How to Get Around Ao Nang - Tips for Exploring Ao Nang Using the Available Transport Options

 As one of Thailand's lesser-known beach holiday hubs, Ao Nang offers travellers a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of busier beaches in the country. This tranquil seaside hamlet is not only a great place to relax and enjoy splashing around but also a haven for those in search of a little piece of paradise of their own. Whether one is heading to Ao Nang for a weekend vacation or a longer getaway, here are some tips on how to navigate the area using public and private transport options.

SuwanneeP, Rickshaw Thailand, CC BY-SA 3.0

1. Stay in a Strategic Location

As when vacationing in any other destination, securing a strategically located base or Ao Nang hotels will prove to be an advantage to holidaymakers. While it is necessary to stay in a property that offers stunning ocean vistas the likes of Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort, it is equally important to ensure that your rest is not too far removed from the main attractions in the area. Those who find a conveniently placed hotel will not only have an easier time finding public transport options but also be at the close range of most points of interest whether it's cultural highlights or water sports centres.

2. Songthaew

If Ao Nang has an official bus service, it is the Songthaews, which are pickup trucks that have two benches facing one another for passenger seating. While the vehicles were not built for transporting large groups of people, the pickups have been converted to meet the needs of the modern commuter. As one of the most affordable ways to get around in Ao Nang, one can hop on and hop off a Songtaew at nearly every street corner as you can flag them down. Unlike public buses, the number of passengers is usually limited due to the lack of space so most tourists also find riding Songthaews a great way to interact with locals.

3. Samlor

While the term Samlor may not ring any bells for tourists, we are all familiar with the concept of a motorbike with a sidecar. Thailand's version of these vehicles includes a sidecar that can accommodate more than one passenger and these motorbike taxis are a great way to travel short distances. Ubiquitous near beach hotspots in the area, one can hail one from the pavement and negotiate a fare for the journey. As these motorbikes are not metered, it is necessary to know what the reasonable cost of a transfer happens to be as the fare is completely at the discretion of the driver. Samlors are different from Thailand's motorbike taxis, which are known for their daredevil speeds and lack of concern for road rules.

 4. Longtail Boat

Although longtail boats cannot be used for everyday travel requirements, they are the best way to go island hopping during a tour of Ao Nang. Longtail boat tours of nearby islands including Ko Tup, Koh Poda and Koh Gai are accessible via local tour operators as longtail boat taxis are all moored near the southern edge of Ao Nang Beach. Tickets for the tour are available at the booth, which is located close to Beach Road's Phra Nang Inn. Tourists also have the option of hiring a boat for their personal use for the entire day although this is more costly. Boat transfers after dark also cost more.

 5. Vehicle Rentals

Although one must have an international driving license, renting a car or a motorbike will also prove beneficial for those who are in Ao Nang for a lengthy stay.  Some tourists rent a vehicle with a driver so they can travel at their own convenience and timetable.