A Perfect 3 Week Southern Thailand Itinerary – Andaman Coast (2024)

Planning a perfect Southern Thailand itinerary can feel overwhelming—it certainly was for me! I spent hours researching each island and city, hunting for the most unique activities and experiences.

If you’re feeling the same and need inspiration or a ready-to-follow itinerary, you’re in the right place. After spending a month traveling along Thailand’s Andaman Coast, I’ve created this comprehensive guide with tried-and-tested recommendations.

We’ll start in the south with Koh Lipe, then head north through Koh Mook, Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, and finish in Krabi Town. With convenient international airports nearby.

This itinerary is intense and adventurous, combining well-known highlights with hidden gems and authentic experiences. Over 3 weeks, we’ll explore locations packed with snorkeling, jungle hiking, kayaking, island hopping, hidden beaches, and iconic sights.

Read on to discover all the incredible experiences waiting for you on Southern Thailand’s remarkable Andaman Coast!

Week 1: Koh Lipe and Koh Mook – The Southernmost Islands

Koh Lipe – 4 Nights

One of the best things about Koh Lipe is how close you’ll always be to the beach. The island is tiny, walkable, and surrounded by stunning sandy beaches with crystal-clear water. 

While accommodations on Koh Lipe can be pricey (it’s one of the more expensive places in Thailand), booking ahead might help you find good deals. Sometimes, it’s worth paying extra for a hotel with breakfast and a pool rather than opting for the cheapest option with no amenities.

The vibe on this small island is truly idyllic, as its often called the Maldives of Thailand, thanks to its pristine beaches and turquoise water.

Day 1 –  Arrival in Koh Lipe – Relaxing Beach Day and Sunset Snorkeling

The fastest way to travel to Koh Lipe from Bangkok is to fly to Hat Yai Airport. Then take a taxi or shared minivan to Pak Bara Pier. From there, a short speedboat ride will bring you to Koh Lipe. If you start early, you might even arrive by midday, depending on your flight schedule. Use this day to settle in and enjoy Koh Lipe’s pristine beaches.

Pattaya Beach is long and wide, with the pier and immigration office. You’ll find plenty of hotels here with easy beach access, but swimming is limited to designated zones because of the boats traffic. Stick to safe areas for swimming.

If you arrive early enough, spend the afternoon snorkeling at Sunrise Beach – less crowded than Pattaya Beach, but with equally great dining options and places to renting snorkeling gear. Here you can explore marine life right off the beach.

In the evening, stroll over to Karma Beach, located north of Sunrise Beach, for stunning sunset sunset views.

Day 2 – Jungle Trails, Hidden Beaches, and Kayaking Around to Koh Kla

On the day two, after breakfast, let’s start exploring Koh Lipe’s small jungle trails . While the island isn’t large, it has several scenic paths leading to hidden beaches. Download an offline map with hiking trails and start early to before the midday heat.

From Pattaya Beach, you can take a short hike to Sanom Beach. From there, continue to jungle paths leading to Pollo and Svedo Beaches. The hikes are not very challenging, but always remember to carry plenty of water, and use bug repellent.

In the afternoon, take a different route back to visit the small Buddhist temple Samnaksong Han Talay, tucked away in the forest and maintained by monks. Explore its paths to discover statues, shrines, and painted stones.

As you return, head to the heart of the island to see a less touristy side of Koh Lipe, where locals live. You’ll also find a settlement of the Urak Lawoi tribe, an indigenous community with a semi-nomadic history. Check out the information panels near the community center to learn about their traditions and way of life.

Later, head to Sunrise Beach to rent a kayak and explore Koh Lipe’s stunning coastline and crystal-clear waters from a fresh perspective. If you are looking for a good workout, paddle to the nearby uninhabited Kla Island and kayak around it!

Sunrise Beach and Kla Island are also excellent spot for snorkeling, so bring your gear along to discover vibrant marine life as you paddle.

