4 places · Thailand
A peninsula cut off from the mainland by cliffs, reachable only by boat. White sand, limestone walls that climbers fly in from all over the world for, and a cave right on Phra Nang Beach.
Price: Longtail boat from Ao Nang about 100–150 ฿ one way
Insider tip: Boats leave once 8–10 people gather; the last one back is around 18:00. Go to Phra Nang in the morning before high tide swallows the beach. Beginners can book a half-day climbing lesson right on Railay.
A cave monastery near Krabi Town with a golden Buddha on top of the cliff above it. Getting there means climbing more than 1,200 steep steps, but the view over the rice fields and Krabi’s karsts is worth it.
Price: Free
Insider tip: Start at 7 am or after 16:00 and carry at least a litre of water — the steps are high and there is almost no shade. Macaques live on the stairs: keep food and bags inside your backpack. Modest clothing only.
A natural jungle pool with clear emerald water that you can swim in. The trail continues to the Blue Pool — no swimming there, but the colour is unreal.
Price: National park fee for foreigners about 200 ฿
Insider tip: Arrive at the 8:30 opening: from late morning the tours arrive and the water turns cloudy. On the way, stop at the Klong Thom hot springs — warm waterfalls in the forest.
A lagoon inside a rock that you paddle into by kayak — and how to get there before every other boat.
🔒 Secret spot: details and the map pin are in the full guide