Shell Cemetery
Fossil beds 75 million years old, worth it at low tide and hard to justify at high tide.
Plan your visit
- Hours
- Daily 08:00–17:00
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Details
Full opening hours
Tours that include Shell Cemetery
Guided visits and day-tour combos that include Shell Cemetery.
Why go, and how to do it well
Time this one with the tide or don't bother. The draw is a shoreline of fossilized gastropod shells, roughly 75 million years old, compacted into slabs that look more like poured concrete than anything that was ever alive. At low tide the formations are exposed and the whole thing makes sense. At high tide you've paid 200 baht to look at water, and plenty of people leave grumbling about exactly that. Thais pay 40.
There are two viewing areas. The second is easy to walk to. The first needs a proper climb, so factor that in if you're traveling with anyone who won't fancy it. There's a visitor center that's worth ten minutes for the context, and a clifftop stretch with a wide view out to sea that comes free with the ticket. This isn't a beach for swimming, and it isn't a half-day. Half an hour to an hour, then move on. If your Krabi list is already full, it's a fair thing to drop.
Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Sep 2026
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Tours that include Shell Cemetery
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Shell Cemetery, round out your day in Krabi with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
A true hidden gem. It overlooks a cliff with a great view of the sea, which is a free bonus in addition to the mind-boggling history behind these rocks and geology
This isn’t a beach for swimming and relaxation, but rather a place to get a closer look at fossilised gastropod shells from around 75 million years ago. Fossils are best seen at low tide. There’s a visitor centre that’s a recommended stop to gain some context about the place. It’s not too far from Ao Nang and easily accessible by motorcycle or Grab. The entry fee for locals is 40 THB, while foreigners pay 200 THB. However, it was high tide when I visited, and I didn’t think 200 THB was worth it at that time. There are three zones to observe the fossils, and it takes well over an hour if you’re keen to explore. There are many souvenir shops outside, but I found them a bit pricey.
This is a paid attraction, price is quite steep for foreigners. Personally, this is NOT one of those places, you must visit in Krabi. Only if you have spare time. We enjoyed shopping at the souvenir shops nearby though.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 2,766 reviews on Google.
2VFM+4FX, Sai Thai, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81000, Thailand
Open in Google MapsMore temples & culture nearby
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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Go Early Morning
Big-name temples are dramatically less crowded in the first hour after opening. You'll also avoid the worst of the midday heat and get softer light for photos.
Shell Cemetery: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shell Cemetery worth visiting?
Shell Cemetery holds a 3.9★ rating from 2,766 Google reviews. Reviews are mixed, so check recent visitor feedback above to see if it fits your plans.
What are the opening hours of Shell Cemetery?
Shell Cemetery is typically open 08:00–17:00 — 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 Shell Cemetery?
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: May – October (rough Andaman seas).
Where is Shell Cemetery located?
Shell Cemetery is at 2VFM+4FX, Sai Thai, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81000, Thailand, in Krabi. Getting around Krabi: Long-tail boats (islands & Railay Beach); Songthaews in Ao Nang.
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