Day 3 – Trip to Neighboring Koh Adang and Koh Rawi and Sunset Beach on Koh Lipe

On day three, visit Koh Adang and Koh Rawi, both part of Tarutao National Park, for even more lovely beaches and turquoise waters. Koh Adang is just a short taxi speedboat ride from Koh Lipe, while Koh Rawi is wilder and less visited.

You can join a snorkeling tour to visit both islands, where you’ll get to swim around Koh Adang and stop for lunch on Koh Rawi. If you want more flexibility, like extra time for hiking, you can hire a private long-tail boat from Koh Lipe.

On Koh Adang, hike through the jungle to Chado Cliff Viewpoint, to get breathtaking views of Koh Lipe surrounded with perfect turquoise  waters. There are also small waterfalls and beautiful beaches to discover, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

On more secluded Koh Rawi you will also find jungle treks, but the paths are less marked there. Stick to safer routes, like the trek from Ao Ta Loh Palien to the opposite side of the island. Relax on Sai Khao Beach, where a small restaurant serves food. Since Koh Rawi has no hotels, camping is the only option for an overnight stay.

After returning to Koh Lipe, spend the evening at Sunset Beach, a smaller and quieter spot, located just 20 minutes from Walking Street.

Day 4 – Full-Day Diving or Snorkeling Excursions

The waters around Koh Lipe are among the best diving sites along Thailand’s Andaman Coast, with excellent visibility and abundant marine life.

This small island is one of the top diving hotspots. It’s packed with diving centers and shops offering professional gear. You can even get your PADI certification here or try a discovery dive if you’re new to diving.

For an adventure, head to popular dive sites like 8 Mile Rock, Stonehenge, or the Yong Hua Shipwreck. If diving isn’t your thing, you can join a full-day snorkeling trip to these spots or other nearby locations.

Evening Activities on Koh Lipe

In the evenings, you can enjoy Koh Lipe’s lively atmosphere along the Walking Street with its many bars and restaurants. Check out fire shows on Pattaya Beach for some entertainment.

Koh Mook – 3 nights

Koh Mook is a quiet and rustic island, very different from the popular party spots in Southern Thailand.

Although it’s calm and laid-back, you’ll still find resorts, bungalows, and restaurants here. The island has a charming fishing village, and much of it is covered in jungle. It’s also home to the famous Emerald Cave.

Day 5 – Arrival, Explore Fisherman Village, and Sunset at Charlie Beach

We’ll arrive on Koh Mook around noon. After settling into the hotel, we can explore the fishermen village near the pier and check out some local restaurants. This area is a great location to relax and soak in the island’s rustic vibe.

For sunset, head to Charlie Beach, about a 30-minute walk from the town center. If you want to save time, you can rent a scooter or take a tuk-tuk. The island has no cars, and walking is a pleasant option too.

Renting a kayak is another fun way to enjoy the sunset. Paddle closer to Koh Mook’s limestone cliffs for an unforgettable view, but make sure to head back to shore before it gets dark. You will have a chance to enjoy sunset colors while sipping refreshing drinks on a beach.

Day 6 – Jungle Hiking and Exploring Hidden Beaches

Start the day early with a sunrise at Sivalai Beach, where you can also enjoy breakfast by the shore.

Next, head into the jungle to explore hidden, wild beaches surrounded by rocky terrain. Most of Koh Mook is covered in lush jungle and rubber plantations. There are plenty of paths, some steep, that wind through the dense greenery. Bring bug repellent and plenty of water for your trek.

Visit the jungle viewpoint and make your way to Lo Dung Beach, a quiet spot with muddy, rocky terrain and a small mangrove forest nearby.

After the hike, make sure to take some time to rest and relax. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant near the town center. Even though Koh Mook is small and rustic, you’ll find several restaurants open until late.

Day 7 – Emerald Cave and Snorkeling Near Koh Kradan

Visiting the Emerald Cave is a must-do on Koh Mook, but keep in mind that it’s a very popular spot. Large tourist ferries often bring big groups and it can get pretty crowded inside and by the entrance.

