Many visitors view Ao Nang in favor of the nearby Railay, but it is a pleasant place to visit in Thailand. Although it is not an especially well-known spot in Thailand, it is the perfect place to explore the Krabi region on a day trip. Although Railay is a small town, there is plenty to do in the area – whether it visits Railay beach, experiences the islands, or hikes for incredible views of the area. There are a large number of luxury resorts in Ao Nang as well as budget accommodation for travelers. Our Ao Nang travel guide provides all the information you need before visiting this magical place.
What to Do in Ao Nang
The Four-Island Tour
One of the preferred things for visitors to do in Ao Nang is island hop. Visiting Koh Poda, Koh Gai, Koh Tup, and Koh Mor as part of a four-island tour is the easiest way to do this. One disadvantage is that many tours end up following the same schedule, so that the islands can become very crowded.
The better way to spend a peaceful day is by joining a group that will rent a boat. When enough of you are there, this is less expensive than the tour. It costs 1700 baht to hire a boat for half a day to visit Koh Poda and Koh Tup. The islands can also be visited for 400 baht, but this is a one-time fee covering all islands. If you can fit a maximum of eight people into the longtail boat, you can rent a private boat for 2000 baht to visit all four islands.
For a one-way return ticket, you’ll have to pay 300 baht, but the boat won’t leave until at least six people make the trip at the same time. The visit to Railay may take a long time as many visitors prioritize their time. Railay – Ao Nang’s most popular activity is visiting nearby Railay, which can be reached only by boat. Railay is famous for its lively beaches and is one of the most beautiful places in Thailand.
These beaches were popularized because of their white sand beaches and picturesque setting amid limestone cliffs. A kayak can be rented for about 200 baht per hour if you’d like a different viewpoint on the area or hike to the view. Due to their fame with visitors, both beaches can fill with masses of people when you arrive late in the day.
Railay beach is accessible by boat from Ao Nang beach. The journey takes 10-15 minutes, and it is 200 baht to return. You can mostly get a boat from 8 am to 6 pm, but It is possible to get a boat after 6 pm, but it costs more. Only eight people are needed for boats to depart, and the operators insist on waiting until there is a full boat.
Because boats only depart when they are full, we recommend buying a one-way ticket when you visit Railay. You can then choose the operator with people waiting for the boat to fill and leave sooner rather than waiting for the boat to fill.
Ao Nang beach
The beach at Ao Nang is not as impressive as some other beaches in the area, but it is an easier option; This is an excellent option if you want to spend less on a longtail boat ride to enjoy the sun and a quick dip. There are many places to watch the sunset at Ao Nang beach, so we recommend checking it out!
Tab Kak Hang Nak Nature Trail
If you’re looking for something a little different, head for the Tab Kak Hang Nak Nature trail. You have to climb up to the summit for around 2 hours, and you’ll have great views of the surroundings.
The trail is quite far out of Ao Nang, so either you want to rent a scooter or a bike or take a tuk-tuk there. A tuk-tuk will usually charge you 1500 baht for the day, which should include the driver waiting for you and taking you back to Ao Nang.
Start early and take plenty of water with you to avoid the midday heat. One of the best ways to do that is to get off the beaten track in Ao Nang, which is one the best methods to do so.
Au Nang, Thailand
How to Get to Ao Nang
Travel by Air
The nearest airport to Ao Nang is Krabi International (KBV), from which many domestic airports operate flights. You can reach Ao Nang beach from Krabi airport in several ways, depending on your budget.
Travel Locally
Another option is taking a Songethaw to Krabi Town and then taking a Songethaw to Ao Nang and is probably the cheapest option. The total cost depends on the number of rides but is typically 100 baht. It should take around 2 hours each way.
You can share vans at the airport for 150 baht if you prefer to go straight to your destination. For 600 baht you can get a taxi – which is valuable only if you travel in a group.
By Bus
If you wish to get to Ao Nang by bus, you must first reach Krabi, accessible from any region of Thailand. To get to Ao Nang, you can either follow the above directions or ask your bus driver if he runs a connecting bus service.
Transport by Boat or Ferry
You can also get to Ao Nang by boat, as there are many nearby islands. Around half an hour from Krabi Town, boats run from Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, and more to Krabi pier. There is limited transportation, but we managed to get from Krabi Town to Ao Nang for 100 baht with a Songethaw.
Au Nang, Thailand
Getting Around
Tuk-tuks
A tuk-tuk should take you anywhere within Ao Nang for just 30 baht per person. If you are visiting alone, the price will be slightly higher, as the minimum charge is 60 baht. The main street is lined with tuk-tuks, so waiting should not be an issue.
