Phuket (Rassada Pier) - Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach)

Ferries to Thailand

Phuket (Rassada Pier) - Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach)
 

Ferries from Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) are operated by 3 ferry companies, including Bundhaya Speed Boat, Phi Phi Cruiser & Andaman Wave Master. The crossing typically takes around 1 hour. There are currently 37 weekly sailings on this route, with prices starting from as little as $29. Use our Deal Finder to compare prices and availability, and book your ferry to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) today.

Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) Ferry Timetables

Ferry Timetables between 19/10/2026 and 01/11/2026

All times displayed are in local time for the departing port
SAILING DAY
SAILING TIME
Departure Time Arrival Time Duration FERRY COMPANY  
08:30 17:30 9 hours Phi Phi Cruiser Get price Operates Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday
08:30 09:30 1 hour Andaman Wave Master Get price Operates Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday
11:00 12:00 1 hour Bundhaya Speed Boat Get price Operates Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday
12:00 13:15 1 hour 15 minutes Andaman Wave Master Get price Operates Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday
13:30 14:30 1 hour Bundhaya Speed Boat Get price Operates Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Latest Offers

View all Special Offers

Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) Ferry


Phuket to Ao Nang Ferry Pricing, Offers & Availability

Phuket to Ao Nang Ferry Price

Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) ferry prices typically range from $29 to $225. The average ferry price from Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) is around $80. The cheapest fares usually start from $29, making this route a favorite for Thailand Island Hopping and gap year adventures. The average foot passenger ticket costs $80.

Prices may vary depending on passenger numbers, vehicle type, route, and sailing time. Please be aware that pricing data excludes service fees and is based on searches from the last 30 days. This was last updated October 26.

What is the cheapest ferry from Phuket to Ao Nang?

The cheapest tickets on the Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) ferry cost approximately $28.68, making these some of the best student ferries for anyone island hopping around Thailand on a budget.

Cheap Ferry Phuket to Ao Nang

Direct Ferries makes it easy to compare ferry tickets and prices worldwide, so you can find the best deal for your journey. Please visit our special Offers page to see current discounts on selected routes and operators. Booking early is typically the most reliable way to secure lower fares and better availability.

Are there any discounts available for senior citizens, students or residents?

Yes, Direct Ferries offers a range of discounts throughout the year. Where available, senior discounts are applied automatically during the search process: simply select the relevant age range when entering passenger details.

Students and recent graduates can receive a 5% discount on ferry tickets, a handy saving for anyone on a gap year exploring Thailand and the wider region. To claim this, register with our partner Student Beans and verify your student or graduate status. Once confirmed, you'll receive a discount code to use at checkout.

Resident discounts are available on selected routes in Spain and Italy. When applicable, choose the "Residents" option during booking and the discount will be applied automatically. Please note that you must present proof of residence or a valid ID showing the correct address at check-in.

Phuket to Ao Nang Ferry Schedule

There are around 37 weekly sailings from Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach).

Bundhaya Speed Boat provide 3 sailings daily, 18 sailings weekly. Phi Phi Cruiser provide 1 sailing daily, 7 sailings weekly. Andaman Wave Master provide 2 sailings daily, 14 sailings weekly. Please keep in mind that ferry timetables often increase during the high season, especially around Full Moon Party dates on Koh Phangan, so it's worth booking ahead.

Phuket to Ao Nang Ferry Time

The first ferry from Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) usually departs at around 08:30, with the last sailing leaving Phuket (Rassada Pier) Port at approximately 13:30.

Can you take a day trip from Phuket to Ao Nang by ferry?

Yes, day trips between Phuket (Rassada Pier) and Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) are very popular thanks to the short crossing time and frequent sailings, perfect for a 5-7 day island-hopping itinerary. For inspiration on the best things to do in Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach), please visit our blog.

High Speed Ferry Phuket to Ao Nang

The fastest ferry from Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) is with Bundhaya Speed Boat & Andaman Wave Master in 1 hour.

What is the price of a fast ferry from Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach)?

The fastest ferries from Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) usually cost around $79.56.


Phuket to Ao Nang Travel with Vehicles & Pets

Can I bring my car on the ferry from Phuket to Ao Nang?

