Krabi with Kids – Best Things to Do in Ao Nang and Railay in 2024

Ao Nang and Railay in Krabi are super popular holiday spots for couples, solo travelers, and especially families. We’ve been there twice with our two young daughters, so I can tell you exactly what Krabi with kids feels like.

In this article, you’ll find out why Ao Nang and Railay are perfect family destinations, the best things to do with kids, and the top places to stay.

Ao Nang and Railay in a Nutshell

Let’s start with the basics: What kind of places are Ao Nang and Railay? Here are the key details:

Location:
Ao Nang is this laid-back beach town in Krabi province on the Andaman Sea, about 20 km from Krabi Town. It’s all about stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear water, and easy access to some seriously beautiful islands. Just a quick boat ride from Ao Nang, you’ve got Railay – an idyllic little peninsula with no roads, just sandy paths and jaw-dropping views.

Population:
Ao Nang has around 14,400 residents as of the latest counts, spread out across 50 square kilometers. The local community grows significantly in the high season with an influx of travelers. Railay, on the other hand, doesn’t have a large resident population due to its unique, boat-access-only setup. Instead, you’ll find a mix of seasonal workers and tourists, plus some locals who help run the area’s hotels, cafes, and tour spots.

Tourism:
Both Ao Nang and Railay are all about tourism. Ao Nang is the jumping-off point for island-hopping, snorkeling, and rock climbing – you name it. From here, you can explore Railay, head over to the famous Phi Phi Islands, or hit the Hong Islands. Railay is famous for its rock climbing scene, with limestone cliffs perfect for beginners and pros, plus loads of spots to kayak, dive, or just relax on the beach.

Economy:
Around 80% of Ao Nang’s revenue comes from tourism, supported by an array of hotels, restaurants, and tour operators. Railay, too, thrives on tourism, with its local businesses heavily relying on the seasonal influx of travelers. Both areas also maintain small fishing and agricultural communities that contribute to the local economy.

Accommodations:
Ao Nang has everything from budget guesthouses to splashy beachfront resorts with dreamy Andaman Sea views. Railay keeps it low-key with a mix of eco-lodges and boutique spots, making it perfect for anyone wanting a quieter, nature-focused escape.

Getting to Ao Nang and Railay

Reaching Ao Nang and Railay is straightforward, which is great for families planning a trip to Krabi with kids.

Fly to Krabi International Airport:

• Just a 30-minute drive from Ao Nang, making it the quickest way to get close to both Ao Nang and Railay.
• Direct flights are available from Bangkok, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur, so it’s easily accessible for international travelers.
• From the airport, you can take a taxi or private transfer, which is comfortable and family-friendly.

Ferry and Speedboat Connections:

• For a scenic approach, ferries connect Ao Nang and Railay with Phuket and Koh Phi Phi. These are great options especially for families with older kids. The direct ferry ride from Phuket to Railay takes 2 hours. Check out your ferry options here.
• Travel times vary, so it’s good to check the weather, as rough seas can impact schedules.

Private Transfers and Minivans:

• Private minivans or taxis from Krabi Airport are convenient for families with young children, with plenty of space and air conditioning. We’ve had the best experiences with B.V.S.T. (Bangkok Van Service Travel). Simply message them 48 hours in advance, and they’ll arrange a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan with a reliable driver for you.
• They’re often faster and more comfortable than shared rides, so you can enjoy a smooth, relaxed trip right to Ao Nang or the nearby pier for Railay transfers.

👉 Take a look at my guide, “How to Get from Phuket to Krabi?”, for all the details!

Best Family-Friendly Beaches

When it comes to Krabi with kids, you’ll find some of the best beaches in all of Thailand. Here are my favorites in Ao Nang, Railay, and nearby:

• Ao Nang Beach: This is the main beach in the area, with lots of restaurants, shops, and cafes nearby. The beach itself is beautiful, especially at sunset, though it can get busy. It’s a great starting point for island-hopping trips.
• Nopparat Thara Beach: Right next to Ao Nang, this long, sandy beach is quieter. At low tide, you can walk out to small islands just off the shore. During high tide, the beach narrows, bringing you closer to the busy road.
• Pai Plong Beach: Also called Centara Grand Beach, this small, secluded spot is a quick walk over the Monkey Trail from Ao Nang Beach or accessible by boat. It’s peaceful and my absolute favorite spot in Krabi with kids! Perfect for a beautiful, crowd-free sunset.
• Tonsai Beach: Known for rock climbers and backpackers, Tonsai Beach has a more laid-back, rustic vibe. You can reach it by a short boat trip or a walk from Railay. With cliffs all around, it’s a super scenic spot.
• Railay Beach: Just a short long-tail boat ride from Ao Nang, Railay Beach is famous for its stunning limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and breathtaking views. It’s split into two main areas: Railay West, ideal for relaxing, and Railay East, popular for rock climbing.
• Phra Nang Beach: You can easily reach Phra Nang Beach by a nature trail from Railay Beach. This is my second favorite spot, with beautiful scenery, caves, and the Phra Nang Cave, which has a shrine to a local fertility goddess (expect to see lots of wooden carvings!). The beach is great for swimming. My daughters loved collecting shells and stacking flat rocks into little towers.

