Planning your journey to your dream destination is essential to ensure your trip runs smoothly and leaves a lasting impression from the moment you step off the plane. Cliff Haven Villa is one of the highly popular premium accommodations in Krabi Province, situated in an ideal location for relaxation and experiencing the breathtaking beauty of nature.
Getting to Know Krabi Airport (Krabi International Airport)
Basic Information about Krabi Airport
Krabi Airport, or Krabi International Airport (code KBV), serves as the gateway to the beauty of Southern Thailand. Located in Nuea Khlong District, Krabi Province, approximately 12 kilometers from Krabi town, this airport has been operational since 1999 and has undergone continuous development to accommodate the increasing number of tourists each year.
Krabi Airport is not particularly large but is well-equipped with essential facilities for travelers. Inside the passenger terminal, there are shops, restaurants, currency exchange counters, tourist information service counters, and other services to help you start your journey comfortably.
Vehicle Pick-up Points and Airport Services
After disembarking from your flight and passing through immigration, you will find various service points on the first floor of the passenger terminal, including:
- Car Rental Counters: Several leading car rental companies have counters at the airport, such as Avis, Budget, Hertz, and local rental companies
- Taxi Stand: Located in front of the passenger terminal with staff available to assist
- Hotel Shuttle Pick-up Point: If you’ve pre-booked shuttle service from your accommodation, the meeting point is typically near the terminal exit
- Public Bus Stop: For those who wish to use public bus services
Location of Cliff Haven Villa
Location Information and Coordinates
Cliff Haven Villa is a luxury resort situated in an area with stunning views. Generally, premium resorts and villas in Krabi are located in areas with sea views, cliffs, or on hillsides that offer clear views of the Andaman Sea and various islands.
The distance from Krabi Airport to Cliff Haven Villa depends on the villa’s location. On average, the distance may be between 25-45 kilometers, taking approximately 40-75 minutes of travel time, depending on traffic conditions and the chosen route.
Terrain and Road Conditions
The route from Krabi Airport to areas with leading resorts and villas mostly passes through main roads in good condition, though there may be some sections of mountain roads or winding roads following Krabi Province’s terrain, which features both limestone mountains and coastlines.
During the rainy season (May-November), extra caution should be exercised while traveling, as there may be heavy rain and slippery roads. During the tourist season (November-April), traffic may become more congested, especially during long holiday periods.
Transportation Options from Krabi Airport to Cliff Haven Villa
1. Private Transfer Service
Advantages:
- Most convenient and direct to your destination
- High level of privacy
- Experienced drivers who know the routes
- No need to wait in queues or share with other passengers
- Can handle large amounts of luggage
- Usually offers 24-hour pick-up service
Disadvantages:
- Relatively expensive compared to other options
- Must book in advance for certainty
Price: Average between 800-1,500 baht per trip, depending on vehicle type and distance. Large vans for groups may cost up to 2,000-3,000 baht.
How to Book:
- Through Cliff Haven Villa’s website directly
- Booking apps such as Klook, KKday, GetYourGuide
- Local transfer companies in Krabi
- Travel agents you’re using
Travel Time: Approximately 40-75 minutes, depending on the villa’s location and traffic conditions.
2. Airport Taxi Service
Advantages:
- Available immediately upon arrival at the airport, no advance booking needed
- Organized queue system managed by staff
- Standard pricing based on distance, transparent
- Driven by licensed drivers
Disadvantages:
- Price may be higher than some pre-booked transfer services
- May need to wait in queue during peak flight arrival times
- Cannot choose vehicle type
Price: Approximately 900-1,600 baht, depending on distance and taxi meter. The airport has approximate pricing tables available at the counter.
How to Use the Service:
- Exit the passenger terminal on the 1st floor
- Head to the clearly marked taxi stand
- Inform staff at the counter of your destination
- Receive coupon and vehicle registration number
- Board the assigned vehicle
Travel Time: Approximately 40-75 minutes.
3. Self-Drive Car Rental
Advantages:
- Freedom to travel and set your own schedule
- Can stop at tourist attractions along the way
- Suitable for exploring around Krabi during your stay
- Cost-effective if renting for multiple days
Disadvantages:
- Must have an international or Thai driver’s license
- Must be familiar with driving in Thailand
- Responsible for fuel costs and damage if accidents occur
- Need to study the route in advance
- May need to provide deposit or credit card hold
Price: Starting from approximately 800-2,500 baht per day, depending on car model and size. Does not include fuel and additional insurance.
Recommended Rental Companies:
- Thai Rent A Car
- Hertz
- Avis
- Budget
- Local rental companies with good reviews
Required Documents:
- Passport or ID card
- International or Thai driver’s license
- Credit card for deposit
Travel Time: Approximately 40-75 minutes, excluding rest stops.
4. Shared Shuttle/Minivan Service
Advantages:
- More economical than private car rental
- Safe and standardized
- No need to worry about driving yourself
Disadvantages:
- Must wait for full passenger capacity
- May drop off other passengers first, extending travel time
- Less time flexibility
- Limited luggage space
Price: Approximately 300-600 baht per person, depending on distance and number of stops.
