Logistics · Destination Guide
Limestone cliffs above, Andaman reefs below: base in Ao Nang and Railay
Updated Jan 23, 2026 • 18 sources
Use this travel brief to set arrival flow, local transit, and gear movement before you lock your itinerary.
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 International Airport
KBV • VTSG
26 km • 26 km drive
Krabi's main airport for Ao Nang and Railay access, with frequent domestic connections via Bangkok and seasonal regional international routes.
Transport: Pre-booked private transfer, Airport taxi, Shared shuttle van, Grab airport ride
Phuket International Airport
HKT • VTSP
160 km • 160 km drive
Large international hub often used as an alternative gateway to Krabi, especially in peak season and for long-haul connections.
Transport: Private taxi or van transfer, Shared minivan, Bus connections via Phuket Town, Seasonal ferry or speedboat connections
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.
Thai Baht (THB)
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.
220V (some places 230V) • 50Hz • A, B, C, F, O
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