Ao Nang and Railay with Kids: Top Family Activities

1. Island Hopping Tour:
   You can take a family-friendly boat tour to explore stunning destinations such as the Phi Phi Islands, Chicken Island, and more. These tours typically start in the morning, with hotel pickups around 8:00 AM, and wrap up by mid-afternoon, around 3:00 or 4:00 PM. Travel times between islands are generally short, which is great for kids – Koh Poda is just 15 to 20 minutes away by longtail boat, while the Phi Phi Islands are about 45 minutes to an hour by speedboat.
   Several reputable tour providers offer family-oriented packages. For example, GetYourGuide has a 4 Islands Day Tour by speedboat or longtail boat, visiting spots like Chicken Island and Phra Nang Cave Beach, while Viator offers a full-day tour that includes lunch and stops at Phi Phi Islands. Most tours include life jackets, snorkeling gear, and meals, so you’re all set for a day of exploring turquoise waters and beautiful beaches with the family.
2. Snorkeling and Swimming Spots:
   Ao Nang and Railay offer excellent snorkeling and swimming spots suitable for children. Koh Poda is probably the best destination. The island is approximately 8 kilometers from Ao Nang Beach, and you can reach it by a 20-minute longtail boat ride.
   To get there, head to the ticket booths along Ao Nang and Railay Beach, where you can purchase tickets for the longtail boats that depart regularly. The clear, shallow waters around Koh Poda are ideal for kids to safely snorkel and swim.
3. Rock climbing at Railay Beach: 
   This is perfect for families looking for adventure against a stunning limestone backdrop. I don’t know of a better spot in Thailand. With safe and exciting courses kids can explore rock climbing under the guidance of expert instructors.
   At Railay Rock Climbing, the ‘Fun Climbing’ course is open to all ages, using top-rope climbing. Families can choose from a half-day course at 1,500 Baht (includes water) or a full-day course at 2,600 Baht (includes water and lunch).
   Hot Rock Climbing School also provides family-friendly climbing sessions for beginners and more experienced climbers, with half and full-day options available.
   For a more tailored experience, Karst Climbing School leads family climbing trips in Railay, Tonsai, and Chong Pli.
4. Ao Nang Night Market:
   Visiting night markets in Thailand is always fun, and Ao Nang Night Market is no exception. It’s a lively spot for families in the evenings, open daily from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM. You’ll find all sorts of street food, from Thai classics to treats kids will love, along with stalls selling souvenirs, clothes, and handmade items. There’s live entertainment too, like traditional Thai dancing and the occasional fire show.
   Personally, I find night markets a bit stressful with young kids, but it’s still worth a visit (just don’t expect a relaxing evening!).
5. Tha Pom Klong Song Nam:
   Tha Pom Klong Song Nam is a mangrove forest with crystal-clear water, perfect for a peaceful walk along wooden paths. Kids can spot fish and plants right beneath the surface, and the mix of fresh and saltwater makes it extra unique.
   To get there from Krabi Town by car, take the Krabi-Ao Luk road (Highway 4) and turn right at the Pom Khao Khram intersection after five kilometers; the route is well signposted. I recommend taking a taxi for a couple of hundred Thai Bahts. 
   The entrance fee is 50 Baht for adults and 30 Baht for children. Plan to spend about 1-2 hours exploring the wooden walkways through the mangroves and enjoying the beautiful environment.
6. Emerald Pool and Hot Springs:
   The Emerald Pool and nearby hot springs in Thung Teao Forest Natural Park are must-visits in Krabi with kids. The Emerald Pool, also known as Sa Morakot, is a natural pond with clear, warm water perfect for kids to swim in. The hot springs offer a relaxing soak, with naturally heated water flowing into several pools. From Krabi Town, it’s about a 60-kilometer drive—rent a car or join a tour for the 1.5-hour trip.
   Entrance to the Emerald Pool costs 200 Baht for adults and 100 Baht for children. Don’t forget to bring towels and swimsuits!
7. Kids Club at Local Resorts:
   Honestly, there’s not much to do indoors in Krabi when the weather isn’t great, so I recommend booking a hotel with a good kids club. We stayed at the Centara Ao Nang Beach Resort & Spa Krabi, and while I wouldn’t fully recommend the hotel, the kids club was a lifesaver. Our girls had a blast, not only playing with other kids but also joining fun craft activities and group games. And for us parents, it meant we had 1-2 hours to ourselves—a nice little break!
8. Poppy’s MiniGolf in Ao Nang:
   Located just 75 meters off the main road near Centara Resort, Poppy’s MiniGolf offers a casual activity with scenic cliff views. Though not the newest course, it’s still a fun option for all ages. Open daily until late, it’s easy to reach and perfect for an evening outing in Ao Nang (just avoid mosquito hour between 5:30 – 6:30 PM).
9. Shell Fossil Beach:
   Shell Fossil Beach, or Susan Hoi, is a hidden gem about 17 kilometers from Ao Nang. Known as Thailand’s “fossil beach,” it’s one of only three similar sites in the world, with limestone slabs that contain 40-million-year-old fossilized shells. There’s a small museum nearby with displays about the fossils and the region’s history. Shell Fossil Beach is open daily, and it’s best to visit at low tide to see the fossils up close.
   However, visitor reviews are mixed. Some travelers find the site underwhelming, citing limited attractions and a high entrance fee for foreigners. Unfortunately we didn’t make it there so I cannot give you a personal recommendation.

