Checking into Cliff Haven Villa in Ao Nang, Krabi Province is an excellent choice when you want privacy and a private swimming pool. The surrounding area offers beautiful beaches, nearby islands, and numerous nature activities. I’ve compiled practical itineraries and travel ideas around the villa, arranged from nearest to farthest, by time required, and categorized by activity preferences to help you plan your stay more easily.
Travel Ideas Around the Villa by Available Time
Morning Activities (Half Day)
Walking Around Ao Nang Walk down to Ao Nang Beach, the departure point for boats to Railay and various island tours. There are light cafes where you can stop before heading out on your trip.
Half-Day Bicycle or Motorcycle Rental Ride around Ao Nang town or visit short viewpoints before returning to swim at the villa.
Half-Day Kayaking at Ao Thalane If you enjoy kayaking, I recommend Ao Thalane. The route through mangrove forests and limestone canyons offers a unique experience. It’s not far from Ao Nang, with many operators offering half-day tours.
Full Day (Relaxed Nearby Excursions)
Railay Beach and Phra Nang Cave Take a longtail boat from Ao Nang to Railay (approximately 15-20 minutes). Perfect for rock climbing, beach walks, photography at Phra Nang Cave, and swimming.
Hong Island Day Trip If you want crystal-clear water and shallow snorkeling spots, I recommend a Hong Island trip. The speedboat journey from Ao Nang takes about 20 minutes. There’s a viewpoint and a lagoon in the middle of the island to explore.
Phi Phi Island Tour If you love highlight destinations like Maya Bay or Pileh Lagoon, Phi Phi Island tours are a popular choice. Speedboats depart from both Krabi and Phuket, with many packages including snorkeling and lunch.
Full Nature Day
Emerald Pool + Hot Spring + National Park Want to escape the hustle and go jungle trekking and soak in mineral water? I recommend Emerald Pool in Khao Phra Bang Khram area. It’s a full-day trip about 1-1.5 hours from Ao Nang, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Combined Activities: Afternoon Swimming at Villa, Evening at Local Market Return to the villa to relax, then head to Krabi Town Night Market in the evening for delicious local food while enjoying the riverside atmosphere.
Quick Comparison Table to Help Choose Your Trip
| Duration | Sample Activities | Approximate Travel Time | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Half-day morning | Ao Nang walk or Ao Thalane Kayak | 0-30 minutes | Those wanting to relax while still exercising |
| Half-day afternoon | Railay, nearby islands | 15-20 minutes (boat) | Photography, swimming, cave exploration |
| Full day | Hong Island or Phi Phi | 20-90 minutes depending on destination | Snorkeling and island-hopping enthusiasts |
| Nature day | Emerald Pool + Hot Spring | 60-90 minutes each way | Jungle trekking and natural water source lovers |
Detailed Sample Itineraries
I’ve created 3 examples you can use immediately:
Plan A: Family Relaxation Day (Suitable for Young Children)
- 07:30 Wake up, light checkout, breakfast at villa
- 09:00 Boat to Railay, play in sand, kids swim at West Railay Beach
- 12:00 Lunch at beachfront restaurant
- 14:00 Return to villa, rest, enjoy private pool
- 17:30 Drive to Krabi Town Night Market for street food, browse local stalls
- 20:00 Return to villa, comfortable sleep
Plan B: Adventure-Loving Couple
- 06:30 Join Ao Thalane tour, kayak through limestone canyons and mangroves
- 11:30 Return to villa, shower, rest
- 15:00 Hong Island tour, snorkeling, visit lagoon, photography at highlight spots
- 19:00 Dinner at seafood restaurant on Ao Nang Beach
Plan C: Chill Nature Day
- 08:00 Head to Emerald Pool, walk nature trails, swim in clear water
- 13:00 Stop at Krabi Hot Springs if you want to soak in mineral water
- 16:00 Return to villa, relax
- 19:00 Go to night market or local restaurant
The above plans are based on travel times and activities confirmed by tour operators.
Tour Booking and Practical Travel Tips
Tour Booking
- Book in advance if traveling during high season or if you want a private speedboat. Reserve 1-3 days ahead through platforms like Klook or local operators.
Check Boat Times
- Longtail boats to Railay operate in morning and afternoon rounds. Average travel time is 15-20 minutes. Prepare cash as some points sell tickets at the counter.
Items to Prepare
- Hat, sunscreen, change of clothes, towel, water shoes, small hiking shoes for Emerald Pool, and sufficient drinking water
Precautions
- If traveling during monsoon season, check weather conditions before taking boats
- Emerald Pool may have entrance fees and specific operating hours. Check information before traveling
Recommended Restaurants Near Cliff Haven (Based on Reviews)
- Beachfront restaurants in Ao Nang – Focus on fresh seafood, available for lunch and dinner
- Small cafes in alleys near the pier – Perfect for morning coffee before tours
- Krabi Town Night Market – For local food, snacks, and desserts
Ideas for Spending Time After Checking into the Villa
- Host a private BBQ by the pool villa
- Arrange a mini-family photo session or shoot social media content with pool and garden backdrop
- Relax, read books, and order breakfast delivery to the villa
These activities are frequently mentioned in reviews from guests of private villas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Which beach is Cliff Haven near? A: Cliff Haven is located in the Ao Nang area, close to Ao Nang Beach, and convenient for boats to Railay and various island tours.
Q: How long does it take from the villa to Railay? A: Approximately 15-20 minutes by longtail boat from the Ao Nang boat departure point to Railay.
Q: How long does the Hong Island tour take? A: By speedboat, about 20 minutes from Ao Nang shore. It’s a half-day or full-day trip depending on the package chosen.
Q: What’s the best time to visit Emerald Pool? A: Early morning is better because it’s less crowded and not too hot. Entrance fees may be announced by local authorities. Check opening and closing times in advance.
Summary
- If you love beaches and photography – Choose Railay or Hong Island
- If you enjoy kayaking and nature – Choose Ao Thalane
- If you love jungle trekking and natural freshwater – Choose Emerald Pool
- Return to relax at Cliff Haven, enjoy the private pool before heading out for dinner at Krabi Town Night Market