No, ferry operators currently do not allow cars on sailings between Phuket (Rassada Pier) and Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach). If you wish to bring your car on the ferry, then you can use our Deal Finder to find alternative routes.

Can I bring my caravan on the ferry from Phuket to Ao Nang?

Whether you can take a campervan or caravan on the ferry depends on the operator and vessel used for your chosen crossing. Enter your travel details into our search bar to see which operators and vehicle options are available on the Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) ferry.

For more advice and travel inspiration when taking a car, campervan, or caravan, please visit our blog.

Can I travel by bicycle on the Phuket (Rassada Pier) ferry to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach)?

Bicycles are currently not permitted on ferries sailing between Phuket (Rassada Pier) and Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach).

Can I travel as a foot passenger from Phuket to Ao Nang?

Yes, foot passengers are welcome on ferries from Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) with Bundhaya Speed Boat, Phi Phi Cruiser & Andaman Wave Master, a popular option for student ferries and backpackers hopping between islands without a vehicle.

Can I reserve a cabin on the Phuket (Rassada Pier) ferry to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach)?

There is no cabin accommodation on the Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) ferry.

Is there an overnight ferry from Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach)?

Whether an overnight ferry runs between Phuket (Rassada Pier) and Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) depends on the operator and timetable. Enter your travel details in our search bar to check whether an overnight option is available, along with current timetables and alternative daytime crossings. Please be aware that overnight crossings can sometimes take a little longer than daytime sailings.

Can I take my pet on the ferry from Phuket to Ao Nang?

Pets are allowed on ferries from Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) with Phi Phi Cruiser.

Pricing is based on searches from the last 30 days, excluding service fees, and was last updated October 26.

What will I need when traveling with my pet?

When traveling with your pet on a ferry, you'll usually need:

  • Health documents showing your pet's vaccinations
  • Any items needed to keep your pet safe and comfortable
  • Water, food, and a leash

Where will my pet stay during the Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) ferry crossing?

Where your pet stays on the ferry depends on the operator. Some ferries require pets to remain in your vehicle for the duration of the crossing, while others provide dedicated areas such as pet-friendly cabins, onboard kennels or lounges.

Be sure to check the rules before you travel, as some operators have restrictions on the type or number of pets you can bring. If your route offers cabins, kennels or lounges, we also recommend booking in advance, as these spots tend to fill up fast.

Phi Phi Cruiser:

  • Pets are welcome on board and must be declared at the time of booking, along with any required health documentation. Smaller pets under 10 kg can travel in a carrier with their owner, whereas larger pets over 10 kg must be kept in the onboard kennels for the duration of the crossing. Dogs may be required to wear a muzzle in public areas.

Traveling with guide dogs and assistance dogs

If you're traveling with a guide dog or assistance dog, we recommend informing the ferry operator or our customer service team at the time of booking.

Please ensure you carry all required documentation, as you may be asked to present this during check-in or while onboard.

Even where standard pet travel is not permitted, different rules may apply to guide and assistance dogs. You can confirm the specific requirements for your sailing by reaching out to our customer service team.


Phuket to Ao Nang Onboard Facilities & Accommodation Options

The Phuket to Ao Nang ferry is a convenient and scenic way to travel between Phuket and the popular resort area of Ao Nang on the Krabi coast, departing from Rassada Pier in Phuket and arriving at Nopparat Thara Beach in Ao Nang. As this is a daytime crossing, overnight cabins aren't available, but it's still worth knowing what to expect onboard, especially if you're traveling with luggage or young children.

Accommodation Tiers

Open Passenger Seating

Most boats on this route offer indoor seating in an enclosed, air-conditioned cabin. This is the standard option for most travelers and works well whether the sea is calm or a little choppy.

Outdoor Deck Seating

Outdoor deck areas are available on most boats and are a great way to enjoy the crossing on a clear day. The Andaman Sea scenery on this route is beautiful, and the approach into Nopparat Thara Beach, with the limestone cliffs and green hills of the Krabi coastline coming into view, is one of the more scenic arrivals in the region.

