Ah, Krabi. With its jaw-dropping limestone cliffs and lush mangrove forests, it’s no wonder backpackers can’t get enough of this southern Thai paradise.
If you’re heading to Krabi, get ready for some of the most stunning coastal landscapes Thailand has to offer. I’m talking more than a hundred offshore islands just waiting for your next adventure. Plus, if you’re into rock climbing, Krabi’s got some of the best spots in the country.
And let’s not forget – there’s a whole lotta partying going on here.
But with so many places to crash in Krabi, figuring out where to stay can be a real headache. Sorting the magnificent from the meh in the hostel scene isn’t easy.
Fear not! That’s where I come in with my ultimate guide to the best hostels in Krabi.
Krabi is a killer spot to explore, and I want to make sure you experience it in the best way possible. Less time hunting for a hostel means more time doing the important stuff: drinking Changs on the beach and living your best life.
Whether you’re here to party hard, unwind in style, save some baht, or find the perfect pad for digital nomad-ing, this list has got you covered.
Are you ready? Let’s get this hostel hunt started…
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Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Krabi
- Best Overall Hostel in Krabi – K-Bunk AoNang Center
- Best Hostel in Krabi for Solo Travelers – Pak-Up Hostel
- Best Cheap Hostel in Krabi – Slumber Party Krabi
- Best Party Hostel in Krabi – Nomads Ao Nang
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Krabi – Tan Hostel x Cafe
The 5 Best Hostels in Krabi
If you’re backpacking through Thailand, you’re probably going to experience the full spectrum of hostel life—from the sublime to the downright shitty. Accommodation in Thailand has got something for every taste and budget, but let’s be honest, no one wants to end up in a dive.
To spare you the hassle and potential suffering, I’ve handpicked some of the best hostels in Krabi. So you can skip the sketchy spots and dive straight into the good vibes.
1. K-Bunk AoNang Center – Best Overall Hostel in Krabi
- Dorm (mixed): From $8
- Address: 522 Moo 2, Ao Nang, Mueang, Krabi, 81180 Ao Nang Beach, Thailand
Oh man, if you stay at K Bunk during your Krabi adventures you’re in for one hell of a ride. This was one of the first places I stayed in when I backpacked Thailand and it still lives rent-free in my mind. It’s honestly one of my favourite hostels in Thailand. From the swimming pool to the limestone cliff views and the daily events they hold, K Bunk holds a special place in my heart. Trust me, it’s impossible to stay just a couple of days – you’ll be besties with the receptionist with how often you’ll be extending your stay.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Beautiful Views
- Friendly Staff and Reps
- Daily Tours Offered To Railay Beach
What makes this place so special is the reps. Seriously, they’re crazy. You won’t be able to escape them as they really get EVERYONE involved. From beer pong to drinking games and the infamous pub crawl that always gets a bit too wild, K Bunk knows how to throw a party. You’ll leave with a ton of new friends, and let’s be real, you’re bound to bump into them again as you hop along the same southern Thailand backpacker trail.
Socials aside, the amenities are pretty sweet too. The dorm rooms are spacious and clean, with decent-sized lockers, air conditioning and plenty of space to get ready for your night out. They’ve got an on-site bar with killer happy hour deals, a pool table, and the food is pretty tasty too. The swimming pool is a lifesaver in the Thai heat, and the views of the limestone cliffs behind will make you so grateful to be in this stunning corner of the world.
2. Pak-Up Hostel – Best Hostel in Krabi for Solo Travelers
- Dorm (mixed): From $7
- Address: 87 Utarakit Rd., Paknam, Muang, 81000 Krabi town, Thailand
The super social Pak-Up Hostel has earned rave reviews from travellers and critics alike, racking up awards like ‘Top 3 Hostels in Asia’ from Hostelbookers. And honestly, it’s no surprise.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Great Communal Spaces
- Air Conditioned Rooms
- Social Atmosphere
Pak-Up has quickly built a rep as the go-to spot for all the buzz – the most energetic and vibrant place in town. The lobby is always buzzing with backpackers plotting their next adventure and making new friends. The common areas are fantastic, and the staff are even better, creating a friendly, homely vibe that solo travellers might crave. Or maybe you’re relishing solo travel for a reason, and that’s cool too.
Located in Krabi town, they’ve got their own tours to the best attractions in Krabi like Railay Beach, Wat Tham Suea and some impressive rock climbing. They also offer cooking classes and daily events so you’re guaranteed to cram as much Thai culture in your Krabi itinerary as possible. Plus, they’ve got a communal kitchen and a gym – two rare gems for hostels in Southeast Asia.
