It's a sad fact of life that the world's most enchanting natural sites attract an inordinate number of tourists - Ao Phra Nang, 18km to the west of Krabi, is one of those places, where tourist shops and hotels of every description have detracted from the bay's original beauty. This long beach of white sand is still worth a visit, however, and to escape the crowds we recommend that you head for Hat Nopparat Thara, an extension of the bay to the west.