For the best experience, rent a private long-tail boat. You can arrange a tour through your hotel (like we did) or book directly from tour agencies in the town center. An early start is crucial to avoid crowds and enjoy the small lagoon at its most peaceful time.

After exploring the Emerald Cave, you will continue your trip to Koh Kradan, known for its amazing snorkeling spots. Spend some time snorkeling and enjoy lunch on the beach before heading back to Koh Mook.

Evening Activities on Koh Mook

Koh Mook is a peaceful island with no big parties. The best way to end the day is by watching the sunset at Charlie Beach, where you’ll also find food and drink stalls.

On your way back to the town center, you can stop at a few restaurants that stay open late. Alternatively, stroll through the fishing village near the pier. The seafood restaurants there, run by friendly locals, are a great place to enjoy fresh, delicious meals in a lively but relaxed atmosphere.

Week 2: Koh Lanta and Koh Phi Phi

Koh Lanta – 5 Nights

After visiting the small, walkable islands of Koh Lipe and Koh Mook, we’ll move on to the much larger Koh Lanta. Its size is both an advantage and a challenge—there’s plenty to do, but everything is spread out, so getting around takes more planning.

To explore the island at your own pace, renting a scooter or arranging transportation like tuk-tuks or taxis is essential. Koh Lanta has a relaxed, local vibe with lots of opportunities to connect with nature and explore cultural sights.

Day 8 – Arrival at Koh Lanta, Mu Koh Lanta National Park, Laem Tanod Forest Trek and sunset at Bamboo Beach

You’ll get from Koh Mook to Koh Lanta’s Saladan Pier in about an hour by speedboat. The easiest option to travel to Koh Lanta is to book a combined ticket that includes the speedboat and a van transfer directly to your accommodation.

Since Koh Lanta is too big to explore on foot, you’ll need to rent a scooter or car, or rely on tuk-tuks or taxis (Grab isn’t available here) to get around the island.

Our first day’s activities won’t be too intense, but they’ll definitely be rewarding and picturesque. Let’s start by driving  to the southernmost point of the island—Mu Koh Lanta National Park.

Here, you’ll find a popular viewpoint with a lighthouse and the lovely Laem Tanod Forest Trek. The round-trip hike takes about an hour and is relatively easy, but be sure to bring water and bug repellent with you.

For an unforgettable sunset, head to Bamboo Beach (Had Mai Phai) near the national park. This scenic, quiet beach is a bit tricky to reach but well worth it. Just watch out for cheeky monkeys that might try to steal your food!

There are two beach bars at Bamboo Beach where you can enjoy a relaxed meal and take in the sunset. Swimming here isn’t ideal because of the rocky underwater terrain, but the views make it a perfect spot to end the day.

Day 9 – Kayaking in the Mangrove Forest, Mai Kaeo Cave, Klong Khong, Kantiang and Nui Beaches

Start your first full day on Koh Lanta with an early morning kayak trip through Tung Yee Peng Mangrove Forest. Mornings are the best time to avoid the heat and spot unique wildlife—just don’t bring food, as curious monkeys might steal it from you!

In the afternoon, head to Mai Kaeo Cave, located in the jungle. You’ll need to hire an obligatory local guide at the entrance to lead you through cave and jungle.

The trek is moderately challenging, with steep sections and ropes to assist you. Inside the cave, be prepared for darkness and possibly seeing some sleeping bats.

After the cave exploration, take some time to relax and explore the stunning beaches along Koh Lanta’s 13-mile west coast. While you won’t see them all in one go, start with the popular Klong Khong Beach, then move on to quieter, pristine spots like Kantiang Beach and Nui Beach.

Keep in mind that Nui Beach is accessible through Diamond Cliff Restaurant. These beaches are perfect for unwinding after an active day.

Day 10 – Trip Koh Por, Koh Bubu and Koh Lanta Old Town 

Take a trip to the nearby islands of Koh Por and Koh Bubu. Keep in mind that it’s not very popular destination, you can ask your hotel to help arrange this trip or book through a local agency.

