11 BEST Things To Do In Ao Nang, Thailand
Huddled in the vibrant Krabi Province of southern Thailand is the beautiful Ao Nang beach. This resort town combines the exciting beach life and modern comforts of home. From swimming, kayaking to rock climbing and ziplining, Ao Nang has a long list of activities for everyone. If you’re visiting this paradise soon, planning on what to do in Ao Nang can be an exciting task. To help you decide, we round up the best things to do in Ao Nang, Thailand. You might be surprised that there’s more to just burying your toes in the sand on this beach town.
Where is Ao Nang?
It is located in Krabi province, Thailand. It is the central point and the prime tourist spot in this province, which is around 20 km from Krabi town and 25 km from Krabi International, which is the nearest airport.
When to visit Krabi?
It always pays to know the best time to visit a place, especially for beach bums. This should help you enjoy the most out of any island paradise. With that, the best time to book a flight to Krabi is between November and March. These months will give you the best weather conditions.
However, take note that tourists flock to Krabi during this time. Meanwhile, you might want to avoid the months of June to October. These months are frequented by heavy rains. The only advantage you’ll enjoy from this period is the less number of tourists.
Time to dive deeper! Here are the best things to do in Ao Nang:
1.
Chill On Ao Nang Beach
©Photo by Polar from Flickr
What’s a trip to Ao Nang if you don’t get to relax on its sloping sand and clear waters? Ao Nang is a palm-fringed beach that’s undeniably Krabi’s precious gem. No wonder thousands of tourists flock to this resort town year after year.
To start your what to do in Ao Nang list, put swimming and sunbathing first. There’s nothing like dipping in warm blue waters. Soaking up the sun while sipping on fresh juice is also an excellent idea. Save some energy to stroll along the golden shore. Meanwhile, for a more relaxing option, you can simply lounge by the beach.
2.
Enjoy Island Hopping
©Photo by Pietro Motta from Flickr
Another amazing reason why Ao Nang Thailand is an excellent beach destination is its location. It is the perfect jumping-off point to Southern Thailand’s other stunning islands. With that, island hopping is among the best things to do in Ao Nang.
If you’re staying longer in Ao Nang, don’t miss swinging by the nearby islands. There are plenty of island hopping tours in Ao Nang that are nothing short of fun. The most popular tour is the 4-Islands tour. This package lets you visit four beautiful beaches and islands in the Krabi area.
The 4-Islands tour takes you to Poda Island, Chicken Island, Tub Island, and Phra Nang Beach. This tour lets you take in the picturesque views of Thai islands, its turquoise waters, and white sand. You’ll be given enough time to swim, dive, and snorkel to your heart’s content. Of course, don’t forget to take snaps on every island.
Aside from breathtaking views, this tour includes a buffet lunch. That sounds like an amazing island hopping tour package!
3.
Rent A Kayak
©Photo by stanislav baranov from Flickr
Ao Nang is surrounded by gorgeous beaches, islands, and coves. What better way to navigate and explore this paradise than by kayak? Kayaking is also a great and fun alternative to see the island without impacting the environment.
There are kayak rentals around Ao Nang Beach. You can choose from a 1-person or 2-person kayak, depending on your preference. You can paddle your way to Railay or Tonsai. However, if you have the energy, you can go all the way to Chicken Island.
When is the best time to go kayaking, you ask? Of course, no two days are the same. However, in general, the best time to go is during high tide. This time allows you to paddle through more channels and caves.
Low tide is also a good time, especially if you’re hesitant to go in deeper waters. It’s also a wonderful sight to see when the water drops. In addition, low tide lets you see all the wildlife that lives in the mud. There are also some birds that come out during the low tide.
4.
Rock Climb The Cliffs At Railay Beach
©Photo by Nicolas Vollmer from Flickr
Only 10 minutes away from Ao Nang is a rock-climbing paradise. Railay Beach is home to limestone cliffs and hundreds of climbing routes. There’s practically a route for every skill level.
You don’t need to be a pro to enjoy rock climbing in Railay Beach. There are groups that offer guide services as well as rock climbing lessons. Krabi Rock Climbing is one of the best rock climbing schools you can try. They offer beginner, intermediate, and advanced climbing lessons. They also have private guides for a more personalized climbing experience.
