Thailand's New Favorite Getaway: Why Krabi Should Be On Your Radar
Americans know Bangkok and Phuket, but Krabi? This lesser-known destination is located in the heart of southern Thailand, near the western coastline and the Andaman Sea. While it's a favorite spot for Europeans, it's still relatively unknown for Americans. But with the latest Jurassic Park movie, Jurassic World: Rebirth, hitting theaters July 2, that might change.
Thailand in general has long since been a favorite vacation destination. 'From January 1 to April 21, 2025, Thailand welcomed over 11.35 million visitors,' says Chompu Marusachot, Director, Tourism Authority of Thailand New York Office. She notes that the high numbers are due to several factors including increased air lift (which includes both increased flight frequencies as well as new routes). Other factors include the Kingdom's commitment toward marriage equality and the connection to the 'Go Thai Be Free' campaign, which supports and informs LGBTQ+ travelers. Another big tourism boost is from exposure from popular films and shows including The White Lotus Season 3 and the latest Jurassic Park movie, Jurassic World: Rebirth.
'We anticipate that the upcoming Jurassic Park film will boost tourism, especially among travelers eager to experience a real-life Jurassic world,' says Marusachot. 'Krabi's dramatic landscapes are featured prominently in the film, including locations like Railay Beach, Phra Nang Cave, Hong Island, and Than Bok Khorani National Park. These sites are not only cinematic backdrops but also fully accessible for visitors who want to follow in the footsteps of the stars.'
In terms of the type of traveler Thailand attracts, it is a wide landscape. 'From solo adventurers and cultural enthusiasts to families, honeymooners, and LGBTQ+ travelers, Thailand caters to those seeking authentic experiences,' says Marusachot. 'With a long-standing reputation for inclusivity and hospitality, plus recent milestones, such as the passage of Thailand's marriage equality bill, Thailand is committed to being a safe, welcoming, and enriching destination for all.'
In terms of trends, Marusachot notes that more travelers are seeking out ritualistic and spiritual journeys to Thailand, drawn by the desire for deeper, more authentic cultural connections. Discovering Krabi
Mangrove forest in Krabi, Thailand. getty
'U.S. travelers may be less familiar with Krabi compared to popular beach destinations like Phuket because there are fewer direct international flights and a less concentrated tourist infrastructure compared to other Thai destinations,' says Marusachot. 'However, Krabi has so much to offer and is only a short flight from Bangkok. The destination is full of natural attractions including hot springs, limestone caves, and scenic hikes. It also has a vibrant nightlife and incredible street food. Krabi also serves as a gateway to over 200 islands and islets, and some of Thailand's most stunning beaches and marine environments.' Island-hopping adventures include sunset dinners, longtail boat rides, kayaking and swimming in bioluminescent waters.
People might be surprised to learn that Krabi is a world-class scuba diving destination as well. 'Hin Daeng and Hin Muang are two sites worth visiting to experience drift diving, and undersea walls and caves,' says Marusachot. 'Phi Phi Island also offers dive sites such as Hin Dot and Shark Point, which are renowned among locals for its funny-looking bearded scorpionfish and whale sharks. There are many dive centers in Phi Phi and Lanta.' Where to stay
Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort Avani
Two popular hotels in Krabi include Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort and Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort. The Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort has 91 rooms, suites and villas; a private beach; sunset bar and on-site spa. Meanwhile the Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort has 178 rooms, suites and villas; a rooftop bar with ocean views; and a spa and fitness center.
At the Koh Lanta property, the pool villas are especially popular because of the private plunge pool, waterfront location and extra space. Piyapong Kunluck, Hotel Manager Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort thinks the new Jurassic Park movie will bring more Americans to Krabi. 'Everyone loves the Jurassic Park movies—kids, teens, adults—it has such a huge following and audience. People are going to see all the beauty of Krabi in the film and want to explore it.' Kunluck notes that while Krabi attracts visitor year-round, the months of November through March are especially popular. 'The sea is calm, the weather is nice,' he says. 'It's good for scuba diving and snorkeling—the water is so clear, the visibility is incredible.'
Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort offers many adventure activities including kayaking. Avani
Kunluck notes that the property currently gets a lot of visitors from Scandinavia, the UK and Germany. American travelers are slowly increasing as the word gets out that Krabi is the place to go for active adventure and nature. 'We have hot springs, kayaking, hiking, snorkeling, diving,' says Kunluck. 'There's plenty to do.'
To tap into the anticipated boom from the movie, the property is offering a four night Jurassic Paradise package for a family of four. The package includes two-nights at Avani Ao Nang and two-nights at Avani+ Koh Lanta. It also includes themed Jurassic-era dining at Avani Ao Nang and adventure excursions including kayaking through mangroves and hiking. Travelers get a choice of Lava Stone Renewal or Age of Rebirth spa treatment for two guests and Jurassic-inspired cocktails & mocktails at both resorts. Complimentary transfers between resorts and late check-out is included.
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