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How to get to Monkey Trail in Ao Nang Krabi
The Monkey Trail is located at the southern end of Ao Nang Beach. After passing the main street filled with shops, restaurants, and massage places, you’ll find the trailhead just beyond the last fisherman’s bar. Here, you’ll be greeted by playful monkeys, often seen jumping around and attempting to snatch food, sunglasses, or anything shiny from unsuspecting hikers.
Refreshing Mornings on Ao Nang Beach: The Perfect Smoothie Strategy
Mornings in Ao Nang can be quite hot, so a walk on the beach can be pretty warm. To stay refreshed, we found that enjoying a fresh fruit smoothie was the perfect companion for our strolls. It not only helped cool us down but also provided a delightful start to our day.
We made it a point to finish our smoothies before reaching the Monkey Trail. The reason? The monkeys along the trail have a skill for snatching smoothies right out of hikers’ hands. We saw monkeys snatch drinks from hikers several times, so to avoid losing our smoothies, we made sure to finish them before starting our hike.
Meet the Macaques: A Fun Start to the Monkey Trail
As soon as you enter the Monkey Trail, you’ll be greeted by the wild macaque monkeys that call this area home. These lively creatures are a joy to watch and provide endless entertainment. Observing their playful interactions with hikers can be quite amusing, adding a delightful touch to your visit. Take a moment to enjoy their activities before you begin your hike—it’s a charming introduction to the adventure that awaits.
If you enjoy monkeys and want to experience another memorable monkey encounter, Monkey Beach on Phi Phi Island is the place to be. A day trip from Krabi to Phi Phi Island offers several transportation options, including ferries, speedboats, and organized tours. Travel time typically ranges from 1 to 1.5 hours each way, so you can easily spend a few hours on this beautiful beach before heading back to Krabi.
If you decide to stay longer, Phi Phi The Beach Resort offers a perfect escape. Check out our post on Top 7 Reasons for Choosing Phi Phi The Beach Resort for more information on this stunning destination.
This guide will help you plan the best monkey encounters and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Phi Phi Island.
Is the Monkey Trail Suitable for Kids?
The Monkey Trail can be enjoyable for kids, though it might be challenging for very young ones. With parental assistance, it remains a suitable adventure for families. The playful monkeys add an entertaining element that can delight visitors of all ages. During our daily hikes, we even saw parents carrying babies along the trail. Ultimately, it depends on your family’s comfort level and safety preferences.
How Difficult is the Trail?
The trail is relatively short, taking about 15-20 minutes to cross from Ao Nang to Pai Plong Beach, depending on how frequently you stop to take in the views or capture photos of the monkeys and surrounding nature. The trail spans approximately 0.4 miles one way. Though the path has been maintained and updated with new bamboo rails and wooden steps, some sections can still be challenging. The newer trail is less steep than the old one, making it more accessible overall.
Hiking Back to Ao Nang Beach at Dusk
If you find yourself leaving Pai Plong Beach later in the day, hiking back to Ao Nang Beach might be a bit challenging as night falls. However, the trail is well-lit with ample lighting to help guide your way and ensure you can see your steps clearly. While it’s always best to start your hike earlier to avoid navigating in low light, the available lighting makes the return journey manageable and safe. Just be sure to take your time and stay cautious on the path as darkness approaches.
Are the Monkeys Aggressive?
The monkeys on the Ao Nang Monkey Trail, primarily macaques, are generally not aggressive but are wild animals. They may approach if they sense food and could jump on you in their quest for treats. While they are usually friendly, it’s important to remember that they are still wild and should be treated with respect.
Best Time to Hike Ao Nang’s Monkey Trail
For us, the best time to hike Ao Nang’s Monkey Trail was in the morning. It became a cherished part of our daily routine, and the trail was less crowded, making for a more peaceful experience. The beach was also quieter in the morning, enhancing the tranquility of our hike. While we typically saw the monkeys in the afternoon, there were some days when they were active in the morning as well. If you’re hoping to spot them, early morning or early afternoon offers the best chances.
Embrace the Beauty of the Monkey Trail
As you hike the Monkey Trail, you’ll be treated to stunning views that showcase the natural splendor of Ao Nang. The trail features breathtaking limestone formations, a testament to the area’s geological history. You’ll also be surrounded by lush tropical greenery and a variety of vibrant plants. The soothing sounds of birds singing and crickets chirping enhance the serene atmosphere, making your hike not just a physical journey but a sensory experience. Enjoying these natural sights and sounds adds an extra layer of tranquility and connection with the beautiful environment.
