Krabi is a paradisiac known for its beautiful beaches and limestone formations. Dina shares her thoughts on why Krabi is so popular with tourists.

Krabi, a coastal province located in the Andaman Sea at the southern end of Thailand, is just one and a quarter hours from Singapore. Krabi is a tropical paradise with stunning natural scenery. Limestone cliffs rise majestically from the emerald-green waters and outstanding white sand beaches.

The memories of my first trip to Krabi are etched in my mind. My thoughts drift, and I think back to when I was on a speedboat with a wink in my hair and an endless blue sea before me. It won’t take long for me to cruise the skies again on an AirAsia flight en route from Krabi. It is now clear to me why so many people return to Krabi over and over again.

1. Take your pick from 154 islands.

Krabi is a popular destination for island hopping. There are many beautiful islands right off the coast. You can travel the sea in traditional long-tail or speed boats and on cruises to these beautiful islands.

My entourage started our island-hopping adventure with Tup Island. As we approached the shore, I took in a sharp breath. It was Krabi, as stunning as I had always imagined. The lime-green water faded to ultramarine.

After circling Tup Island on foot, I continued to Chicken Island via a stretch of elevated sand. It took me only a few minutes. The school of yellow-striped sergeant main fish that swam around my legs fascinated me.

I remember jumping into the clear, inviting waters of Poda Island and failing to reach the famous outcrop, which is farther from the shore than I thought. The boat maneuvered into an opening on Hong Island to allow us to enter the secret lagoon. For a few moments, all was quiet.

2. Famous white sandy beaches

There are many beautiful beaches in the area due to the abundance of islands with stunning coastlines. Long-tail boats are lining the beaches with colorful ribbons fluttering in the wind on the more crowded beaches.

If you go to beaches that aren’t frequented by tourists or arrive when most tourists are gone for the day, you might find quieter or even deserted beaches. You can hire a boat to take you to deserted beaches.

3. Diverse and well-preserved natural environments

Krabi is famous for its beaches, islands, tranquil mangrove forests, and limestone canyons. These caves are perfect for paddling through on a kayak. Thermal springs and waterfalls can be found deep within tropical rainforests.

4. Sunsets: Krabi does this better

My first night in Krabi was marked by the spectacular sunset from Koh Klang, an island closest to Krabi’s mainland. A stunning clash of oranges and blues lit up the sky, creating a unique masterpiece.

As I stood in awe, marveling at the sky and marveling at it all, I saw another sunset from Ao Nang beach. The breathtaking sunsets of Krabi make it worth my insatiable desire to be there.

6. A romantic retreat for pampering

A great way to unwind after a long sunbath day is to visit one of the many Krabi massage parlors. As I walked along Ao Nang’s beachfront street, I was greeted by numerous shops that offered a Thai massage for only 200 Baht (SGD8). Although I would have loved to spend the entire day getting back-to-back massages, it was too short for me.

My Thai massage experience was described best by this word: “Shiok!” I lay down face-down and drifted into a blissful semiconscious state. As a Thai lady skilled eased my tension, the scent of Tiger Balm (a medicated oil) drifted past my nose. After my experience, I was overcome with gratitude and gave her a generous tip.

There are many more luxurious beauty salons available to pamper you. I had the pleasure of experiencing hydrotherapy at Wareerak Hot Spring Retreat, Khlong Thom. It was an unforgettable spa experience to soak in the mineral-rich water of the geothermal pools in the middle of the jungle. Hydrotherapy is magic.

7. This brings out the best in me:

Shopping in Krabi can be a fun experience, especially at the local markets or roadside stalls that allow you to play bargaining games with local vendors. It would help if you visited Krabi Town Walking Street on weekends.

The street was alive with color and life, so I immersed myself in many street food stalls that offered a variety of street delights. Others had handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs on tables. Young musicians sat on a rattan rug and played traditional instruments in the middle of the street.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the many reasons Krabi is worth a visit if you’re looking for a place to go on upcoming trips.