Railay Beach Peninsula

Never mind Phi Phi, it was spoilt by unchecked development years ago, the real star of the show on the Krabi coastline is the Railay Peninsula. With a dramatic backdrop of sheer karst cliffs, and secluded paradise-like beaches, it really is one of Thailand’s most scenic locations.

Railay, the little peninsula just south of Ao Nang in Krabi province, is a true hidden gem. The towering cliffs that surround it cut the place off from the mainland. If you’re looking to get off the beaten path and experience somewhere truly unique, Railay is where it’s at!

This unique peninsula is cut off from the mainland by an impassable mass of limestone that forms the stunning seascapes around Ao Nang in Krabi province. It has turned Railay into a virtual island, reachable by boat only. The peninsula itself has a mass of limestone rock at its end sandwiching several gorgeous beaches between the cave and the mainland. Several lucky resorts are squeezed onto the limited flat land and have been developed in a low-impact and tasteful way. What’s more, they aren’t all for the exclusive high-end budgets, with some affordable bungalows offered.

Naturally, it’s a popular day trip from Ao Nang and can get a little busy in the high season but there is plenty of room for everyone on the three beaches here. Longtail boats leave frequently from Ao Nang, and regularly from Krabi town to Railay, ferrying sun seekers both ways until about 6 pm. The resorts are happy to serve lunch to outsiders and there are vendors on the beach.

Railay Beaches

Phra Nang Beach

Most sought after is the beach at Tam Phra Nang, where a cave houses an ancient shrine dedicated to the safety of fishermen. Closer inspection reveals numerous phallic statues offered to the legend of an Indian princess in the hope of a good catch! Here you find the best camera shots, calm swimmable waters, and few disturbances. It’s also the site of the most expensive resort. You should also ask the boat to take you directly here, as the only access on foot is to take the thoroughfare through the resorts to the mangrove side then follow the footpath all the way around the exclusive resort areas.

Railay Beach

The main Railay beach is larger and fronted by several resorts but with plenty of boats coming and going. It’s less popular with bathers but still lovely. It’s also a good place to get lunch. On the opposite side of the peninsula is a less attractive beach which is seldom practical since it turns into a virtual mangrove at low tide, and swimming is not easy.

Ton Sai Beach

Another beach that makes up the trio of this paradise as seen in the mouth-watering aerial shots of this ‘brochure star’, is Ton Sai Beach. This is located in a separate bay to the North. This is the budget beach, full of down-market backpacker bungalows costing as little as 200 baht right near the beach. This beach unfortunately is also spoilt at low tide, but it is the most popular location for the rock climbing that has made this area so famous.

Railay really is the ‘eye candy’ of tourism posters for Thailand and the multiple karst seascapes here make the area very popular, especially with Scandinavians. Ao Nang is a pleasant resort village that is much more down to earth than Phuket, busy enough for a fun atmosphere and to provide you with everything you need. It also has a good choice of hotels. From here it’s a 20-minute journey to Railay Beach for a nice escape from the tuk-tuks and tourists.

Another wonderful aspect of Ao Nang and Railay is the views. Offshore are numerous small islands and limestone shafts sticking out the water, and it makes for a truly rewarding vista as you look up from your beach book. Some are so close to Railay that you can practically swim to them.

What to Do on Railay Beach

Railay is an enchanting beach town that transports its visitors to a world without cars or roads, instantly immersing them in a slowed-down pace of life. Spend your days leisurely lounging by the pool or on the beach while soaking up the tropical sun. And for the adventurous, Railay is a rock-climbing haven that provides the perfect opportunity to challenge yourself and learn a new skill. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to hone your skills, the many climbing schools in Railay offer courses to cater to all skill levels.

Those into a little exploring will also find some marvels away from the beaches. Of course, with all this limestone around, the area has numerous caves.

Phra Nang Cave

Experience the magic of Phra Nang Cave, aka Princess Cave, a truly unique attraction located on Railay. Set against the backdrop of majestic limestone rock formations, this mystical rock cave houses a fertility shrine where wooden and stone phalluses are offered to fulfill the desire for children and fertility. The imposing rock walls above the cave add to its breathtaking allure, while climbers can be spotted scaling the dizzying heights. An otherworldly experience not to be missed.

Above the cave at Tham Phra Nang Beach is a hidden elevated lagoon. The trail is a bit tricky to find, so ask the locals boys, but with a little bit of steep climbing you reach the top of the cliff to find yourself staring down at an enclosed lake that few people realize is in the middle of this limestone block.

Diamond Cave

If you’re looking for an awe-inspiring adventure in Railay Beach, Diamond Cave should not be missed! This natural wonder, located next to the famous Princess Cave, is renowned for its lustrous stalactites and stalagmites. Take a 25-minute walk through this amazing cave and enjoy the mesmerizing underground views. A fee of 200 baht per person is required to access the cave, which is conveniently situated near Diamond Cave Resort.

Exploration is open daily from 8:00 am – 5:30 pm, so gather your friends and family for an unforgettable adventure.

