Things to Do with Kids in Krabi

Southern Thailand’s beautiful province of Krabi is a paradise for active children who enjoy swimming at beautiful beaches, coming face to face with fascinating wildlife in nature reserves, exploring mysterious caves, and wading among the colorful fish in Krabi’s pristine and shallow waters.

Although most Krabi resorts provide special activities for children, younger visitors will find it almost impossible to be bored with the adventures awaiting them outside the door. Krabi, as well as the rest of Thailand, is a safe, modern, and friendly destination attracting families from around the world. Transportation and accommodation are first-rate, and necessities for babies such as diapers and formula are available almost everywhere. In fact, many shops in Krabi Town, the provincial capital, specialize in baby and children’s products.

Island Hopping

Krabi is surrounded by a cluster of breathtaking islands, each with its own unique charm. Island hopping is an absolute must-try activity when visiting Krabi with kids. Take a guided tour and explore the secluded beaches, swim in crystal clear waters, snorkel amongst coral reefs, and explore hidden caves and lagoons. Make sure you visit the famous Phi Phi Islands, Koh Lanta, Koh Hong, and Railay Beach.

Joining a cruise or renting a chartered boat to tour the area’s beautiful islands is an ideal way to begin a Krabi family holiday. Lunch is usually included in cruise tour packages, but bringing your own food and water on chartered boats is highly recommended as most islands do not have restaurants. Bringing life jackets for younger children is also recommended since many boats only have adult-sized jackets onboard.

Visit Tiger Cave Temple

Located just a few kilometers from Krabi town, the Tiger Cave Temple is a unique and spiritual experience for the whole family. It’s suitable for kids above the age of seven, as the climb is not the easiest one. Older kids will love climbing the 1,237 steps to reach the top of the temple compound, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Krabi. Don’t forget to say hello to the friendly monkeys who live at the temple.

Snorkeling

Some cruise packages also include snorkeling since Krabi’s renowned snorkeling sites and colorful coral reefs are only accessible by boat. Snorkeling is not a recommended activity for children under five, and parents should be aware of older children’s swimming ability before allowing them to attempt snorkeling alone. Scuba diving is another popular activity that should only be attempted by older children who are excellent swimmers.

Krabi Elephant Sanctuary

No Thailand trip is complete without spending time with elephants. The Krabi Elephant Sanctuary provides a safe and ethical place for you and your kids to interact with these gentle giants. This sanctuary provides a new home for the elephants that previously worked in the tourism and logging industries. You won’t find elephant riding here, as it’s very harmful to the animals’ health and deeply unethical. In the sanctuary, you will learn about elephant conservation, help feed them, and even take a walk with them through the tropical forest. This sanctuary is a magical experience that will stay with your family for a lifetime.

Beaches

Of course, children of all ages will look forward to swimming and sunbathing on Krabi’s spectacular beaches. Ao Nang has become Krabi’s biggest and most popular beach and is also an ideal family destination because it has a variety of children’s activities and is located far from the adult nightlife scene.

The quiet island of Koh Ngai, surrounded by a coral reef in southern Krabi province and part of a national park, has also become popular with families of young children. The tiny island of Koh Pak Bia features a sandbank with two interconnecting beaches and shallow water ideal for small children.

Most Thai people are very friendly and dote on small children. They may pay especially close attention to blue-eyed and blond youngsters, which they rarely encounter on a regular basis. Language is no barrier, and local children often befriend their visiting counterparts and end up playing happily together on the beach. Even the fish are friendly enough to swim with children. Don’t worry; these fish won’t bite!

Limestone Rock Climbing

Older children may also enjoy scaling the limestone rock formations which have made Krabi an ideal rock climbing destination. The Railay Beach area offers not only Krabi’s best rock climbing but is one of the world’s most renowned climbing sites. Beginners should only climb alongside another experienced person or group, and receive proper safety tips from a professional climbing guide. Parents must make sure their children are always safe, and conquering the toughest and steepest routes is less important than having fun.

Caves and Kayaking

Children will also enjoy exploring the depths of Krabi’s numerous and mysterious caves, many of which are buried under the sea. These sea caves, known as hongs, are most visible while traveling by sea kayak at low tide. A sea kayaking tour complete with lunch and drinks is the best way for families to visit several of these unique caves, some of which lead to lagoons or forests with unforgettable views.

Shell Fossil Watching

Another unique attraction best seen at low tide is the shell fossil ceremony at Ban Laem Pho. This former freshwater swamp was once home to millions of mollusks and snails before sea water swept the shelled creatures away. The creatures became fossilized shells more than 40cm thick.

Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is another fun way for families to see Krabi’s sights. Although Krabi’s roads are wide, its routes are well-marked, and its terrain is mainly flat. The best way to explore the province by bike is by contacting a cycling company familiar with the area and who will supply an ideal itinerary.

Final Words

Traveling to a foreign country with young children can be stressful, but with careful planning and plenty of things to do with kids in Krabi, the experience can be unforgettable for children and parents alike. Daycare and babysitters can be easily arranged through Krabi Resorts when parents want some time for themselves.