Ao Nang is the most “westernized” beach in Krabi. Originally a backpacker hotspot, it is now moving rapidly towards the package tourist crowd as the airport brings in more charter flights with each season.
While not quite as scenic as Raiay Bay, there is a good range of accommodation, many good restaurants, easy transport and travel/tour agencies ready to cater to your every whim, making it a good base for exploring Krabi.