Krabi: The Hidden Gem of Thailand

When most people think of Thailand, they think of Bangkok or the jungles of northern Thailand where the elephants are. One of the best kept secrets are the beaches of Southern Thailand and warm waves waiting to be ridden. Whether on a bodyboard, surfboard or skimboard, there are lots of spots to explore. Also, one of the most underrated factors of enjoyable travel experience is not the beautiful scenery or the food, but the people. The people of Southern Thailand, especially at Ao Nang beach in Krabi, are the most hospitable people in the world.

Krabi is world renowned for rock climbing, the temples, hot springs, but fairly unknown for ocean sports. Phuket is more well known than Krabi, and usually has much bigger waves. However, if you are a traveler looking for the road less traveled go further down to Krabi. As you approach Krabi, one sees the iconic rock formations rising from the ground like monoliths from an ancient age. No words can describe how breathtaking the landscape is as you go further south in Thailand. The world seems to slow down, and the people get even chiller. Krabi also features a melting pot of cultures within a small Thai town, a mix of Muslim, Buddhist, and Catholic communities. One can walk past Thervadan Thai Buddhist monks as you hear the Adhan (Call to Prayer) from the local Mosque. What diversity of cultures and people bring is vibrant food culture, a night market, and interesting experiences that one will not get anywhere else. 

Some of the highlights of the area are visiting the temple with a thousand steps to be among giant Buddha statues and see a mountain top view of the whole surrounding area. Sometimes the trekkers have to share the steps with local monkeys, which adds to the experience. Also there are natural hot springs nearby like Emerald Pool, Saline Hot Springs and Khlong Thom Nuea Hot Stream Waterfall. Area is also world renowned for rock climbing and one can enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking and stand up paddle boarding. 

Krabi also features the first skimboarding shop in Thailand called Salted Skim, and a vibrant community of skimboarders that are stoked to share love of the ocean and love of Krabi. There’s also an amazing community of skimboarders in Phuket as well. This year, September 12-14 will feature the 3rd Annual Skimboarding competition at Ao Nang Beach in Krabi, Thailand. Also, the proximity of bright street lights allows local skimboarders ability to skim at night. The cost once there is really affordable if you are traveling from the US or Europe, the dollar or Euro goes a long way in Thailand. I was able to stay comfortably at a clean hotel for $15/day and eat three meals for around $5-6. The biggest cost for coming to Krabi is an airline ticket. I advise flying directly to Phuket and renting a car to drive down to Krabi.  

There is no place quite like Krabi. Whether it is the clear blue waters or the night market that calls you, there is something for everyone in Krabi. For the adventurous eaters, try the local delicacy of sea snails called Hot Chak Teen. Night markets also have local favorites like Malaysian style rolled ice cream. Krabi is a wonderful place with amazing friendly people. You will fall in love with the landscape and the people, a unique beach town that has a wonderful mix of cultures and faith traditions. If you are in the Muslim district go to Saad Kitchen and get the rice porridge, or delicious western styled foods, and a great place for info on ocean sports and rock climbing in the area.