Compare Krabi holidays

When to go to Krabi

In terms of weather, November through to March are the best months to visit Krabi, with pleasant, dry heat that hovers around 28C. It’s the most popular season, so expect higher prices – especially in December and January when things get even busier for Christmas and New Year.

If you’re on a budget, the shoulder season – April, May, September or October – is one of the best times to bag a cheap holiday deal. Be prepared for the heat though, as temperatures can reach a sweltering 34C, which is only relieved by the occasional coastal breeze. Time your trip right and you could be there for Songkran – the Thai New Year festival – in April.

July to October is the monsoon season. It’s still hot and humid, but rain regularly pours down during these months. While hotels are cheaper, some islands and boat services close down, which can make travel planning tricky.

Where to stay in Krabi

For families

With laid-back beaches and plenty of hotels catering for families, Koh Lanta is the best island for those travelling with kids in tow. The boat trip there is part of the adventure and, not far from the port, you’ll find resorts with child-friendly swimming pools – essential for keeping kids cool in the heat.

If you’re looking to do a range of activities, staying along the mainland coast is also a good bet. From here, you can kayak through the mangroves in Krabi Town, take boat trips and visit the Tiger Cave Temple.

For travellers on a budget

Krabi caters well for budget travellers and backpackers, with plenty of cheap hotels, hostels and beach huts to choose from. Krabi Town is packed with basic digs that set you close to either Klong Jilad Pier or further inland by the night market, where you’ll also find some excellent low-cost street food.

Along the coast, Ao Nang Beach also has several affordable hotels. From here, it’s easy to take an early longtail taxi boat to explore the islands and Railay beach. You’ll also find some great deals on the island’s themselves if you shop around – especially if you’re happy to stay in a hostel dorm.

For food and drink

Your taste buds are in for quite an adventure in Krabi, as the area is home to cuisine that has a kick. Regular ingredients include everything from fiery chillies to sweet pineapple, aromatic kaffir leaves and fresh turmeric. Stay awhile in Krabi Town for local haunts serving the catch of the day – even if you decide to move on later and base yourself on an island.

Many of the resorts on Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta also serve local and international food. Look for hotels with a variety of restaurants, but don’t shy away from eating out at a simple beach-shack – it could be the best food you try all holiday.

For nightlife

Koh Phi Phi is Krabi’s party island – think beachfront bars, buckets of cocktails, fire dancers and late-night beats. Many of the hotels are walking distance from Ao Tonsai pier where you’ll first arrive. If you prefer to be away from the main hub, look for a resort along the northern coast.

On the mainland, Ao Nang is also known for its lively nightlife – albeit not quite as notorious as Phi Phi. You’ll find bars, restaurants and food stalls all around the central streets. Plus, the town is packed with hotels, so you’ll have lots of choice.

For culture

Staying on the mainland gives you easy access to Krabi’s cultural highlights. You can take a taxi to the Tiger Cave Temple one day and a longtail boat trip the next. Krabi Town has one of the best night markets and, despite being a busy transport hub, still has a charming local atmosphere.

The old town in Koh Lanta – also called Ban Si Raya – is a small port town that’s also worth a visit. Here, you can stay in a traditional wooden stilt-house and eat freshly cooked fish in a pier-side restaurant.