Now on every savvy traveller's list, Railay is nevertheless
one of Thailand's most sought-after beach areas. Just south
of Ao Nang Beach, around a rocky headland and accessible
only by boat, Railay presents a tranquil and extraordinary
world.
In just one small peninsula you'll find gorgeous white
sand beaches, soaring limestone cliffs, viewpoints, caves
and a lagoon hidden inside the cliffs, shaped and fed by
the changing tides. All within walking distance! (Map)
At Railay there are no roads; only footpaths. No buses,
no cars, just longtail boats. Although it's actually connected
to the mainland, the spectacular Phra Nang Peninsular is
effectively cut off from the rest of Krabi by limestone
headlands and steep jungle valleys; the only access is by
sea.
The very picture of tropical paradise, with no roads and
no hassle, Railay offers lazy days, adventure forays and
chilled-out evenings.
The number of places to stay on Railay has increased over
the last few years with new resorts opening on all of the
beaches except Phra Nang which is restricted by the topography
and the presence of the Rayavadee Resort.
Old-style fan-cooled bungalows can still be found, but
many are being upgraded. Railay might not have much budget
accommodation in the future. During high season (November
to April) it gets busy with visitors, many climbing enthusiasts,
often staying weeks rather than days. (More)
Accessible only from the sea, Railay's four beaches Ton
Sai, Railay West, Railay East and Phra Nang (often referred
to as 'Phra Nang Cave' beach) nestle between towering limestone
cliffs.
Three of the beaches, Railay West, Phra Nang Cave Beach
and Railay East are connected by narrow footpaths winding
around the base of the cliffs. In the small areas in between,
you'll find accommodation ranging from basic fan-cooled
bungalows, to the exclusive Rayavadee
Resort. (More)
Railay is packed full of activities and if you get bored
sunning yourself you could learn rock climbing, explore
in a sea kayak, visit some caves or check out one of the
viewpoints. (More)
Restaurants & Nightlife in Railay Beach
Eating out in Railay, is generally low key and casual,
with many small local eating places around the resorts or
beach areas, serving both western and Thai food. Travellers
often exchange tips and stories and the beach's restaurants
are often where new friends are acquired. Not all of the
restaurants in Railay West serve alcohol, but there are
great selections of fresh juices.
Nightlife is fairly low key; however the party scene (mainly
high season) is located in Railay East and features Techno
parties for the different stages of the moon.
Getting to Railay
Longtail boats leave regularly in high season from Chaofa
Pier in Krabi Town (about 45 minutes) or from Ao Nang Beach
(around 15 minutes). Or you can charter the whole boat if
you're in a big group and plan to go snorkeling and island
hopping.
During the monsoon season boats leave from Nam Mao Beach
(near Krabi Town) only. Quieter in low season, it can be
a bit rough due to southwest monsoon winds, especially if
you plan on snorkeling trips out to nearby islands.
