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Ao Nang

Ao Nang Ferry Travel to Phuket, Lanta and Phi Phi Islands

Ferry & speedboat crossings
Wooden longtail boats moored on white sand at Railay-style beach with limestone karst and turquoise water

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Destination overview

Ao Nang Information

Speedboat & Ferry travel to and from Ao Nang is a pleasant experience. It is one of the nicest locations for speedboat & ferries to enter, with the small but functional Nopparat Thara Pier waiting just beyond exotic limestone cliffs and sandy beaches to the right and left. Speedboat & Ferry boats travel between Ao Nang and Lanta Island, Phi Phi Island and Phuket Island on speedboat & ferries that can hold up to 400 passengers. These boats are very safe and well maintained, with adequate amounts of lifejackets and safety equipment. All of our speedboat & ferry company partners are very familiar with our Phuketferry.com e-tickets. Your speedboat & ferry boarding process is going to be an enjoyable one. Just print out your e-ticket we send you, give it to the speedboat & ferry boat staff, and they will then issue you with a destination sticker. You can then board the speedboat & ferry and sail away to your next exotic destination. Bon voyage!

Tourists sunbathing and swimming on a narrow tropical sandbar with turquoise sea and a drinks price sign
Schedules & prices

Departures from Ao Nang

The first 8 of 36 departures leaving Ao Nang today — pick one to choose your date and book.

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Schedules & prices

Arrivals in Ao Nang

The first 8 of 39 services arriving in Ao Nang today — pick one to choose your date and book.

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Popular stations & vehicles

Piers

Ao Nam Mao Pier.

Ao Nam Mao Pier: Boats Between Ao Nang and Koh Lanta Ao Nam Mao Pier (also spelled Ao Nammao, and known in Thai as อ่าวน้ำเมา)...

Nopparat Thara Pier

Nopparat Thara Pier: A Gateway to Ao Nang and Nearby Islands! Welcome to Nopparat Thara Pier, your ultimate starting point...

Wang Sai Pier

Wang Sai Pier - Convenient Access to Krabi's Coast Wang Sai Pier is a popular starting point for travelers heading to...
About Ao Nang

Ao Nang Overview

Ao Nang: Gateway to Island Adventures

Ao Nang, formerly known as "Ao Phra Nang" (Princess Bay), is such an ideal location for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Originally a small fishing village, the bay has become an awesome tourist destination that really caters to all tastes. Whether you're planning a day trip to nearby islands or using Ao Nang as your base for exploring Krabi's coastal region, this bay offers something for everyone.

The coastal landscape is really attractive, and Ao Nang's combination of natural beauty and modern amenities makes it one of Krabi's most popular destinations. The beach itself is a jewel in itself, with soft sand and warm waters that welcome visitors year-round.

Getting to Ao Nang

If you're traveling to Ao Nang, several transport options are available depending on where you're coming from. Many visitors arrive in the Krabi region by plane, bus, or minivan before continuing to Ao Nang. Once you reach the area, private transfers, minivans, or local taxis can take you directly to the bay.

From major towns and islands in the region, ferry services, minivans, and bus routes connect to Krabi Town, which serves as the main transport hub. From there, onward connections to Ao Nang are straightforward and take just a short journey.

Why Choose Ao Nang as Your Base

Ao Nang is a jewell in itself, offering more than just a place to sleep. The bay combines a genuine local atmosphere with tourist-friendly amenities including restaurants, shops, and accommodation options for all budgets. Unlike some busier Krabi beaches, Ao Nang maintains a relaxed vibe while remaining well-connected to transport networks.

The town serves as an excellent base for day trips and longer explorations of Krabi's islands and beaches. Its location makes it convenient for travelers who want to venture out but prefer returning to a familiar spot each evening.

Island Hopping from Ao Nang

It's possible to take a long-tail boat to a myriad of stunning islands and beaches from here. Popular destinations include Phra Nang Cave Beach, Railay Beach, and the emerald waters surrounding nearby limestone cliffs. Many operators offer half-day and full-day tours that depart directly from Ao Nang's beachfront.

For independent travelers, long-tail boat rentals are available at reasonable rates, giving you flexibility to explore at your own pace. Group tours are also popular and often include lunch and snorkeling opportunities.

Exploring Noppharat Thara Beach

Just along the coast, Noppharat Thara Beach extends the Ao Nang area with its own charm. When the tide is low at Noppharat Thara Beach, you can even walk right on over to a couple of the small islands directly in front! This unique feature makes low tide an ideal time to explore these islands on foot without needing a boat.

The beach is less crowded than Ao Nang itself and offers a quieter alternative while remaining within easy reach. Walking between the two beaches is possible along the shoreline, depending on tide conditions.

Transport Routes Serving Ao Nang

Multiple transport options connect Ao Nang to other destinations in the region. Minivans link the bay to Krabi Town, Phuket, and other popular spots. Ferry services may operate from nearby departure ports, connecting Ao Nang to islands and coastal destinations. Bus routes also serve the Krabi region, with connections to Ao Nang available through local operators.

Private transfers offer a direct, convenient option if you prefer door-to-door service without stops. These are particularly useful if you're traveling with luggage or prefer to avoid crowded public transport.

Best Time to Visit

Ao Nang is accessible year-round, though conditions vary seasonally. The dry season (November to April) offers the most pleasant weather and calmest seas, making it ideal for beach activities and boat trips. The shoulder seasons provide fewer crowds and competitive pricing. Even during the wetter months, Ao Nang remains a viable destination, with many visitors enjoying the lush scenery and quieter beaches.