Onboard Facilities

Snack Bar & Refreshments

Most boats on this route offer some basic refreshments, including water and soft drinks, though the offer varies between operators. It's a good idea to bring your own water and snacks from Phuket before boarding, as the choice onboard can be limited. Rassada Pier has some small shops nearby where you can pick up supplies before you board.

Open Deck Access

All boats on this route give you access to an open deck or outdoor area. The Andaman Sea views on this crossing are genuinely lovely, and the dramatic limestone scenery of the Krabi coastline coming into view as you approach Ao Nang makes the open deck well worth visiting in good weather.

Children's Facilities & Family Areas

There are no dedicated play areas on this route, but the crossing is manageable for most children, especially with the Andaman Sea scenery to keep them entertained. The air-conditioned cabin is a comfortable space for younger children during the hotter parts of the day, and the crossing time is short enough that it rarely becomes difficult to manage even for restless young travelers.

Luggage Storage

There's space for luggage inside the cabin, though it can be limited on smaller boats, so it's best to pack as light as you can. Nopparat Thara Beach is a straightforward arrival point, with taxis and tuk-tuks available nearby for onward travel to Ao Nang town, Krabi Town, or other destinations in the area.

Phuket to Ao Nang Journey Information

How to get from Phuket to Ao Nang

A direct ferry service operates between Phuket (Rassada Pier) and Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) all year round. As one of the most popular routes in the Andaman Sea, the ferry is the most convenient way to travel between Phuket and Ao Nang.

As a foot-passenger-only service, the ferry is ideal for those traveling without a vehicle. Crossing times vary depending on the operator, with Bundhaya Speed Boat and Andaman Wave Master completing the journey in around 1 hour, whereas Phi Phi Cruiser takes approximately 9 hours via a scenic stop at Koh Phi Phi.

How early should I arrive at the port of Phuket (Rassada Pier)

The recommended arrival time at Phuket Rassada Pier depends on the operator you are traveling with, so passengers should check their booking confirmation in advance.

As a general guideline, we recommend arriving at least 30–45 minutes before departure to allow time for check-in and boarding. Passengers are advised to confirm their departure details in advance, as some operators depart from different points within the pier complex.

Rassada Pier is well signposted and straightforward to navigate, with clear indications directing passengers to the correct departure point. Arriving in good time is advisable for a smooth and unhurried journey, particularly during the peak tourist season when passenger volumes increase significantly.

Is there parking at the port of Phuket (Rassada Pier)?

Parking is available in the vicinity of Rassada Pier, with options located close to the terminal. We recommend checking availability in advance, particularly during busier periods.

A car park is situated a short distance from the main pier, suitable for both short and longer stays while visiting Ao Nang.

Pre-booking a parking space is advised, as availability can be limited during the peak tourist season.

Accommodation at the port of Phuket (Rassada Pier)

Passengers seeking accommodation near Rassada Pier in Phuket ahead of their journey are encouraged to consult our accommodation page for a range of options and competitive rates. A variety of properties are available to suit different budgets and preferences.

Staying close to the port can simplify your departure considerably, allowing for a more relaxed start to the journey. We recommend booking well in advance to secure the best rates, particularly during peak periods when availability can become limited.

Is there reduced mobility access on the Phuket Island to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) ferry?

Operators on this route aim to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility wherever possible, although facilities vary by vessel. We recommend contacting your chosen operator directly for detailed guidance prior to travel, as boarding at both Rassada Pier and Nopparat Thara Beach can involve steps and is subject to sea conditions.

Where available, vessels may offer assistance with boarding, designated seating, and crew support. Passengers requiring assistance should notify the operator well in advance so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

How much luggage can I take on the ferry Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach)?

Luggage allowances on the Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) route vary by operator. As this is a foot-passenger-only service, passengers are advised to travel with manageable amounts of luggage for a comfortable journey. Please note that bicycles are not permitted on any of the operators on this route.

  • Phi Phi Cruiser: Passengers are allowed 1 piece of luggage weighing up to 20 kg per person, which is included in the ticket price.
  • Andaman Wave Master: Passengers are allowed to bring 1 piece of luggage up to 18 kg and 1 handbag per person, included in the ticket fee. Additional luggage may incur extra fees upon check-in.