Koh Bubu is a peaceful, uninhabited island where you can swim in clear waters and relax on sandy beaches.

Koh Por offers a unique experience with a local community running homestays and restaurants. If you’re up for it, they might take you on a deep-sea fishing trip. You can even stay overnight at one of their homestays to learn more about their traditional community.

After coming back to Koh Lanta, you should explore the unique Old Town. This place is rich in history and culture.

You will find Buddhist and Chinese temples, as well as old wooden houses on stilts that are now home to local shops and restaurants. Take a stroll and shop at the small local stores located by the Walking Street (remember to buy iconic Thai elephant pants!)

Koh Lanta Old Town is a perfect place to enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants. Don’t forget to walk along the fishermen pier, see the giant lobster statues and the shipwreck by the shore.

If you want to learn more about the area’s history, visit the Community Museum located at Koh Lanta Old Town.

Day 11 – Elephant Sanctuary and Animal Shelter 

One of the unique things Koh Lanta has to offer is an ethical elephant sanctuary – Following Giants and the Lanta Animal Welfare shelter. You need to book your visits in advance, but doing it just one day ahead is usually enough.

First, we will visit Koh Lanta Animal Welfare at 10:00 AM. This organization is dedicated to helping homeless, injured, and abused animals around Southern Thailand’s Andaman Coast.

By joining the tour, you’ll support the shelter’s mission and get a chance to play with the resident cats too. Plan to spend around two hours here.

Next, we’ll take a half-day tour starting at 2:00 PM at the ethical elephant sanctuary, Following Giants. Unlike traditional elephant tourism, this sanctuary’s mission is to avoid direct interaction with the elephants.

There is no touching, bathing, or any other direct interaction with animals. Instead, you’ll follow the elephants on a trek through the jungle. We will visit waterfall and learn about wildlife and environmental preservation in this area.

Day 12 – Trip to Koh Phee and Talabeng and Evening Road Trip to Pirate Bay

We’ll be exploring the neighboring islands of Koh Phee and Talabeng. Joining an organized half-day tour is the easiest option, as it includes hotel pickup and a dedicated tour guide.

The experience will feature a long-tail boat ride through the mangrove forest, kayaking, climbing, cave exploration, and swimming.

The trip will take around five hours. And after returning to Koh Lanta, there will be time for more exploration, such as a small road trip along the island’s wild east coast. This unique coastline is full of rocky beaches and leads to the southernmost destination, Pirate Bay.

Pirate Bay is a remote spot with a relaxed beach bar and stunning views. The beach is a mix of sand and stones, and you can hike along the large red rocks on the shoreline. Relax here for a while as you soak in the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful scenery—a perfect way to end the day.

Evening Activities on Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is not a party island, but it has a relaxing nightlife vibe. Some great evening options include: beachfront bars and restaurants on Klong Khong Beach, Street food stalls at Old Town’s Walking Street, and a local night market near Saladan Pier.

Koh Phi Phi Don – 4 Nights

Phi Phi Islands are often criticized for their overdevelopment, loud party scene on Koh Phi Phi Don and the overwhelming popularity of Maya Bay—stunning but overcrowded. While I understand these arguments, I think that not staying longer on Koh Phi Phi is a huge mistake.

This destination has a quieter side and so much more to offer than what you’d experience on a quick day trip. Take a simple 15-minute walk out of the busy town, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by jungle hikes, scenic viewpoints, and pristine beaches.

Staying for a few nights lets you truly explore and appreciate the beauty and diversity of Koh Phi Phi.

Day 13 – Arrival in Koh Phi Phi, Tonsai and Loh Dalum Beaches, Viewpoints Sunset Hike

Most of the accommodations on Koh Phi Phi are located in Tonsai Village, which is the island’s most developed area. This is where the ferries arrive, and it’s also the hub for parties and nightlife, so it can get loud in the evenings.

Luckily, there are quieter options just a 10-minute walk from the center. I stayed near the entrance to the Viewpoints (which we’ll visit today), and it was a great spot—close enough to town but still peaceful.

