First-time Thailand beach travellers often ask which one to choose. Our answer: split your nights between them.
Phuket: the lively base
Phuket has Patong Beach, the Big Buddha and easy day trips to the Phi Phi Islands and Maya Bay. It’s great if you want restaurants, shopping and nightlife close by.
Krabi: the calm side
Krabi is quieter, with Railay Beach, the Hong Islands and the 4 Island tour. The limestone cliffs rising from the sea are the picture most people imagine when they think of Thailand.
How to connect them
Ferries and road transfers link the two easily. We usually suggest 3 nights in Phuket and 2–3 in Krabi.