Krabi Town is one of the most authentic and underrated places to visit in southern Thailand. It’s a place where you can see some of the most beautiful tropical scenery in the world and feel the pulse of local life. A lot of tourists rush to the beaches of Ao Nang, Railay, or the Phi Phi Islands, but Krabi Town itself has a special charm that shows what “real Thailand” is like.
This guide to things to do in Krabi Town (local vibe vs resort areas) shows you both sides of this beautiful area, from community markets and Buddhist temples to limestone cliffs and high-end resorts. This in-depth look at Krabi will help travelers understand how to find the right balance between the town’s laid-back culture and its world-class beaches.
Krabi is a place that rewards slow discovery, whether you want to experience the local culture, explore the island, or just relax.
1. Getting to Know Krabi: Two Worlds, One Place
Krabi Province, on Thailand’s Andaman Coast, is well-known for its postcard-perfect beaches and steep limestone cliffs. But Krabi Town, which is about 20 minutes inland, is still a living, breathing community where Thai traditions thrive. Resort areas like Ao Nang and Railay Beach attract people looking for sun and honeymooners.
The Local Vibe in Krabi Town
Krabi Town is the capital of the province and the center of daily life. People from the area go there for food markets, ferry connections, and temple ceremonies. There aren’t many fancy resorts here. Instead, you’ll find:
- Friendly guesthouses
- Cafés by the river
- Real Thai street food
The Resort Areas: Ao Nang, Railay, and More
Ao Nang, on the other hand, is the main tourist destination in Krabi. There are a lot of beachfront resorts, international restaurants, and a lively nightlife scene. Railay Beach, which you can only get to by boat, is a more private paradise that is famous for its rock climbing and beautiful views.
Exploring both gives you the best of both worlds: local culture and beach bliss.
2. The Best Things to Do in Krabi Town: The Heart of Local Life
1. Go to Wat Kaew Korawaram
Wat Kaew Korawaram is Krabi’s most famous temple. It is on a hill that looks down on the town. The bright white outside, detailed murals, and peaceful atmosphere make it a great place to think quietly. Visit:
- In the late afternoon when the golden light enhances its beauty
- In the evening when monks chant during prayers
2. Check out the Krabi Walking Street Market
The Krabi Walking Street Market is a lively display of local life that happens every weekend from Friday to Sunday. Highlights include:
- Tasty Thai foods like grilled squid, mango sticky rice, and spicy papaya salad
- Handmade jewelry, batik fabrics, and local crafts
3. Go on the Krabi River in a Longtail Boat
A ride along the Krabi River showcases:
- Beautiful mangrove forests
- Limestone formations
- Floating fishing villages
Most boat trips stop at Khao Kanab Nam, two famous limestone hills sometimes called the “Gate of Krabi.”
4. Go to the Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua)
Tiger Cave Temple is one of Krabi’s most spiritual places, about 5 km from town. It features:
- Caves where monks pray
- A steep 1,237-step climb to a mountaintop Buddha offering panoramic views
5. Learn about the Food Culture in the Area
Krabi Town is famous among those who explore beyond tourist areas. Recommended spots:
- Ko Suang’s Night Market – fried chicken, seafood curry, noodle soups
- Local cafés – Thai iced coffee, roti pancakes
- Roti Bang Nara – southern Thai-style roti and tea
6. Walk Along the Krabi River
The Riverside Promenade is ideal for:
- Evening walks and jogging
- Visiting food stalls
- Taking photos at the giant black crab statue
7. Learn How to Cook Thai Food
Take a Thai cooking class with local chefs to learn:
- Fragrant curries
- Spicy salads
- Traditional southern Thai cuisine
3. The Relaxing Side: The Best Things to Do in Krabi’s Resort Areas
While Krabi Town has authentic Thai life, the nearby beaches and islands offer the tropical escape travelers dream of.
1. Have Fun at Ao Nang’s Beaches
Ao Nang Beach offers:
- Swimming, kayaking, and Thai massages
- Cafés, restaurants, and shops for all budgets
2. Go on a Day Trip to the Islands
Popular trips include:
- The Four Islands – Koh Poda, Chicken Island, Tup Island, Phra Nang Cave Beach
- The Hong Islands – lagoons, calm waters, peaceful experience
3. Go to Railay Beach
Accessible only by boat, Railay Beach offers:
- Rock climbing opportunities
- Crystal-clear water and steep cliffs
- Walking between Railay West, Railay East, and Phra Nang Beach
4. Go to Tonsai Bay
Tonsai Bay has:
- Rustic backpacker vibe
- Laid-back beach bars and reggae music
- Relaxed, disconnect-from-the-world atmosphere
5. Treat Yourself to a Spa Day by the Beach
Resort area spas offer:
- Thai massages
- Herbal treatments and aromatherapy
- Ocean-view rooms or tropical gardens
6. Eat by the Sea
Beachfront restaurants in Ao Nang and Railay serve:
- Grilled prawns
- Green curry
- Steamed fish with lime and chili
7. Go on a Cruise at Sunset
Sunset cruises provide:
- Stunning coastline views
- Snorkeling stops
- Dinner on board
4. What is the Difference Between Krabi Town and the Resort Areas?
| Part | Krabi Town (Local Feel) | Railay and Ao Nang (Resort Areas) |
|---|---|---|
| Atmosphere | Real, local, and cultural | Beautiful, relaxing, and good for tourists |
| Housing | Cheap guesthouses and boutique hotels | Beachfront villas and luxury resorts |
| Food Scene | Street food and markets in the area | International restaurants and seafood |
| Things to do | Temples, rivers, markets, cooking classes | Beaches, snorkeling, island hopping |
| Best For | People who like to learn about other cultures and travel slowly | Beach lovers, families, honeymooners |
| Getting Around | Bus and ferry | Road or boat |
| Type of Crowd | Mostly locals and backpackers | Tourists and vacationers |
To truly see Krabi, you need both:
- A few days in Krabi Town for authentic Thai life
- Time in resort areas for relaxation and world-class beaches
5. How to Do Both on Your Trip
A well-rounded Krabi itinerary includes:
- Day 1–2: Stay in Krabi Town – temples, markets, riverside life
- Day 3–5: Ao Nang or Railay – beaches, island adventures
- Days 6–7: Return to Krabi Town – local food, spa treatments, cultural immersion
6. Local Tips and Cultural Norms
To enjoy Krabi fully:
- Dress modestly in temples and local markets
- Support local businesses: buy crafts and eat at family-run restaurants
- Avoid single-use plastics; Krabi’s marine environment is fragile
- Don’t feed monkeys or disturb coral reefs
- Use basic Thai phrases: “Sawasdee” (hello) or “Khob khun ka/krub” (thank you)
7. Unique Experiences
Lesser-known gems near Krabi include:
1. Klong Thom Hot Springs
- Located in the rainforest, about an hour from town
- Natural mineral-rich pools ideal for relaxation
2. Emerald Pool (Sa Morakot)
- Natural freshwater lagoon with turquoise water
- Visit early to avoid crowds
3. Khao Phanom Bencha National Park
- 20 km north of Krabi Town
- Features waterfalls, caves, and hiking trails
- Huay Toh Waterfall is especially scenic during the rainy season
4. Villages and Homestays
- Ban Na Teen and Ban Khao Thong offer homestays
- Learn traditional crafts, cooking, and fishing
8. How to Get Around Krabi
- Songthaews: Shared taxis between Krabi Town and Ao Nang
- Tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis: Short trips
- Scooter rentals: Independent travel (helmets required)
- Longtail boats: Connect mainland to Railay and nearby islands
Staying a few nights in both town and beach areas reduces travel time.
9. When to Go
- November to April: Dry season, ideal for beaches and islands
- May to October: Green season, fewer crowds, lush landscapes, occasional rain
Krabi Town is lively year-round, but some island tours may close during peak rainy months.
10. Sustainable and Responsible Travel
- Choose eco-certified resorts
- Dress appropriately and respect temple etiquette
- Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid feeding marine life
- Participate in beach cleanups or community tourism projects
Sustainable travel preserves Krabi for future generations.
11. Where to Stay: Local Charm vs. Luxury Comfort
Krabi Town
- Sleep Well Hostel: Budget-friendly, social atmosphere
- The Green House Hotel: Comfortable mid-range near markets
- Dee Andaman Hotel: Boutique riverside hotel with charming décor
Railay and Ao Nang
- The L Resort Krabi: Modern, eco-friendly, beachfront
- Rayavadee Resort: Luxury surrounded by cliffs and tropical gardens
- Tonsai Bay Resort: Ideal for climbers and adventure travelers
Staying in both areas shows Krabi’s full personality.
12. Why Krabi’s Two Sides Are Important
Krabi is special because it balances:
- Real Thai culture (temples, markets)
- Resort life (spas, beaches, islands)
Travelers of all types benefit:
- Culture seekers – temples, markets
- Nature lovers – islands, jungles, waterfalls
- Relaxation seekers – spas and beaches
This balance keeps Krabi timeless, avoiding fleeting travel trends.
Conclusion
Exploring things to do in Krabi Town (local vibe vs. resort areas) reveals two sides of the same coin:
- Authentic Thai culture in Krabi Town – temples, markets, river views
- Peaceful tropical escape in Ao Nang and Railay
To truly know Krabi:
- Do both – night markets, southern Thai curries, Tiger Cave Temple, beaches, and islands
Krabi is more than a destination; it’s a journey through contrasts that create a timeless, unforgettable travel experience.