3. Slumber Party Krabi – Best Cheap Hostel in Krabi
- Dorm (mixed): From $5
- Private Room: From $27
- Address: Moo2, Aonang, Meung Krabi, 81000 Ao Nang Beach, Thailand
At less than $5 a night, you get some serious bang for your buck at Slumber Party Krabi. I’m talking an epic bar, a pool table, social areas buzzing with energy, and – brace yourself—a freakin’ slide into the swimming pool. I mean, seriously, where else are you gonna find that? They also throw some serious in-house parties that double as pre-game for the legendary pub crawls that are oh-so-famous to Ao Nang.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Swimming Pool
- In-House Parties
- Aesthetic Design
If you’re up for good times, here’s a sick place to do it. Somehow the parties here keep getting wilder (if that’s even possible? Apparently so) and yet it remains surprisingly clean. The staff are on top of everything – which includes making sure everyone has a good time as much as being super helpful. It’s also in the heart of Ao Nang, which is the best neighbourhood to stay in Krabi for backpackers.
Besides the wild times, Slumber Party Krabi is all about the good vibes. It’s comfy, cosy, and has an aesthetic that screams “good times ahead” with a playful splash of pink. If you’re not a fan of pink, well, you’re probably in the wrong place anyway.
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View on Osprey View on REI4. Nomads Ao Nang – Best Party Hostel in Krabi
- Dorm (mixed): From $12
- Address: 152 Moo 3, Soi 8, 81000 Ao Nang Beach, Thailand
Nomads Ao Nang is not your run-of-the-mill, dingy party hostel. Forget those sketchy places where you need a hazmat suit to shower. Just because you’re here to party doesn’t mean you have to settle for sub-par digs. Nomads Ao Nang disrupts the Krabi hostel scene for its hotel-standard amenities, whilst still boasting a super social backpacker scene with one hell of a party. Honestly, the party is what makes it one of the best places to visit in Thailand.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Friendly Reps
- Cocktail Bar
- Clean and Comfortable Dorm Beds
So, what’s on the menu? How about a massive swimming pool with wild foam parties? Check. Nights lit up by live DJs? Double check. A killer skateboard ramp? You bet. And, oh yeah, the best cocktail bar in Krabi. No joke – just ask the reviews. This is the place to be if you want to party hard and meet fellow travellers who are down for the same wild ride.
Nomads Ao Nang doesn’t skimp on comfort. Expect plush, hotel-grade mattresses that’ll cradle you through the wildest hangovers, air conditioning, and super clean ensuite bathrooms. Every room has a view of the pool area and lush, tropical surroundings, giving off major resort vibes. There’s something about waking up to a serene view that makes nursing that hangover just a bit more bearable.
5. Tan Hostel x Cafe – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Krabi
- Dorm (mixed): From $8
- Address: 249/3 M.2 Aonang , Muang Krabi, 81180 Ao Nang Beach, Thailand
When it comes to hostels, Tan Hostel is hands down a digital nomad’s paradise. Picture a boujee Bali café vibe, but with Thai prices. The attached café downstairs is the hostel’s crown jewel. I mean, I had a smoothie that was literally the size of my head! Plus, with a plethora of working spaces, most of which are blessed with air conditioning, you’ve got everything you need to crush a few hours of work.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Super Fast Wifi
- Chill Vibes
- Clean and Private Dorms
Tan Hostel itself is all about those minimalist chic vibes. Think clean, modern, and spacious amenities – from the communal bathrooms to the dorms. The dorm beds come with curtains, which is an absolute MUST for me. With only 50 beds in the entire place, you’ll never feel like you’re crammed in with the masses.
The security is top-notch as access to the hostel and the dorms is card-only, so you can rest easy knowing your stuff is safe. The lounge areas are super cosy, and the whole place just oozes calm, chill vibes. Whether you’re a digital nomad looking for a productivity haven or just craving some serenity during your Krabi stay, Tan Hostel is a no-brainer.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Krabi Hostels
Haven’t found the right hostel for you yet? Don’t worry, there are plenty more options waiting for you. To make the search a bit easier, I’ve listed more epic hostels in Krabi below.
6. Pop-in Hostel Aonang
- Dorm (mixed): From $8
- Private Room: From $18
- Address: 18/4-5 Moo.2 T. Ao Nang A. Muang Krabi, 81000 Ao Nang Beach, Thailand
“Once you Pop-in, you’ll never want to pop-out!” That’s the motto at this hostel, and while I was tempted to call it quirky, it’s actually kind of adorable, don’t you think? I do. Plus, this place has style—those polished floors and industrial vibes are pretty chic for a hostel. The common area is spacious enough for some serious socializing, and there’s a bar where I can drink, mingle, and make new friends. They’ve also got a decent tour desk to hook you up with all the best local adventures for your Thai culture fix, like day trips to Railay Beach and Wat Tham Suea.
