Beginner’s guide featuring some of the best resorts in Krabi, boasting luxurious private pools and budget stays close to crystal clear diving locations around the Phi Phi Islands.
When it comes to popular tourist destinations in Thailand, Krabi is certainly a name on that list. Krabi has some of the most stunning natural beauty in the country. I continuously find myself returning to Krabi for its incredible beaches, breathtaking resorts, and thriving underwater world.
You’ll find some of the best beaches in Krabi, as well as some of Thailand’s most renowned islands such as the Phi Phi Islands and Hong Islands.
Are you looking for a 5-star resort with ocean views or a budget-friendly bargain?
I am sure you will find what you are looking for in the exclusive list I have put together below.
My Top Resort Picks in Krabi
Choosing the best resort in Krabi can be difficult due to the vast selection that is available.
Below are my top 3 picks for the best Krabi Resorts that offer luxurious designs, incredible beach access, and are surrounded by nature.
1. Rayavadee Luxury
The best 5-star luxury accommodation in Railay famous for its epic cave restaurant. Boasts immaculately designed rooms, 6 restaurants, an outdoor pool, & incredible balcony views.
2. Lanta Palace Beach Resort & Spa Mid-Range
The perfect mid-range choice for those wanting to indulge in beautiful landscapes, go diving, hiking, and snorkeling. It boasts modern rooms and an epic outdoor swimming pool.
3. Viking Nature Resort Budget
Easily the best choice for those wanting an island getaway for a low price. Surrounded by nature on the island of Phi Phi it doesn't get any better than the Viking Nature Resort.
Best Areas to Stay in Krabi
Below are the recommended areas to base your stay for your next trip to Krabi Thailand.
- Ao Nang - Known for its great location and popular beaches Ao Nang offers perfect accommodation for first-time visitors or families wanting to visit Krabi's major attractions, nearby islands, night markets, and restaurants and enjoy the incredible nightlife.
- Railay & Tonsai - Being only accessible by boat Railay and Tonsai are a great choice for those wanting to experience complete relaxation. There is a range of Railay Beach hotels & resorts to choose from and the area offers great activities such as rock climbing, hiking, and kayaking for those looking for an adventure.
- Krabi Town - This area is well known for its popular street night markets. Although it sits further from the popular beaches it is still a great option for those wanting to explore the streets and experience real Thai culture.
- Tubkaek - Located further up the coast Tubkaek is one area that shouldn't be missed if 5-star luxury resorts are what you're looking for. With its incredible beaches and chilled-out atmosphere it is hard to beat.
- Koh Lanta - Located just off the coast of Krabi Koh Lanta is a great island option for those who love to explore nature. This large island has many great hiking trails, snorkeling and diving, and beautiful quiet beaches.
- Koh Phi Phi -The perfect island location option with some of the best accommodation options in all of Krabi. It boasts some of Thailand's most famous beaches and is a great base for island hopping adventures. From diving, nightlife, and delicious restaurant options it has it all.
Krabi Resorts near Ao Nang Beach
| Hotel | Price | |
|---|---|---|
 | Anana Ecological Resort | $$$ |
 | The L Resort | $$$ |
 | Holiday Style | $$$ |
1. Anana Ecological Resort
Anana Ecological Resort has an abundance of special characteristics that go beyond just the fact that it is environmentally friendly.
This 5-star resort is extremely affordable considering the quality of service offered. Especially when you take into consideration the possibility of booking their Pool Access Suite, which has limestone cliff views along with its spacious room.
If you are exploring more reasons to stay at this resort, the location is also an important factor. You will find Ao Nang Beach just a short walk away, giving you the option of venturing there to soak up some sunshine.
2. The L Resort
The L Resort is one of the best luxury resorts out of the Ao Nang selection.
Why is this you might ask?
There are multiple reasons why, but the first has to start with their spacious rooms that are both comfortable and welcoming.
These surprisingly large rooms offer both the basics such as free wifi and air-conditioning, in addition to more exclusive options such as double bedrooms and direct access to their impressive outdoor swimming pool.
Did I mention the location is across the road from Ao Nang Beach.
3. Holiday Style Ao Nang Beach Resort
Holiday Style Ao Nang is a gorgeous resort that I really admire.
The magnificent outdoor pool here is beyond what is typical, and there is a reason why I believe it is one of the best places to stay in Krabi.