If you’re looking for a true peaceful paradise vibe, you can also stay near one of the more remote beaches. These areas are quieter but harder to access, requiring either a boat ride or a long hike to reach the main town.

After arriving on Koh Phi Phi and settling into our accommodation around noon, we’ll start exploring the island at a relaxed pace. First, we’ll visit some of the most popular beaches in the town center.

Near the pier, you’ll find Tonsai Beach. It’s great for scenic views of the bay, but not the best for swimming because of the crowds and boat traffic. A better option for a relaxing afternoon is Loh Dalum Beach, located on the opposite side to Tonsai Bay. This wide, sandy beach is less crowded with boats and has plenty of space to enjoy.

In the evening, Loh Dalum Beach transforms into a lively party hotspot with beach bars, clubs, fire shows, and lots of other activities. It can get loud, but there’s no shortage of fun things to do.

To end the first day, we’ll head to Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint to catch the sunset. This iconic spot offers breathtaking panoramic views of Tonsai Bay and Loh Dalum Bay. The entrance to the viewpoints is easy to find and just a short walk from the town center.

To reach the top, we’ll climb 300 steps and pay a 50-baht entrance fee. The path takes us through lush green gardens, and at the top, we’ll be rewarded with stunning, panoramic views of the island.

Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint is a popular spot for catching sunset, so be prepared for crowds. If you prefer a quieter experience, visiting early in the morning is a great alternative.

Day 14 – Coastal Hike to Viking and Long Beach, Snorkeling at Shark Point, and Evening at Hippies Bar

Let’s start the day with a scenic coastal hike from Tonsai Village to Long Beach. The trail isn’t too difficult, but it does have some steep stairs and sections where ropes are provided for assistance. 

Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the bay, limestone cliffs, and turquoise water. You’ll also come across small, hidden beaches that are surprisingly quiet and relaxing, despite being close to the touristy center of the island.

Since snorkeling is best done in the morning when the water is clear, visibility is high, and the sea is less crowded, we won’t spend too much time at these beaches just yet—we’ll save them for later in the day.

At Long Beach, you can snorkel right off the shore and quite easily reach Shark Point. This site is known for its crystal-clear waters and the chance to swim with blacktip reef sharks (don’t worry, they’re harmless to humans).

If you’re snorkeling on your own, be cautious, as the area around the rocks can have strong currents and occasional jellyfish. Alternatively, you can rent a kayak and paddle out to Shark Point for a different perspective.

After snorkeling, you can relax longer on the beach or take a short 15-minute walk to Loh Moo Dee Beach, located on the opposite coast of Koh Phi Phi Don. Moo Dee Beach is large and peaceful, with only one beach bar. You can also try snorkeling there if you’re up for it.

On the way back to Tonsai Village, we can take a longer break at one of the smaller beaches. My favorite is Viking Beach, which offers plenty of shade, gorgeous views, and a beach bar where you can rent a kayak. It’s also a good spot for more snorkeling.

In the evening, before reaching the town center, we’ll stop at Hippies Bar. It’s a lively spot located right on the beach with great vibes and live music—a perfect way to wind down after an active day.

Week 3: Koh Phi Phi and Krabi Town/Aon Nang Area

Koh Phi Phi Don – Remaining 2 Nights

Day 15 – Island Hopping Day Trip to Maya Bay and Bamboo Island

On our third day on Koh Phi Phi Don, we’ll finally take a day trip to the iconic Maya Bay. Made famous by the movie The Beach, this destination is a must-see.

However, its popularity can sometimes make the experience feel a bit rushed and crowded. If you prefer a more personalized experience, consider renting a private long-tail boat instead of joining a group tour.

To avoid the crowds on this small paradise-like beach, it’s best to go early in the morning and visit Maya Bay first. After that, the boat will take you to other highlights like Viking Cave and Monkey Beach. After lunch, you’ll head to the beautiful Bamboo Island, a quieter spot with pristine white sand and clear waters.

