Most travelers fly into Krabi International Airport (KBV) and transfer to Ao Nang for the widest choice of dive boats and tours. Railay is nearby but has no road access, so you reach it by longtail boat from Ao Nang or Ao Nam Mao pier. If flight schedules or pricing are better, Phuket (HKT) is a common alternate gateway with an overland transfer to Krabi.

For island add-ons, ferries and speedboats connect Krabi to Phi Phi Don and Koh Lanta (season and operator dependent). Many dive operators include round-trip pier transfers in their trip pricing, but confirm pickup zones before you book.

Krabi's main airport for Ao Nang and Railay access, with frequent domestic connections via Bangkok and seasonal regional international routes.

Large international hub often used as an alternative gateway to Krabi, especially in peak season and for long-haul connections.

Ao Nang: easiest base for pickups. Use hotel shuttles, songthaews (shared trucks), taxis, or app rides where available.
Railay: no cars. Walk between beaches and resorts, and use longtail boats for Ao Nang, Ao Nam Mao, and island tours.
Scooters: widely rented, but only worth it if you are licensed and comfortable riding in mixed traffic.
Dive days: most operators include pickup from Ao Nang, and some include Railay longtail connections. Confirm your pickup point and time the day before.

Thailand entry rules depend on passport and can change. Many nationalities qualify for visa-exempt entry. For example, Thailand has expanded visa exemption for many passports to 60 days with an option to extend (check current eligibility and extension rules with a Thai embassy or consulate).

Thailand also uses an online arrival card system (TDAC). Plan to submit the required arrival details in advance (the official guidance commonly references submission within the last 3 days before arrival). Keep the confirmation available for immigration.

General best practices: travel with a passport that has at least six months validity remaining, carry proof of onward travel, and keep your first-night address handy.

Baggage: if you fly with full gear, check your airline's sports baggage rules and carry critical items (mask, computer, regulators) in hand luggage.
Rental availability: wetsuits, BCDs, regulators, and fins are easy to rent in Ao Nang. Bring your own mask and computer if you care about fit and familiarity.
Tank and valve style: many Thai shops use yoke (INT) valves. Bring a DIN adapter if needed.
Rinse and drying: most dive shops have rinse tanks and hanging areas. On Railay, confirm drying space if your room is small or shaded.

Cash is still important for park fees, longtail boats, and small restaurants. Cards are widely accepted at hotels and many dive shops in Ao Nang, but always carry backup cash.

ATMs are common in Ao Nang, Krabi Town, and major beach areas. Expect a local ATM fee and carry a second card in case a machine declines a foreign bank.

Most modern chargers support 100-240V. Bring a universal adapter because hotels can vary by outlet type.

Communications

Thailand has strong mobile coverage in tourist areas. Pick up a local SIM or eSIM (AIS, True, or DTAC are common) for navigation and boat-day coordination. Wi-Fi is standard at hotels and cafes in Ao Nang. Coverage can drop behind limestone cliffs and in some mangrove areas, so download offline maps if you plan to explore.

Language

Thai is the national language. In Ao Nang, Railay, and on dive boats, English is widely used for tourism and dive briefings. Learning a few basics (hello, thank you, numbers) helps when ordering food or arranging transport.

Insurance

Carry travel insurance that covers scooter accidents and adventure activities. If you are diving or freediving, add dive-specific coverage (for example, DAN) that includes hyperbaric treatment and evacuation. Keep policy numbers and emergency contacts offline and accessible on your phone.

Packing list

Water time: rashguard, reef-safe sunscreen, and a light wetsuit (3mm is common) for long sessions.
Boat days: dry bag, reusable water bottle, motion-sickness meds if needed, and a hat.
Diving: SMB, computer, and your own mask for best fit. Bring a DIN adapter if required.
Topside: shoes with grip for limestone trails, insect repellent, and a light rain layer if traveling May to October.
Railay logistics: a small waterproof pouch helps on longtail boats and beach landings.

Krabi (Ao Nang and Railay)

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Logistics

Quick Facts

Getting There

Airports

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