum beach, a bit away from the center so not too loud at night.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN KOH PHI PHI
Nopparat Thara – Best Quiet Place in Krabi
For those who feel that Ao Nang is too busy, I recommend staying on Nopparat Thara Beach.
It’s located about a 20-minute walk or 5-minute drive from Ao Nang. You can easily get there by taking the public bus. Shared mini-vans and taxis are also available from the airport.
I stayed in this area the first time I visited Krabi and it was very quiet but still had all the necessary facilities like hotels, shops, restaurants, night markets, and convenience stores.
Although the beach isn’t the best for swimming, the sunset here is absolutely spectacular. Plus, you can walk to the nearby islands when the tide is low.
If you’re planning to travel to Koh Yao Noi or Koh Phi Phi, you can take the boat directly at Nopparat Thara pier.
Below are my recommendations for where to stay in Nopparat Thara.
Mid-Range/Family Friendly Hotels in Nopparat Thara:
Holiday Ao Nang Beach Resort – Located right across the beach, the hotel features three swimming pools, including one with water slides for kids. They also have a kid’s club and a separate unit for couples.
Budget Hotel in Nopparat Thara:
Buri Tara Resort – Located less than a 5-minute walk from the beach. It features a swimming pool and spacious rooms, each with a private bathroom, mini-fridge, TV, and air-con.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN NOPPARAT THARA
I hope you found this guide to the best places to stay in Krabi Thailand helpful. Let me know in the comment section if you have any questions.
Read more about Thailand:
- Guide to the best things to do in Ao Nang Krabi
- 4 day Bangkok itinerary for first-timers
- The best Ayutthaya day trip itinerary
- Thailand 10 day itinerary: Best Islands and Attractions
- Hong Island: Guide to visiting
- Phra Nang: Guide to the most beautiful beach in Krabi
- Visiting the hidden Pai Plong beach in Krabi
- Hiking Tab Kak Hang Nak Hill (Dragon Crest Mountain)
- How to take the longtail boat to Railay Beach?
- Guide to Koh Lipe’s top attractions
- 17 Things to see in Koh Lanta Thailand
- 12 Most beautiful beaches in Koh Lanta
2 comments
THANK YOU for having a map and actually laying it all out! We’ve been on the hunt for what “Krabi” actually means.
You’re welcome Amber! I’m glad you found the post helpful :)