This impressive resort has its very own fitness center and restaurant, in addition to extremely useful services such as transfers from Krabi International Airport.
It is also worth mentioning that this resort is popularly booked. For this reason, I would recommend booking a room at least a week or two before your stay.
Unbeatable Resort Choices for Railay Beach & Tonsai
| Hotel | Price | |
|---|---|---|
 | Rayavadee | $$$$ |
 | Railay Phutawan Resort | $$$ |
 | Tinidee Hideaway | $$$ |
4. Rayavadee
Rayavadee Resort is known as one of the best luxury beach resorts in Krabi. With your comfort and privacy in mind, this resort offers top-of-the-line services for its guests.
There are plenty of options to choose from here, and that includes villas and pavilions as an accommodation choice.
I would recommend booking a private villa when choosing between the two. These not only offer more space, but the villas include private pools, dining rooms, Jacuzzi, and even more spectacular amenities to choose from.
Furthermore, Rayavadee provides beautiful gardens and hidden areas to relax with only the sounds of birds and monkeys to be heard.
It's well-known The Grotto Cave restaurant has excellent access and views over Phra Nang Beach.
5. Railay Phutawan Resort
This is one of the best resorts out there when it comes to spending time in nature.
The fact that it is positioned in the middle of the Railay area allows you to relish some truly stunning ocean views, as well as mesmerizing sights of the surrounding green mountains.
Not only is this Krabi resort good for nature lovers, but it is definitely up there as one of the best when it comes to cheap resorts.
Prices here are extremely affordable, with many of their double rooms costing less than $60 per night.
6. Tinidee Hideaway
Tinidee Hideaway is certainly pricier when compared to other Krabi beach resorts. However, I would say this is down to its great location.
This special and hidden resort provides unbelievable views of the sea due to the fact it is situated at Tonsai Beach. Some might argue this is one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Krabi, which is reflected in its less touristy and well-preserved state.
In addition to all of the above, you can also enjoy eating scrumptious food at Tinidee's exclusive on-site restaurant, or even book a rock climbing trip.
When you combine those activities with the sea views at Tonsai Beach, it makes Tinidee Hideaway a pretty amazing resort to stay.
The Best Resorts for an Authentic Thai Experience in Krabi Town
| Hotel | Price | |
|---|---|---|
 | Krabi Front Bay Resort | $ |
 | The Fong Krabi Resort | $ |
7. Krabi Front Bay Resort
Krabi Front Bay Resort is particularly beneficial for those who want to stay close to Krabi Town. This is because the bustling and popular area is only a 10-minute tuk-tuk ride away from outside the resort.
One of the amazing aspects of staying at this resort is that you can truly experience the local Thai culture of Krabi Province without having to stay directly in the small town.
I am a big fan of this because you can enjoy the experience of fewer tourists, while simultaneously appreciating an impressive modern resort at the same time.
You will be glad to know that Krabi Front Bay Resort also overlooks the Andaman Sea and its surrounding areas. When combining this with the accessibility to Krabi Town, it really does make it a perfect place to stay.
8. The Fong Krabi Resort
Although the Fong Krabi Resort isn't the most luxurious place to stay in Krabi, it has several key advantages worth mentioning.
The first is the price, and my my, it is certainly cheap for the value offered!
You can secure one of their superior double rooms for both you and your partner, for just under $45. These double rooms feature the same stylish and modern design seen throughout the resort, in addition to a peaceful garden view.
What else is great about this resort?
Well, there are plenty of tasty Thai cafes and restaurants nearby that are within easy walking distance especially the Aim Lamoon which serves delicious chocolate cakes and excellent coffee . I must admit I was a local here on my visits.
High-End Luxury Resorts in Tubkaek
| Hotel | Price | |
|---|---|---|
 | Phulay Bay Ritz-Carlton Reserve | $$$$ |
 | Banyan Tree Krabi | $$$$ |
 | The Tubkaak Krabi Boutique Resort | $$$ |
9. Phulay Bay Ritz-Carlton Reserve Resort
It goes without mentioning that this is a Ritz Carlton resort, so you can expect a lush and splendid stay for the price that you pay.
So what is so good about this Krabi beach resort?
This one-of-a-kind resort looks like a tourist attraction within itself, and there are also tonnes of entertaining activities you can embark on while residing here. This includes day trips to nearby islands such as Hong Island, Poda Island, and many more.
