Updated December 2024
Tucked into the coast of Krabi province and only accessible by boat, Railay Bay is one of Thailand’s most stunning and tranquil destinations, known for towering limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters.
This small peninsula feels like an island, offering a laid-back, tropical vibe and a serene escape. A 2020 Christmas trip to Railay Bay is one of my favourite memories of living in Thailand, and it was unusually quiet because of Covid.
Here’s everything you need to know about visiting one of Thailand’s lesser-known paradises:
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Getting to Railay Bay
Since Railay is cut off from the mainland by its dramatic cliffs, the only way to reach it is by long-tail boat or ferry. Most visitors arrive via Ao Nang, Krabi Town, or Phuket.
- From Ao Nang: Long-tail boats depart regularly from Ao Nang Beach and take about 10-15 minutes to reach Railay Bay.
- From Krabi Town: Boats from Krabi take approximately 30-40 minutes and depart from the pier.
- From Phuket: You can take a ferry or speedboat, but the trip is longer, around 2-3 hours.
Once you arrive, there are no cars or roads—only walking paths that connect the different beaches and areas of Railay.
The Beaches of Railay
Railay Bay is home to four main beaches, each with its own charm and appeal:
1. Railay West
This is the main beach, famous for its long stretch of soft, white sand and breathtaking sunsets. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the stunning limestone cliffs that frame the bay.
2. Railay East
Railay East is more of a mangrove-lined shoreline, so it’s not great for swimming. However, it’s the landing point for many boats and has some budget accommodation, lively bars, and restaurants.
3. Phra Nang Beach
Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand, Phra Nang Beach is known for emerald waters, limestone caves, and stunning views.
It’s a short walk from Railay East or West and is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. It’s also home to the famous Princess Cave (Phra Nang Cave), filled with wooden phallic offerings left by fishermen hoping for safe journeys.
4. Tonsai Beach
A quieter, more relaxed alternative to the busier Railay beaches, Tonsai is a popular spot with backpackers and climbers. While the beach can be rocky, it has a more bohemian vibe and offers affordable accommodation and excellent rock climbing.
Things to Do in Railay
- Rock Climbing: Railay is a world-renowned destination for rock climbing. With its karst limestone cliffs, climbers from all over the world flock to the area to test their skills. There are routes for all levels, from beginners to experts, and several climbing schools offer lessons and equipment rental.
- Kayaking: Explore the beautiful coastline and hidden caves by renting a kayak. Paddle around the limestone cliffs, discover secluded beaches, and marvel at the turquoise waters.
- Hiking to Railay Viewpoint and Lagoon: For those seeking adventure, the Railay Viewpoint offers incredible panoramic views of the entire bay. The hike is steep and can be tricky, especially after rain, but it’s well worth the effort. You can also visit the hidden lagoon, which involves climbing down into a secret cove surrounded by cliffs.
- Snorkeling and Diving: Railay is a great spot for snorkeling, with clear waters and abundant marine life just offshore. You can also arrange diving trips to nearby islands like Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta.
- Island-Hopping: Railay is the perfect base for exploring nearby islands. Take a boat trip to the famous Phi Phi Islands, Chicken Island, Poda Island, and Hong Island, where you can enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and beach hopping. I headed to Phi Phi after Railay for New Year.
Where to Stay in Railay Bay
Railay offers accommodation options for every budget, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly bungalows:
- Luxury: For those seeking a more luxurious experience, places like Rayavadee Resort and Railay Bay Resort & Spa offer five-star amenities with stunning beach views and easy access to the best beaches.
- Mid-Range: Railay Princess Resort & Spa provides comfortable accommodation at a more affordable price, located conveniently near Railay East.
- Budget: Backpackers and budget travellers can find affordable stays at Tonsai Beach or Railay East, with options like Rapala Rock Wood Resort offering simple yet comfortable bungalows.
I split my time between Sand Sea Resort (pictured above), which was right on Railay Beach West, and Railay Phutawan Resort (video below), which had a beautiful view and serene hilltop infinity pool.
Dining in Railay
From beachside restaurants to small local eateries, Railay offers a variety of dining options:
- The Grotto at Rayavadee: A high-end, unique dining experience inside a cave right on the beach.
- Local Beach Shacks: Plenty of budget-friendly spots along Railay East and Tonsai Beach serving Thai and international cuisine. Smoothies, cocktails and dubious brownies are everywhere!
- Kohinoor Indian Restaurant & Pizza: A popular spot for those craving Indian food or a break from Thai cuisine. I loved the food here!
Other Tips for Visiting Railay Bay
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Railay Bay is during the dry season, from November to March, when the weather is cooler, and the seas are calmer.
- What to bring: Since Railay is only accessible by boat, pack light. Make sure to bring sunscreen, swimwear, comfortable shoes for climbing or hiking, and a waterproof bag for your belongings.
- Cash: While there are ATMs in Railay, they sometimes run out of cash, so it’s advisable to bring enough with you, especially if you’re staying on Tonsai Beach.
My Visit to Railay Bay
With its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and laid-back vibe, I highly recommend a visit to Railay Bay. Let me know if you’ve been and what you think in the comments below.