This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Ao Nang.
Located on the west side of the Thai Peninsula is Ao Nang, a spectacular beach that overlooks the Andaman Sea and some of the beautiful islands that are off the shore. As with all of Thailand's beaches, you can take the day, sit down on the beach and chill out, work on your tan, and have a leisurely swim. For those feeling a little more active, there are snorkels and kayaks in the area for hire as well as a few hikes to do. One of the most recommended hikes is that over to Railey Beach, which is also very popular and has different natural qualities to the beach at Ao Nang. Companies also offer diving tours of some of the coral reefs if that is up your alley.
Not to be missed out of Ao Nang is a trip to the famous beach where Leonardo Di Caprio starred in the film "The Beach." Maya Beach is situated on the Koh Phi Phi islands and you can take a boat out to stay there or for the day from Ao Nang. Other sights just out of Ao Nang that are worth a visit are the Hot Springs, Emerald Pools, the Tiger Cave Temple, and elephant treks.
There are an abundance of different souvenir shops, restaurants, around the waterfront and along the main street offering everything that you may need during your stay here. The hostels in Ao Nang are only a short walking distance from the beach and anything else that you may need while you are in town. Ao Nang hostels also should be able to help you set up activities if you ask them at the desk, like local cooking school sessions where you learn to cook the local cuisine.
Written by local enthusiast for Ao Nang hostels
Globetrotter