Railay Beach - Discovering Thailand

Travelling to Railay Beach

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Railay Beach, a pretty good destination in Thailand (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Railay Beach and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Railay Beach, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Thailand, here's everything to know about Railay Beach for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Railay Beach

Railay Beach is a beautiful and secluded area located in the Krabi province of Thailand. It is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand for rock climbing, thanks to its striking limestone cliffs. Railay Beach is only accessible by boat due to its isolated location, which adds to its charm and exclusivity. The beach is divided into four sections: East Railay, West Railay, Phra Nang, and Tonsai. Each section has its own unique character and attracts different types of travelers. Visitors can enjoy beautiful white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and a range of outdoor activities including kayaking, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.

What to visit in Railay Beach

Railay Beach in Thailand is renowned for its stunning coastline, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful limestone cliffs. Here are some of the top attractions: 1. Railay Beach: Railay Beach is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. It's known for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Visitors can also enjoy activities like rock climbing, kayaking, and paddle-boarding.
2. Phra Nang Cave Beach: Phra Nang Cave Beach is known for its unique rock formations. Visitors can see stalactites and stalagmites in the caves, as well as spirit houses and offerings left by local fishermen. There's also a natural lagoon and beach area for swimming and sunbathing.
3. Railay Viewpoint: Railay Viewpoint is a popular spot for hikers. Visitors can hike up to the viewpoint to get stunning panoramic views of Railay Beach and the surrounding limestone cliffs.
4. Princess Lagoon: Princess Lagoon is a natural pool surrounded by limestone cliffs. Visitors can hike up to the lagoon to take a dip in the refreshing water.
5. Diamond Cave: Diamond Cave is a cave system that's open to visitors. It's known for its glittering limestone rock formations. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave to learn about its geology and history.
6. Phi Phi Islands: The Phi Phi Islands are a group of islands off the coast of Railay Beach. Visitors can take a day trip to the islands to explore their stunning beaches and clear waters. There are also opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving.
7. Mangrove Forest: The mangrove forest is a unique ecosystem that's home to a variety of wildlife. Visitors can take a kayak tour through the mangroves to see monkeys, birds, and other animals.
8. Ao Nang: Ao Nang is a nearby town that's popular with tourists. Visitors can find restaurants, bars, and shops in Ao Nang, as well as activities like rock climbing and kayaking.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Thailand, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Railay Beach.

When to go on holiday to Railay Beach

The best time to visit Railay Beach, Thailand is during the dry season, which typically runs from November through April. This time of year offers warm and sunny weather with lower levels of humidity, making it ideal for water activities and beach relaxation. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak season for tourists, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. If you prefer a quieter travel experience, consider visiting Railay Beach during the off-season from May to October, although be prepared for occasional rain showers.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Railay Beach

Railay Beach can only be reached by boat due to its location on a peninsula in southern Thailand. Here are the steps to get to Railay Beach: 1. Fly into Krabi International Airport or take a bus to Krabi town.
2. From Krabi, take a taxi or tuk-tuk to Ao Nang Beach, which is the closest departure point for boats to Railay.
3. At Ao Nang Beach, there are longtail boats departing frequently that will take you directly to Railay Beach. The trip takes around 15 minutes.
4. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Krabi town or Ao Nang to Railay. Ferries run less frequently than the longtail boats and take longer, but can be a more comfortable ride.
Once you arrive at Railay Beach, you will need to walk to your hotel or accommodations as there are no cars or roads on the peninsula.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Railay Beach, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Railay Beach

Here are some typical foods you can find in Railay Beach, Thailand with a short description for each: 1. Pad Thai - A stir-fried dish made with thin noodles, vegetables, peanuts, and your choice of protein. The flavors are sweet, sour, and salty.
2. Green Curry - A spicy coconut milk-based curry with green chilies, galangal, garlic, lemongrass, and fresh herbs. Typically served with rice.
3. Tom Yum Goong - A sour and spicy soup made with shrimp, coconut milk, herbs, and chili peppers.
4. Mango Sticky Rice - A sweet dessert made with sticky rice soaked in coconut milk and served with ripe mango.
5. Massaman Curry - A rich and mild curry dish made from potatoes, peanuts, and beef, chicken or tofu. This dish is influenced by Indian and Malay cuisine.
6. Som Tum - A spicy salad made with shredded unripe papaya, tomatoes, chili peppers, garlic, fish sauce, and lime juice.
7. Satay - Skewered and grilled marinated meat (chicken, pork, beef) served with peanut sauce.
8. Thai Fried Rice - A popular dish made with stir-fried rice, vegetables, egg, and a choice of meat, seafood or tofu.
You can find general info about typical foods in Thailand here.