But here’s the real gem: every night, they host a free BBQ or local food dinner. It’s budget-friendly, a great way to meet fellow travellers, and a chance to try new flavours. Triple win! So, if you’re after a stylish, social spot that won’t break the bank, Pop-in might just become your new favourite hangout.
7. Chanchalay Hip Hostel
- Private Room: From $12
- Address: 55 Utarakit Rd, T. Paknum, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi, Thailand
Located right in Krabi town, Chanchalay Hip Hostel is hands down one of the coolest hostels I’ve stumbled upon. The white and pale blue colour scheme, those painted exposed brick walls, and that whole minimalist vibe are an Instagram DREAM. If you’ve been bouncing around in budget digs during your travels, Chanchalay Hip Hostel is a total game-changer. It’s like a breath of fresh air in the midst of Krabi’s hustle. Needless to say, the staff are gems in themselves and will give you the best tips and tricks for Thailand!
8. Amity Poshtel
- Dorm (mixed): From $9
- Address: 35 Maharat Road Soi 5, Paknam, Muang Krabi, 81000 Krabi town, Thailand
From its sleek exterior to its stylish interior, this place is a standout in Krabi’s hostel scene. The common areas have got this awesome terrace where you can kick back, soak in the vibe, and watch the world go by – it’s like having your own slice of chill in the heart of Krabi.
And let’s talk about the rooms. The dorms? No bunk beds here. Instead, you’ve got comfy beds and chic decor that make it feel more like a trendy hangout than a typical hostel. And those private rooms? Total game-changers. Seriously chic, they give off major boutique hotel vibes. Despite the stylish digs, Amity Poshtel keeps it real with a budget-friendly price tag. So if you’re looking for that mix of style and affordability in Krabi town, this place has definitely got your back.
9. Snoozz Hotel Krabi
- Private Room: From $23
- Address: 52 Maharaj Road, Mueang Krabi, 81000 Krabi town, Thailand
Oh boy, when it comes to location, you can’t beat being just 100 meters from the Krabi Weekend Night Market, can you? It’s the crown jewel of night markets in this province! Here you can dive into street-food delights, snag fresh tropical fruit, and capture all the local vibes and Thai culture in Krabi town that you can get your hands on.
The hostel itself is pretty damn cool too. It’s a haven of communal spaces, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring or rock climbing. And bonus: there’s a cosy cafe downstairs, ideal for all your laptop needs. For digital nomads, it ticks all the boxes: a great location, ample workspace, attentive staff, and seriously stylish digs.
10. Talardkao Balcony Krabi
- Dorm (mixed): From $12
- Private Room: From $18
- Address: 140 Thanon Mueang Kao T.Krabiyai, A. Maung Krabi, 81000 Krabi town, Thailand
I’m totally loving the secluded vibe at this villa-style spot – a perfect hideaway for couples in Krabi. The decor here is spot-on, with a keen eye for design that’s right up my alley. Sure, it’s not in the heart of Krabi town, but trust me, the intimate atmosphere makes it worth the slight detour. The staff are super friendly, they make you feel like you’ve known them forever. Bonus: it’s conveniently close to Krabi airport, which is a major win if you’re heading off to other Thai islands.
11. Glur Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $12
- Private Room: From $29
- Address: 591 Moo 2 Soi Ao-nang 11/1 Muang Krabi, 81000 Ao Nang Beach, Thailand
Who woulda thought turquoise duvets and orange pillows would work together but DAMN do they ever work – it’s a cool colour pop for the polished floor and immaculate white bunks in the dorms here. I am, as you may know, sensitive to interior design and when it’s good – IT’S GOOD. It’s also 15 minutes to the beach, walking, so not as close as some places but not exactly a trek either, is it? The pier isn’t too far away either if you want a day trip to Railay Beach to do some rock climbing or if you’re heading off to neighbouring Koh Lanta. The breakfast here is just awesome: as much fresh fruit as you can eat AND free tea and coffee. Pretty much an oasis of calm.
