Island Hopping: Discover the Best Islands in Krabi Thailand
Visiting Krabi without island hopping is like visiting Paris and not seeing the Eiffel Tower. Krabi's islands are home to some of the most beautiful scenery in Thailand, including pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and stunning limestone cliffs. Each island has its own unique charm and allure, and there are endless opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, hiking, and exploring. If you're looking for an unforgettable vacation, island hopping in Krabi is a must-do.
In this blog post, we will explore the best islands to visit in Krabi, how to get to Krabi, the top tours to consider, and essential tips for a memorable island hopping experience in Krabi, Thailand.
Best Islands Near Krabi for Island Hopping
Embark on an unforgettable island-hopping adventure near Krabi, Thailand, and discover a tropical paradise like no other. With an abundance of stunning islands just a short boat ride away, Krabi serves as the perfect gateway to explore the natural wonders of the Andaman Sea. From the world-famous Phi Phi Islands to the lesser-known gems like Koh Lanta and Koh Hong, each island boasts its own unique charm and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or both, these nearby islands offer an idyllic escape, making for an unforgettable island-hopping experience in Krabi.
Phi Phi Islands in Krabi
Phi Phi island is a place where crystal-clear turquoise waters meet pristine white sandy beaches, surrounded by lush greenery, coral reefs and towering limestone cliffs. Welcome to Phi Phi Island, a tropical paradise located in the Andaman Sea, off the coast of Thailand. Comprising of two main islands, Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh, this destination offers a captivating experience for island hopping enthusiasts. With its stunning natural beauty, vibrant marine life, and a range of exciting activities, Phi Phi Island has become a must-visit destination for travelers from all around the world.
How to reach Phi Phi Island from Krabi?
Phi Phi Island is about 45 km (28 miles) from Krabi and it is 40km far from ao nang beach. To reach Phi Phi Island from Krabi, you can follow these transportation options:
Ferry: This is the most common way to reach Phi Phi Island from Krabi. There are several ferry companies that operate between Krabi and Phi Phi Island, and the journey takes about 1-2 hours.
Speedboat: Speedboats are a faster option than ferries, and they can reach Phi Phi Island in about 30-45 minutes. However, speedboats are also more expensive than ferries.
Shared taxi: There are also shared taxis that travel between Krabi and Phi Phi Island. This is a cheaper option than taking a ferry or speedboat, but it is also the slowest option.
Watch My Krabi Island Hopping Video's at my Youtube Channel.
Things to do on Phi Phi Island
Phi Phi Island is a popular tourist destination in Thailand, known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Some of the most popular activities on the Phi Phi island include Maya Bay is one of the most iconic beaches in Thailand, and it is a must-visit for any tourist to the island. The waters around Phi Phi Island are home to a variety of coral reefs and marine life, making it a great place to go snorkeling or diving. There are also many hiking trails on the island, which offer stunning views of the surrounding area. The island's nightlife scene is also very vibrant, and there are many bars and clubs to choose from. Of course, no trip to Phi Phi Island would be complete without relaxing on one of the island's many beautiful beaches.
Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, Phi Phi Island is the perfect destination for your next vacation. If you're looking for a challenge and stunning views, I would recommend hiking to the viewpoint on Phi Phi Island.
Recommended Tour: The Phi Phi Islands Day Tour is highly recommended, as it covers the major highlights of the islands, including Maya Bay, where the movie "The Beach" was filmed.
Hong Islands (AKA Koh Hong or Hong Island in English)
If you're seeking tranquility and pristine natural beauty, the Hong Islands should be on your itinerary. These islands are characterized by their towering limestone formations, secluded lagoons, and stunning emerald-green waters. Snorkeling and kayaking are popular activities here, allowing you to explore the vibrant underwater world and hidden caves.
How to get to Koh Hong Island from Krabi?
Koh Hong is about 48 kilometers (30 miles) from Krabi. Here are the ways to reach Koh Hong Island from Krabi:
Public longtail boat: This is the cheapest way to get to Koh Hong Island. The boats depart from Ao Nang Beach and Nopparat Thara Pier, and the journey takes about 20 minutes. Tickets cost around 500 baht per person.
Speedboat: Speedboats are faster than longtail boats, and they can get you to Koh Hong Island in about 10 minutes. Tickets cost around 1,000 baht per person.
Private tour: If you want a more exclusive experience, you can book a private tour to Koh Hong Island. This will give you the flexibility to choose your own itinerary and time of departure. Prices for private tours vary, but they typically start at around 2,000 baht for a group of 4 people.
