Activities ;)

Canoeing



One of several ecotourism activities available in Krabi is sea-canoeing, and there are few better ways to enjoy the spectacular scenery than by drifting leisurely amongst the limestone cliffs. This is perhaps the best way to explore Krabi's countless inlets and deserted beaches, allowing travellers to discover the true magic of the area at their own pace.



Kayaking



Kayaking is available in the waters off Krabi and Phang-nga provinces, which boast some of the most spectacular seascapes and marine life anywhere. The sport is accessible to beginners and veterans alike, since operators offer training at the start of the trip. The sea-kayaking centre is at Ao Nang, which blends the rugged appeal of rocky outcrops with the serene beauty of beaches and crystal-clear water. Off its shore lie limestone outcrops honeycombed with caves and hollows and fringed by mangrove forests. Canoe and kayak rentals are available at many of the guesthouses in the Ao Nang area, and guides are also available to lead you through the myriad of small, deserted islands.


Snorkelling & Diving



Dive shops provide mask, snorkel and fins for hire at around 150 baht a set per day. You will probably have to pay a deposit of around 500 baht. They also offer you dive trips and advice about some of the most spectacular destinations in Southern Thailand.BikingMountain bikes can be found around Ao Nang. The terrain is spectacular and this is a great and healthy way to take in the most captivating scenery.



Rock Climbing



Every year thousands of climbers come to Krabi specifically to challenge themselves on the famous limestone karsts, and most agree it's well worth the trip. There are over 150 bolted routes, concentrated primarily on the Phranang peninsula, between Hat Tham Phranang and Hat Rai Le. These routes are typically in the mid-to-high difficulty range, with numerous overhangs, and sheer limestone faces. However, there are also several beginner climbs, so that even the novice climber can experience the thrill of climbing. Equipment rentals, instruction, and guides are all available.


Dining and entertainment



Fresh seafood is among the gastronomic highlights of Krabi. Distinctly different from other regions, south Thailand's cuisine has Malay and Muslim as well as Thai influences. Restaurants and cafes, often open-air or by the sea, range from modest to expensive, but choice is wide and quality superb whether in Asian or Western styles. Main centres for entertainment are in hotels and Krabi town, where regular cultural shows, bars, clubs and discos cater for nightlifers.

Biking

Mountain bikes can be found around Ao Nang. The terrain is spectacular and this is a great and healthy way to take in the most captivating scenery.

Krabi Spas

Krabi's lush greenery and tropical climate make this the ideal location to indulge in a spa treatment. Most spas in Krabi take full advantage of Krabi's natural assets and are situated outdoors in fragrant gardens with old-style Thai wooden pavilions and inspiring views. There are both kinds of spas – for upper market which are mostly run by the resorts and for cheaper market which is not bad to try.

Bungee Jump

krabi Bungee Jump is one of the most exciting activities available - and at 56 metres it is the highest bungee jump in Thailand. The krabi Bungee Jump is now nine years old and during that time many hundreds of jumpers have experienced the adrenaline rush only a bungee jump can provide.

In addition to the traditional bungee jump there is also a catapult, which will rocket you 56 metres into the air. To ensure your safety, all staff are fully trained and under the direction of an experienced jump master. All equipment is regularly maintained and equals that of bungee jumps in New Zealand. Open every tfk/ from 0900 to 1800.

Things to buy

A diversity of worthwhile souvenirs and gifts can be found in hotel shops and Krabi's bazaars and open-air markets. Local bargain specialities include hand-crafted cottons and silk, woven rattan and cane wares, jewellery and cultured pearls, beach fashions, ceramics and shell crafts.

Krabi Nightlife

Many visitors who come to Krabi want to relax and take in the magnificent scenery. While they enjoy a drink in the evenings, there is not much requirment for wild parties or raucous nightclubs, which can be amply provided by other destinations like Bangkok, Phuket’s Patong beach or Koh Pha Ngan. The most exciting nightlife in Krabi can be found on Phi Phi Island and around Ao Nang, so these are the two places recommended for a big night out.

There are no real go go bars in Krabi you will need to go to Bangkok, Phuket or Pattaya! Go-go bars, with shows and scantily-dressed dancers do not exist; female company can be found rather in Thai karaoke bars or regular bar beers.
In Krabi Town there are karaoke bars around Soi 2 and Sois 7 and 11 of Maharat Rd. Hostesses can be invited to join your table for a drink and maybe a song. In Ao Nang, try Center Point, a small plaza of bar beers tucked behind the main beachfront. Each plays loud - and different - music and competes with each other to get the customers to sit down.

The atmosphere here can get quite lively and it's a good place to come whether you're male or female. The tourist clientele is usually quite mixed, with couples, singles and groups of friends - and both sexes are welcome. Another area in Ao Nang is known locally as 'The Soi', a short side road opposite Krabi Seaview Resort with a similar set-up of noisy bar beers - this also often stays open after hours.

Koh Lanta

The marine park of Koh Lanta consists of 15 offshore islands, most surrounded by coral reefs. The major islands are Ko Lanta Yai, Ko Lanta Noi, Ko Talengbeng, Ko Ha, Ko Rok and Ko Ngai. Located in the southernmost district of Krabi Province, approximately 70 kilometres from Krabi town, it offers perfect peace and relxation.
Low key development and unspoiled nature are Koh Lanta's main attractions. Mountainous and rugged in some areas, especially near the southern tip, its green forested hills, gravel and sandy beaches, beautiful coral reefs, clear emerald water and the traditional lifestyle, provide a charming retreat from modern life.

