Slowing Down in Ao Nang: Fire Shows, Temples & food

Our time in Ao Nang was a little slower than usual due to illness, but we still managed to have a great experience. We stayed at J Hotel, which is in a fantastic location—just a short walk from the beach and main strip. The rooms were spacious, with both air conditioning and a fan, which was perfect for the humid weather. The only downside was the Wi-Fi, which constantly cut out. Unfortunately, the staff couldn’t do much about it, so we ended up having to buy extra mobile data

Day 1- Arriving in Ao Nang and Mexican food

We arrived in Krabi by ferry and had pre-booked a transfer straight to the hotel. After checking in and taking a quick rest, we headed out to explore and find some dinner. That evening we tried something a bit different—Mañana Mexican Food Aonang 1. The food was incredible—huge portions, great flavor—and we even spotted a blow-up frog wandering around the place!

Later, we walked down to Ao Nang Beach and caught the start of a fire show. This one was even better than the one we saw in Phi Phi. The stunts were sharper, the equipment more impressive, and the performers looked really polished. We wrapped up the night with a fresh fruit smoothie—delicious as always.

Day 2- Moped Adventures & Night Markets

The next morning started, with another smoothie. Feeling a little better, we decided to rent a moped for the day. Adam has his license, but I had never been on one before—so it was a bit of an adventure! After a quick cruise along the main strip and a slightly confusing stop for fuel, we headed out to our main destination: Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple).

Once we arrived, we paid the entrance fee and made our way to the staircase. This climb was no joke—over 1,200 steps in intense heat and humidity. Easily the hardest and craziest climb we’ve ever done. We took it slow, stopping at every corner to catch our breath, and eventually made it to the top.

The views were worth it. A massive golden Buddha sits at the summit, surrounded by panoramic views of the landscape below. Although, as soon as we heard thunder rumbling in the distance, we made our way back down before the rain could hit.

At the bottom, we briefly explored the Tiger Cave itself and the loop around it, then jumped back on the moped to head into town. For lunch, we stopped at Jose Guesthouse & Restaurant, where we grabbed some decent Western food—though it was a little pricey for what it was. After that, we took it easy back at the hotel.

That evening, we rode out to the Ao Nang Night Market. It’s a lively spot with loads of stalls selling food, clothes, and souvenirs. There was live music, plus entertainment for kids. We ended up sharing a Korean pizza and a traditional Italian one, along with—yes—more smoothies. Afterward, we stopped by Omar’s Tent Bar & Grill, where we played a few rounds of pool (free with a drink purchase).

We finished the night with one last fire show, this time on the Reeve Club side of Ao Nang Beach. We started by watching the show outside another beach front bar which was by far the best one we’ve seen—super slick and professional. We also caught the end of the performance at Reeve, which was great too.

Day 3- A Day of Recovery

Unfortunately, the next day was mostly spent recovering in our room. Between naps, we made short trips for food, drinks, and a much-needed clothes wash, but otherwise kept things low-key.