About Ao Nang
Other Activites in Ao Nang, Krabi
The resort town of Ao Nang, Krabi is a jewel of Southern Thailand with crystal clear, Turquoise waters, nice beaches, and all the modern amenities that Westerners have become accustomed to. Ao Nang is busy but hasn’t lost that laid back, friendly small town feel; it is developing quickly but still retains its original beauty and charm. Ao Nang has something to make everyone smile and has all the essential components of a good holiday.
Getting to Ao Nang, Krabi
By Air - Cheap Flights widely Available!
Krabi's modern International Airport operned in March 2006 and takes daily flights from Bangkok and Phuket with Thai Airways, there are also four or five low cost daily flights with budget airlines Air Asia and Nok Air for as little as 750 baht if you book early. Nok air is also offering unlimited changeable tickets, on-board meals and preferential seating on their flights if you pay a little extra above their low standard prices.
Tiger Air also has regularly scheduled flights coming in from Singapore and there are also chartered direct flights from Scandinavia. Look at the airline websites for the latest deals.
By Sea
If you're coming from Phuket or Phi Phi there are daily ferries which come directly to Ao Nang Beach throughout the season from Phi Phi and in the high season from Phuket. Krabi has one of Thailands most modern and up to date ferry terminals near Krabi Town which also brings in daily ferries throughout the year from Koh Lanta. Expect to pay around 350 Baht for a one-way ferry ticket.
By Road
If you're driving from Phuket or Bangkok via Surat Thani you'll have no problems navigating your way to Ao Nang as the roads are few, clear and well marked. You'll also be driving through some of the worlds most stunning landsacapes so take your time to enjoy the view. Buses leave regularly from Bangkok, but take our advice and take the overnight train or a cheap flight, with flights at bargain prices there's no real need to take a long and uncomfortable bus journey any more.To get to Ao Nang from Krabi Town, take a white "Song Tow" taxi from anywhere in town. Takes about 30 minutes and costs 50 baht.
Hotels, Guesthouses and Long Term Apartments in Ao Nang, Krabi
Ao Nang has all standards of accommodation to cater to most peoples tastes and budgets. The traditional wooden bungalows have made way to luxury 5 star spa resorts, however there are lots of reasonably priced bungalow operations, 3 star hotels and long stay apartments. Prices do vary between low and high season but you can normally get a good price on decent accommodation with a little bit of friendly haggling. For a standard double room with aircon, hot water and TV, you can expect to pay approx 2000-3500 baht in a hotel and 750-1500 baht in a guesthouse. Hostel style accommodation for the budget traveller can be obtained for approx 350-500 baht. For travellers looking to spend a few months in Ao Nang, long term apartment/bungalow bookings can be made for between 5000-7000 Baht per month. Scuba Addicts can make your accomodation arrangements for you at no extra cost. We have extensive knowledge of the local infrastructure and can normally get you a better price. You tell us what standard you require and we can do the rest.
Ao Nangs Beaches
Ao Nang itself has two idyllic, unspoilt beaches, which are lapped by clear, warm water (28-30 F). Other, pristine beaches are located on a number of outlying islands which can be accessed cheaply and quickly by local longtail boats. Some of the beaches can get busy in high season but if you take the time to do a little exploring, you can often find a deserted little beach just around the corner. Do not get confused, Ao Nang is located in the province of Krabi but the main Krabi Town does NOT have any beaches.
Krabi Weather
Ao Nang does have a high season and low season (monsoon season) but don’t be fooled by many of the guidebooks that advise you against travelling to Thailand between May- October. Low season is often a great time to be in Thailand, the temperatures are more manageable, there are less people about, everything is cheaper and June-Aug usually offers great visibility for diving. Of course it rains but not consistently and often just at night so you can still top up your tan during the day. Most of the year the temperature is between 28-34 F & humidity is 80%.
Good websites to check are www.aonangweather.com or www.accuweather.com for the latest weather information.
Local Thai Food
Thai food is obviously in abundance in Ao Nang and is available nearly 24 hours a day. Visit a traditional Thai restaurant, eat at a local market or try the many offerings from a local street vendor, which are normally based on every street corner. The smell and taste of the Thai dishes is enhanced by a variety of fresh, local ingredients, just don't forget to ask for non-spicy (mai pet) if you have a delicate, Western palette. For those people that need a break from chicken and rice, a whole host of Western options are available; these include traditional English food, Indian Food, Scandinavian food, pizza, pasta, steaks and much more.
Alcohol
Sample some popular, local beverages such as Chang or Sangsom, but beware, the local brews are strong and don't be surprised if you wake up with a 'Changover'. Alcohol is cheap in Ao Nang, expect to pay approx 50-70 Baht for a bottle of beer, 150 Baht for a small bottle of local Whisky and between 100-170 Baht for cocktails. Yes, yes we know you're never going to drink again, but we are giving you some information, just in case.
Partying in Ao Nang, Krabi
Though not on the same scale as Phuket or Koh Samui, Ao Nang has a vibrant night life which caters for families and party animals alike. You can relax at one of the many beachfront bars, dance the night away at a bar/club or be entertained by the friendly locals, the choice is yours. Nearby, Tonsai beach throws half moon and full moon beach parties, where tourists and locals alike can watch fire shows and party all night and most of the next day.
Relaxation
There are times when everyone needs a break from the stresses and strains of everyday life, so Ao Nang has numerous spas, beauty shops and massage parlours to offer you a little bit of pampering. Thai full body massages, lasting an hour cost around 300 Baht and though you often feel that you are being pushed and pulled in every direction, you will feel rejuvenated afterwards. Alternatively, spend you time in a hammock on the beach, sipping a cocktail and enjoying a good book andt he breathtaking views.
Other Things To Do In Ao Nang, Krabi
Again, Ao Nang-Krabi has something for everyone. We have only listed a small selection of activities and places to visit in Ao Nang-Krabi, otherwise we could go on forever;
Scuba diving/snorkelling, sea kayaking, elephant trekking, national parks, world class rock climbing, snake handling and snake shows, pampering (Spas, beauty and massage parlours), cheap shopping, Thai cooking courses, Tiger cave temple/hot springs and much, much more.
Krabi People
The Thai people always have a smile on their face and welcome travellers with genuine warmness. Ao Nang is a resort based on tourism so local people are friendly, polite and eager to please. We at Scuba Addicts would ask you to respect local customs and beliefs, please don't wear skimpy clothes or walk around with no tops on, this maybe acceptable on beaches but not in the streets. The locals are always happy to hear tourists speak a few words of Thai, no matter how badly they are pronounced. Don't be embarrassed if you get a laugh, the Thais will be happy to help you with your language skills and you'll find a few words go a long way in Thailand.