Krabi

Long-tail boats run from Ao Nang (15 minutes, ฿100, or ฿150 after dark) and from Chao Fah pier in Krabi Town to Railay East (45 minutes, ฿150). There's no road access: the limestone cliffs block the peninsula from the mainland. On the roughest monsoon days the boats can stop.

Ao Nang puts you closer to the beaches and island tours, with more restaurants and nightlife. Krabi Town is cheaper, more authentic, and has a great night market, but you'll need a songthaew (฿60) or Grab to reach Ao Nang's beaches. Most first-time visitors prefer Ao Nang, and I'd agree.

Krabi has the edge. Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, the Four Islands, and Hong Island are all closer. Phuket requires longer boat transfers to reach the same spots. Krabi is also less developed and more affordable. Phuket wins if you want a wider range of dining, shopping, and nightlife. My Phuket vs Krabi comparison goes through the rest, category by category.

May through October brings afternoon rain showers, but mornings are often clear. Hotel prices drop 30–50%. The main downside is rough seas. Some island tours shut down, and boats to Railay may be suspended on stormy days. Koh Lanta and inland attractions stay accessible.

Krabi if the limestone scenery, island hopping and the lowest daily costs of the three are what you're after, from November to March. Phuket shares that season and wins on choice, nightlife and flights. Koh Samui is the pick from April to September, when the Gulf side is drier. My Phuket vs Krabi vs Koh Samui comparison goes through all three, category by category.