Railay, the peninsula between Krabi and Ao Nang
Railay, also known as Rai Ley, is a large peninsula between the city of Krabi and beach resort Ao Nang. It is accessible only by boat, due to its high limestone cliffs cutting it off from mainland access.
Railay is a majestic peninsula that everyone should visit at least once while traveling around Thailand. Railay’s stunning limestone karsts and warm turquoise waters create a tranquil, laid-back atmosphere.
From the West, you can enjoy the fiery orange sunsets and the East’s beautiful sunrise.
However, walking from west to east takes no longer than 10 minutes. Only a short walk through the middle of the peninsula brings you to either side.
Railay is a charming destination; many relate it to the Avatar movie. Arriving in Railay, you instantly sense the laid-back, super friendly vibe and the warmth of the Thai people.
You can complete sightseeing in a full day, giving you plenty of time to enjoy Railays beauty and laid-back atmosphere.
Beaches to explore
West Railay Beach: From Ao Nang Pier, this will be the pier you arrive at via long-tail boat.
Railay Beach comes alive at sunset; tourists and locals arrive and wait patiently to capture its fiery orange/red sunset. As the sunset fades away, everyone scatters away.
Tonsai Beach
Tonsai beach is approx 600 metres and runs from Railay West, and separated by rugged rock-face cliffs.
At low tide it can be reached by foot. High tide it can be reached via a short, but rugged hike over the rocks.
Phra Nang Cave Beach (Princess Cave)
Phra Nang Beach The light-colored sand is fine and soft, the water is clean and clear, and the view of the rock cliffs in the background, as well as of the rock island near the beach, is impressive.
You can easily swim to this island, and there are also large, designated safe swimming areas where you can stay well away from the numerous boats coming to the beach.
The main attraction of Phra Nang Beach is, however, the fertility shrines in the cliff faces. Legend has it that fishermen would visit the Princess Cave to bring offerings of wooden phallics to aid in fertility.
Getting to Phra Nang beach from Railay East is a spectacular walk through the cliffs, passing stalactites and stalagmites.
East Railay Beach
From Ao Namao Pier, you will arrive at Railay East Beach by long-tail boat. The transfers take place every hour at a cost of 100 baht per person.
East Railay Beach is the perfect spot for early risers to witness the breathtaking sunrise as it rises through the mangroves.
At high tide, the sea reaches the hotel’s boundaries, covering the walkways with shallow waters, while at low tide, mangroves become more noticeable.
If you’re an avid rock climber or a traveler looking for a new hobby, Railay is definitely the place for you.
Gibbons, hornbills, monkies, and monkeys roam freely throughout the day. Many creatures roam freely around Railay.
Getting to Railay
In Krabi, you can take a longtail boat from Ao Nammo Pier or Ao Nang Pier.
There is a set timetable from Ao Nammo Pier, with departures every hour from 08.30 to 18.30 daily.
From Ao Nang to Longtail, boats will depart only once they are full. In high season this is convenient; in low season it is not. Alternatively, hiring a private longtail boat is possible for approx. 1000 THB each way.
The journey takes approximately 15 minutes and costs 100 THB per person, but it is a scenic one.
Make sure to accurately check your timings if you are traveling from outside Krabi to avoid becoming stuck at the pier. Alternatively, book a night around Krabi.