Is Railay Beach an expensive destination for tourists?

The cost of visiting Railay Beach in Thailand will depend on several factors such as the time of the year you visit, your accommodation preferences, and the activities you choose to do. Overall, Railay Beach can be considered a bit expensive for tourists compared to other destinations in Thailand.
Accommodation prices in Railay Beach are higher than in other parts of Thailand due to the limited options available on this small peninsula. However, there are affordable options such as guesthouses and hostels, but the prices may still be higher than the average cost in Thailand. Food, drinks and transportation may also be more expensive due to the remote location.
That being said, if you plan well, it is still possible to visit Railay Beach on a budget and there are ways to save money. For example, you can consider visiting during the low season when prices are lower. Additionally, you can save money by opting for street food or eating at small, local restaurants instead of pricier dining options. It's worth noting that the beauty and serenity of Railay Beach are well worth the cost.

Where to find accomodation in Railay Beach

There are two main areas where visitors can find accommodation when visiting Railay Beach in Thailand: 1. Railay West - This is the main beach area of Railay and is known for its long stretch of white sand beach and breathtaking sunsets. It is the busiest area of Railay, so visitors can find a wide range of accommodations to choose from, including budget hostels, mid-range hotels, and luxury resorts.
2. Tonsai - This is the smaller and more secluded beach area of Railay, located on the opposite side of the peninsula from Railay West. It is known for its world-class rock climbing, laid-back vibe, and hippie culture. Visitors can find budget bungalows and small guesthouses in Tonsai. Keep in mind that Tonsai is only accessible by boat and can be more challenging to reach than Railay West.
You can check hotel prices at Railay Beach here:
Booking.com

Is Railay Beach a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Railay Beach in Thailand is considered a relatively safe place for tourists. It is a popular tourist destination with many visitors throughout the year, and there are security measures in place to ensure the safety of tourists, such as police patrols and CCTV cameras. However, like any tourist destination, travelers should still take common precautions to ensure their safety, such as safeguarding their belongings and avoiding empty or poorly lit areas at night. It's also advisable to pay attention to any safety warnings or advisories issued by the local authorities or your travel agent.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Thailand here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Railay Beach.

What type of travelers will enjoy Railay Beach the most?

Railay Beach in Thailand is a beautiful destination that caters to all types of travelers, but it's especially popular among adventurous couples and young people looking for fun in a beautiful setting. The area offers a range of activities, such as rock climbing, kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking to its beautiful viewpoints.
While Railay beach isn't necessarily a family destination, families can still enjoy it. The water is relatively calm, and there are many small tide pools that children can play in. However, you should note that the paths to Railay Beach are not stroller-friendly, and the steps can be quite steep and challenging for young children or elderly people.
Overall, Railay Beach is an idyllic location for anyone looking to enjoy nature, adventure sports, and a laid-back beach atmosphere.

How to get around Railay Beach

In Railay Beach, the main mode of transportation is by foot as there are no roads on the peninsula. However, to reach Railay Beach, you can take a long-tail boat or speedboat from Ao Nang or Krabi. Additionally, you can also hire a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the surrounding islands and beaches.

What to see around Railay Beach

Certainly! Here are a few options: 1. Koh Poda: This small island is just a short boat ride from Railay Beach and is known for its beautiful white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. It's a great spot for snorkeling and swimming.
2. Ao Nang Beach: This popular beach is just a few kilometers from Railay and is a great place to go for a stroll, enjoy some shopping or dine in some of the local restaurants. 3. Tiger Cave Temple: Located in Krabi town, this temple is known for its stunning views and unique golden Buddha that sits at the top of a towering staircase. 4. Phi Phi Islands: While it's not exactly a day trip (more like a half-day trip), the Phi Phi Islands are well worth a visit. You can see stunning blue waters, white sandy beaches, and unique rock formations in this area. 5. Emerald Pool: This natural hot spring pool is surrounded by a lush jungle and is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of Thailand's natural landscape. It is also located near the Tiger Cave Temple, making it a great two-for-one day trip.
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