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Krabi

Ao Nam Mao Beach

4.3(1,900 reviews)

Ao Nam Mao sits along the coastline of Sai Thai in Mueang Krabi district, functioning primarily as a pier and departure point for boat taxis heading to the famous Railay Beach peninsula. Because Railay is only accessible by water, this modest bay serves as one of the key embarkation points for travellers making their way to that celebrated stretch of coast, making it a practical stop rather than a destination in its own right.

The beach itself is a quiet coastal strip backed by a handful of beachfront hotels, offering a more local and unhurried atmosphere compared to the busier tourist centres of Krabi Town or Ao Nang. The setting is functional but pleasant, with views across the bay and easy access to the water. Visitors staying in the area will find it a convenient base for day trips by boat to surrounding islands and beaches.

The pier operates daily from 08:00 to 18:30, so travellers should plan their return journeys from Railay accordingly to avoid being stranded after closing time. Those using Ao Nam Mao purely as a transit point are advised to arrive with time to spare, particularly during peak season when boat services can be busier. Comfortable footwear and sun protection are recommended, as waiting times on the pier can extend during busy periods.

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Experience hints

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Ao Nam Mao Beach: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ao Nam Mao Beach worth visiting?

Ao Nam Mao Beach holds a 4.3★ rating from 1,900 Google reviews — a strong rating for beaches in Krabi.

What are the opening hours of Ao Nam Mao Beach?

Ao Nam Mao Beach is typically open 08:00-18:30 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.

When is the best time to visit Ao Nam Mao Beach?

The best months to visit Krabi are November – April, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – February — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: June – September (rough Andaman seas).

Where is Ao Nam Mao Beach located?

Ao Nam Mao Beach is at บ้านอ่าวน้ำเมาหรือท่าเรืออ่าวน้ำเมา Tambon Sai Thai, Amphoe Mueang Krabi, Chang Wat Krabi 81000, Thailand, in Krabi. Getting around Krabi: Long-tail boats (islands & Railay Beach); Songthaews in Ao Nang.

Location Info

บ้านอ่าวน้ำเมาหรือท่าเรืออ่าวน้ำเมา Tambon Sai Thai, Amphoe Mueang Krabi, Chang Wat Krabi 81000, Thailand+66 61 637 8395
Opening Hours
Monday08:00-18:30
Tuesday08:00-18:30
Wednesday08:00-18:30
Thursday08:00-18:30
Friday08:00-18:30
Saturday08:00-18:30
Sunday08:00-18:30

Visitor Information

Best time to visit

November – April

Avoid: June – September (rough Andaman seas)

Rainy season

May – October

Avg. temperature

23°C – 33°C(73°F – 91°F)

Crowds

High

Peak: December – February

Getting there

Krabi Airport (KBV) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). Ferries connect to Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, and Phuket. Bus or minivan from Phuket takes ~3 hrs.

Getting around

  • Long-tail boats (islands & Railay Beach)
  • Songthaews in Ao Nang
  • Grab (limited, mainly Ao Nang)
  • Motorbike rental

Where to stay near Ao Nam Mao Beach

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Tips for Visiting Beaches

Check Monsoon Windows

Andaman coast beaches (Phuket, Krabi) have rough seas May–October. Gulf beaches (Samui, Hua Hin) are roughest October–December. Plan your beach trip around these windows for calm water and safe swimming.

Go Early for Empty Sand

Even the busiest beaches are nearly deserted before 9 AM. Sunrise walks on Kata, Chaweng, or Railay are magical — and you'll beat the heat for a morning swim.

Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Many Thai marine parks ban chemical sunscreens that damage coral. Bring reef-safe (mineral/zinc-based) sunscreen from home — it's harder to find and pricier in Thailand.

Nearby Places

Fossil Shell Beach Krabi (Susan Hoi)

Fossil Shell Beach Krabi (Susan Hoi)

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2VFP+33H, Sai Thai, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi, Thailand

A unique geological site near Krabi town where millions of fossilised shells form striking limestone slabs.

East Railay Bay Beach

East Railay Bay Beach

4.2(696)
2R6R+4GC, Ao Nang, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81000, Thailand

Dramatic limestone cliffs and a lively beach atmosphere, accessible only by longtail boat from Ao Nang.

Railay West Beach

Railay West Beach

4.5(7,719)
2R7P+7RP, Ao Nang, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81000, Thailand

A stunning limestone-framed beach on the Railay Peninsula, accessible only by longtail boat from Ao Nang.

Railay Beach

Railay Beach

4.4(5,042)
Railay Beach, Ao Nang, Krabi, Thailand

A boat-access peninsula in Krabi framed by dramatic limestone cliffs, offering fine sand beaches and rock climbing.

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