Where does the ferry arrive in Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach)?

Ferries to Ao Nang from Phuket (Rassada Pier) arrive at Nopparat Thara Beach pier, located on the seafront close to the center of Ao Nang. From the pier, taxis, tuk-tuks and songthaews are readily available to take passengers to hotels and attractions across the Ao Nang and Krabi area.

For onward travel, long-tail boats depart from the beach to Railay and Tonsai, while Krabi International Airport is a short drive away with connections to Bangkok and destinations across Thailand and the wider region. For more information, check out our port guide below.

International Travel Rules

Travel requirements vary by route, so it's important to confirm which documents you need before you travel. On most international routes, you will need a valid passport to travel from Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach), and possibly a visa or national ID depending on your nationality and the destination's entry rules.

To avoid delays at check-in, see our Check-in, Travel Documents & Tickets guide and our blog post on traveling to Europe for useful tips.


Travel Smart: How to book a ferry

How do I book a Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) ferry ticket?

Booking your Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) ferry is very simple. Enter your departure and arrival ports along with your preferred travel date to view all available sailings and prices. You can also compare alternative routes and departure times to find the option that best suits your schedule and budget.

Look out for early-booking deals and special ticket types such as upgrades or flexi fares that allow changes or cancellations. To ensure a smooth booking process, always enter accurate passenger numbers and vehicle specifications.

When is the best time to book a Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) ferry?

The best time to book ferries from Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) is as early as possible. Booking in advance often secures lower prices, along with a wider choice of departure times, seating, and cabin options. We recommend booking at least a few weeks ahead, particularly during peak holiday seasons. Prices can vary depending on demand and availability.

Why are there no ferries available on the date I want to travel?

If no sailings from Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) appear on your chosen date, this may be due to seasonal timetable changes, temporary schedule adjustments, or limited availability caused by high demand. We recommend checking alternative dates or nearby routes to find the most suitable option.

How do I collect my ferry tickets at Phuket (Rassada Pier) port?

After completing your booking, you'll receive a confirmation email with your travel details. How your boarding pass is issued depends on the ferry operator you have booked with.

Some operators provide boarding passes at the time of booking, while others require check-in at the port terminal. Where available, online check-in can be completed through the Direct Ferries app.

Ticket desks are generally located near the terminal entrance. To prevent delays, we recommend arriving early to allow sufficient time for ticket collection and check-in.

At check-in you will need to present your booking confirmation and a valid photo ID, such as a passport or identity card. If travelling with a pet, relevant documentation like vaccination records, pet passport and insurance may also be required. Passengers using resident discounts must provide proof of eligibility.

How much is the ferry from Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach)

Ticket TypeFrom Ticket Price
Foot Passenger$29
Cabin$30

Why use Direct Ferries?

Sail everywhere

More routes than anyone else.

Sail everywhere

Sail cheaper

Compare fares, times & routes in one place.

Sail flexibly

Change plans easily with flexi tickets.

Sail flexibly

Sail smart

Book e-tickets & manage trips in-app.

Sail informed

Live ship tracking & real-time updates.

Sail informed

Sail confidently

Top-rated customer support when you need it.

Phuket (Rassada Pier) - Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) Ferry Route Prices 
Foot Passenger$80
Average Cabin Price$85
Phuket (Rassada Pier) - Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) Ferry Route Summary 
OriginPhuket Island
DestinationThailand
No. of Operators3
OperatorsBundhaya Speed Boat, Phi Phi Cruiser & Andaman Wave Master
Average Price$80
Average Daily Sailings5
Average Weekly Sailings37
Average Sailing Duration1 h
Fastest Sailing Duration1 h
First Ferry08:30
Last Ferry13:30
Distance24 Nautical Miles

* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 23 October 2026. 

