One of Thailand’s most treasured natural wonders, the massive limestone karsts, brilliant white-sanded beaches, teeming reefs and gushing waterfalls of Krabi make it an ideal holiday spot for chilled out holidaymakers.

While Krabi is a visitor’s paradise, and does cater extensively for foreign tourists, it retains a wonderful, relaxed vibe and much of its natural beauty.

Staying in Krabi

While Krabi is somewhat less commercialised than nearby Phucket, it’s got a booming tourist trade, and therefore accommodation to suit all travellers. The Krabi beach resort is a popular choice, but there are plenty of other, smaller, and less commercial hotels in Krabi available if you’re looking for a more authentic experience.

Krabi’s beautiful beaches

There are plenty of beaches to choose from in Krabi, but if it’s untouched, natural brilliance you’re after, Had Yao is a must. Offering spectacular distant views of Jum Mountain and Ao Nang's cliff walls, it’s one of the region’s last un-commercialised beaches.

At Ao Nang, you’ll find a busy, palm-fringed beach with plenty of drinks and local delicacies on hand. You’ll also find there are boats frequently leaving form Ao Nang, to transport visitors to the amazing island beaches of Rai Ley, Tam Pra Nang and Nam Ma.

Adventures in Krabi

Explore Krabi and energise yourself by taking part in some of the best activities the province has to offer, including excellent diving and rock climbing adventures.

If you like to reach dizzying heights, Rai Leh is the perfect destination for you. Offering fantastic rock climbing opportunities, this craggy peninsula also featured plenty of small beaches, ideal for picnicking at between climbs.

Take a splash in the balmy waters and enjoy snorkelling off Ao Nang or explore gorgeous coral reefs on a diving tour in the neighbouring seven islands dotted around Koh Poda. With over 200 species of fish and 80 types of coral in the area, you’re sure to find delights at every turn.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a guided bike tour to be shown some of Krabi’s most inspiring sights, such as the ‘Nemo’ fish farm and the local hot spring waterfall, or do your bit for the environment on an eco safari tour of the region.

When to visit

The best time to visit Krabi is between December and April, as you will avoid the rainy season, and the temperature is likely to average around 27 and 28 degrees centigrade.

James writes for cheap flight specialists, Skyscanner.net. For more information about Skyscanner check out the Skyscanner profile on Crunchbase or download our flight search app, available for Android, iPhone and iPad

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