The simplest way in is to fly. Krabi International Airport (KBV) is about 30–40 minutes from Ao Nang and 20 minutes from Krabi Town, with many daily flights from both Bangkok airports (around 1 hour 20 minutes) and seasonal international services. A fixed-fare airport shuttle bus and taxis meet every flight.
Coming overland from Bangkok, there is no railway to Krabi itself: overnight trains run to Surat Thani, from where buses and minivans continue in about two and a half to three hours. Direct overnight buses from Bangkok’s Southern Terminal take roughly 11–12 hours.
From the islands, ferries and speedboats connect Krabi and Ao Nang with Phuket, Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta, with the fullest timetable from November to April. Joint bus-and-boat tickets link Krabi with Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao via Surat Thani or Don Sak.
Routes at a glance
| From | Best route | Time | Approx. cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangkok | Direct flight to Krabi (KBV), then shuttle bus or taxi | About 1 h 20 min flight + 30–40 min | Flights vary widely; shuttle around 150 THB |
| Phuket | Minivan or bus via Phang Nga; ferry via Ao Nang in season | 2–3 hours by road; about 2 hours by ferry | Around 150–400 THB by road; ferries cost more |
| Koh Phi Phi | Ferry to Krabi (Klong Jilad pier) or Ao Nang | 1.5–2 hours | Around 400–600 THB |
| Koh Lanta | Minivan with car ferry, or seasonal passenger ferry | About 2–3 hours | Around 300–600 THB |
| Koh Samui | Joint ferry and bus ticket via Don Sak | About 5–8 hours | Around 600–900 THB |
| Khao Sok | Minivan or private transfer | About 2.5–3 hours | Around 300–500 THB by minivan |
| Ao Nang → Railay | Longtail boat from Ao Nang beach | 10–15 minutes | Around 100 THB each way, more after dark |
Getting around Krabi & Railay
Longtail boats are Krabi’s buses. From the ticket booths on Ao Nang beach they run to Railay West throughout the day, leaving when enough passengers have gathered; a second route links Railay East with Ao Nam Mao and Krabi Town. Expect to wade to and from the boat, so wear sandals and keep electronics in a dry bag.
On land, songthaews (shared pick-up trucks) shuttle between Krabi Town and Ao Nang for a small fare, ride-hailing apps work in the main areas, and scooters are widely rented — only ride one if you hold a motorcycle licence valid in Thailand and your insurance covers it. Railay itself is walked barefoot or in sandals.