This trip is packed with stops, including popular sights, swimming, and snorkeling. By the end of the day, you’ll likely be exhausted, so plan for some downtime afterward.

And if you’re prone to seasickness, don’t forget to take medication before the trip—waves can get quite rough based on my experience.

Day 16 – Hiking to Loh Ba Kao Bay, Nui and Lana Beaches, and the Northernmost Point of Koh Phi Phi Don

After a day spent exploring the sea, today is all about hiking and discovering Koh Phi Phi’s jungle trails and hidden beaches. Get ready for an adventure!

We’ll start by heading to Loh Ba Kao Bay. Make sure to have an offline map, as the paths aren’t always clearly marked.

To get there, you can either hike through the Viewpoints or take the coastal trail starting at Loh Dalum Beach. From Loh Dalum, follow the path leading to Sunset Bay Resort, but instead of climbing the stairs to the hotel, walk along the rocky shoreline to reach the jungle entrance.

This peaceful trail is often quiet, even during the high season. The hike to Loh Ba Kao Bay takes about an hour. Once you exit the jungle path, you’ll arrive at a small village and soon find the beach.

This side of Koh Phi Phi is definetely less touristy, though there is a resort nearby. You won’t find much nightlife or many shops here, but it’s perfect for a tranquil escape.

In the northern part of Loh Ba Kao Bay, you will find a river flowing through a mangrove forest. You can rent a kayak there and paddle through the river and the mangroves forest. But be mindful that we have still a few places to visit.

Our next stops are Loh Lana and Nui Beaches, both nearby and worth the short trek. Loh Lana Bay feels almost abandoned, while Nui Beach is more challenging and exciting to reach. The hike to Nui Beach goes through dense jungle and may even require treading water in some sections.

Nui Beach is a stunning, secluded spot, known for its white sand, turquoise waters, and surrounding limestone cliffs. It’s not easy to get to, but it’s a favorite destination for day trips and well worth the effort.

After spending some time in this truly picturesque spot, we’ll head to the northernmost point of Koh Phi Phi Don. Go back to the mangrove suspension bridge, take the easy-to-follow road leading to Laem Tong Beach. From there, a smaller path will lead us to the northern tip of the island.

After a day full of adventurous hiking, we’ll catch a boat from Laem Tong Beach back to Tonsai Village. Be sure to check the schedule for the last taxi boat, which usually leaves around 6 PM.

If you miss it, you’ll either need to hire a private boat or prepare for a long hike back. Don’t forget to bring cash to pay for the boat ride!

Evening Activities on Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is famous for its vibrant nightlife, and there’s no shortage of things to do after the sun sets.

Near Loh Dalum Beach, you’ll find loud pool parties at popular hostels, lively beach bars, and clubs offering activities like beer pong. Don’t miss the breathtaking fire shows performed right on the beach—they’re a must-see.

Closer to the pier, in the busy town center, there are all kinds of bars featuring live music, karaoke, dancing, and sports screenings. For something unique, check out the Reggae Bar, which has a boxing ring where tourists can participate in friendly matches. It’s definitely an experience you won’t forget!

Krabi Krabi Town or Ao Nang – 5 Nights

After spending over two weeks on the beautiful islands of the Andaman Coast, it’s time to head to the mainland. Don’t worry—there’s still plenty of adventure and pristine beaches to explore here!

When I say “Krabi,” I’m actually referring to the whole province (which includes places like Koh Lanta). However, most visitors choose to stay in either Ao Nang or Krabi Town, two popular spots just a 20-minute drive apart.

• Ao Nang – a classic tourist destination with plenty of beachfront accommodations, restaurants, and activities.
• Krabi Town – has a more local, authentic vibe, but it doesn’t have nice, sandy beaches like Ao Nang.

Where you stay depends on what you’re looking for—beachy and lively or more laid-back and local.

Day 17 – Arrival to Krabi – Mangroves, Cave and temple

As with many travel days, we’ll arrive in Krabi around noon. That still gives us plenty of time for an afternoon filled with adventure and exploration.