Things to do at Koh Hong Island Krabi
There are many activities you can do at koh hong island. Every island has different feel. Things you can do are Snorkeling and diving in the clear waters and abundant marine life make Koh Hong a great place to go snorkeling and diving, Explore the island's natural beauty on one of the many hiking trails. Relax on the beach and soak up the sun and sand on Long Beach or Hat Yao.Kayak to the Pak Bia Islands to explore the mangroves and lagoons around Koh Hong by kayak.
Chicken Island Krabi
With its unique rock formations resembling the head of a chicken, Chicken Island (Koh Gai) is a fantastic spot for snorkeling enthusiasts. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the island are teeming with colorful marine life and vibrant coral reefs. Chicken Island is also a popular destination for day trips and island hopping adventures. Many tour operators offer packages that allow visitors to explore multiple islands in the region, including the nearby Phi Phi Islands and Poda Island. Embark on a boat tour and witness the breathtaking beauty of the Andaman Sea, hopping from one tropical paradise to another.
How to get to Chicken Island from Krabi?
Chicken Island, also known as Koh Gai, is about 8 kilometers (5 miles) from Ao Nang Beach in Krabi. Here are the ways to get to Chicken Island from Krabi:
Longtail boat: This is the most popular way to get to Chicken Island. You can book a longtail boat from most hotels, travel agencies, or even on the beach. The journey takes about 30 minutes.The cost of a longtail boat ride to Chicken Island typically ranges from 500 to 1,000 Baht.
Speedboat: Speedboats are a faster way to get to Chicken Island, but they are also more expensive. The journey takes about 15 minutes. The cost of a speedboat ride to Chicken Island typically ranges from 1,000 to 1,500 Baht.
4-island tour: This is a popular tour that includes visits to Chicken Island, Poda Island, Tup Island, and Phra Nang Cave. The tours typically start from Krabi Town or Ao Nang and last for a full day. The cost of a 4-island tour typically ranges from 1,500 to 2,000 Baht.
No matter which way you choose to get to Chicken Island, you're sure to have a great time exploring this beautiful island.
Things to do at Chicken Island:
There are many activities you can enjoy at chicken island such as visiting Poda Island to explore its cave and beaches, additionaly you can hike to the viewpoint at the top of the island for panoramic views of the lagoon and the surrounding islands, and you have water activities there such as snorking or scuba diving or soak up the sun and sand on the islands beach.
Bambo Island Krabi Thailand
It is a hidden gem in the Krabi archipelago, offering visitors an unspoiled tropical oasis. The island is perfect for those seeking peace and tranquility, with its white-sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and abundant coral reefs. Bamboo Island presents opportunities for exploration beyond the beach. Take a walk through the island's lush interior, where dense vegetation and towering bamboo groves create a serene and immersive environment. As you venture deeper into the heart of the island, you'll discover hidden paths and trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding turquoise waters and distant islands.
Here are some of the reasons why you should visit Bamboo Island:
Unspoiled tropical oasis: This Island is a relatively untouched island, with no large resorts or crowds. This makes it the perfect place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
White-sand beaches: Bamboo Island has some of the most beautiful beaches in Krabi. The sand is white and soft, and the water is crystal clear.
Coral reefs: The coral reefs around this Island are teeming with vibrant marine life. Visitors can go snorkeling or diving to see fish, turtles, and other sea creatures.
Activities: There are a variety of activities to enjoy on Bamboo Island, including swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, camping, and hiking.
How to get to Bamboo Island from Krabi:
Bamboo Island is located about 5 kilometers off the coast of Krabi. You can reach the island by taking a long-tail boat from Tonsai Village or Laem Thong Beach. The journey takes about 40 minutes.
Mandatory Health Insurance
Regardless of the danger, travel insurance is just the responsible thing to do when you’re investing thousands of dollars on a trip. But especially if you’re going to be doing boat trips, hikes, or any of the amazing adventure activities Thailand has to offer: Get insurance. We have used SafetyWing to cover our travels the last 3 years and are very happy with their service. But even if you don’t get the one we recommend, don’t leave your country without getting travel insurance.
Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi
Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi are two tranquil islands offering a more laidback and secluded experience. Both islands boast stunning white sandy beaches, mangroves forests, and plenty of opportunities for snorkeling. For those who are looking to explore the local culture, there are several fishing villages worth visiting. To get to Koh Yao Yai, you can take a ferry or speedboat from Ao Nang, Krabi, or Phuket.
Why someone should visit Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi Islands?
Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi are two neighboring islands in Thailand, located between Phuket and Krabi. They are known for their beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and relaxed atmosphere.Here are some of the things you can do on these islands:
- Relax on the beautiful beaches.
