Ao Thalane: Outdoor Activities

While most people visit Krabi for its pristine beaches and impressive limestone karsts, the region of Ao Thalane just outside the town is a hotspot for outdoor activities. You’ll find a pastime for every taste and preference, from jet boats and quad tours to zip lining and river rafting.

One of the epicenters for these activities is a mangrove-covered bay just northwest of Karbi — and the best way to explore all that this region has to offer is during an Ao Thalane tour from Krabi.

Here's all you need to know about Ao Thalane, one of the most exhilarating places for outdoor activities in Krabi.

Where is Ao Thalane located?

Ao Thalane is a small community on the eastern shore of Phang Nga Bay in southern Thailand.

Ao Thalane by car

Traveling to Ao Thalane from Krabi Town is pretty straightforward — simply head northwest and remain on Route 4, turning left towards Phang Nga Bay. The entire journey is roughly 30 kilometers long and will take about 35 minutes to complete.

Guided tours to Ao Thalane

Guided tours to Ao Thalane has the advantage of leaving all of the logistics up to a tour operator. That, and you’ll enjoy the company of a qualified guide every step of your journey.

What are the best things to do in Ao Thalane?

Phang Nga Bay

Phang Nga Bay is one of Thailand’s most popular destinations, due to its striking natural beauty and the number of activities on offer. Visitors here can enjoy boat tours, scuba diving and snorkeling. Some of the famous sites on offer are James Bond Island, Koh Yao Noi and the secluded Hong Island.

Kayaking

Ao Thalane Bay lends itself perfectly to a variety of aquatic activities, like paddleboarding, canoeing and kayaking tours. The latter is the preferred method of transport when exploring the bay, because a kayak offers great maneuverability in the mangrove forests.

Hiking

Ao Thalane offers a couple of land-based activities and what better way to get your land legs back than with a quick hiking excursion? The islands dotted along the coast are covered with dense jungle just begging to be traversed with the aid of your guide — and a comfortable pair of shoes, of course!

What are the best tours to visit Ao Thalane?

Kayaking group tour in Ao Thalane from Krabi

Full-day group tours to Ao Thanlane are usually the most affordable option — providing a great opportunity to explore the bay, jungle and mangrove forests for people who don’t mind traveling in a larger group.

Your excursion will include kayaking on the open sea, lessons about local wildlife and a scrumptious local lunch.

Small-group Ao Thalane tour from Krabi

A small-group tour offers much the same as a guided group tour, with the exception that the trip is limited to six people. This allows for a much more serene and personal tour experience, during which you can explore the beauty of the area.

You’ll spend the day paddling the crystal clear waters, navigating your way through the mangrove forests and even trekking in the jungle. Drinking water, fruits and lunch are served on this tour, ensuring that both your body and soul are well-fed.

Private Ao Thalane tour from Krabi

A private tour to Ao Thalane means that your group will be the only participants on the excursion. This allows a lot more flexibility when deciding on the tour’s itinerary and you’ll also enjoy your guide’s undivided attention.

Your party will explore Ao Thalane by boat, kayak and on foot, as you leave the waters behind to journey through the jungles. Lunch is served at a local restaurant and you’ll get to soak your weary bones at a secluded natural pool — the undisputed highlight of the trip.

What are the prices of Ao Thalane tours?

Tour prices in Ao Thalane differ depending on the type of tour, the duration and the number of participants.

A full-day kayaking group tour in Ao Thalane from Krabi will cost about US$30 per person, making it one of the best budget options.

A full-day small-group Ao Thalane tour from Krabi will cost approximately US$75 per person.

A private full-day Ao Thalane tour from Krabi costs US$150 per person, but the price per person decreases as the number of participants increases. Your traveling party may not exceed 15 people.

Where do Ao Thalane tours start?

All trips to Ao Thalane include transport services to and from your place of residence in Krabi. If you are unsure whether your hotel falls within the area for this service, you should confirm when booking and again just before your tour.

When is the best time to visit Ao Thalane?

The best time of day to visit Ao Thlane is early in the morning, especially just before sunrise. The best time of the year is anytime from November to March. The period from December to early February is considered the peak tourist season and should be avoided.

Which other outdoor activities can you do in Krabi?

• Boat tours in Krabi
• Jet boat tours in Krabi
• Snorkeling tours in Krabi
• Quad tours in Krabi
• Zip lining in Krabi

Travel tips

• Consider wearing sunscreen when exploring outdoors.
• Take a waterproof bag to keep your valuables and electronic devices safe.
• Wear clothes and shoes that are appropriate for the activities.
• Consider taking extra snacks and water.
• Insect repellent is a good idea when exploring Thailand’s jungles and waterways.