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Things to Do in Ao Nang

Things to Do in Ao Nang

Ao Nang Andaman Coast, Thailand Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Ao Nang has adventures taking advantage of its unique natural setting.

Hiking & Trekking Routes

Khao Ngon Nak Dragon Crest Mountain

This hike varies from of medium to hard difficulty. Typically 2-3 hours one way, with steep sections. Good fitness required. Reward: incredible panoramic views of the entire Krabi coastline.

Railay Viewpoint & Lagoon

A challenging, very steep climb, often muddy. Uses ropes to assist ascent and descent. Views of Railay beaches and the hidden lagoon are highly rewarding. Access via Railay East.

Monkey Trail Ao Nang

An easy, short walk connecting Ao Nang Beach to the Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi. Involves stairs and a boardwalk through the jungle, offering secluded views and occasional monkey sightings.

Water Sports & Activities

  • Snorkeling: Popular activity on island hopping tours, notably around the 4 Islands (Poda, Chicken, Tup, Phra Nang), Hong Island, and the Phi Phi Islands.
  • Scuba Diving: Numerous dive centers in Ao Nang offer courses (PADI, SSI) for all abilities. They also arrange fun dives to local sites around Ao Nang, Phi Phi, and further afield.
  • Kayaking & Wildlife: Kayaking through mangrove forests and limestone canyons of Ao Thalane or Bor Thor. Spot various bird species, playful monkeys (macaques), and monitor lizards.
  • Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): Available for rent at A Beach town in krabi and Railay beaches. A relaxed way to explore the calm coastal waters.

Rock Climbing

  • Railay Beach is a world-renowned destination for rock climbing.
  • Routes for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced climbers.
  • Numerous schools offer instruction and guided climbs on the impressive limestone cliffs.

Deep Water Soloing

  • This activity involves climbing calcareous cliffs directly above deep water.
  • You simply fall into the sea when you lose your grip.
  • Specialized climbing schools offer this unique experience.

Ziplining

  • Some adventure parks located inland from Ao Nang offer ziplining courses.
  • An exhilarating experience through the jungle canopy.

Jet Skiing Caution

Exercise caution with jet skiing due to reported scams and potential environmental impact. Confirm conditions and pricing before use.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Thai culture through hands-on experiences and traditional practices.

Workshops & Classes

  • Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare traditional Thai dishes from scratch. Thai Charm Cooking School and Ao Nang Thai Cookery School are options.
  • Fruit Carving: Some cooking schools or resorts may offer basic fruit carving lessons, a traditional Thai art form.
  • Language Learning: No dedicated language schools in Ao Nang.

Cultural Performances & Events

Cultural Performances

Less common as standalone attractions in A Beach town in krabi. Some resorts might host cultural dance shows or musical performances during dinner.

Community-Based Tourism

Limited direct initiatives operate within A Beach town in krabi itself. Some tours (e.g., to local villages) may support local communities directly.

Cultural Festivals

Songkran (Thai New Year) occurs in mid-April. Loy Krathong, celebrated in November, involves floating decorated baskets on water bodies. These events are observed throughout Thailand, including Krabi.

Artisan Workshops

Limited direct artisan workshops exist in A Beach town in krabi. However, some shops sell locally made jewelry, wooden sculptures, and textiles.

Ethical Support

Support local artisans directly to ensure fair wages and sustainable practices.

Souvenirs

Look for handicrafts, Thai silk products, local snacks (e.g., dried fruit, cashews, fish crackers), and sarongs.

Relaxation & Wellness

Ao Nang has numerous chances for rest and renewal.

Spa & Wellness Center Recommendations

  • Numerous massage shops line Ao Nang Beach Road, offering traditional Thai massage, foot massage, and oil massage at low costs.
  • Many mid-range to luxury resorts have their own spas, offering a wider range of treatments including body scrubs, wraps, and aromatherapy.
  • Traditional Thai massage remains a healing practice widely available. Herbal compress massages, using heated herbal balls to soothe muscles, are also common.

Natural Therapy & Clubs

Krabi Hot Springs Namtok Ron Khlong Thom

These natural thermal spring waterfalls are believed to possess therapeutic properties due to their mineral-rich water. A warm, relaxing experience in a natural setting.

Yoga & Meditation Retreats

Some yoga studio flats and retreats operate in Ao Nang and Railay (e.g., Pra Nang Yoga in Railay). For more extensive retreats, you might find more options on nearby islands like Koh Lanta or Koh Yao Noi.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Many resorts offer day passes for their pools, allowing non-guests to enjoy their facilities for a fee. Some beach clubs operate along Ao Nang Beach.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Live Music Venues

Some bars along Ao Nang Beach Road feature live bands, often playing reggae or pop covers, creating a relaxed evening ambiance.

Nightclubs & Dancing

What to do at night in A Beach town in krabi focuses on bars featuring live music or DJ sets rather than large nightclubs. Popular spots contain the Ao Nang Centre Point complex.

Bar Districts & Late Night

Ao Nang Centre Point is a multi-story complex with bars. Ao Nang Beach Road has numerous individual bars. Bars generally shut around 1 AM or 2 AM.

Shopping & Markets

Ao Nang provides chances for souvenir hunting, local crafts, and everyday necessities.

Traditional Markets & Bazaars

  • A Beach town in krabi Landmark Night Market: daily with numerous stalls selling food, souvenirs, and clothing.
  • A Beach town in krabi Walking Street: Similar to the night market, operates in the evenings with various goods and food.
  • Krabi Town Night Market (Weekend Market): Larger market in Krabi Town, operating Fri, Sat, Sun evenings. Has greater variety of local goods, food, and entertainment, with a more local atmosphere.

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

Limited Options

Luxury and boutique shopping options are very limited in A Beach town in krabi. The focus remains on tourist essentials and souvenirs.

High-End Brands

For high-end fashion or international brands, you might need to visit Phuket or Bangkok.

Artisan Workshops & Crafts

  • Limited direct artisan workshops exist in A Beach town in krabi.
  • Some shops sell locally made jewelry, wood carvings, and textiles.

Souvenir Recommendations

  • Handicrafts, Thai silk products.
  • Local snacks (e.g., dried fruit, cashews, fish crackers).
  • Elephant-themed items (choose ethically produced ones).
  • Sarongs and beachwear.

Ethical Shopping Guidelines

  • Avoid products made from endangered species (e.g., coral, specific shells).
  • Be cautious about purchasing items made from animal parts (e.g., ivory, tiger parts), as these are illegal.
  • Support local artisans directly to ensure fair wages.

Shipping & Customs Information

Shipping
  • Postal services are available at Thailand Send offices in Krabi Town and a smaller branch in Ao Nang.
  • You can send postcards and offers internationally.
  • Larger items can be shipped by freight or cargo services.
Customs
  • Be aware of limitations on certain items.
  • Some Buddha images may require a permit for export. Certain animal products might also face restrictions.
  • Always check your home country's import regulations for any items you plan to bring back.

Shopping Tip

Many tourist-focused shops accept major credit cards, but cash is often preferred for smaller purchases and at markets.

Activity Planning Summary

Adventure Planning

  • Plan hikes based on fitness (Khao Ngon Nak, Railay Viewpoint).
  • Book island tours for snorkeling or diving through GetYourGuide.
  • Consider rock climbing lessons on Railay Beach.
  • Choose ethical elephant sanctuaries for interactions in an ethical environment.

Cultural & Wellness

  • Take a Thai cooking class for hands-on culinary skills.
  • Enjoy traditional Thai massage or resort spa treatments.
  • Check local event listings for cultural festivals.
  • Explore night markets for food and souvenirs.