Staying on Railay, Krabi
A cliff-ringed peninsula reached only by boat. What Railay East, West, Phra Nang and Tonsai are like, and what to know before you book.
Railay (also spelled Railey) is a small peninsula between Ao Nang and Krabi Town. Towering limestone cliffs cut it off from the mainland, so it can only be reached by boat. The scenery is among the most dramatic in Thailand, and the cliffs have made it a world-famous rock-climbing destination.
The beaches
- Railay West has the best swimming beach on the peninsula, with sunset views and the main boat landing from Ao Nang.
- Railay East faces mangroves rather than sand and is not good for swimming, but has cheaper accommodation, bars and the boat landing from Krabi Town.
- Phra Nang Beach is a short walk from both and is often called one of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand, with the Princess Cave shrine at its end.
- Tonsai, next to Railay West, is rustic and popular with climbers.
Who it suits
Railay suits couples, climbers and travellers who prioritise scenery. There are no cars, few shops and limited nightlife. Families with lots of luggage or travellers with limited mobility may find the boat landings and walking tricky.
Practical tips
- Boats from Ao Nang land directly on the sand at Railay West. Expect to wade, and pack light.
- Day visitors crowd Phra Nang Beach in the middle of the day; early mornings and evenings are much quieter.
- In the monsoon (May to October), boats from Ao Nang may stop running in rough seas; there are then boats to Railay East from the Krabi side.
- Climbing courses for beginners are offered by several local schools.
Hotels
RayavadeeA pavilion resort on the Railay peninsula, between Phra Nang, Railay West and Railay East. Location, access by boat and who it suits.
