Best Motorbike Rentals in Ao Nang, Krabi
Ao Nang is a popular beach resort in Krabi known for its white sand beaches, limestone cliffs and tropical scenery. Nestled between towering karst hills and the turquoise Andaman Sea, Ao Nang offers tourists a wide range of amenities – from restaurants and shops to tour operators – making it an ideal base for exploring Krabi. Renting a motorbike is one of the most convenient ways to get around the area and visit nearby attractions.
Key Considerations When Renting in Ao Nang
Before you hop on a scooter in Krabi, keep a few important points in mind:
- Legal Requirements: To ride legally, you must carry a valid motorbike driver’s license with the appropriate motorcycle endorsement, plus an International Driving Permit (IDP) that covers motorcycles. Thailand strictly enforces helmet laws, and all riders and passengers must wear helmets or face fines up to ฿2,000. Police checkpoints in tourist areas such as Krabi and Phuket frequently fine riders without a license or helmet, with penalties often between ฿1,000 and ฿2,000. Most travel insurance policies will not cover you if you ride without a valid license, so it’s safest to carry your license, IDP, and passport at all times.
- Deposit & Documentation: Rental shops almost always require a deposit (cash or passport) before handing over the bike. Deposits typically range from ฿2,000–5,000 for scooters, and more for big bikes. Some providers allow a cash deposit instead of holding your passport. Expect to sign a simple rental agreement and show your passport or ID. A common best practice is to film or photograph the bike carefully at pickup and again at return to document any scratches or damage.
- Fuel Policy: Check whether the bike comes with a full tank of gas. Some shops will start you off with a full tank at no extra charge, but you must return it full or pay for refueling. If the bike was given full, make sure to fill it completely before returning to avoid disputes.
- Bike Condition & Size: Always inspect the scooter or motorbike before renting – test brakes, lights, horn, tires, and mirrors. Ensure both helmets (for rider and passenger) are provided. If the helmets look poor, you can buy one cheaply in a local shop. Choose a scooter size that suits you: 110–125cc scooters are standard and ideal for short rides, while larger 150–300cc bikes provide more comfort for longer or hillier routes.
- Pricing Expectations: Rental rates are affordable. Scooters (110–125cc) typically cost between ฿150–300 per day, depending on season and model. Larger bikes are more expensive, ranging from ฿800–1,000 per day. In high season (December to March), prices usually reach the top of this range. Always confirm the rate and rental term in advance.
Top 3 Rental Companies in Ao Nang
Below is a comparison of three well-known motorbike rental shops in Ao Nang. The table summarizes their approximate daily prices, bike types, deposit requirements, Google ratings, and locations.
Name | Price (฿/day) | Types of Bikes | Deposit | Google Rating | Location |
Mr Sak Motorbike Rental | 200–300 | 125cc Scoopy, Click, Airblade | ~฿3,000 (cash or passport) | 4.1/5 | Ao Nang (Beach Road) |
Mr Kord Car & Bike Rental | 200–300 | Scooters 125–155cc, larger bikes | ~฿3,000–5,000 | 4.4/5 | Ao Nang (near Mosque) |
Noui Motorbike Rental | 150–200 | 125cc Scooters (Honda Click) | ~฿3,000 or passport | 3.0/5 | Ao Nang (Nopparat Road) |
Mr Sak Motorbike Rental
Mr Sak is a popular Ao Nang rental shop known for its friendly service and solid value. Customers typically pay ฿200–300 per day for a 125cc scooter. The bikes are generally in good condition and often come with useful extras such as phone holders and two helmets. Many travelers highlight that the scooters are new or well-maintained, making the riding experience more comfortable. The rental process is straightforward and fast, but be prepared to leave a deposit of around ฿3,000 or your passport. The shop’s location on Ao Nang Beach Road makes it convenient for tourists staying near the beach and pier.
Mr Kord Car & Bike Rental
Mr Kord is one of the more established providers in Ao Nang, with a wide range of scooters and larger bikes. Daily rental prices start around ฿200 for a small scooter and increase for more powerful models. Customers report professional service, quick paperwork, and transparent deposits, which usually range from ฿3,000 for scooters up to ฿5,000 for larger bikes. Mr Kord’s team often records a video of the bike at handover, which adds an extra layer of protection for both sides. Travelers rate this shop highly for its reliability and honesty. The shop is located along Ao Nang’s busy tourist street near the central mosque, making it easy to access on foot.
Noui Motorbike Rental
Noui is a smaller local rental located on Nopparat Thara Road. They primarily offer 125cc scooters such as Honda Click, usually at lower rates of around ฿150–200 per day. Deposits are similar to other shops, typically around ฿3,000 or a passport. Some travelers report very smooth service and quick assistance, while others note mixed experiences with customer service. Noui’s overall rating is lower compared to competitors, but it remains a budget-friendly option. If you choose Noui, make sure to carefully check the scooter’s condition before riding.
Practical Tips for Renting and Riding
- Wear Your Helmet: Thai law requires helmets for both riders and passengers. Fines for violations can reach ฿2,000. Rental shops provide helmets, but check that they fit securely. For added safety, wear long clothing and shoes rather than sandals.
- Stay On the Left: Thailand drives on the left. Be extra cautious at intersections, roundabouts, and when overtaking. The main road toward Krabi town can be busy with larger vehicles, so ride defensively and take corners slowly.
- Fuel and Parking: Return the scooter with as much fuel as it had when you rented it. Fuel stations are common around Ao Nang. Park only in designated areas to avoid fines, and always lock your scooter.
- Photos and Documentation: Take photos or video of the scooter from all angles before leaving the shop. This helps protect you against disputes over scratches or damages. Keep a copy of your rental agreement until your deposit is returned.
- Local Laws: Do not drink and ride. Police checkpoints often verify helmets, licenses, and sometimes insurance. Always carry your documents, and be polite if stopped.
By following these tips and choosing a reliable shop such as Mr Sak, Mr Kord, or Noui, you can explore Ao Nang and Krabi with freedom and safety. Renting a scooter allows you to reach hidden beaches, viewpoints, and nearby attractions at your own pace.