Once a simple fishing harbor; Krabi is becoming an eco-tourism center; as well as the main ferry embarkation point for islands such as Ko Lanta to the south; Ko Phi Phi to the southwest; and the beaches around Ao Nang to the west.

Set on the banks of the Krabi Estuary; the town is said to take its name from a sword or krabi allegedly discovered nearby. Krabi's surroundings are distinguished by towering limestone outcrops; a kind of Phang Nag Bay on land; and these have become the symbol of Krabi Province. Among the most notable are Khao Khanap Nam; twin limestone peaks; which stand like sentinels at each side of the Krabi River. To the east; the town is hemmed in by mangrove-lined shorelines.