The Monkey Trail hike is a breath of fresh air amid the tourism encroachment of Krabi. It is a short 800 m trek that takes not more than 30 minutes to cover. The dirt path trail begins at a wooden bridge at the end of Ao Nang Beach, goes through dense forests to the summit, and gives way to a rickety staircase to Pai Plong Beach. It is a strip of warm white sand and turquoise water.
The area is mostly privatized under Centara Grand Beach Resort and you will have to sign your name at the entrance. However, you are free to use the beach even if you’re not a guest. You will get to see a lot of monkeys in the initial part of the trek, from which it gets the name. Most of them are likely to keep to themselves, hanging from tree to tree or catering to their newborns. However, steer clear from trying to feed them or have interactions with them - leave the wildlife at peace in their natural habitat. If disturbed, they might turn on you and try to snatch your belongings.