About the ride from Koh Tao to Krabi
For this journey, you'll hop from the Gulf of Thailand to the Andaman Sea.
You might be sad waving goodbye to one of the diving meccas of the world, but Krabi is ready and waiting with more adventures to get your adrenaline pumping.
Krabi is famous for its magnificent limestone cliffs that entice climbers from all around the world. Whether you're a beginner or half mountain goat, there are routes for all levels.
Had enough adrenaline for now and simply want to relax? Stunning beaches have a shady spot with your name on it.
There are two ways to travel between Koh Tao and Krabi in Thailand: Bus + Ferry and Van + Ferry.
Getting from Koh Tao to Krabi is a full-day adventure. The journey can take 5-12.5 hours, depending on the transport option.
The fastest trips are during the day, with little time difference between the van and bus combos.
The longer trips tend to be overnight, which can be ideal if you don't want to waste a day traveling and want to save money on accommodation.
Keep reading to compare the transport options from Koh Tao to Krabi and discover which is best for you.
Six unforgettable things to do in Krabi
Krabi is a popular destination on most people's Thailand itinerary, with visitors keen to leave their footprints in the sand of Railay Beach and try rock climbing. Check out our list of must-do things:
Island hopping – If you're adventures in the Andaman Sea end in Krabi, use it as a base to explore the spectacular islands in this region. Magical spots like Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta can be reached by ferry in under two hours, and plenty of companies offer day trips.
Railay Beach — Google the region, and pictures of Railay Beach will flood your screen. Understandably, it looks like heaven on earth with its bright white sand, contrasted against the turquoise waters and towering limestone cliffs. Only accessible by boat, it adds a hidden vibe to the beach.
Thai Cooking Class – Thai food is world-renowned. How brilliant would it be to bring a taste of Thailand home? The best way to learn the secrets of Thai cuisine is by taking a cooking class. You'll visit a local market to pick up fresh ingredients and then learn to cook traditional dishes.
Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua) — The best things in life don't come easily, and that's the case when visiting Tiger Cave Temple. You'll need to climb 1,237 steps before being rewarded with panoramic views overlooking the glistening Andaman Sea.
Emerald Pool — Head to Thung Teao Forest National Park early in the morning for the chance to have this magical pool all to yourself. Surrounded by nature, the gemstone-colored water provides the perfect spot for a refreshing swim.
Rock climbing — While lying on the beach, you may spot tiny figures scaling Krabi's impressive cliffs. Those are actually people! Conquer your fears and try this sport for yourself. Krabi is one of the best places in the world to do it.
How to get from Koh Tao to Krabi
There are two ways to cover the distance between Koh Tao and Krabi; both require a ferry portion and an overland portion.
By bus + ferry
The bus and ferry combination is a great option from Koh Tao to Krabi, taking as little as five hours.
The first part of your journey is a ferry from Koh Tao to Surat Thani on the mainland. All ferries leave from Mae Haad Pier and take around 2.5-3 hours to reach the mainland.
Once you arrive in Surat Thani, hop on a two-hour bus ride to Krabi, where you'll arrive at either Lomprayahs office, Ton Sai Beach Railay, or Floating Pier in East Railay.
Buses are comfortable with air conditioning.
All connections are guaranteed when you book the combo tickets, so you don't have to worry about missing your next transport if things get delayed.
By van + ferry
The van and ferry combo is very similar to the bus. Instead of getting on a bus when you reach Surat Thani, you'll get in a minivan instead. Journey times start from six hours.
Like the bus, you'll first board a ferry to the mainland.
If you prefer to have a bit more space, the bus may be a better option as the minivans aren't too spacious. Don't worry; they still offer a comfortable ride with air conditioning.
Those looking for more choice in arrival locations may prefer to take the minivan, as you can be dropped off in Krabi Town and Ao Nang.
Several departure times offer journeys both during the day and at night.
What to expect from the journey from Koh Tao to Krabi
Getting from Koh Tao to Krabi isn't the quickest journey, especially if you opt for an overnight trip, which can take around 12 hours.
If you choose one of the early morning departures from Koh Tao, the nice thing is that you can be in Krabi by early afternoon.
Enjoy the ferry ride as the islands disappear into the distance before sitting back and admiring Thailand from the minivan or bus window. It's a phenomenal country, so enjoy it!
This route is considered safe for both solo and female travelers.
When is the best time to visit Krabi?
If you're avoiding rain and chasing the sun, head to Krabi between November and February. These months offer ample sunshine without the intense heat that comes later in the year. Plus, humidity levels are more bearable during this period.
Do brace yourself for crowds, as this is peak season in Krabi. Securing a quiet spot on Railay Beach might be quite challenging!
As March and April roll in, temperatures soar to an average of 35°C (95°F).
Then, from May to October, Krabi enters its rainy season. But fear not. Amidst the sporadic showers, sunshine still peeks through. On the plus side, prices dip, and tourist crowds thin out, making it a more budget-friendly and tranquil time to visit.
How many days should you spend in Krabi?
How long you spend in Krabi depends on what brought you there.
Those drawn by the siren call of its limestone cliffs often find themselves ensnared, reluctant to depart. Similarly, beach lovers can easily lose track of time amidst Krabi's coastal charms.
Typically, visitors stay for 3-5 days, giving them plenty of time to explore Krabi Town, Ao Nang, and Railay, plus a day trip to nearby Andaman Islands, such as Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta.
Where should you visit after Krabi?
Krabi is the gateway to Thailand's Andaman islands like Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta, which is brilliant news. You can be on the paradise island of Koh Phi Phi in 30 minutes.
It might take a bit longer, but the 1.5-hour journey to Koh Lanta is definitely worth it. Here, you can snorkel amongst the coral, relax on the beach, explore the rainforest and kayak through mangroves. If you prefer fewer people, Koh Lanta isn't quite as popular as Koh Phi Phi.
