Centara Grand Beach Resort and Villas Krabi sits on Tubkaek Beach, on the quieter coast north of Ao Nang and a short drive from Klong Muang. It is one of the biggest resorts in the province, spread across landscaped grounds with a mix of hotel-style rooms, suites and villas, some of which have their own pools. The resort is part of the Centara group, which is known for family-friendly hotels in Thailand, and it is set up for guests who want to spend long days on site: several pools, a stretch of beachfront, restaurants and bars, a spa and a children's club. The coast here is calm and uncrowded compared with Ao Nang, and the views across the water to limestone islands are pleasant at sunset. Because the resort is some distance from the main town, most guests use the resort shuttle or a taxi to reach Ao Nang for dinner or pickups, and many island tours collect guests here, sometimes with a supplement.
Location and getting around
Tubkaek is a long, quiet beach backed by trees, and the resort occupies a good part of it, so the sense of space is generous. Krabi airport is roughly half an hour away by road, and Ao Nang is about the same, which makes this a good base for travellers who like to retreat after a day of tours.
It is a place to stay in rather than walk out from, so plan your evenings with a taxi, the hotel shuttle or dinner on site. Tours with hotel pickup usually include this area, but ask whether a supplement applies for the zone before you book.
Rooms and facilities
Accommodation ranges from garden-view rooms and family rooms to suites and villas, and the larger villas are popular with groups and honeymooners who want privacy. Expect air conditioning, balconies or terraces, and the usual resort comforts, though exact room types and sizes vary, so check the details for the category you choose.
Facilities typically include several swimming pools, a children's pool and club, a fitness centre, a spa, water sports on the beach and a number of restaurants and bars serving Thai and international food. Check the current offerings before you travel, since services change by season.
Who it suits and what to know: families with children, groups and couples who want to stay put, enjoy the pool and take a few day trips. The beach is good for walking, and at low tide the shallows can be wide, so check the tide table if swimming matters. Breakfast and airport transfers are charged separately on some rates, and a resort of this size can feel busy in the high season from December to March.
If you want to be among restaurants and bars, a hotel in Ao Nang is a better fit, and if you want a more intimate stay, look at the smaller properties in this guide. Book early for school holiday periods, and ask about family rooms and connecting rooms if you travel with several children.
Why stay here
- ✓Beachfront on Tubkaek Beach
- ✓Garden rooms, suites and pool villas
- ✓Several outdoor swimming pools
- ✓Children's pool and kids club
- ✓Spa and fitness centre
- ✓Multiple restaurants and bars
- ✓Water sports on the beach
- ✓Shuttle and airport transfers on request
Good questions
Where is Centara Grand Krabi?+
On Tubkaek Beach, on the quieter coast north of Ao Nang. Krabi airport and Ao Nang are each roughly half an hour away by road.
Is it good for families?+
Yes, it is a large resort with several pools, a children's club and family-sized rooms and villas. Check the current facilities for your dates.
Can I walk to Ao Nang from here?+
No, it is too far on foot. Use the resort shuttle or a taxi, and ask whether your tour pickups carry a supplement from this area.