First, we’ll head to Krabi Town to visit Wat Kaew Korawaram, a beautiful hilltop temple known for its gleaming white shrines and intricate golden details. It’s a peaceful spot to start our time in Krabi.

Next, we’ll explore the Krabi Town Mangrove Urban Forest, a tranquil experience conveniently located near the town center. Walking along the mangrove walkway is a peaceful way to connect with nature and spot some wildlife.

At the end of the walkway, we’ll climb the observation tower for panoramic views of the river, city, and the epic limestone formations that Krabi is famous for. At this spot we will also find boats crossing the river to take us to Khao Khanab Nam Cave. 

This cave is famous for its dramatic stalactites and eerie skeleton display. Spend time exploring the unique rock formations inside and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding river.

Day 18 – Ao Nang, Pai Plong Beach Monkey Trail and Railay Beach

Ao Nang and Railay Beach are two of the most popular beach spots in Krabi. If you’re staying in Ao Nang, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy its lively beach, bars, and restaurants. Just keep in mind that Ao Nang can get quite crowded, especially in peak season.

For a quieter experience, take the Monkey Trail to Pai Plong Beach. This smaller, more secluded beach offers a calmer vibe compared to Ao Nang but is still fairly popular. The trail is short and not too hard, but watch out for the monkeys—they might try to steal your food or phone. On the steep steps, you’ll also see tourists trying to interact with them, so stay cautious.

From Ao Nang, it’s easy to get to Railay Beach by taking a boat or renting a kayak. Since it’s not accessible by land, the trip itself adds to the adventure. Once there, you’ll see why Railay is such a stunning destination. Spend your day exploring and make sure to visit Phra Nang Cave Beach, famous for its limestone cliffs and the Princess Cave, filled with local offerings.

Railay is also one of the best places for rock climbing. Whether you’re an experienced climber or just curious to try, the breathtaking sea views make it unforgettable. If you’re a beginner, you can book a guided climbing experience that includes all the gear—just plan ahead to secure your spot.

Day 19 – Dragon’s Crest Hike at Ngon Nak and Kayaking at Klong Root Canal

Start your day with a trek up Ngon Nak Nature Trail, also known as Dragon’s Crest Mountain, located in Tubkaek National Park. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Krabi Town and even closer from Ao Nang.

The trail is a 3.7-mile (6 km) round-trip hike that takes around 4–5 hours to complete. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Koh Hong, Koh Yao Noi, and the Andaman Sea.

Although much of the trail is shaded by jungle, the heat and humidity can still make it challenging. Start early to avoid the midday sun, take plenty of water, and wear comfortable shoes, as some sections are steep and uneven.

In the afternoon, head to Klong Root Clear Water Canal, a peaceful spot for kayaking. The canal is so clear you can see the bottom, and it’s a great place to cool off with a swim. This hidden gem is less crowded than other attractions, so it’s perfect for a quiet and more authentic experience.

For a stunning sunset, visit Nong Thale Lake nearby. The lake is surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs, creating the perfect backdrop for photos or a moment of calm to end the day.

Day 20 – Island Hopping to Koh Poda, Chicken Island, Koh Tup, Koh Daengand Koh Hong

Even though we’re staying on the mainland, we can still enjoy an unforgettable island-hopping adventure near Krabi Town and Ao Nang.

We’ll take a tour to explore Koh Poda, Chicken Island (Koh Gai), Koh Tup, and Koh Daeng, all part of the Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Koh Phi Phi National Park. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters, walk along hidden sandbars, and marvel at the dramatic limestone karsts that define Krabi’s coastline.

Koh Hong is another highlight, known for its breathtaking lagoon (only accessible by boat) and a viewpoint offering stunning panoramic views of the area.

The best way to experience this trip is to hire a private longtail boat from local boat drivers. Many organized tours don’t include both Koh Poda and Koh Hong, so a private boat gives you the flexibility to visit both. Check with tour agencies or ask your hotel for assistance arranging the trip.

