Krabi and Phi Phi Islands |
Krabi's major attractions are located largely along its extensive coastline, which contains several well-known beaches and bays, and numerous offshore tropical islands. Most such attractions fall within the aegis of national parks.
Major islands include the Phi Phi cluster which is popular with yachtsmen, scuba-divers, snorkellers and day trippers from Phuket. The islands are characterised by rocky cliffs, tranquil seas, dazzling underwater life, birds' nest caves and fine white sandy beaches. Accommodation is available on Phi Phi Don island. The Ko Lanta National Park, conveniently accessible by regular boat services from Phi Phi Don island, offers several coral-fringed islands, and prime diving sites, and comparative solitude. The largest island, Ko Lanta Yai, is the site of park headquarters, and is also home to Chao Le, or sea gypsies who sustain themselves largely through fishing.
The islands are best visited during the non-monsoon months of October through April. Yet more islands, some 80 in all, and most relatively small, are located off Ao Nang beach on the main land. Ao Nang is some 6 kilometres from Hat Noppharat Thara, probably Krabi's finest mainland beach which is fronted by pine trees, coconut groves and resort hotels. One of Krabi's most unusual attractions is a 'shell graveyard', known locally as Su San Hoi, where fossilised shells, believed to be 40,000,000 years old form coastal slabs resembling ancient concrete. Two predominantly mainland national parks, Khao Phanom Bencha and Than Bokk-horani, offer scenic attractions including waterfalls and caves, and opportunities for trekking, birdwatching and savouring the lush southern tropical landscape in natural surroundings. Krabi offers a wide range of accommodation at major attractions, including award-winning resort hotels such as the Rayavadee . We recommend the Sheraton Krabi as well as the Centara Grand Resort .
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