Ao Nang is a seaside resort in Krabi province, in southern Thailand. A former fishing village converted into a tourist hub, it now serves as a departure point for a constellation of limestone islands, beaches and coral reefs that define the reputation of the Andaman coast.

Why visit Ao Nang

Ao Nang is surrounded by around 83 islets accessible as day trips. The town combines three rare assets in one area: karst landscapes tumbling into the sea, direct access to diving and snorkeling sites in the southern Phang Nga bay, and straightforward logistics for exploring Railay, Poda, Chicken Island or the Hong Islands. Unlike more isolated resorts, Ao Nang has all practical services — banks, clinics, convenience stores, agencies — making it a comfortable base for exploring the region over several days.

What to see and do

Islands around Ao Nang

The main activity involves boarding a longtail boat or speedboat to reach neighbouring islands:

• Poda Island: coral reef close to shore, ideal for snorkeling from the beach.
• Chicken Island: abundant tropical fish, shallow waters suited to families.
• Tup Island: at low tide, an ephemeral sandbank connects the island to Chicken Island, allowing you to walk from one islet to the other.
• Bamboo Island: white sand beach framed by jungle, further offshore.
• Koh Hong: interior lagoon accessible through a narrow opening in the cliff.

Railay and the peninsula

Railay Beach, a peninsula cut off from the mainland by cliffs, is reached only by boat from Ao Nang beach. Allow around fifteen minutes for the crossing. The area is known for its limestone climbing routes and caves.

Mangroves and nature

To the north, the mangroves of Ao Thalane can be explored by kayak between the cliffs. The area is home to monkeys, monitor lizards and birds, and offers a peaceful alternative to maritime excursions.

In town

Ao Nang's night market, on the main beachfront street, brings together street food stalls, handicrafts and clothing. For sports enthusiasts, Bull Muay Thai Krabi Thailand camp offers courses and training in Thai boxing, open to beginners and experienced practitioners alike.

Practical information

Ao Nang concentrates accommodation, restaurants and tour agencies on a few streets parallel to the beach. Shared tuk-tuks circulate continuously and are the most common local transport. Walking is possible for most of the centre. Renting a scooter or car is useful for exploring the hinterland (Wat Tham Suea, hot springs, Khao Phanom Bencha).

Boat excursions can be purchased at agency counters, on the beach from longtail operators, or through your hotel. Prices vary depending on the number of islands visited and type of boat; it's useful to compare several offers before booking.

When to visit

The dry season runs from November to March: clear skies, calm seas, optimal visibility for diving. The average temperature stays around 27°C year-round. The wet season (May to October) brings sometimes heavy showers and rougher seas, but accommodation prices drop and visitor numbers are lower. April is hot and dry, but waters can be clouded by transitional swell.

How to get there

Krabi International Airport is around 30 minutes' drive from Ao Nang. Several options for reaching the resort:

• Taxi or shared minibus from the airport.
• Bus from Krabi Town, Phuket or Surat Thani.
• Ferry from Phuket, Koh Phi Phi or Koh Lanta, disembarking at Nopparat Thara pier, immediately nearby.

Nearby

Ao Nang serves as a base for several land excursions: Wat Tham Suea, the Tiger Cave temple and its 1,237 steps leading to the summit; Ko Klang, a traditional Muslim island facing Krabi Town; and the town of Krabi itself, around twenty kilometres away.

To include Ao Nang in a complete itinerary, consult our tailor-made trips to Thailand.