If you’ve started mapping out your adventures in Ao Nang, Krabi, one of the very first things you’re probably trying to figure out is how to get from Krabi Airport to Ao Nang.
Krabi International Airport is the main tourist gateway to Thailand’s stunning Krabi Province. Although you can easily arrange transfers to several other locations like Railay, Koh Lanta, and Koh Phi Phi right from the airport, most people opt to spend a few days in the gorgeous beach town of Ao Nang.
Despite its small size, Ao Nang is the major tourist hub in Krabi, with a lot going for it. Beautiful beaches, laidback vibes, dreamy resorts, great seafood, and easy access to all of Krabi’s stunning islands are just some of the reasons to visit.
Consequently, getting to Ao Nang from Krabi Airport is super easy. And in this guide, I’m going to show you exactly how to get from the airport into town.
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Before you go to Ao Nang
Before you head out on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, read my other Krabi guides so that you can plan the perfect trip. They’re packed with tips and inspo to help you make the most of your stay.
4 Easy Ways to Get From Krabi Airport to Ao Nang
Krabi International Airport (KBV) is located roughly 30km east of Ao Nang Town. The airport has good connections from other major tourist hubs in Thailand like Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai, but you can also fly directly from Singapore or Kuala Lumpur.
There are no trains in these parts, so the only way to get into town is by road. Thankfully there are several options to do so, no matter your budget!
Klook.comGetting to Ao Nang from Krabi Airport by Taxi
Travel time: 35 minutes | Cost: 600 Baht
The fastest and most convenient way to get to Ao Nang from Krabi Airport is by taxi. The best part? You won’t need to plan a thing! You’ll spot several counters within the arrivals hall that can arrange a taxi straight to your accommodation. Don’t get distracted by the hagglers, though. You want to make sure you go to an actual booth to book your ride.
Another great thing about taking a taxi is that the rates are fixed and pre-paid. Once you’ve got your receipt, the clerks will tell you exactly where to wait for your driver outside the airport. It’s all pretty straightforward, and there are staff around to point you in the right direction if you feel lost.
A fixed-rate taxi costs 600 Baht for up to 3 passengers, and the journey time is usually around 35 minutes, depending on where you are staying. If you’re traveling in a bigger group, you’ll need to book a minivan (up to 8 adults) which costs 1050 Baht.
Booking a Private Transfer from Krabi Airport to Ao Nang
Travel time: roughly 30 minutes | Cost: 570 Baht
Another great stress-free way to get straight from the airport to your hotel is to arrange a private transfer. By doing so, you won’t need to waste any time standing in long lines, and your driver will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall.
Surprisingly pre-booking a private transfer online will also save you money! While it’s not nearly as cheap as taking the airport shuttle (see below), it is slightly cheaper than taking a fixed rate taxi from Krabi Airport to Ao Nang.
Taking the Krabi Airport Shuttle Bus to Ao Nang
Travel time: 1-1.5hrs | Cost: 150 Baht
The cheapest way to get from Krabi Airport to Ao Nang is by shuttle bus. While the Krabi airport shuttle bus is the most time-consuming way to get to Ao Nang, it’s a great option if you’re traveling on a tight budget.
The shuttle bus travels all over town and stops at several locations, including Krabi Town. Buses generally leave every hour and run between 8 am and 8 pm. But you should know there is no fixed schedule, and you might need to wait around a bit for the bus to fill up. There’s also no standard route for the shuttle bus, so remember to tell the driver where you’re going. Just a heads-up, you might not be dropped off right in front of your hotel, but you’ll definitely be within walking distance.
If you want to take the shuttle bus, you can book a seat here via GYG or purchase a ticket at the ticket desks inside the arrival hall. All the vendors sell tickets for the same bus at the same rate, so don’t worry about getting ripped off. A bus ticket to Ao Nang costs 150 Baht. Also note, the airport shuttle doesn’t run throughout the night, so it’s best to check the latest schedule at the airport on arrival.
Since you’ll be traveling with other travelers going to different locations, keep in mind that buses generally take around 1.5hrs. Therefore, if you’re in a rush, this might not be the best transport option for you.
Taking a Songthaew from the Airport
Travel time: roughly 1.15 | Cost: 80 Baht
If you’re really feeling adventurous, taking a white songthaew (a local shared taxi) from the airport is for you!
This is by far the cheapest option to get into Ao Nang. The ride typically costs around 80 Baht to Ao Nang. It’s a wild ride, so it’s probably best to take some medication beforehand if you suffer from car sickness.
To catch a songthaew, you’ll need to walk outside the airport, cross the road, and flag one down. Note; you’ll first have to go to Krabi Town, where you can catch another one to Ao Nang. Expect the journey to take anywhere between 1-1.15 hrs.
How to Get Back to Krabi Airport
Getting back to the airport from Ao Nang is just as easy, and your options are basically the same as the way you came.
The best (and least stressful) way is to book a transfer online or arrange a taxi via your hotel. That way, you won’t have to bother with any logistics. While these options are more expensive than taking the bus, you won’t need to worry about missing check-in time or, worst-case scenario, your flight!
Planning will be key if you really have to take the shuttle bus back to the airport. Make sure you leave enough time to get to the airport before your flight as the bus can take up to 1.5 hrs. You can buy tickets from any of the ticket booths in town (there are dozens). Just keep an eye out for the Krabi Airport shuttle bus signboards. The first bus leaves at 6 am, and the most central departure point is outside McDonald’s.
Klook.comGetting to Ao Nang from Krabi Airport in Conclusion
Unlike other Thai destinations, getting from the airport to Ao Nang is relatively stress-free. While there are a few alternatives to get into town, like renting a car, it’s really not worth the hassle. Ao Nang can easily be explored on foot, and if you don’t feel like walking, songthaews are cheap and plentiful!
There you have it – the easiest ways to get to Ao Nang! I hope this transport guide has helped you figure out the best way to travel for you. Have an amazing trip!
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