The best things to do in Krabi

What is it: Romantic sunset cruise.

Why go: Picture this – hopeless romantics and lovebirds drifting into the sunset, hand in hand, as the sky melts into a sea of crimson and warm pink. It's the kind of scene you want to lose yourself in, sailing into the fading daylight with your favourite person around Krabi. Like a Romeo and Juliet or a Bonnie and Clyde love story, Sofitel Krabi Phokeethara sweeps you off your feet with their Romantic Sunset Cruise, where paradisiacal magic meets romance.

What is it: More paradise in Krabi.

Why go: Single in Krabi? That's okay: island hopping around Krabi is the PERF adventure because Krabi boasts heaps of impressive white sandy beaches and dreamy islands. If you need help figuring out where or how to get around, you can start with third-party apps like Klook.

What is it: A natural pool that lives up to its name.

Why go: Bathing and taking a plunge in the Emerald Pool is like a surreal Instagram travel reel coming to life. Around two metres deep and nestled within the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve, the sparkling green pool is filtered from thermal hot springs that flow from deep underground, giving it an almost magical allure. If you’ve only got time for a quick visit there’s an 800 metre well-trodden path straight to the pool. But if you’re up for a longer walk, you can take the 1,400-metre extended nature trail that winds through dense tropical rainforest.

What is it: A warm water pool from underground thermal springs.

Why go: Whether you're a Zen dipper or an onsen enthusiast, melting your stress away in Krabi’s “hot tubs” could be your Japan trip alternative, or simply the escape you need from work-related stress. Shaded by a lush green rainforest, Khlong Tom Hot Springs is one of the most popular places in Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve. Like the neighbouring Emerald Pool, it’s not only a feast for the eyes but also joy for the soul.

What is it: A pristine national park in Krabi, largely untouched by mass tourism.

Why go: Despite its rising popularity, this national park feels like a well-kept secret from the usual tourist crowd – which is perfect, because you might just catch a glimpse of a rare and wild tapir wandering near the campers. Alongside this elusive creature, the park is home to clouded leopards (look, but don’t even think about trying to pet), Asian black bears, langurs, gibbons, stump-tailed macaques, slow lorises and a bird list that includes hornbills, pheasants, and red junglefowl. No need to worry about lugging extra camping gear on your flight – just rent a tent at the visitor centre. Here’s what it'll cost you.

- 3-person tent: B225

- 8-person tent: B810

- Sleeping set (mat, sleeping bed, and pillow): B60 per person

What is it: Caves filled with stalagmites and stalactites

Why go: Ban Bor Thor Caves are home to a wealth of ancient paintings, clear evidence of prehistoric seafarers who once took refuge here when trading routes turned treacherous. Navigating your kayak through these natural tunnels feels like a journey into a living time capsule, unveiling one of Mother Nature’s most impressive masterpieces.

What is it: One of Krabi's best hiking trails.

Why go: If you've already ticked most of the activities above, hiking definitely deserves a spot on your list. Tucked away in north Krabi, Dragon Crest Mountain invites you to immerse yourself in lush, dense vegetation. The trail is only around four kilometres, but don’t be fooled – it gets steep and almost vertical in some parts, so expect to break a sweat. You are rewarded, however, with panoramic views of the gulf and Krabi's stunning landscape. At the summit, a dramatic rock ledge awaits, making it the ultimate backdrop for your "living life on the edge" photos.

What is it: A rock climber's playground.

Why go: Tonsai has been a global favourite for climbers, combining superb routes with fantastic scenery and a seriously laidback vibe. Chill first-timers – you’re covered. Climbing here caters to everyone, from absolute beginners and hard-core experts, to free climbers and slackliners.

What is it: A beautiful temple located atop a craggy cliff

Why go: Embrace your Namu Myoho Renge Kyo – let this mantra guide you up the 1,260 steep steps to the cliffside temple. Your reward? An epic aerial view of Krabi’s undulating forest-clad landscape and the glittering Andaman sea, plus the chance to snap a photo with a gigantic gilded Buddha statue. Bad news for ailurophiles, no tigers here, only our cheeky primate friends, the macaques.

What is it: Giant zip line.

Why go: The jungle becomes your playground as you soar through the rich canopy from platform to platform with Tree Top Adventure Krabi's epic zip line. If zip lining isn’t your thing, no worries – you can still monkey around in the treetops. Try cycling through the trees, balancing on rope bridges, swinging on Tarzan ropes or cruising on a flying skateboard. It’s not just an adrenaline rush: it’s also the perfect excuse to fall in love with nature.

What is it: A dive site around Krabi

Why go: With enough to explore for multiple dives, Koh Dor is a scuba diver's dream. Descend into the depths of the underwater world and find yourself surrounded by massive schools of barracudas, plus other marine life like sea snakes and stingrays.

What is it: An idyllic spot where you can uncover the hidden side of village life.

Why go: A long time ago, in a village not so far, far away, a community became a melting pot of cultures, where Chinese, Muslim migrants and Thai Buddhists coexist in social harmony. It’s a place that gives you a sense of stepping back in time and reconnecting with a simpler way of life.