Phuket (Rassada Pier) to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach) Ferry Most Popular Questions

Phuket Port Guide (Rassada Pier)

Rassada Pier is Phuket's main domestic ferry port, located on the island's east coast near Phuket Town, and the busiest hub for ferries from Phuket to the Andaman Sea islands and the Krabi coast. Six operators sail from the pier to around 18 destinations, including Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta and Langkawi, making it a key gateway for island-hopping in southern Thailand.

Address: Rassada Pier, Rassada Sub-district, Phuket Town, Phuket 83000, Thailand

Facilities at the port

  • Ferry operator ticket counters and check-in desks for Bundhaya Speed Boat, Phi Phi Cruiser and other operators.
  • Covered waiting areas with seating, toilets and departure information.
  • Cafés, snack stalls and a few small shops at the pier, with more restaurants and markets a short drive away in Phuket Town.
  • Luggage handling by ferry staff and a designated luggage area for larger bags.
  • Taxi and minivan pick-up points, plus short-stay parking near the terminal.
  • Assistance for passengers with reduced mobility is available on request, though gangways can be steep and slippery when wet.

How many ferry piers are there in Phuket?

Phuket has several piers serving different routes. Rassada Pier is the main terminal for scheduled ferries to Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi, Krabi and Koh Lanta. You can also take a bus transfer combined with a ferry from Phuket Town and Phuket Airport. Pier allocation depends on the ferry operator and route, so check your booking confirmation for the exact departure pier before you leave your hotel.

Expert tip: As the Ao Nang route has only one or two departures a day, mostly in the morning, plan to catch the first boat and book ahead in high season. If the timetable doesn't suit you, a Rassada Pier ferry to Krabi's Klong Jilad Pier plus a road transfer to Ao Nang is a common alternative.

How to get to Rassada Pier

  • By minivan or hotel transfer: Most ferry tickets include a shuttle from hotels in Phuket Town, Patong, Kata and Karon. Book a combined transfer-and-ferry ticket to avoid missing your boat.
  • By taxi: Taxis and ride-hailing apps such as Grab operate across Phuket. Journeys from Patong take around 30 to 40 minutes, and from Phuket International Airport around 45 to 60 minutes.
  • By songthaew: Shared pickup trucks run between Phuket Town and the main beach areas, though they are slower and less convenient with luggage.
  • By car or scooter: Rassada Pier is easily reached from Phuket's main road network. Cars cannot be taken on the ferry, so use the on-site parking only for short-term drop-off or ask your hotel about longer-term parking.

Ao Nang Port Guide (Nopparat Thara Beach)

Nopparat Thara Beach is the ferry landing for Ao Nang, Krabi's main beach resort, and the arrival point for ferries to Ao Nang from Phuket. The pier offers 7 to 10-month seasonal connections to Koh Yao Noi (Manoh Pier), Koh Yao Yai (Klong Hia Pier), Koh Mook (Koh Mook Pier), Koh Ngai (Koh Ngai Resort) and Koh Lipe (Pattaya Beach), as well as services to Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta and Railay Beach, making it a convenient base for exploring the Krabi coast without traveling into Krabi Town.

Address: Nopparat Thara Beach, Ao Nang, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81180, Thailand

Facilities at the port

  • Ferry operator booths and ticket offices along Ao Nang's main strip, where you can confirm e-tickets and collect boarding passes.
  • Long-tail boat and speedboat operators offering transfers to Railay Beach, Koh Phi Phi and the Hong Islands.
  • Cafés, restaurants, minimarts and seafood stalls along the beachfront within a short walk.
  • ATMs, currency exchange counters and tour desks throughout Ao Nang.
  • Taxi and songthaew pick-up points nearby for onward travel to Krabi Town and Krabi Airport.
  • Limited step-free access. Beach landings, jetty steps and uneven paths can be difficult for passengers with reduced mobility, so contact your operator in advance.

How many ferry piers are there in Ao Nang?

Ao Nang has two main piers. Nopparat Thara Beach, which handles scheduled services to Phuket, Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta, along with short long-tail boat hops to Railay Beach. Ao Nang Beach is also a popular pier for ferries departing to 10 destinations including all-year round sailings to Koh Phi Phi.

