Thailand Guide
Southern Thailand: the Andaman coast
Arrival
Laem Phra Nang is only accessible by boat from Krabi town, Ao Nang and Ko Phi Phi. Longtail boats to Laem Phra Nang depart from the Krabi riverfront (45min; B150 per person, minimum 8 people, or B1500 when chartered), leaving throughout the day as soon as they fill up. Depending on the tide, all Krabi boats land on or off East Railay, so you may have to wade; they do run during the rainy season, but the waves make it a nerve-wracking experience, so you're advised to go via Ao Nang instead. Coming back there are at least five scheduled boats between 9.30am and 5.30pm, and others on demand. Ao Nang is much closer to Laem Phra Nang, and longtails run from the beachfront here to West Railay and Ao Ton Sai (10min; B80, or B100 after 6pm) all year round. Boats between Ao Ton Sai and West Railay cost B50. During high season there should also be daily ferries from Ao Nang via West Railay to Ko Phi Phi (2hr 30min), Ko Lanta (2hr 30min) and Phuket (3hr); if not, you'll need to transfer to Ao Nang yourself.