For a more enjoyable experience, start early to avoid crowds at popular spots like Koh Poda and enjoy a peaceful day exploring Krabi’s islands.

Day 21 – Tiger Cave Temple, Emerald Pool, and Klong Thom Nuea Hot Stream Waterfall

For our last day in Southern Thailand, we’ll take a trip to Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua) and explore some natural hot springs. You can join a tour for this, but it’s easy enough to do on your own if you’re comfortable with a bit of driving.

Our first stop is Tiger Cave Temple, where we’ll tackle the 1,260 steep steps to the top. It’s a tough climb, but the views from the top are incredible. You’ll see a golden Buddha statue surrounded by amazing panoramic views of Krabi’s limestone cliffs and lush jungle.

The climb is no joke, so it’s better to go early in the morning or closer to sunset to avoid the heat. Bring plenty of water, take breaks when you need to, and watch out for the monkeys—they’re bold and love grabbing food or loose items.

The temple complex has more to explore than just the climb. There’s a jungle path leading to a small cave where monks live, with shrines and statues scattered along the way. It’s a peaceful spot worth checking out.

After the temple, we’ll drive south to the Emerald Pool in Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve. There’s a short walk from the entrance to the pool, but it’s nothing too strenuous. The pool itself is big and deep, perfect for a swim in its clear, emerald-green water—but be careful as it can get slippery.

If you’re up for more, a short hike will take you to the Blue Pool, another stunning spot nearby. You can’t swim here, but the vibrant, crystal-clear water is beautiful to look at and a great place to soak in the natural beauty of the area.

On the way back, we’ll stop at the Klong Thom Nuea Hot Stream Waterfall. This spot has natural hot springs where you can relax and soak in the warm, mineral-rich water. It’s the perfect way to end the day—and our adventure in Southern Thailand!

Evening Activities in Krabi

While Ao Nang is lively and touristy with its bars and restaurants, Krabi Town offers a more local vibe. There are plenty of bars and restaurants to explore, and if you’re visiting over the weekend, don’t miss the Weekend Night Market. The market is known not only for its delicious street food, but also a stage with live performances.

Itinerary Planning Tips

• Best Time to Visit – High season starts mid-October and lasts until the end of May. During this time, the weather is perfect, and all attractions are open for tourists. The monsoon season is cheaper and quieter but comes with rain and fewer activities.
• Transportation – Use ferries and speedboats for island transfers. On bigger islands, rent a moped, and in the cities, use Grab. Some places have direct ferries, while others require changeovers. Private boats are usually available but more expensive, and you’ll need cash to pay for them.
• Check Things in Advance – Events like night markets or Muay Thai fights often happen on specific days, so check the schedules ahead of time to plan your visit.

Final Thoughts on Spending 3 Weeks in Southern Thailand

Planning a perfect 3 weeks in Southern Thailand can feel like a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming! Thailand is an easy country to navigate, with friendly locals to help you along the way.

To get ready for your adventure, check out my posts about safety in Thailand, packing essentials, adventurous experiences, and detailed guides for each location we’ve covered. With a little preparation, your trip will be unforgettable!

Read My Other Posts about Visiting Thailand:

• Koh Lipe vs. Koh Mook vs. Koh Lanta vs. Koh Phi Phi: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Perfect Southern Thai Island Adventure (2024)
• Koh Lanta vs. Koh Lipe – Which Island is Better for Your Vacation – 2024 Guide
• Koh Lipe vs. Koh Mook – Which Island Is Better for Your Vacation? – 2024
• How to Spend 7 Days in Krabi, Thailand: The Ultimate Adventure Itinerary (2024)
• Unforgettable 4 Days on Koh Phi Phi, Thailand – Detailed Itinerary (2024)
• Explore Koh Lanta in One Day: 24-hours Itinerary filled with Nature and Culture (2024)
• Epic 5-Day Koh Lanta Itinerary: Your Ultimate Adventure Guide (2024)