Krabi's larger mainland ferry pier, Klong Jilad Pier, is around 30 to 45 minutes away by road and handles a separate set of routes. Terminal allocation depends on the ferry operator, so always check your booking confirmation for the exact departure point.

How to get to Ao Nang (Nopparat Thara Beach)

  • On foot: Many hotels along Ao Nang Beach and Nopparat Thara Beach are within a 5 to 15 minute walk of the ferry landing.
  • By taxi or ride-hailing: Taxis and apps such as Grab run between Ao Nang, Krabi Town and Krabi Airport. Krabi Airport is roughly 30 to 45 minutes away. Agree on the price first if there is no meter.
  • By songthaew: Shared pickup trucks connect Ao Nang with Krabi Town and nearby beaches. They are cheap but slower and less convenient with luggage.
  • By car or scooter: Ao Nang is easily reached by road from Krabi Town. Vehicles cannot be taken on the ferry, so leave rental cars and scooters at your hotel.

Guide to Phuket and Ao Nang

Phuket Travel Guide

Phuket is Thailand's largest island, located in the Andaman Sea off the country's southwest coast, and is known for lively beach resorts, nightlife, water sports and easy access to nearby islands. As the region's main air and sea transport hub, Phuket is a common starting point for trips to Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi and the Similan Islands.

What to see and do in Phuket: Top attractions and experiences

  • Old Phuket Town: Sino-Portuguese shophouses, street art, cafés and weekend markets in the island's historic quarter.
  • Patong Beach: Phuket's busiest beach and nightlife district, with restaurants, bars and water sports.
  • Big Buddha Phuket: A 148-foot marble statue on Nakkerd Hill, offering panoramic views across the island.
  • Wat Chalong: The island's most important Buddhist temple, known for its ornate architecture and golden chedi.
  • Similan Islands: A national marine park with some of Thailand's clearest water, reached by day trip or liveaboard boat, typically open from mid-October to mid-May.
  • Phang Nga Bay: Dramatic limestone karsts and sea caves explored by longtail boat or sea kayak, including the famous James Bond Island.
  • Kata and Karon Beaches: Quieter, family-friendly stretches of sand south of Patong, popular for surfing in the wet season.

Best time to visit: The dry season from November to April offers the best weather and calmest seas for island-hopping. The wet season, roughly May to October, brings more rain and rougher water, which can affect ferry schedules to outer islands.

Ao Nang Travel Guide

Ao Nang is Krabi's main beach resort, set on the Andaman coast about 12 miles (20 km) from Krabi Town and framed by towering limestone cliffs. The town's main strip is lined with restaurants, bars, massage shops and tour operators, and it is the most convenient base for boat trips to Railay Beach, the Hong Islands and Koh Phi Phi.

What to see and do in Ao Nang: Must-see sights and activities

  • Ao Nang Beach: The town's main sweep of sand, with sunset views over the Andaman Sea and plenty of beachfront dining.
  • Railay Beach: A peninsula accessible only by boat, reached from Ao Nang by a 15-minute long-tail boat ride and known for cliffs, beaches and rock climbing.
  • Hong Islands: Day trips by long-tail or speedboat to lagoons and secluded beaches with good snorkeling.
  • Emerald Pool and Hot Springs (Klong Thom): A natural pool and mineral springs set in forest, best visited early in the morning.
  • Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea): A hilltop Buddhist temple reached by climbing about 1,240 steps, rewarded with sweeping views of Krabi.
  • Ao Nang Night Market: Street food, souvenirs and seafood stalls, lively in the evening along the main strip.
  • Koh Phi Phi day trips: Speedboat and ferry excursions from Ao Nang to Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon and Phi Phi Don, typically taking around 1 hour 20 minutes each way.

Best time to visit: The dry season from November to April offers the best weather, calm seas and the most reliable ferry schedules. From May to October, expect more rain and rougher seas, though prices are lower and the area is quieter.

Explore our blog

View all articles

Onboard the ferries

The quickest way to make & manage your booking

Download our app today

Customer Service

Visit our customer service page to find useful information on travelling by ferry, our FAQs, and how to contact us for help with your booking

Need help?

Let's keep in touch

Exclusive deals delivered to your inbox