- Go hiking through rainforests and mangroves.
- Visit fishing villages and kearn about traditional Thai life.
- Go kayaking in the mangroves or to nearby islands.
- Go snorkling or diving to see corel reefs and marine life.
- Taking a cooking class and learn how to make tradtitional Thai dishes.
How to reach Koh yao yai and Koh yao Noi?
Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi are both accessible by ferry or speedboat from Ao Nang, Krabi, or Phuket.
Recommended Tour: The Koh Yao Islands Day Tour is a great choice for an immersive experience that covers both islands and includes visits to the local fishing villages.
Koh Lanta Island Hopping
Koh Lanta is an archipelago of several islands known for its rainforest, limestone karsts, stunning white sandy beaches, and exciting island hopping adventures. It's the perfect escape for those who want a secluded and peaceful getaway. As a tourist, you can enjoy pristine beaches, indulge in water activities like snorkeling and diving, explore the island's national park, and embark on thrilling island hopping tours to discover the hidden gems of the region. With its laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty, Koh Lanta provides a perfect escape for a relaxing and memorable vacation.
How to get to Koh Lanta from Krabi?
The distance between Koh Lanta and Krabi is about 30 kilometers (19 miles). You can take a ferry or speedboat from Krabi or Phuket. The cost of transportation varies depending on the mode chosen.
Recommended Tour: The Koh Lanta Island Hopping Tour is perfect for exploring the region's most beautiful islands and beaches, plus includes a stop at Emerald Cave.
Koh Siboya:
A small island located near Koh Jum, Koh Siboya is less developed and offers a glimpse into traditional Thai island life. It is known for its quiet beaches, relaxed ambiance, and opportunities for island hopping. It's relatively easy to get to Koh Siboya from Krabi or Ao Nang by taking a long-tail boat, making it a convenient addition to your Krabi island hopping itinerary.
One of the highlights of Koh Siboya is its natural beauty. The island is covered in lush greenery, with dense mangrove forests, coconut groves, and towering palm trees. Exploring the island's interior reveals hidden trails and pathways that lead to panoramic viewpoints. From these viewpoints, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding sea and neighboring islands, including the stunning Krabi Island.
Things to do at Koh Siboya:
Koh Siboya is a popular destination for rock climbers. The island has over 100 routes of varying difficulty, from beginner to advanced. Koh Siboya is a relatively untouched island in krabi, which means you can enjoy its natural beauty without the crowds. The beaches are pristine, the water is clear, and the limestone cliffs are dramatic.
How to get to Koh Siboya from Krabi?
Koh Siboya is about 20 kilometers (12 miles) south of Krabi Town, Thailand. You can take public ferry, longtail boat or Speedbot to reach Koh siboya from krabi for island hopping.
Recommended Tour: The Koh Siboya Island Hopping Tour is perfect for those who want to explore fishing village, want to go to less crowded place, also you can do snorkling, relax on the beach kind of activities.
Koh Jum (Koh Pu):
Situated between Krabi and Koh Lanta, Koh Jum offers a tranquil and less crowded experience. It features pristine beaches, traditional fishing villages, and a serene environment. Visiting Koh Jum is a must for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life. Koh Jum is also an excellent base for island hopping adventures, particularly in the Krabi region. From here, you can embark on exciting boat trips to explore the neighboring islands. Hop from one idyllic island to another, discovering hidden coves, limestone cliffs, and secluded beaches. Each island has its own unique charm, offering a diverse range of experiences for island-hopping enthusiasts.
Recommended Tour: The Koh Jum Island Hopping Tour is an ideal way to explore the island's stunning beaches and diverse marine life.
Koh Lao Lading:
Koh Lao Lading is a small island near Koh Jum and an excellent destination for those seeking a peaceful and secluded experience. The island is known for its white sandy beaches, coral reefs, and rich marine life. This island is a hidden gem that showcases pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and an abundance of marine life. It's a perfect spot for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, allowing you to explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter colorful fish species making it an ideal stop during your island hopping adventure in the Krabi Islands. With its untouched beauty and peaceful atmosphere, Koh Lao Lading provides an escape from the crowds, letting you bask in the natural wonders of the Krabi Islands.
Recommended Tour: The Koh Lao Lading Island Hopping Tour is a great way to explore the island while admiring its natural beauty and vibrant coral reefs.
Koh Pakbia:
Koh Pakbia is an underrated gem located in the Andaman Sea, making it a must-visit destination during your island hopping adventure in the Krabi Islands. It's known for its stunning white sandy beaches, lush jungles, and a rich marine ecosystem. Koh Pakbia is a true hidden gem, waiting to be discovered amidst the Krabi Islands' natural beauty.