What to Expect in Ao Nang

This coastal area offers a genuine mix of natural attractions and practical services. Beach activities include swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, rock climbing, and kayaking. Evening options include beachfront dining, local markets, and relaxation in seaside cafes.

Accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses to mid-range resorts, catering to different travel styles. The town has ATMs, convenience stores, restaurants serving Thai and international food, and travel agencies where you can book tours and onward transport.

Plan Your Journey to Ao Nang

Ready to visit Ao Nang? Search availability for 92 routes routes connecting to this beautiful destination. With ฿400 options starting from just ฿400, you can find a transport solution that fits your budget and schedule.

Interesting Information

Limestone karst island with chicken-head shaped rock pillar and a longtail boat on turquoise sea, Krabi, Thailand

Activities

There are lots of hiking and elephant riding opportunities in Ao Nang, because just 10 minutes away you can find some deep jungle territory. There is a wonderful 4-island tour you can take from here in a day that we highly recommend. Plus, after all the activity, there are a number of Thai massage centers that will soothe away muscle soreness, leaving you ready for another day!
View from a longtail boat bow along a mangrove-lined river toward limestone karst peaks in Thailand

Krabi Town

Just 20 minutes drive away from Ao Nang is Krabi Town, a cool little market town that's both authentic and relaxed. Lots of little tourist shops mixed with regular branded shops and department stores. There's a nice market area full of local crafts and food. It's easy to find and quite a rewarding shopping exercise.
Traditional wooden longtail boats moored on white sand beach below a towering limestone karst cliff, Thailand

Island Hopping

Ao Nang is one of the best island-hopping departure points. Some of the most amazing beaches can be found just around the corner and only by long tail boat! And if you are feeling adventurous, take a speedboat trip around four islands. The waters are not as crystal clear as they used to be, but if you're from the city on a tropical vacation this is going to be a memory to treasure.
Bowl of creamy Thai tom yum goong soup with prawns, mushrooms and spring onion on white background

Eating Out

Ao Nang really has a taste for everyone. Thai food restaurants are found in abundance, yet you can also locate your burgers and fries quite easily. There are some really cool restaurants here right off the beaches so lunch and dinner is covered. And if you want your high scale hotel quality - yep they've got that too.
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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Where is the pier that my ferry departing from?

Phuket Ferry :

We understand that pier details are important to our customers. That’s why we’ve made the information as clear as possible. Your departing pier address is clearly shown on your e-ticket, which we sent to your email. Additionally, go to our Pier Information page for the most comprehensive local pier information you can find anywhere. Finally, if you still need more information, contact our Customer Service Agents; we are happy to help.

 

Ferry Samui :

FWe understand that pier details are important to our customers. That’s why we’ve made the information as clear as possible. Your departing pier address is clearly shown on your e-ticket, which we sent to your email. Additionally, go to our Pier Information page for the most comprehensive local pier information you can find anywhere. Finally, if you still need more information, contact our Customer Service Agents, we are happy to help.

 

Bali Ferry :

We understand that pier details are important to our customers. That’s why we’ve made the information as clear as possible. Your departing pier address is clearly shown on your e-ticket, which we sent to your email. Additionally, go to our Departure Point Information page for the most comprehensive information you can find anywhere. Finally, if you still need more information, contact our Customer Service Agents, we are happy to help.

What are the tourist seasons ?

Phuket Ferry :

Phuket really just has two seasons, which are known as "high season" and "low season" (or "green season"). During the low season months (May- September), boat numbers are reduced. During the high season (October - April), boats to the surrounding islands are increased so you will have some more options.

 

Ferry Samui :

There are three distinct weather seasons on the tropical island of Koh Samui: the dry season (December until February), the hot season (March until August) and the rainy season (September until November).

 

Bali Ferry :

Bali actually has a variety of tourist periods, notably around the Balinese New Year, 15 December - 15 January, and 1 June - 30 September. During these high traffic periods, boats to the surrounding islands are increased so you will have some more options. The quieter periods are between 16 January - 30 April and 1 October - 14 December historically.

Will bad weather affect my travels?

Ferries are large and can usually operate in the rain, except in extremely bad weather. During storms or strong winds, the journey may take a little longer than usual.

Speedboats are more likely to be canceled than ferries. If a trip is canceled due to bad weather, you can choose to receive a refund or reschedule. Please note that refunds for bad weather are only issued if the ferry operator cancels the trip.

On rough days, we recommend bringing motion sickness medication and taking it about 20 minutes before boarding if you are prone to seasickness. Boat staff may also provide Dramamine upon request, but you will need to remain indoors during rough conditions. On sunny and calm days, the sun deck is open for passengers to enjoy the weather.

What's the boarding process on the day of my trip?

At the pier named on your ticket, look for the staff of the ferry operator listed on your ticket as well. Please present your e-ticket (QR code) from your phone or other device—they’ll provide you with a sticker and/or boarding pass and direct you to your boat. Most piers have staff available to help load your luggage. In Koh Samui, staff are usually stationed at booths near the boarding area; at other locations, they’re typically near the boats, wearing their company uniforms.

 

 

When will I receive my ticket confirmation?

After completing your online booking, your reservation will remain in “Pending” status until it is processed. Once confirmed, we will send your e-ticket via email. The process is usually very quick.

On the day of travel, please present your e-ticket to the ferry staff at the relevant booking counter. If you do not receive your confirmation within 24 hours, contact us immediately.

What are the baggage allowances?

Your ferry e-ticket includes ferry transport, baggage fees, and handling. The free baggage allowance per person is 20–25 kg, depending on the operator. If your baggage exceeds this limit, you can pay the extra fee directly to the ferry operator in cash.

To check the baggage allowance for your specific trip, please refer to the trip details for your selected route.

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