If you happen to find yourself at this magical resort, I would recommend trying the spa here. Not only do they offer magical massage services worth indulging in, but there is also an exclusive steam room.
10. Banyan Tree Krabi
The next prestigiously luxurious resort that you can stay at in Krabi is the Banyan Tree. This is another 5-star beach resort in Krabi, so it is only right you will receive 5-star service to match it.
It boasts the most incredible views over the ocean and surrounding islands. The rooms are astounding and guests will feel like they have arrived in paradise.
What's impressive about the Banyan Tree is its exceptionally large swimming pool to indulge in. This is 20 meters in length and is surrounded by serene natural scenes to fall in love with.
This resort has a sheer abundance of facilities, including a fitness center, restaurant, a kids club, and even its own gallery which is completely unheard of for most resorts.
For those wanting to immerse themselves in nature, the resort is just a short walk from the entrance to the steep but worth-the-effort Dragon Crest Nature Trail.
11. The Tubkaak Krabi Boutique Resort
Another unmissable luxury option in Krabi has to be the Tubkaak Krabi Boutique Resort.
This boutique hotel resort has countless significant amenities, including its own beachfront library for those bookworms who love to immerse themselves in words whilst relaxing on vacation.
The accommodation offered here varies from double rooms, all the way to large pool villas with multiple bedrooms. Rooms open up over private pools and are surrounded by greenery.
Overall this is a perfect choice for those wanting a relaxing and quiet place to unwind.
Top-Rated Resorts on the Beach in Koh Lanta
12. Layana Resort & Spa - Adult Only
Layan Resort & Spa is arguably the best luxury resort on Koh Lanta, and the fact it is a beachfront accommodation makes it even more sublime.
Besides the amazing facilities it has that are expected from a 5-star Krabi beach resort, what fascinates me are the activities offered. This includes paddle boarding, snorkeling excursions, and cruises through the mangrove forests of Ko Lanta.
It is also important to mention that this is an adults-only resort. For this reason, it is best for those on a romantic trip away from the kids.
13. Lanta Palace Beach Resort & Spa
Another Ko Lanta resort that is an adults-only alternative to Layana is Lanta Palace Beach Resort located in Krabi.
A handy reason for staying here is its location, with it being just a 3-minute walk from Klong Khong Beach. This is of course counting all the other rare characteristics of staying here, like their villas offering private gardens and beachfront views.
Be sure to check out Auntie Mae's Bakery if you're looking for something sweet. I found this gem on my last visit and the banoffee cake did not disappoint!
The reviews speak for themselves with Lanta Palace Beach Resort. The views from the outdoor swimming pool are hard to beat and the overall luxurious experience whilst staying here makes it hard for anyone to leave.
14. Long Beach Chalet
If you are searching for a cheaper beach resort in Krabi, Long Beach Chalet is the one for you.
This resort has average prices when it comes to 3-star options in Thailand, although you can get some pretty good bang for your buck, depending on the room you choose to book.
Regarding onsite facilities, you can expect to find two outdoor swimming pools hidden under the tropical palms. The perfect place for taking a dip or swimming some laps to burn off the buffet breakfast that is available each morning. The resort also has its very own beach bar.
For those who need it, Long Beach Chalet also offers laundry and dry cleaning services, as well as airport transfers for catching those early morning flights.
Best Luxury, Mid-Range, and Budget Resorts on Phi Phi Islands
| Hotel | Price | |
|---|---|---|
 | Zeavola Resort | $$$ |
 | SAii Phi Phi Island Village | $$ |
| Viking Nature Resort | $ |
15. Zeavola Resort
Zeovola Resort has proved itself to be one of the top resorts in Koh Phi Phi, which explains its continued popularity into 2024.
One of the great aspects of staying here is their scuba diving excursions in which you can partake. These are taken with your own guide, allowing you to explore the ocean under the supervision of an experienced diver. Truly the best way to explore the marine life that surrounds Phi Phi.
The resort itself offers several suite options with the Pool Suite seeming the most favorable. As expected, this will provide you with your own private pool, as well as a minibar and even a champagne cooler.
A pretty fantastic Krabi resort choice!
16. SAii Phi Phi Island Village
SAii Phi Phi Island Village is an eco-friendly resort, perfect for those passionate about the environment.
Their cost-effective accommodation options such as the Deluxe Garden Bungalow offer private terraces and all the creature comforts you could possibly need.