How to Book:
- Through travel websites or apps
- At service counters at the airport
- Contact hotel or resort to arrange
Travel Time: Approximately 1-2 hours, depending on number of stops.
5. Public Bus Service
Advantages:
- Cheapest option
- Regular schedule
- Suitable for budget travelers
Disadvantages:
- Does not go directly to destination, requires transfers or walking
- Takes much longer
- Inconvenient with large luggage
- Schedule may not align with flight arrival times
- Less comfortable
Price: Approximately 90-150 baht for travel from airport to Krabi town, then must transfer to final destination.
Note: This method is not recommended for direct travel to Cliff Haven Villa due to complexity and time required, but can be an option for those seeking maximum cost savings.
Recommendations for Choosing Transportation Method
For Families with Young Children
If traveling with family and young children, Private Transfer Service is the best option because:
- Children can rest comfortably
- Can stop for breaks as needed
- Sufficient space for children’s equipment
- No worries about time or other passengers
For Couples and Honeymooners
For couples seeking privacy and comfort, Private Transfer or Self-Drive Car Rental are suitable options:
- Private Transfer: Ideal for those wanting to relax with privacy
- Car Rental: Suitable for those wanting freedom to visit various places in Krabi
For Groups of Friends
If traveling as a group of 4-8 friends, renting a van with driver will be the most cost-effective option because:
- Price when split is much cheaper
- Spacious for everyone’s luggage
- Can talk and have fun together
- Convenient for stopping at various points along the way
For Solo Travelers
Solo travelers have several options depending on budget and preferences:
- High Budget: Private transfer or taxi for convenience and time-saving
- Medium Budget: Shared shuttle or taxi
- Limited Budget: Consider public transportation combined with advice from accommodation
For Travelers with Much Luggage
If you have multiple large suitcases, sports equipment, or other special items:
- Private Transfer Service is the best choice. Should notify about luggage amount in advance
- Taxi: May need to request a vehicle with extra storage space
- Avoid public buses or shared shuttles with luggage limitations
Detailed Travel Route
Main Route
From Krabi Airport:
- Exit the airport – Drive along the airport exit heading toward Highway 4 (Phetkasem Road)
- Enter Highway 4 – Turn right onto Phetkasem Road (Highway 4) heading south
- Pass through Krabi town – Drive through Krabi town area, approximately 12-15 kilometers from the airport
- Continue on route – Depending on Cliff Haven Villa’s location, you may need to:
- Turn toward Ao Nang – Use Highway 4203
- Turn toward Railay Beach – Pass through Ao Nang and use ferry service
- Head toward other coastal areas according to specified coordinates
- Route to villa – Follow roads leading to where Cliff Haven Villa is located; may be mountain roads or coastal roads depending on location
Landmarks Along the Way
- Convenience Stores: 7-Eleven and other convenience stores along the route, suitable for buying necessities before reaching accommodation
- Gas Stations: PTT, Shell, Bangchak gas stations along the route for self-drivers
- Restaurants: Many local restaurants and beachside eateries if you want to stop for meals
- Markets and Shopping Centers: If passing through Krabi town or Ao Nang, there are markets and shopping centers for buying souvenirs or necessities
Recommended Travel Times
Best Times:
- Early Morning (06:00-08:00): Light traffic, cool weather
- Midday (11:00-14:00): Avoids morning rush, but may be hot
- Evening (16:00-18:00): Weather begins to cool, but may have traffic in some areas
Times to Avoid:
- Morning Rush Hour (07:30-09:00): Locals commuting to work
- Evening Rush Hour (17:00-19:00): Locals commuting home
- Heavy Rainy Season: Extra caution required
Tips for Smooth Travel
Before Travel
- Book Services in Advance: For transfer or rental services, book at least 3-7 days ahead, especially during peak tourist season (December-March)
- Confirm Booking: Reconfirm booking 24-48 hours before travel date and keep contact numbers
- Currency Exchange: Exchange Thai baht for transportation, food, and miscellaneous expenses, as some places may not accept credit cards
- Download Maps: Download offline maps of Krabi area in Google Maps or Maps.me in case of weak internet signal
- Check Weather: Check weather forecast in advance and prepare accordingly
During Travel
- Keep Important Documents with You: Passport, booking documents, and emergency contact numbers
- Notify Accommodation Owner: Inform Cliff Haven Villa owner when departing from airport so they can prepare to welcome you
- Photograph Vehicle and Driver: If using taxi or transfer service, photograph vehicle registration and driver for safety
- Track Route: Keep Google Maps open to track route to ensure correct direction
- Prepare Water and Snacks: Especially if traveling during hot midday
For Self-Drivers
- Check Vehicle Before Departure: Check engine oil, tires, and systems
- Have Sufficient Fuel: Fill up before departure
- Use GPS or Maps: Set destination in GPS and follow route
- Drive Carefully: Some road sections may be narrow or winding, especially mountain roads
- Follow Traffic Rules: Drive at appropriate speed, wear seatbelt, and strictly follow traffic signs