If you’ve ever come across a Thai tourist poster, chances are Railay Beach was the star of the show. But it’s not just a pretty sight! At Phra Nang Beach’s end awaits a hidden gem – a small cave with a shrine that’s home to some intriguing phallic statues. Believers say these sculptures belong to Sri Kunlathewi, a local goddess who, according to legend, was once an Indian princess. Fishermen call upon her for a good catch, and it seems to work! But if you’re up for some adventure, brace yourself for some climbing. A rugged path waits to be conquered, leading to a hidden lake sitting pretty in the heart of an impressive karst cliff. Exciting, huh?

Railay at night is unique, showcasing a charming blend of tranquility and vibrancy. While a few small beach bars dot the area, the real fun happens on the east side where lively Rasta-style bars offer live music and fiery shows. You won’t find the typical “girlie-bar” scene here, as Railay attracts a young, diverse crowd of backpackers and families seeking adventure and relaxation.

How to Get to Railay Beach

Railay is easily reached by longtail boat from Ao Nang, Krabi, and Ao Nam Mao. In low season it is best to take a boat from Ao Nang as the boatman won’t set off without a few more passengers, so if you are traveling alone you may have to wait a long time. The trip from Ao Nam Mao is the smoothest during monsoon season as the boat doesn’t have to enter the open water. During the roughest tides, boats leave from a small pier at the northern end of Nopparat Beach in an area called Klong Haeng. It’s a brief 20-minute trip to Railay from any of these piers.

Use the search form below to book a longtail boat from Ao Nam Mao Pier in Krabi to Floating Pier East Railay.

Railay Beach offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle with its secluded vibes. It has an “island feel” that makes it unique and, coupled with the stunning scenery, lures in visitors from around the globe year after year. With high demand around Christmas and New Year, the limited number of rooms fill up six months ahead of time.

Where to Stay at Railay

Railay Beach peninsula has three sides, two of which flourish with spectacular sunsets and sandy beaches is nothing but bliss. The west-facing Sunset Beach and Phra Nang Bay can easily qualify among the best beaches in Thailand with their broad stretch of powder-like sand that slopes down into serene emerald green waters. Though accommodation overlooking these beaches is on the luxury side, the affordable rooms on the mangrove-lined east coast, approximately 10-15 minutes from the main beaches, will provide a wonderful experience as well.

Railay Beach has an incredible range of accommodations to choose from. With everything from beach hotels to cheap backpacker bungalows, there’s truly something for everyone. Since Railay is such a popular destination, it’s a good idea to book your favorite accommodation as early as possible. We’ve put together some amazing hotel recommendations just for you, so keep reading!

Looking for something affordable? Look no further than Avatar Railay Adult Only resort. It’s ideally located, comes with a pool, and has a great price point to boot!

For a truly special stay, we recommend Rayavadee. This hotel is in a class all its own, complete with a beautiful pool, prime location, and luxurious ambiance. Trust us, you won’t want to leave!

If a resort with a spa is more your style, then we’ve got the perfect spot for you. Bhu Nga Thani Resort & Spa is a top-notch hotel complex with a romantic, seaside location. And don’t even get us started on the modern pool area. It’s a true highlight!

Finally, Sunrise Tropical Resort is the place to be for anyone looking for a wonderful bungalow resort experience. With expansive bungalows and a delicious breakfast, you’ll feel right at home at this pretty hotel located at the lower end of Railay East.

Note! When traveling in Thailand it’s advisable to have travel insurance just in case. The risk of accidents is limited but it’s prudent all the same to have coverage on insurance for medical expenses while traveling, so you can be admitted to a local hospital without worry.

Frequently Asked Questions about Railay Beach

How do I get to Railay Beach?

The best way to get to Railay Beach is by a longtail boat from Ao Nang Beach. The journey takes around 20 minutes and costs around 150 THB per person.

Is Railay Beach safe for swimming?

Yes, Railay Beach is safe for swimming and there are plenty of lifeguards on duty. However, it is always a good idea to swim between the red and yellow flags as this is where the lifeguards are stationed.

Can I sunbathe on Railay Beach?

Yes, there are plenty of sun loungers available on Railay Beach and the sun shines all day long! However, please remember to put sunscreen on as the sun can be very strong in Thailand.

Is there anywhere to eat on Railay Beach?

Yes, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes located on Railay Beach serving both Thai and international cuisine. There are also several bars where you can enjoy a refreshing cocktail while watching the sunset. We recommend trying the Railay Beach Cafe Thai Noodles, Railay Family Restaurant, and Tew Lay Bar for drinks.

Is there anything else to do on Railay Beach?

Aside from swimming, sunbathing, and eating, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy on Railay Beach. These include rock climbing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and jungle trekking.

How much does it cost to stay on Railay Beach?

There is a range of accommodation options available on Railay Beach, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Prices start at around 500 THB per night for a basic room in a guesthouse and go up to around 10,000 THB per night for a luxury villa at a resort.

What is the best time of year to visit Railay Beach?

The best time of year to visit Railay Beach is between November and February when the weather is dry and sunny with temperatures averaging around 30 degrees Celsius. However, the beach can be busy during this time so if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere then it is better to visit outside of these months.

Do I need a visa to visit Railay Beach?

If you are a citizen of most Western countries then you will not need a visa to enter Thailand and can stay for up to 30 days without one. However, if you plan on staying longer than this then you will need to apply for a tourist visa in advance from your nearest Thai embassy or consulate.