If you want to step your game up, you can proceed to book their most expensive option known as the Oceanside Villa. This will give you two giant bedrooms and your own private plunge pool to soak up in.
This is a great option for those traveling with friends who want to experience a luxury stay.
Another great option in my opinion!
17. Viking Nature Resort
Viking Nature Resort in Koh Phi Phi is a special little resort to spend your time relaxing amongst nature.
Why you might ask?
What's pleasant about staying here is the traditional and authentic Thai design in all of their rooms. This sparks interest in visitors, and the decor provides originality among the many overly touristic resorts out there.
Two additional pleasant benefits offered here are their private massage services and friendly staff ready to meet your every wish. Furthermore, it is conveniently located just a short 5-minute walk from the well-known Long Beach.
When it comes to traditional Thai accommodation, the authentic design here makes it a memorable experience for all of the explorers out there.
My Hotel Selection Process
- Accommodation Criteria: I have selected resorts in Krabi based on location, prices, and proximity to main attractions like Phra Nang Beach & Phi Phi Islands. Along with ratings, current recommendations, and reviews.
- My Experience: I stayed in Krabi for several months and have returned multiple times. I've stayed in multiple resorts & personally reviewed and read hundreds of listings, comparing them based on location, price, and value.
- Top Reviews: All resorts I've selected maintain exceptional ratings on booking sites such as Hotels.com, Expedia, & Booking.com. I regularly refresh my selections to guarantee that every resort upholds a high standard.
- Local Insights: My resort selections are based on online listings and word of mouth with recommendations from other travelers, local tour operators, and my local friends living in the Krabi Province.
Read more about how I review & select hotels & accommodations.
I'm Olly, a full-time traveler for the past 5 years. Each accommodation option in this guide is handpicked by me. Read my travel review ethics statement.
Unmissable Tours to Book in Krabi
Whether you enjoy island hopping adventures, hiking, or visiting temples there are activities for everyone in Krabi. Below I've listed the top-rated tour choices that I recommend during your stay in Krabi. Alternatively, check out my Phi Phi Islands tour or Krabi Island Tours articles for more options.
Spend less time in transit & more time snorkeling among coral gardens and lazing on white sand beaches at the incredible Phi Phi Islands. Visits Maya Bay, Lohsamah, and Monkey Bay.
An epic 7-hour tour to the turquoise sea and white sand beaches of Koh Hong. Relax in the warm Thai sunshine, swim and snorkel in clear blue water & go kayaking.
3. Emerald Pool, Blue Lagoon & Tiger Cave Temple
Visit the top mainland attractions from hot springs to amazing turquoise lagoons in the jungle.
FAQ About Krabi Resorts
What are the best areas to stay in Krabi for tourists?
The best areas include Ao Nang for its beach and nightlife, Railay and Tonsai for secluded beach experiences and rock climbing, Krabi Town for authentic Thai culture, Tubkaek for luxury resorts, Koh Lanta for nature exploration, and Koh Phi Phi for tropical island adventures.
What kind of activities can I expect at Krabi resorts?
Resorts in Krabi typically offer a range of activities, including snorkeling, diving, kayaking, rock climbing, spa treatments, yoga sessions, and island-hopping tours.
Are there budget-friendly resort options in Krabi?
Yes, Krabi has budget-friendly resort options like Viking Nature Resort on Phi Phi Islands, offering a more affordable stay without sacrificing spending all your money on accommodation.
When is the peak tourist season in Krabi?
The peak tourist season in Krabi is from November to March, coinciding with the cool and dry season. This is when the weather is most favorable for outdoor activities, but it also means higher prices and more crowded attractions.
More Adventure Guides to Krabi
I hope you enjoyed this beginner's guide to the best resorts in Krabi. Are you interested in finding accommodation in other areas of Thailand?
Feel free to check out more of our guides below.
- Things to do in Railay - my ultimate guide to Thai backpacker mecca
- 10 Best Krabi Island Tours - discover the best of Thailand's south
- Best Phi Phi Day Trips - how to plan an epic day trip to Phi Phi Island
- Best Beaches in Krabi - find the top 15 beaches you need to visit on your trip.
Plan Your Krabi Accommodation
Still in the planning stages of your trip? Perhaps you're booking on the fly. The below accommodation guides will help you plan where to stay in Thailand.