Things to do at Koh Pakbia Island
Pak Bia Island has a beautiful beach with white sand and clear waters. You can relax on the beach, swim, or go for a walk. There are some other activities such as snorkling, diving, hiking, visiting local village, have a picnic or explore mangroves.
How far Koh Pakbia from Krabi?
Koh Pakbia is located about 20 kilometers (12 miles) west of Ao Nang in Krabi Province, Thailand.
Recommended Tour: The Koh Pakbia Island Hopping Tour is highly recommended as it covers the major highlights of the island and provides an unforgettable experience.
Koh Klang:
Koh Klang is a charming and peaceful island located just a short boat ride away from Krabi's mainland, making it an excellent addition to your island hopping itinerary in the Krabi Islands. It's an ideal destination for those seeking a break from the bustling crowds of tourists and wanting to explore beyond the popular hotspots. While it's not known for wild parties and beach bars like some of the other islands, Koh Klang offers a unique opportunity to unwind and experience the authentic Thai way of life.
Rent a bicycle and explore the island's quiet streets, admire the lush green paddy fields, and immerse yourself in the daily rhythms of the friendly locals. Koh Klang provides a tranquil retreat, allowing you to embrace the slower pace and natural beauty of the Krabi Islands.
For a unique cultural experience, take a seafood cooking class or visit a batik-making workshop. As for accommodation, there are several homestays and guesthouses that welcome guests with open arms. What makes Koh Klang particularly special is that no cars or motorcycles are allowed on the island, so the air is clean, and the only sounds you'll hear are the chirping birds and the gentle lapping of the waves. So, add Koh Klang to your Krabi island-hopping itinerary and enjoy a serene getaway that you won't forget any time soon.
Recommended Tour: The Koh Klang Island Hopping Tour is perfect for exploring the area's tranquil beaches, diverse marine life, and lush jungles.
Koh Mor:
Koh Mor is a lesser-known island located in the Andaman Sea. It's well known for its picturesque beaches, crystal clear waters, and stunning coral reefs. The island makes an excellent day trip from Krabi or Ao Nang, as it can be easily reached by taking a ferry or speedboat. Visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing, swimming.
Essential Tips for Island Hopping in Krabi
- Be mindful of jellyfish: While rare, it's advisable to check with the local authorities or tour operators about jellyfish sightings and take necessary precautions.
- Wear water shoes: Protect your feet from sharp rocks and coral by wearing water shoes or sandals with a good grip.
- Pack sunscreen and insect repellent: Protect yourself from the sun's rays and pesky mosquitoes.
- Carry a waterproof bag: Keep your belongings safe and dry during boat rides and water activities.
- Stay hydrated: Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your island hopping adventure.
Hotels for Easy Access to Island Hopping:
There are plethora of best hotels for accommodation in krabi, you can explore while island hopping:
- Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi: Located on Pai Plong Bay, this luxury resort offers direct access to Ao Nang Beach and provides easy access to the islands. It boasts spacious rooms, a stunning beachfront pool, and a variety of dining options.
- Rayavadee Resort: Nestled amidst lush tropical gardens and overlooking the Andaman Sea, this 5-star resort offers luxurious accommodation in private pavilions. It is located on Railay Beach, providing quick access to island hopping tours.
- Holiday Inn Resort Krabi Ao Nang Beach: Situated just a stone's throw away from Ao Nang Beach, this family-friendly resort offers comfortable rooms, multiple pools, and a convenient location for island hopping adventures.
Krabi Island Hopping Itinerary
Krabi, Thailand has many islands in its waters. This includes islands like Koh Phi Phi, Koh Yao Yao, Koh Lanta, Koh Yao Noi, Poda island, and so many more. Thankfully, Krabi has just as many boat tours that can take you through the islands. But before you get island hopping, you might want to know, "where is Krabi and how do I get there?"
How to get to Krabi
Krabi is easily accessible from Bangkok by car, bus, or plane. You can take an overnight bus, or even a van to Krabi. We found that the best option for us was a $40 flight that took just a couple of hours. We use Skyscanner to find our flights, and AirAsia is our airline of choice.
Conclusion:
Krabi's enchanting islands offer a paradise-like experience for visitors. From the iconic Phi Phi Islands to the serene Hong Islands and the unique Chicken Island, each destination promises unforgettable memories. By following our recommended tours, helpful tips, and staying at the convenient hotels, you can embark on an incredible island hopping journey in Krabi, immersing yourself in the natural wonders and beauty of Thailand's Andaman Sea.