Aside from rock climbing, deep water solo climbing is popular here. This is climbing without ropes over water. This type of rock climbing involves letting go and falling into the water. This is anytime you feel that you are about to lose your grip or can’t move any further. It’s definitely not for the faint-hearted!
For the best rock climbing experience, make sure to wear the proper clothes and the best water shoes.
5.
Trek the Tab Kak Hang Nak Nature Trail
©Photo by innatyshchenko on Adobe Stock
Among the best things to do in Ao Nang, trekking for the stunning view of Ao Nang is the way to go. To properly unravel this paradise, look no further, Tab Nak Hang Nak nature trail is a must. Though this hike can be quite challenging depending on the weather condition, you can either do it yourself or book among the many hiking tour agencies around Ao Nang.
As one of the most popular hiking trek in Ao Nang, the climb to Hang Nak Mountain certainly doesn’t disappoint. To reach the summit, you need to complete the 3.7 kilometers hike. This is no easy feat and is, in fact, strenuous. However, the view of the top is more than rewarding. The summit allows you to enjoy amazing panoramic views of the beach and forest.
Tips: Come early for the hike as it can be quite crowded around 10 AM. Wear proper a shoe as the trail can be slippery and bring along a small towel for the strenuous hike.
6.
Enjoy Snorkeling And Scuba Diving
©Photo by MBatty from Pixabay
Aside from discovering Ao Nang, Thailand from the surface, explore the other side of it underwater. You can’t visit Ao Nang without spending some time underneath its clear waters.
Scuba diving is among the best things to do in Ao Nang. You don’t need to worry about doing it alone. There are plenty of dive agencies that can get you certified. Meanwhile, if you’re already qualified, they can simply take you out on an exciting and fun dive.
If you’re hesitant about scuba diving, snorkeling is a fun option. It’s one of the most fun and relaxing activities to do in Ao Nang. For some of the best snorkeling experiences, you need to catch a longtail to other islands. Chicken and Tup Islands have a strait between them that offers amazing snorkeling spots. Bamboo Island also gives some of the best shallow snorkeling experiences.
Make sure to capture some of the best underwater scenes by bringing your trusty underwater camera.
7.
Check Out A Muay Thai Fight
©Photo by christopherwchiu from Pixabay
Among the exciting things to do in Ao Nang is to attend a Muay Thai match. Make your visit to Thailand memorable by witnessing its national sport.
If you want the largest Muay Thai venue, head to Ao Nang Krabi Stadium. This stadium puts out regular small-scale matches every Friday night. So if you’re looking to witness some Muay Thai action, this is the place to be.
Aside from that, Ao Nang Krabi Stadium also offers Thai boxing training to foreigners. You can try one session or book for a month. If your little ones are also up for it, the stadium offers classes designed for children.
You can conveniently purchase tickets at most Ao Nang hotels and tour agencies.
8.
Get A Thai Massage
©Photo by IQP from Wikimedia Commons
As they say, you haven’t had a real massage if you haven’t tried a Thai massage. This massage is more than a form of relaxation. The technique involves twists and pulls that may look painful but incredibly rejuvenating for when tried.
A Thai massage is one of the best things to do in Ao Nang. Add to that is the beach as your perfect setting. You can book a Thai massage in a beach hut. Imagine feeling the gentle breeze or hearing the gentle waves lapping as you receive a Thai massage. Meanwhile, you can also opt for a massage in any of the massage shops in the area.
Aonang Haven Massage is a popular Thai massage shop choice among tourists. Not far behind are Wan Massage Good Luck Shop and Atta-Rak Massage & Body Treatment.
9.
Take A Thrilling Zipline Ride
©Photo by Sgt. Jamean Berry from Wikimedia Commons
What could be more thrilling than viewing the rainforest canopy at Ao Nang above the ground? For the more adventurous souls, you can experience this by taking a zipline ride. If you’re lucky, monkeys can even swing beneath you!
Ziplining in Ao Nang is an incredibly fun and completely safe activity here. Choose from among the selection of ziplining companies that will give you a thrilling ride. Some of the popular companies are Aonang Fiore Resort & Spa, Thai’d Up Adventures, and Krabi Fun Park Co., Ltd.