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Safety Tips for the Trail
Avoid wearing flip-flops or slippery footwear, especially when it rains, as the trail can become quite slippery. There are rails along the trail that can help support you if needed. If you bring water, keep it in your backpack as monkeys are known to snatch it if you hold in your hands. Sunglasses are also a target for these curious creatures, so it’s best to leave them in your bagbacks.
Observing Macaque Families on the Monkey Trail
As you hike the Monkey Trail, you’ll have the wonderful opportunity to observe numerous macaque families in their natural habitat. It’s truly remarkable to watch the mother monkeys tenderly caring for their babies. From grooming to playful interactions, their nurturing behavior provides a captivating glimpse into their social structure. Seeing these familial bonds up close adds a special touch to your hike and highlights the fascinating dynamics of wildlife in the area.
At the End of the Trail: Pai Plong Beach Entry
As you reach the end of the Monkey Trail and arrive at the secluded Pai Plong Beach, you’ll find a table with a security guard and a large book for visitor registration, a measure required by the resort for security. We had a good laugh when we noticed that some of the names entered were amusingly playful, including cartoon characters! The best part? There’s no entrance fee at Pai Plong Beach, so you can enjoy this beautiful spot without any additional costs.
Pai Plong Beach: A Year-Round Favorite
Pai Plong Beach is one of our favorite spots in Krabi. During our stay, we saw the beach transform through both the dry and wet seasons. It could be incredibly calm, resembling a serene lake, or wild with powerful waves. We’ve come to appreciate the unique beauty of Pai Plong Beach in every season.
Enjoying Pai Plong Beach
Once you arrive at Pai Plong Beach, you’ll be tempted to dive into the crystal-clear water right away. Every day we visited, we made it a ritual to savor the beach’s serene beauty, take a refreshing swim, and then relax with a coconut drink. It was the perfect way to unwind after the hike, soaking in the tranquility and enjoying a refreshing treat.
The beauty of Pai Plong Beach reminded us of the breathtaking beaches on Koh Lanta, another tropical paradise in southern Thailand. If you’re craving more sun-soaked adventures, check out our post: 12 Must-Visit Beaches on Koh Lanta for Your Ultimate Adventure. Discover Thailand’s most awe-inspiring beach escapes and plan your next tropical getaway!
What to Do on Pai Plong Beach
Pai Plong Beach offers a range of activities to enjoy its stunning surroundings. For a bit of adventure, you can rent a kayak and explore the crystal-clear waters at your own pace. If you’re feeling more ambitious, use the kayak to the beautiful Railay Beach or Tonsai for 600 baht for a full day or 250 baht per hour. Just keep in mind that paddling from Ao Nang to Railay Beach is about 8 km and will take a couple of hours of hard paddling. It’s a great adventure, but make sure you’re up for the challenge.
If paddling isn’t your thing, you can also hire a long-tail boat. These traditional boats will take you effortlessly to Railay Beach or Tansai Beach, allowing you to relax and take in the scenery without breaking a sweat.
Pai Plong Beach and The Centara Grand Beach Resort
Pai Plong Beach is also home to the luxurious Centara Grand Beach Resort, a truly secluded and beautiful resort. During our stay, we spent a month at its sister property on the mainland. If you want to experience the amenities at Centara Grand Beach Resort for a day, you can purchase a daily pass for 1,499 THB. This pass grants you access to the resort’s pool, spa services, drinks, a 30-minute massage, boat service, and more. It’s a great way to enjoy a day of luxury and relaxation at this stunning beach resort.
Reward Yourself After Hiking: Best Thai Street Food at Ao Nang Landmark Market
After hiking the Monkey Trail in Ao Nang, treat yourself to the delicious Flavors of Thailand at the Ao Nang Landmark Market. It’s one of our favorite markets in Krabi, offering authentic Thai food that truly captures the essence of local cuisine. From savory bites to sweet treats, the market has something for every taste.
If you’re curious about what to eat at the Ao Nang Night Market, check out our post on the $5 Challenge: What to Eat at Ao Nang Night Market for a budget-friendly guide to enjoying the best street food in the area.