Motorbike/Scooter
You can hire a bike for 200 baht a day. International driving licenses should be obliged if you plan to drive legally, but this rule isn’t required in reality. As an insurance measure, some companies need you to leave your passport with them. Although some backpackers have had to pay extra to get their passports back – be wary. Bike rides provide you easy access to a far wider area for a much better value than tuk-tuks. Helmets are a safety essential on all motorcycles, so don’t forget to wear one while driving.
By Foot
Considering how little Ao Nang is, it’s rather easy to walk almost everywhere you need to go. Then again, if you feel like you want a little speed, the tuk-tuk is an affordable and fast option.
Au Nang, Thailand
Recommended Places to Stay
With Ao Nang being a tourist hotspot, many resorts, hotels, and hostels are available to suit all budgets. Look no further than the fantastic Aonang Cliff Beach Resort if you are looking to treat yourself. With luxury rooms and a spa on-site, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing few days. The infinity pool is without a doubt what makes this spa resort so unique.
You can observe gorgeous sunsets here and get a great view of the beautiful limestone cliffs and the open sea. You’ll have to leave eventually, but that’s the only downside. The best hotel in Ao Nang Beach, Thailand, is the Ao Nang Beach Resort, if not the best.
Where to Eat in Ao Nang
Aonang Buffet Restaurant
The Aonang buffet restaurant is the high-end option in Ao Nang. If you’ve worked up an appetite at the beach, you’ll want to check out the wide variety of Thai and western dishes. They’re only 499 baht per person!
Andamana Beach Club
The Andamana Beach Club is a great place to escape Ao Nang’s crowds. You’ll find a great place to eat a reasonably priced lunch on the beach, total with its private beach.
Hammocks on the Beach
You’ll find hammocks on the beach perfect for a drink after lunch. There is a free shuttle service for guests of the Aonang Cliff Beach Resort, which is located outside of Ao Nang. Getting there is not accessible if you’re staying somewhere else, but it is beneficial if you want to get away from the busy streets of Ao Nang for a few hours.
Lobster Restaurant
If you want Thai food on a budget, this is the place to go. The front of the restaurant offers a number of special Thai menu items on a budget. Somehow, it’s hard to find much about this place on the Internet, but you can browse here to find out where it’s located.
Amp & Aing
Amp & Aing is your best bet for Thai food near the beach at an affordable price. Getting meals for under 60 baht is a sure-fire budget-friendly alternative!
Au Nang, Thailand
Best Time to Visit Ao Nang
Visit during December and March to enjoy the best weather. At this time of year, the weather tends to be dryer, so you’re less likely to get rained out on Ao Nang beach. There are more rains and cooler temperatures during the monsoon season, which runs from May to October. At this time, you can have sustained heavy rain for up to two weeks. However, there is the possibility of experiencing dry weather for two weeks straight if you want to take the risk. The rainy season generally occurs between the low season and high season, so in general, there shouldn’t be as much rain as during the monsoon season.
Au Nang, Thailand
| January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg. Temperature °C (°F) |
26.1 °C (79.1) °F |
27.1 °C (80.8) °F |
27.6 °C (81.7) °F |
27.5 °C (81.6) °F |
27.2 °C (81) °F |
27 °C (80.7) °F |
26.8 °C (80.3) °F |
26.6 °C (79.9) °F |
26.3 °C (79.3) °F |
26 °C (78.7) °F |
25.9 °C (78.7) °F |
25.8 °C (78.4) °F |
| Min. Temperature °C (°F) |
23.7 °C (74.7) °F |
24.2 °C (75.5) °F |
25 °C (76.9) °F |
25.3 °C (77.6) °F |
25.5 °C (77.9) °F |
25.5 °C (77.9) °F |
25.2 °C (77.4) °F |
25.1 °C (77.3) °F |
24.7 °C (76.4) °F |
24.3 °C (75.7) °F |
24.2 °C (75.5) °F |
23.7 °C (74.7) °F |
| Max. Temperature °C (°F) |
29.4 °C (84.9) °F |
30.9 °C (87.6) °F |
31.1 °C (87.9) °F |
30.4 °C (86.7) °F |
29.2 °C (84.6) °F |
28.8 °C (83.8) °F |
28.5 °C (83.3) °F |
28.4 °C (83.1) °F |
28.2 °C (82.7) °F |
28.2 °C (82.8) °F |
28.6 °C (83.5) °F |
28.6 °C (83.6) °F |
| Precipitation / Rainfall mm (in) |
46 (1.8) |
25 (1) |
76 (3) |
128 (5) |
261 (10.3) |
253 (10) |
256 (10.1) |
274 (10.8) |
296 (11.7) |
275 (10.8) |
181 (7.1) |
81 (3.2) |
| Humidity(%) | 76% | 72% | 75% | 81% | 84% | 84% | 84% | 84% | 86% | 87% | 85% | 81% |
| Rainy days (d) | 6 | 4 | 8 | 14 | 18 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 20 | 16 | 9 |
