Monkey Trail Ao Nang: Short Jungle Hike to Quiet Pai Plong Beach

The Monkey Trail is one of Ao Nang’s most charming and accessible adventures. It’s a reminder that even in a busy tourist hub, you don’t have to go far to find nature, wildlife, and a little peace.

Do the Monkey Trail in Ao Nang (Krabi)

If you’re visiting Ao Nang in Krabi, the Monkey Trail is a must-do activity. This short yet adventurous hike winds through a forested hillside connecting Ao Nang Beach to the beautiful and quieter Pai Plong Beach. With a bit of luck, you’ll encounter playful monkeys, enjoy sweeping views over the Andaman Sea, and immerse yourself in nature—right next to one of Krabi’s busiest tourist spots.

Where in Ao Nang is the Monkey Trail located?

The Monkey Trail starts at the southern end of Ao Nang Beach, just where the cliffs start and right beside the secluded Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi. A wooden staircase marks the entrance and leads you into a lush jungle path running along the cliffs. The trail crosses over the hill and ends at Pai Plong Beach, which is privately managed by the Cenatara resort but open to the public during the day.

What makes it special?

It’s not just the monkeys that make this trail special. We even didn’t see one monkey during our early morninmmg walk. The elevated wooden walkway and natural trail offer a escape from the bustle of Ao Nang. Along the way, you’re treated to sea views, dense tropical vegetation, and—if you’re lucky—close encounters with a troop of long-tailed macaques. Our special moment was arriving at a very quite beach and enjoying the sunrise over the cliff and calm sea from there.

The experience

The walk itself takes about 15 minutes each way, depending on your pace and how many photos you stop to take. It can be a bit steep and slippery in places, especially after rain, but most visitors in average shape will manage fine. We didn’t see any monkey this time, maybe it was way to early and they were still sleeping.

Up early for a quiet walk through Ao Nang towards the Monkey Trail

We began our morning walk from the beautiful Ao Nang Cliff Beach Resort around 7:00. With the sun still hidden behind the cliffs, the temperature was still pleasantly—perfect for a peaceful start to the day. Our route took us along the quiet road that runs parallel to Ao Nang Beach, passing a handful of still-closed restaurants and sleepy beachfront resorts. There’s something magical about watching a place slowly wake up.

A fifteen minute trail

The Monkey Trail begins with a wooden boardwalk running along the edge of Ao Nang Beach. After a few minutes, you’ll come to a set of stairs that lead up the cliffside, guiding you to the next part of the path. About five minutes further, you’ll arrive at a steep staircase that descends to the secluded Pai Plong Beach—marking the end of the Monkey Trail.

Stone pathway through lush green forest with bamboo railing on a hiking trail.

Old wooden stairway with metal railings descending through dense forest and dry leaves.

Relaxing on Pai Plong Beach

Once you arrive at Pai Plong Beach, the peaceful bay home to Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi—the only resort in this hidden cove—take a moment to relax and soak in the stunning surroundings. It’s a great spot for a swim or sunbathing before heading back to Ao Nang.

Pai Plong Beach closes in the early evening, plan your way back on the Monkey Trail.

You can also rent a kayak directly from the resort; a double kayak costs 350 baht for one hour. For 499 baht per person, you can purchase a day pass that includes access to the pool and a soft drink.

We strolled along the shore, snapped a few photos from the floating pontoon, and sat on the soft sand, taking in the dramatic cliffs and peaceful vibe of this secluded beach.

Tropical beach with palm trees, sandy shore, and rocky hills under clear blue sky.

Tall limestone rock formation rising from calm sea near cliffs under clear blue sky

Returning back to Ao Nang via the No Monkey Trail

After two hours, it was time to head back to Ao Nang. We climbed the stairs—no monkeys. Walked the five-minute path along the cliff—still no monkeys. Descended the final steps—no monkeys. And finally, followed the wooden walkway back to our starting point at Ao Nang Beach… you guessed it, no monkeys.

Still, we’ll definitely do the Monkey Trail again. The scenic route, the peaceful trail, and Pai Plong Beach make it an absolute must when visiting Ao Nang.

Tips for hiking the Monkey Trail

Respect the area: No littering and no feeding the animals.
Avoid midday heat: Mornings or late afternoons are best.
Wear proper footwear: Flip-flops work, but walking shoes offer better grip.
Keep food hidden: Don’t carry snacks in sight—monkeys may try to grab them.
Stay calm: Avoid direct eye contact or aggressive gestures towards the monkeys.
Bring water: It’s a short hike, but hydration is always smart in the Thai heat.

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How to Get There

The Monkey Trail starts directly at the far southern end of Ao Nang Beach. Simply walk to the end of the main beach road until you reach the rocks and Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi. You’ll see signs and a wooden stairway leading to the trail.