12. Aonang Third Place Hometel
- Private Room: From $28
- Address: 539 Moo 2, Aonang, Muang, Krabi, 81000 Ao Nang Beach, Thailand
This place looks like it was built yesterday, by which I mean it’s super clean and ultra-new-looking. Everything is sleek and uncluttered, clean and at least partially hip. It’s literally one of the best Krabi leisure hostels – not just for how it looks, but, y’know, the atmosphere, the staff, the AC (which is perf), and the daily yoga classes which feel like the most perfect yoga retreat! Not too party, not too quiet – and because of that, it attracts a friendly, like-minded crowd for a chill vibe. It’s also right near Klong Muang beach and all the bars and eateries that come with it.
13. Sleep Easy Krabi
- Dorm (mixed): From $13
- Private Room: From $18
- Address: 248 Utarakit Rd, Paknam ,Muang Krabi, 81000 Krabi town, Thailand
This centrally located recommended hostel in Krabi sure packs a punch when it comes to its rooms. They’re pretty impressive, though some might call them minimalist. But hey, they’re clean and comfy, so no complaints there. It does have a bit of a hotel vibe, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea. But if you’re after a cosy spot with all the perks and a feline friend to fuss, you can’t go wrong here.
14. Holiday Station
Very cheap, but somewhat lacking in atmosphere, this top hostel in Krabi is well located in the town itself, meaning you’ll be at night markets and other hotspots within just a few minutes of walking. Which is always nice. Everything’s pretty modern, pretty stylish, pretty cool. It even has a pool table. But as I said, for a youth hostel in Krabi town it’s not exactly lively, so if you’re looking to make friends or party, this ain’t it. But as I said before that, it is extremely cheap. So if you’re doing Krabi on a budget, this one may be the hostel for you.
15. Mini Boxtel Aonang Hostel
Is it a boxtel? Or maybe a boxstel? Let’s call it a boxestel. But hold up, these boxes are way nicer than you’d imagine. Picture more of a capsule hotel vibe at this Krabi backpackers’ spot—super neat, clean, and effortlessly cool. All the good stuff, really. Staff go over and above to help you out and just in sheer friendliness. So yeah: cool, nice atmosphere, what else? Well, it’s within walking distance of loadsa local and international restaurants to fill your belly – and Ao Nang Beach is just 3 mins away on foot, meaning you’re only a short boat ride away from Railay Beach too.
16. King Kong Hostel Krabi
The industrial chic is strong with this one… No, really, it is. Bunks constructed from metal frames and plywood boards with thankfully comfortable mattresses; polished stone floors and plastered or sometimes exposed brick walls; and then, inexplicably, some wallpaper that’s supposed to look like a mossy wall. Anyway, you get the idea. Industrial chic. Yet another top hostel in Krabi town, King Kong is a gem of a place to stay if you’re travelling Krabi on a budget – which you obvs are. The manager is very accommodating, though other staff members tend to keep to themselves.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Krabi
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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FAQ about Hostels in Krabi
Here are some questions backpackers ask about Krabi hostels.
What to Pack for your Krabi Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
How much does a hostel cost in Krabi?
The average price of Krabi hostels can range from $10 – $48+ per night. Of course, the private rooms are on the higher end of the scale than the dorm beds.
What are the best Krabi hostels for couples?
With well-designed and cute private rooms, Talardkao Balcony Krabi is the coolest hostel for couples in Krabi.
What are the best Krabi hostels near Krabi airport?
Talardkao Balcony Krabi is just a 14-minute drive from Krabi Airport. You can’t go wrong with its location if you’re catching a flight early in the morning!
Final Thoughts on Krabi’s Hostels
Krabi’s laid-back vibe is downright contagious, making it the perfect place to kick back and dive into the beach bum life. The locals are friendly, the nightlife electric and the scenery is pretty damn jaw-dropping. And, honestly, Krabi is one of Thailand’s many gems, making backpacking the south coast an absolute blast.
I hope my ultimate guide to the best hostels in Krabi has helped you snag the perfect spot for your adventure! If you still can’t decide you should definitely check out my favourite, K-Bunk AoNang Center. It’s got good vibes, an even better crowd, and a pub crawl that’s almost guaranteed to get a little (or a lot) wild.
Whether you’re here to dance till dawn, find a cosy corner for some serious downtime, or nab a budget bed, Krabi’s got you covered.
And hey, if you stumble upon any hidden gems or must-try spots during your adventures, drop me a comment. I’m always on the hunt for the next best spot in Krabi. Happy travels and have a beer for me! Cheers!
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Thailand for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Krabi covered.
- Check out the best places to stay in Krabi before you arrive.
- Remember to grab yourself an international sim card for Thailand to avoid any issues.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Southeast Asia backpacking guide.
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