A short uphill ride from the main beach at Ao Nang, lofty Lae Lay Grill specializes in fresh seafood and offers a wide selection of good Thai dishes. The menu changes frequently to reflect the season and the nightly specials include preparations of the freshest catch. While the interiors are casual, the second floor balcony offers fabulous Andaman Sea views and is an excellent place to catch the sunset.

Raitalay Terrace at Rayavadee is a great stop for lunch during a day at Rai Ley beach. Located at the southern end of the beach, not far from Rayavadee’s large infinity pool, Raitalay Terrace offers a wide variety of Thai and Mediterranean menu items. The restaurant has the best service in the area and a stylish setting shaded from the sun.

Uphill behind the main beach at Ao Nang, the Hilltop is a lively choice for Thai seafood dishes and cocktails. The restaurant is as close as Krabi gets to a hot spot, with live music and lounge areas on the lawn for cocktails and panoramic views of the Andaman. While the menu is relatively small, the seafood is fresh and genuinely good. A favorite is the crab meat curry served with vermicelli noodles. Be sure to book a reservation for sunset.

For those seeking a truly local experience, Wang Sai Seafood is a bustling open-air establishment on the beach just north of Ao Nang. The best way to order here is to choose a fish from the day’s catch (payable by weight) and select one of the many preparations, from a simple lemon garlic sauce to a spicy red curry. While many of the waitstaff do not speak English, they are quick to find a colleague who does. Reserve a waterfront table at sunset, when you can watch the local women digging for clams.