🏖️ A slower rhythm by the sea

After the rugged, jungle-covered calm of Khao Sok, arriving in Krabi felt like stepping into another world — one where the air smelled like salt, the water shimmered gold at sunset, and every corner felt like a postcard.

We reached Krabi by private transfer from Ratchaprapha Dam, a smooth 1.5–2 hour drive through winding mountain roads and tiny towns. It’s an easy, scenic trip — the perfect bridge between the rainforest and the sea.

🏝️ The Stay: Amari Vogue Krabi

We stayed at Amari Vogue Krabi, and it was hands down one of the best choices we made in Thailand. After the simplicity of Panvaree, this felt like complete luxury.

Our room was unlike anything we’d had before — spacious, modern, and with an ocean view that didn’t feel real. Everything about the resort felt brand new, from the polished marble floors to the sparkling pools that overlooked the beach. There’s even a Starbucks and a stylish bar right on-site, which somehow doesn’t take away from the tropical feel — it adds to it.

Breakfast was included and absolutely amazing — fresh fruit, pastries, made-to-order eggs, Thai dishes, and the kind of coffee that makes you sit and linger.

The only real downside? It’s about 20 minutes from Ao Nang, the main town. But with how peaceful and private it felt, that distance was a small trade-off. Grabs were easy and affordable, and we never had trouble getting in or out.

For reference, it’s right next to the Ritz-Carlton Reserve, and honestly, being able to stay in the same stretch of paradise for around $100 a night felt like an absolute win. Choosing this over the Banyan Tree or Ritz was one of the best decisions of the trip.

🌅 What we did

Krabi has a little bit of everything — beach time, adventure, food, and local charm — and we tried to do it all.

Ao Nang: We loved the energy here — a mix of travelers, beach bars, and small shops. We saw a fire show right on the sand, totally free, run by a group of local kids who were incredible.

Night market: The Krabi Town Night Market was lively and fun — great for souvenirs, quick eats, and people-watching — though we both agreed it wasn’t quite as atmospheric as the one in Chiang Mai. Still, worth a visit for an evening out.

Food:

  • Kodam Kitchen — one of our favorite meals in Thailand. Authentic, flavorful, and cozy.
  • Smash Burgers — way too expensive, but a fun little taste of home after weeks of curry and rice.
  • Sankara Spa — we had a 90-minute couple’s massage for about $30, and it was one of the best massages we’ve ever had.

Day trips:

  • Railay Beach — just a short boat ride from Ao Nang and worth every second. We had lunch at The Grotto, a restaurant built inside a cave as part of a resort. You’ll need to make a reservation in advance, but it’s easy. The setting is jaw-dropping, and even though the menu leaned Mediterranean (we secretly wished for Thai food), it was one of the most memorable lunches of the trip. We got caught in a tropical downpour while we were there — thunder echoing through the cave, waves crashing below. It was so cool.
  • Luxury catamaran cruise — we did a sunset cruise around the Seven Islands, and it was exactly what it sounds like: music, drinks, glowing water, and that slow golden-hour light that makes you fall in love with travel all over again.

💭 Final thoughts

Krabi was that perfect mix of comfort and adventure. After long travel days and jungle humidity, it gave us a chance to exhale — to watch the waves roll in with a drink in hand and just be.

Would we go back? In a heartbeat.

✈️ How to visit Krabi

Getting there:
We arrived by private transfer from Ratchaprapha Dam after our stay in Khao Sok. The drive took about 1.5 to 2 hours, and we’d recommend booking a driver in advance through your resort or Klook.
If you’re flying in directly, Krabi International Airport (KBV) is the main hub. From there, it’s an easy 45-minute drive to the coast or your resort. Grabs are affordable and reliable, even at night.

Where to stay:
If you want quiet luxury without the price tag, Amari Vogue Krabi is our top pick. For travelers who prefer nightlife and walkable beaches, stay closer to Ao Nang.

When to go:
November to March is the dry season and best for beach days. Rain showers can still happen, but they’re quick and warm.

🧳 What to pack for Krabi

  • 👙 Swimsuits — you’ll basically live in them.
  • 🧴 Sunscreen — the Thai sun is no joke.
  • 💸 Cash — many local shops and food stalls don’t take cards.
  • 🩴 Water shoes or sandals — especially for island tours and caves.
  • 🌦️ Light rain jacket or poncho — showers come and go fast.
  • 📸 Camera or waterproof phone case — everything is photo-worthy.

Krabi is where Thailand’s adventure meets calm — where every sunset feels like the first one you’ve ever watched.

🌿

— The Habit of Travel