Here’s the thing about Krabi, Thailand: if you’re planning your family trip and wondering what to do in Krabi with kids, and your answer is downtown Ao Nang… well, you’re missing the magic. Big time. We’ve now done Krabi a couple times with our kids, and the secret sauce to truly loving it? Stay out of town. Be on boats. Every. Single. Day. Here are our favorite things to do in Krabi with kids—from hidden beaches to playful cafes—and our tips for making the most of your time in this family-friendly paradise.
Avoid the Tourist Traps (Sorry, Ao Nang)
Look, we get it—Ao Nang is the hub. It’s where many families land, and it seems like the obvious place to be. But it’s crowded, it’s overpriced, and honestly? It’s not where the magic happens. Twice we’ve walked the so-called “Monkey Trail” just south of Ao Nang Beach, lured in by the promise of playful primates. And twice we’ve seen exactly zero monkeys. What we did see? A whole lot of tourists, and some dicey stairs that are no joke—especially if you’ve got small children. Our eight-year-old handled it, but a five-year-old? Not a chance. Unless you really want to spend your hike dodging selfie sticks and carrying a melting kid up uneven steps, maybe give that one a miss.
Why Krabi Is Better by Boat—Especially with Kids
This last trip, we made a conscious choice: boats every day. We hired local guides and said, “Take us anywhere except where everyone else is going.” Best decision ever. We explored islands, ducked into secret caves, swam under waterfalls, and snorkeled in crystalline waters where it was just us and the fish.
Imagine your kids swimming in warm, shallow coves with no one else around. Eating boat-delivered lunches under the sun. Asking, wide-eyed, “Can we do this again tomorrow?” That was our reality. Pure magic.
Where We Stayed: The Balance of Comfort + Seclusion
We started off at Lux Pool Villas Krabi Ao Nang, a five-minute drive from the chaos of town. Perfect for our soft landing. We stocked up on snacks, knocked out some last-minute work (the Wi-Fi held up!), and settled into our private villa with our very own pool. Spacious, quiet, and great for easing into vacation mode. They’ll shuttle you into town if you really need to go—but honestly, we barely did.
Bonus: just around the corner is the Krabi International Boxing Stadium. Several nights a week, they host Muay Thai matches that are equal parts intense and entertaining. We went and enjoyed it—yes, you’ll witness some knockouts, but the event is clearly geared toward tourists, and it didn’t feel odd having our kid there at all. Each match begins with a traditional boxing dance and warmup that’s honestly pretty fascinating to watch. It’s part ritual, part performance—and adds a unique cultural flavor to the whole experience.
Another unexpected gem nearby is The Fun Garden—a funky little restaurant that feels almost imaginary at first. When we arrived, we weren’t even sure if it was open. But go through the main gate, and you’ll find welcoming staff, kid-friendly food, and an amazing play space with costume boxes, climbing areas, books, and even play kitchens. Our kids could have stayed there all day. Total hidden treasure, and one of the best things to do in Krabi with kids!
Where We Stayed: Our Top Pick
Once the laptop closed and the real fun began, we moved north to Villa Thalanena By The Beach. Oh man. This place is a dream. Secluded, serene, and a two-minute walk from a nearly-empty beach with a charming little dive bar. Picture lazy sunsets, cold drinks, and kids collecting shells with barely another soul in sight.
If you’re still wondering what to do in Krabi with kids beyond the usual tourist stops, here’s what worked beautifully for our family:
Things to do in Krabi with Kids: Escape the Crowds, Embrace the Water
Mangroves, Kayaks, and Hidden Worlds
One of the absolute highlights was kayaking through the mangroves in Ao Thalane—just minutes from our hotel. Two-seater kayaks meant each kid rode with a parent, which turned into a team-building (and arm-building) adventure through ancient limestone caves and lush greenery. Our guide was essential, showing us hidden coves and explaining the history and wildlife along the way. It was challenging, yes, but unforgettable.
Boat Adventures and Snorkeling Bliss
For three days straight, we lived the boat life. Longtail boats, speed boats—you name it. We’d hop aboard with our guides, who whisked us away to remote islands and pristine snorkeling spots. No other boats. No tour groups. Just us, turquoise water, and fresh-cooked meals served right on the deck.
The kids were in heaven—splashing, exploring, spotting colorful fish—and we grown-ups got to live our tropical daydreams too. Honestly, if you’re deciding what to do in Krabi with kids, let this be it: Be on the water. Let the coastline surprise you.
Final Thoughts: Ditch Downtown, Embrace Adventure
So here’s our biggest tip: The best things to do with kids in Krabi involves skipping the crowded beaches and cookie-cutter experiences. Krabi isn’t about Ao Nang. It’s about wild coastlines, secret mangroves, and islands where your kids can run wild and free. Hire local guides, hop on a boat, and go find the Krabi that most tourists never see. It’s out there—and it’s absolutely worth it.
Top 5 Things to Do in Krabi with Kids
1. Island Hopping by Longtail Boat
Skip the crowded tours—hire a private longtail boat and explore hidden beaches, quiet snorkeling spots, and limestone caves. The kids will feel like explorers, and you’ll love the peace.
2. Kayaking Through the Mangroves at Ao Thalane
A calm, shaded paddle through prehistoric-feeling waterways. Two-person kayaks = perfect parent-child teamwork. Look out for monkeys and colorful crabs!
3. Play + Eat at The Fun Garden Café
Part playground, part cozy café, this hidden gem near Ao Nang has dress-up stations, climbing frames, and seriously tasty kid-friendly food.
4. Swim at the Emerald Pool & Blue Lagoon
An easy day trip with dreamy green water, flat walking paths, and shallow spots for splashing. Bring floaties, snacks, and bug spray.
5. Sunset & Shell Collecting at Tha Lane Beach
Stay nearby and stroll this almost-deserted stretch of coast. Perfect for shell collecting, stick drawings in the sand, and slow, golden-hour moments.
FAQ: Krabi with Kids
Is Krabi good for families with young children?
Absolutely! Krabi is ideal for families—think warm shallow beaches, nature adventures, and laid-back vibes. Just steer clear of the busiest tourist hubs and you’ll find a paradise that works for both toddlers and teens.
What are the best things to do in Krabi with kids?
Island-hopping on longtail boats, kayaking through Ao Thalane’s mangroves, playing at The Fun Garden café, and swimming in the Emerald Pool. Bonus: peaceful beaches for sandcastle time and sunsets.
Can you take toddlers on longtail boats?
Yes, and it can be magical. Just pick a calm day, pack snacks, and start with shorter rides. Most boat guides are used to families and happy to customize trips.
Is Ao Nang worth visiting with kids?
It’s okay as a launchpad, but we wouldn’t stay there. It’s crowded, hot, and not super stroller-friendly. You’re better off in quieter spots just outside town with easier beach access and less chaos.
Is Krabi better than Phuket for families?
It depends on your style. Phuket has more splashy attractions and big resorts, but Krabi wins for nature, space to roam, and that peaceful, low-key feel.