About 15 minutes from Krabi and Ao Nang is Thai’d Up Adventures. Aside from zipline adventures, the company offers other fun activities. These include top-rope climbing, abseiling, and ATV rides. Their zipline adventures are also kid-friendly. This makes them an excellent choice if you want to let your children join in on the fun.
10.
Enjoy The Krabi Nightlife
©Photo from Amy’s Bar’s official Facebook page
The nightlife in Southern Thailand is very much alive, and Ao Nang is no exception. To name a few, Amy’s Bar is among the best spots to drink and dance the night away. Roots Rock Reggae Bar and Ricks Bar are also fun options.
Ao Nang’s nightlife scene is not as hot and heavy as those in Bangkok, Pattaya, or Phuket. However, Ao Nang has enough options to give locals and tourists a great night.
Meanwhile, if you want to party at the center of it all, head to Ao Nang Centre Point. This 3-story complex has been the heart of nightlife since 1999 in Krabi town. Aside from bars, Ao Nang Center Point features restaurants and shopping centers.
11.
Chase After The Sunsets In Ao Nang
©Photo by Score with German from Wikimedia Commons
Chasing sunsets is among the most romantic things to do in Ao Nang. Like in any other beach, catching dramatic sunset scenes won’t cost anything and is always worth anyone’s time.
After a long day in Ao Nang, catching the sunset is a relaxing way to end your tiring day. Take in the beauty of the perfect blend of color and light all in one magnificent moment. While you’re at it, lounge by the beach with a cold bottle of beer or glass of fresh juice.
Best Places To Stay In Ao Nang
©Photo from Ao Nang Cliff Beach Hotel’s official website
Booking a hotel in Ao Nang is easy as there are a lot of hotels to suit all budgets. If you want to stay close to the action, book a hotel along the beach main strip. Meanwhile, if you prefer quiet places, there are plenty of Ao Nang hotels further inland.
Best Luxury Hotels In Ao Nang
Ao Nang Cliff Beach Resort: If you have an Ao Nang cliff view resort in mind, look no further. Ao Nang Cliff Beach Resort offers panoramic views, an infinity pool, and ocean view rooms. This luxurious beach resort sitting atop a hill promises only the best experience to its guests.
Phulay Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve: Among the luxury Ao Nang hotels worth every penny is Phulay Bay. Only 30 minutes away from Ao Nang, this hotel has a selection of palatial villas and an amazing spa. There are even private pavilions for guests to enjoy.
Aonang Phu Petra Resort: This 4-star hotel boasts spacious rooms and a large swimming pool. You can enjoy and relax anywhere in this hotel with stunning large limestone cliffs as your backdrop.
Best Mid-Range Hotels In Ao Nang
Aonang Paradise Resort: This 3.5-star resort boasts stylish and comfortable rooms. It also has a swimming pool and fitness center for health buffs. Aside from that, this hotel is only 5 minutes away from Ao Nang Beach.
Baan Dinlamun Resort: Sitting on a hill between Ao Nang Beach and Nopparat Thara Beach, Baan Dinlamun Resort offers quiet days and relaxing nights.
Mini House Aonang: This beautiful boutique hotel has 15 tasteful rooms and suites to choose from. It’s only a short walk from Ao Nang Beach, making it a convenient location.
Best Budget Hotels In Ao Nang
Ao nang Smile Hotel: If you’re on a budget, Aonang Smile is an excellent option. This 2-star hotel offers clean rooms with large balconies. Staying here lets you spend less but enjoy more of the stunning views of Ao Nang and the Andaman Sea.
I Krabi Hostel Ao nang: I Krabi is among the best value hostels you can stay in this island. It’s a mix of private rooms and dormitories that are clean and comfortable.
Mini Boxtel Aonang Hostel: If you’re looking for cheap and simple hostels in Ao Nang, Mini Boxtel is perfect for you. It’s a modern hostel with mixed rooms or women-only spaces. There’s also a common area at the rooftop offering great views.
A Paradise For The Beach Bums
For beach lovers, finding a beach town that offers more than just swimming is like discovering a gem. This is what Ao Nang in Southern Thailand promises. Visiting here lets you enjoy its crystal waters, blue skies, and stunning landscapes. Surrounded by many beaches and forests, there’s so much to do and see in this paradise. Hopefully, this list gives you a clearer idea of what you can enjoy the most from Ao Nang, Thailand.