- Stop for Rest: If feeling tired, rest at rest stops or restaurants
Approximate Costs
Cost Comparison Table
| Transportation Method | Approximate Price (Baht) | Duration | Comfort Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Transfer | 800-1,500 | 40-75 minutes | Very High |
| Airport Taxi | 900-1,600 | 40-75 minutes | High |
| Self-Drive Rental | 800-2,500/day* | 40-75 minutes | High (must drive) |
| Shared Shuttle | 300-600/person | 60-120 minutes | Medium |
| Public Bus | 90-150* | 2-3 hours | Low |
*Does not include fuel and additional expenses
Additional Costs to Consider
- Expressway Tolls: If using expressways along the route (typically none for this route)
- Fuel: For self-drivers, approximately 200-400 baht depending on distance
- Parking Fees: If stopping at tourist attractions, 20-100 baht
- Food and Beverages: If stopping for meals, 100-500 baht per meal
- Tips: For drivers, 50-100 baht (not mandatory but courteous)
Safety Information
General Safety Measures
- Choose Reliable Services: Use services from reputable and properly licensed companies
- Check Vehicle Condition: Before boarding, observe if vehicle is safe and in good condition
- Wear Seatbelt: Every time you get in a vehicle, regardless of seating position
- Keep Valuables with You: Don’t leave luggage or valuables in vehicle unattended
- Share Location: Use phone’s location sharing feature with friends or family while traveling
For Self-Drivers
- Have Valid Driver’s License: Ensure you have valid international or Thai driver’s license
- Get Vehicle Insurance: Check car rental insurance coverage thoroughly
- Don’t Drive When Tired: If just arrived from long journey, rest before driving
- Follow Traffic Rules: Respect local traffic rules and speed limits
- Avoid Night Driving: If unfamiliar with route, as visibility may be poor
Emergency Cases
Emergency Phone Numbers:
- Tourist Police: 1155
- Tourist Emergency Center: 1669
- Police: 191
- Ambulance: 1669
- Fire Department: 199
What to Do If Problems Occur:
- Try to communicate with driver or service provider
- Call accommodation for assistance
- Contact emergency numbers if necessary
- Record details and evidence (photographs, vehicle registration, driver’s name)
Points of Interest Along the Way
Rest Stops and Photo Spots
Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea)
- Distance from airport: Approximately 9 kilometers
- Highlight: 1,237-step stairway to mountain top, beautiful panoramic view
- Recommended time: Takes approximately 1-2 hours if climbing to view
Khlong Thom Market
- Distance from airport: Approximately 20 kilometers
- Highlight: Small floating market, fresh seafood, local souvenirs
- Suitable for: Buying souvenirs, eating seafood
Ao Nang Beach
- Distance from airport: Approximately 25 kilometers
- Highlight: Beautiful beach, beachfront restaurants, many shops
- Suitable for: Meals, shopping, beach walks
Emerald Pool Viewpoint
- If on route
- Highlight: Beautiful natural viewpoint
Recommended Restaurants Along the Way
- Krua Thale – Fresh seafood, Ao Nang
- Mountain View Café – Coffee and desserts with nature views
- Pa Urai’s Roti – Famous roti in Krabi
- Krabi Morning Market – Budget-friendly local food
Convenience Stores and Gas Stations
- 7-Eleven: Available along route, open 24 hours
- FamilyMart: Another convenience store option
- PTT Station: Full service with café and food
- Shell Station: Full service, clean
Seasonal Recommendations
Tourist Season (November – April)
Advantages:
- Good weather, beautiful sun, clear skies
- Clear seawater, suitable for water activities
- Many activities and festivals
Precautions:
- Much heavier traffic, especially during New Year and Chinese New Year
- Higher accommodation and service prices
- Should book everything in advance
- Travel time may increase by 15-30 minutes
Tips:
- Book transfer service at least 1 week in advance
- Depart morning or midday to avoid rush hours
- Prepare drinking water and sunscreen
Rainy Season (May – October)
Advantages:
- Fewer tourists, peaceful
- Lower accommodation and service prices
- Fresh, lush nature
- Many special promotions
Precautions:
- May have heavy rain some days
- Roads may be slippery with standing water
- Visibility may be unclear some days
- Some water activities may be closed
Tips:
- Prepare umbrella or raincoat
- Drive with extra caution
- Monitor weather before travel
- Allow extra travel time in case of rain
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How long does it take to travel from Krabi Airport to Cliff Haven Villa?
On average, approximately 40-75 minutes, depending on villa location, traffic conditions, and chosen route.
2. How should I choose transportation method?
Depends on several factors:
- Budget: Shared shuttle is cheapest but takes longest
- Comfort: Private transfer or taxi is most convenient
- Flexibility: Car rental provides maximum freedom
- Group Size: Large groups should rent van for value
3. Must I book transfer service in advance?
Recommended to book in advance, especially during tourist season (November-April) for certainty and better prices. However, taxis are always available at the airport.
4. Is there Wi-Fi service in vehicles?
Some private transfer services offer Wi-Fi, but regular taxis typically don’t. Should inquire when booking.
5. Can I stop to buy things along the way?
Yes, especially if using private transfer or rental car. You can stop at convenience stores, supermarkets, or markets, but should notify driver in advance.
