Ao Nang, Krabi Accommodation
 

I’m in the process of planning a Thailand trip and I like the look of Ao Nang. Resort accommodation seems most appropriate since Ao Nang looks like a laid-back destination. Desirable features would include a large pool with swim-up bar, easy access to the beach/centrally located and well ventilated rooms with a view.

For those with limitless funds, Centara Grand looks like the place to stay but I do not fall into this category. The Ao Nang Villa is moderately cheaper and possesses a more central location. However, I thought I would ask first before going ahead with a booking – does anyone have any recommendations?

Any advice is greatly appreciated.

I found ao nang to be depressing... tourist shops and mostly cheap restaurants and a poor, but large, beach

Hmm... what is your prefered beach rhk?

Stayed at Ao Nang Princeville Resort about 5-6 years ago. It was quite comfortable. Yes, the beach IN Au Nang is not great. We were not there for swimming so that did not matter. This is a good place for souvenirs and dining, and also for boat trips to the outer islands (which we did do, and I recommend highly).

I loved the beach in other krabi areas: on the islands and near the Sheraton and amari vogue

Regarding the aforementioned islands, do you have any information such as the most notable islands and which tourist agency was used to book the boat trip? If I had my own itinerary, is it possible to charter a boat rather than take a guided tour?

Rhk, are you referring to Klong Muang and Laem Pong? My concern with the western facing beaches is that, although the swimming is superior, travelling to town for the markets and dinner might become annoying.

That's why I like staying in the town. Dining options are much closer, and the need for a rental car or taxi (or sidecar taxi.. great ride!!!) is not so necessary. I like being close to some choices and not be tied to whatever the resort offers.

I'm sure you could tailor your own trip to the islands. There are set trips, but I'm sure other stops could be arranged. It's Thailand. Pretty much anything is OK! The outer islands have beautiful white sand beaches, but no resorts.

Most of the island trips are on long tail boats. I splurged and got a speed boat instead. Glad I did!

Look at Railay if you don't particularly like Ao Nang.

not sure what you expect for the mkts... they are pretty basic and local orientated..

don't know the names, look up those hotels

yes you can charter boats and do what you want.. that is what we did

Thanks guys, I will digest your advice.

PS did either of you duck down to Koh Lanta? Is it worth visiting? If so, is a day visit sufficient or is it better to plan to stay there several nights?

Never been to Koh Lanta.

never been

I remember staying at the Somkiet Buri Resort and Spa in Ao Nang.A nice place tucked away amidst greenery.Cottages by the pool.It was reasonable,don't remember how much it cost as it was over 7yrs ago.

http://www.somkietburi.com/index.html

I've had a bit of a look online at different charter boat options and it all seems rather expensive compared to the prices I get a home (upwards of twice the price).

the speedboats are expensive but the local wooden boats are much less