Itinerary Ideas: Krabi and Trang

For this edition of our Itinerary Ideas series, we head south to the Andaman Coast and the provinces of Krabi and Trang. While Krabi is well-established as a tourist destination, Trang is less developed, making these twin locations ideal for a beach holiday that combines the opportunity to experience local culture and a spot of island-hopping in Southern Thailand.

This itinerary spans a fortnight but can be easily adapted to accommodate an extended holiday in Southern Thailand.

• Krabi Town: 1 or 2 days
• Krabi (Klong Muang): 4 days
• Trang Town: 1 or 2 days
• Ko Mook: 4 days
• Ko Kradan or Ko Ngai: 3 days

Andaman Coast: Island-hopping guide

Krabi Town

Flights to Krabi
Krabi International Airport is only a 20-minute taxi ride away from Krabi Town, and starting this itinerary in Krabi can be a convenient option for travellers. Although there are regular flights from Bangkok to Krabi, there is also the option to fly from the UK to Krabi without transiting in the Thai capital. In October 2025, Etihad Airways launched a direct route from Abu Dhabi (AUH) to Krabi (KBV). With daily flights, this can be a good option for travellers flying from Birmingham, Manchester or London.

Krabi Town is an enjoyable location to unwind for a few days before heading to the beach. A walk along the riverside promenade reveals quirky public art and sculptures, with calm views across the river and estuary. From here, take a longtail boat to the imposing twin peaks of Khao Khanab Nam, where you can explore caves and learn about the surrounding mangrove ecosystem. Or hop on a boat for the short trip across to Ko Klang and discover another side of Krabi away from the main tourist attractions.

Food lovers will be well rewarded, whether browsing the lively Morning Market or tucking into local favourites at the Night Market. Don’t miss regional dishes such as roti served with curry or khao yam, a fragrant southern rice salad. Visit on a weekend to experience the colourful Walking Street Market, or drop by any evening to unwind with a cocktail or ice-cold beer at one of the town’s friendly bars.
Suggested hotels:
River Front Hotel

10 reasons to add Krabi to your Thailand itinerary

Krabi: Klong Muang

The best known beach areas of Krabi can be found at Ao Nang and Railay, but for this itinerary, we’ve plumped for the less touristy location of Klong Muang.

While the beach at Klong Muang may not be as attractive as Railay, sunset views can be sublime, and the more relaxed vibe makes it a good fit for this itinerary. When it comes to accommodation, Klong Muang prioritises quality over quantity with several excellent hotels. And if you do want to venture into Ao Nang, it’s only a 20-minute journey away.
Suggested hotels:
Nakamanda Resort & Spa
The Tubkaak Krabi Boutique Resort
VARANA Krabi

Trang Town

From Krabi, travel south to the neighbouring province of Trang and the affable provincial capital, Trang Town, a practical base for visiting the islands just offshore. For travellers who prefer to stay flexible, organising transport and accommodation at the last minute is straightforward, with plenty of guesthouses and travel agencies clustered around the train station.

Although many people transit through Trang en route to the islands, lingering a little longer reveals a welcoming town with a strong food culture. Shaped by Thai, Chinese, and Malay influences, Trang’s cuisine is a highlight in its own right. Signature dishes include the famous crispy roast pork, moo yang, along with a tradition of old-style coffee shops where locals gather for freshly brewed coffee, dim sum, and soft sponge cake.
Suggested hotels:
Chom Trang Hotel

7 reasons to add Trang to your Thailand itinerary

Ko Mook

Among the islands scattered off Trang’s coast, Ko Mook (also known as Ko Muk) is one of the most versatile and rewarding places to visit. Families, honeymooners, and budget-conscious visitors alike will find accommodation and activities to suit their style. Thanks to its regular connections with the mainland, it’s also one of the easiest of the Trang islands to reach.

Although tourism is an important source of income, everyday life on Ko Mook is still closely tied to traditional livelihoods such as fishing and rubber tapping. The island’s most famous attraction is Tham Morakot (Emerald Cave), a hidden emerald-green lagoon reached by swimming through a dark tunnel from the open sea. It’s a memorable adventure and a true highlight of any stay on the island.
Suggested hotels:
Koh Mook Sivalai Beach Resort
Mook Lamai Resort and Spa

Ko Kradan

After spending time on Ko Mook, hop on a boat to continue your beach holiday on the island of Ko Kradan. With its soft white beaches, bath-warm turquoise water, and blissfully quiet atmosphere, Ko Kradan is often considered the most beautiful island in the Trang archipelago. This little slice of paradise is an ideal retreat for travellers seeking tranquillity, natural scenery, and a slower pace of life.

Ko Kradan’s romantic reputation was further enhanced when it became known internationally as the host location for Trang’s famous underwater wedding ceremonies. Each year, couples from around the world exchange symbolic vows beneath the surface of the Andaman Sea, adding a touch of additional romance to the island’s appeal.
Suggested hotels:
Reef Resort
Seven Seas Resort

Ko Ngai

From Ko Kradan, it’s an easy 30-minute boat ride north to the small, peaceful island of Ko Ngai (also known as Ko Hai). Life on Ko Ngai can best be described as unhurried. With no roads and no traffic, days are spent soaking up sweeping views across the Andaman Sea, swimming in clear waters, and unwinding on soft sandy beaches.

The island’s serene atmosphere and picture-perfect scenery make it especially appealing for couples seeking a romantic hideaway, as well as travellers who want nothing more than pure relaxation in a tropical setting.
Suggested hotels:
CoCo Cottage
Thapwarin Resort

From Ko Ngai, you can take the boat back to the mainland for trains or flights from Trang Town to Bangkok. If you have more time to spend, continue your Andaman adventures by taking the boat to Ko Lanta.

Andaman Coast: Island-hopping guide

Itinerary Ideas
This article is part of our Itinerary Ideas series. These particular itineraries are for anybody, but may appeal more to repeat visitors to Thailand looking to explore different destinations on their next trip or anyone seeking meaningful travel experiences. If you’re a first-time visitor to Thailand or looking for more ideas of where to go and what to do, check out these articles too:
2-week Thailand itinerary
3-week Thailand itinerary
4-week Thailand itinerary

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