How to get around Ao Nang

Ao Nang is a beautiful paradise in the Krabi province, Thailand bordering the Andaman Sea. There are beautiful sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and limestone cliffs. This tropical destination is suited for a relaxing getaway by the beach or an adventure of island hopping and climbing the limestone cliffs. Now let's see what some of the best ways are to get around Ao Nang.

Planning Your Trip to Ao Nang

To experience the beauty and warmth of the sun, you should visit Ao Nang between November to March. When planning the trip, pick the most suitable mode of transport to get to Ao Nang. Depending on your starting point, there are buses, boats or airports. Krabi has an international airport which makes it a 1 hour 30 minutes flight from Bangkok. Buses from Bangkok to Krabi take about 14 to 19 hours depending on your starting location at Bangkok. You can also hire a van or a taxi from Bangkok to Krabi which will take about 15 hours. Surat Thani is the closest train station to Krabi as there are no train stations at Krabi. If you are taking the train to Surat Thani from Bangkok, it will take about 11 hours. From Surat Thani, you have to take a bus to Krabi which is another 5 hours, or you can take a van which will take about 2 hours.

Tuk- Tuks and Songthaews – authentic experience

If you want to feel like a local, the best way to travel around in Ao Nang is tuk-tuks or songthaew. Songthaew is a shared open-air truck. These are perfect for short trips in Ao Nang or to nearby attractions. Songthaews operates on certain routes and is more affordable. There are two rows of seats in the back of Songthaew. Drivers of Songthaew will stop along the route to pick up passengers and drop you off wherever you flag them over. The Tuk-tuks offer a more private ride, can easily beat the traffic and are available throughout the day.

Motorbikes – Freedom to Explore

Motorbikes are a primary mode of transport among the locals. Renting a motorbike is a popular choice among tourists as well. A list of Ao Nang things to do can be very long, so you can easily cover your list if you rent a bike as it will be faster, more affordable and easier to travel. You can visit places like Railay Beach, Noppharat Thara Beach, and Klong Muang Beach or travel from place to place in Krabi town. This is one of the best ways to get around in Ao Nang.

Taxis and Private Transfers – Comfortable and Convenient

If you are looking to travel comfortably, you can hire a taxi. Most taxis have air-conditioning to beat the heat. They will also offer door-to-door services. Taxis are ideal for trips to places like the Krabi night market or the Emerald Pool but are more expensive.

Walking – Scenic and Budget Friendly

The simplest way to travel in Ao Nang is on foot. The town's main areas including beaches, restaurants and shopping streets are within walking distance of most accommodations like Avani Ao Nang. Most resorts are just 10 minutes walking distance from the Ao Nang beach. You can walk to the beach in the morning as a warm-up before you take a Muay Thai, the art of nine limbs, lesson at your resort. You can even hike up to the beautiful Tiger Cave Temple.

Longtail Boats – Iconic and Adventurous

It is a must to ride a traditional longtail boat at Ao Nang. These boats will take you to nearby islands like Poda Island, Chicken Island, Tub Island and Hong Island.  If you are looking for a comfortable and faster option, you can always hire a speed boat.

Cycling – Eco-friendly Option

There are many bicycle renting outlets in Ao Nang. There are more affordable and easy ways to experience the life of Ao Nang. There are dedicated cycling paths and flat terrains to help you get about via a bicycle. You can easily travel from your resort to the night market or the beach at your convenience and it is one of the best ways to travel in Ao Nang.