Family-Friendly Dining Options in Ao Nang and Railay

Here’s a quick guide to some family-friendly spots in Ao Nang and Railay, with options for kid-friendly menus, vegetarian and vegan choices, and relaxed beachfront dining.

Ao Nang:

• The Hilltop Ao Nang: Stunning sunset views over the Andaman Sea with a mix of Thai and international dishes that appeal to all ages. Great for a special family dinner with a view.
• Mañana Mexican Food Aonang: Laid-back, casual spot serving flavorful Mexican favorites like tacos, burritos, and nachos. Perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner with family.

Railay:

• The Last Bar: Right on the beach, this spot has a mix of Thai and Western food, plus evening fire shows that are always a hit with kids.
• Mangrove Restaurant: Open-air setting with a relaxed vibe, serving vegetarian and vegan-friendly options that work well for the whole family.

Beachfront Dining:

• Lae Lay Grill (Ao Nang): Perfect for an easygoing family evening with fresh seafood and a lovely view over the bay. The menu has something for everyone.
• Railay Family Restaurant (Railay): Casual beachfront dining with traditional Thai dishes and plenty of space for kids to play on the beach as you dine.

Practical Tips for Families Visiting Krabi with Kids

Best Time to Visit:

• November to March is ideal for families, with cooler, dry weather that’s perfect for outdoor activities. But it’s also high season, so it will be more expensive and you’ll have more tourists.
• April and May are hot, and July to October is the rainy season – great for quieter beaches if you’re okay with some rain showers, mainly in the afternoon.

Getting Around:

• Ao Nang is mostly stroller-friendly, but a baby carrier can be useful for rougher paths (like in Railay or the Monkey Trail).
• Tuk-tuks are easy to find for short trips, and songthaews (shared taxis) are great for family outings.

Safety and Convenience:

• Many hotels offer kid-friendly amenities, and there are medical centers in the area for emergencies.
• Essentials like sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and plenty of water will keep everyone comfortable and happy. You can buy everything in local supermarkets or 7-Elevens.

Where to Stay in Krabi With Kids

👉 Check out these amazing Krabi hotels or use the map below!

As I mentioned earlier, we stayed at Centara Ao Nang Beach Resort, but I have to say I was disappointed with several things. The breakfast had very limited options, the crowd was mostly loud and rude, and the kids’ pool wasn’t really toddler-friendly. However, the location was great—you could walk right to the beach and the beachfront promenade, which was super convenient.

Next time, though, I’d probably choose one of the following hotels. Note: These options have family-friendly amenities but no kids clubs, except for the Centara Grand Beach Resort—not to be confused with the Centara Beach Resort where we stayed.

Ao Nang:

1. Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi
   Tucked away in its own private bay, this place has family rooms, a kids’ club, and tons of water activities right at your doorstep. It’s great if you’re after a peaceful beach vibe with all the luxuries sorted.
2. Anana Ecological Resort Krabi
   This eco-friendly gem has family suites, a kid-friendly pool, and fun programs teaching sustainability. Plus, there’s a free shuttle to the town and beach, making it super easy to get around without any fuss.
3. Pakasai Resort
   Surrounded by greenery, this resort has spacious rooms for families, a kids’ pool, and even Thai cooking classes for a bit of local flavor. It’s perfect if you want a chill mix of comfort and culture.

Railay:

1. Rayavadee Resort
   Right on Railay Beach, this resort is seriously stunning. Think private villas, a kids’ activity program, and direct beach access – ideal for families wanting a bit of adventure without skimping on comfort.
2. Bhu Nga Thani Resort and Spa
   With spacious rooms, a pool overlooking the cliffs, and easy access to Railay’s beaches and caves, this spot is great for families looking to explore Krabi with kids while still enjoying all the perks of a cozy, high-end stay.

Final Thoughts on Krabi with Kids

Krabi with Kids is an excellent choice! The nature in this area is unbelievably beautiful and unique, plus there are so many cool outdoor activities to try. From island hopping and beach days to rock climbing and exploring local markets, there are plenty of ways to keep the kids entertained while soaking up Krabi’s beauty.

For younger kids, Krabi has fewer options, especially when the weather isn’t great, and the selection of family-friendly hotels with kids’ amenities is limited. But with good weather, nothing stands in the way of a perfect family vacation in Krabi!

Planning your family trip to Krabi with kids? Got questions? Let me know in the comments, and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can!

Thank you for reading and for making me part of your day! Yours, Lulu

FAQs on Krabi with Kids

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