Only 20,000 people live on Lanta including a clan of Chao Ley, or Sea Gypsies. This distinct ethnic group still follow their traditional customs and culture. Along with a mixture of Muslim and Chinese locals they give the island its unique ambiance.
Although, more locals are becoming involved in the tourism industry, many remain unaffected by tourism, still earning their living from rubber, prawn farming and fishing. Luckily traditional houses and friendly people still remain.

The best place to stay is on Koh Lanta's east coast, which offers stunning white sand beaches, fertile mangroves and clear crystal water. In recent years steady tourist development has increased the range of accommodation from simple basic bungalows, to more up market sophisticated resorts in the 4/5 star category like the Pimalai Resort overlooking beautiful Kantiang Bay.
Most of the hotels and resorts are concentrated in the main beach areas of Long Beach (Phra Ae) and Klong Dao along the east coast, with a few resorts scattered in the south-east. Most of the new developments have been designed to blend in with the natural environment and are low rise, this is mainly due to local laws preventing high rise construction and protecting Lanta from the negative impacts of tourism. (great!)

Getting there By boat from Krabi:

During the high season, two ferries depart from Chao Fa pier on Uttarakit Road daily at 10.00 and 13.00 hrs. The trip takes about 2 hours to reach Saladan pier. Double check the times as Thai people often change them!

From May to October the boats from Krabi to Ko Lanta do not operate due to strong winds and high waves in the monsoon season. During this time, public minibuses take over the transportation between Krabi and Ko Lanta.
By road: Minibuses to Ko Lanta leave Krabi town at 11.00 and 13.00 hrs, taking about 2 hours. There is a vehicle ferry between Ban Hua Hin on the mainland and Ban Saladan on Ko Lanta Yai.

Phra Nang Cave Beach

Most people arrive at Phra Nang by boat and are amazed by this beautiful cove. Phra Nang (not to be confused with Ao Nang) is more popular and busier than Railay West, especially in high season (Nov- April) and has all the ingredients of a perfect beach. Duvet soft sand, clear shallow water for safe swimming, a small island and coral reef, accessible at low tide, caves and rockpools.

All this, set against a backdrop of picturesque limestone cliffs that provide natural shade from the hot afternoon sun.

At the bottom of the limestone cliffs lies the Princess Cave or Tham Phra Nang Nok. Dedicated to an ancient fertility goddess, the cave contains a strange combination of large phallic symbols, garlands and offerings in the hope of increased potency and prosperity. Local fishermen still leave offerings although it's now becoming a local tourist attraction.
Further along the base of the cliff (south end) is a pathway to an entrance which leads inside the rocky headland to an interior lagoon. The lagoon is fed by the tides and only accessed by a strenuous climb. It's worth the climb (which needs decent shoes) to see the eerily quiet lagoon, which, in addition to its location inside the rock, is also well above sea level. At the top is a fantastic view over the whole of Railay and the coastal area beyond.
Phra Nang is a great beach to simply hang out. In the late morning the "sandwich boats" arrive. Local longtail boats equipped with ice boxes, bread and sandwich ingredients. Fancy a cheese and ham baguette? Freshly made and not expensive, the ladies on the boats will serve with a smile and often a free piece of fruit.
Just offshore, is a tiny island which you can walk to at low tide along a sand bar and go snorkeling. If you can't be bothered, just take it easy. There's no accommodation on Phra Nang Beach except the deluxe Sheraton Rayavadeee which unobtrusively occupies part of the beach. So if you really want to treat yourself, spend a few days in luxury here.

Getting Around

The town is quite small so most places can easily be reached on foot. Songthaews are available for longer journeys around town or to one of the nearby beaches. Those who prefer to have their own transport can hire small motorcycles by the day.

Most of Krabi's attractions are easily accessed by road, and/or by boat. Long tail boats are readily obtainable from Krabi Town at the Chao Fah Pier and at all major beaches. Tour companies can arrange charter boats, or advise on ferry services between beaches and islands around the area.
For those who prefer to go by land, hire a car or motor cycle, or rent a Songtaew (taxi truck) to drive you round for the day. Local buses also shuttle between major areas in the province, from the bus station just outside of Krabi Town at Talaat Kao.

Introduction

Krabi is a great place to relax. The pace is unhurried and many beaches can only be reached by boat, keeping development to a minimum. Much of the province has been designated national park. The Hat Noppharat Thara-Ko Phi Phi National Park incorporates many of the mainland beaches, over 80 smaller islands and the Phi Phi islands - made famous as the idyllic location for the Hollywood film ‘the Beach” and popular with yachtsmen, scuba-divers, snorkellers and day-trippers from Phuket.

The Ko Lanta National Park, also in Krabi province, includes several coral-fringed islands, prime diving sites, and comparative solitude. The largest island, Ko Lanta Yai, is the site of park headquarters, and is also home to Chao Le, or sea gypsies who sustain themselves largely through fishing. The islands are best visited during the non-monsoon months of October through April.

As well as beautiful and relaxing scenery, Krabi offers an adventure playground for those who like to get "out and about." Kayaking, sailing, birdwatching, snorkelling, island hopping and sightseeing are just a few. In the interior, two predominantly mainland national parks, Khao Phanom Bencha and Than Bokk-horani, offer inland scenic attractions including waterfalls and caves, and opportunities for trekking, birdwatching and eco-tours.