The Ultimate Guide On Railay Beach Thailand 2025 | What To Do?

Railay Beach, also known as Ao Railay, is one of the most popular destinations of Krabi that you should definitely add to your bucket list. The geographical location, stunning turquoise water and natural beauty also made this place the “second Phi Phi Islands” of Krabi. The beach is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and is part of the Hat Nopparat Thara of Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park. Another thing that makes Railay Beach, Thailand, so unique and popular is that you cannot reach this place by road, which means you have to take a boat to get there. 

So, what are you waiting for? Book your flights to Thailand now and explore the stunning beaches in Krabi for a memorable experience. Read further our complete guide on Railay Beach, Krabi, so that you can plan in an efficient way. 

How to Reach Railay Beach

The very first question that comes to our mind when we talk about exploring a place is how to reach it. Then worry not! Railay Beach is easily accessible from Krabi, and we recommend that you travel to Railay Beach from Ao Nang, which is a small town in Krabi. 

Reach Ao Nang First: 

So, in order to reach Railay Beach, Krabi, first you need to reach Ao Nang town. Here are some of your options: 

• From Bangkok: The best option is to take an overnight bus to Ao Nang if you are in Bangkok. The bus departs around 5-6 pm and reaches Ao Nang the next morning around 8-9 am. And if buses are not your thing, then you can also fly to Krabi from Bangkok, and then take a taxi or shared taxi to Ao Nang. 

• From Krabi: If you are already in Krabi, then Ao Nang is just 20 minutes away. You can easily book a taxi through the Grab app for the best rates or a songthaew (shared taxi). 

• From Phuket: If you are looking to reach Railay Beach from Phuket, then Ao Nang is just 3 hours away from the town. We recommend that you take a minivan or bus to reach Ao Nang. The bus departs from the Phuket Bus Terminal 1, so keep this in mind if you are in the Patong Beach area. 

NOW, once you have reached Ao Nang, reaching Railay Beach is relatively easy and convenient. The only and best way to reach Railay Beach from Ao Nang is to take a long-tail boat, which takes around 10-15 minutes. The journey is beautiful and offers you amazing panoramic views of the stunning turquoise waters. You can buy the tickets from the office at Ao Nang Beach. 

One-way tickets cost around 100 THB, and return tickets cost 200 THB. However, we recommend you take a one-way ticket and stay at this stunning island for 2-3 nights to fully soak in the beauty. The Railay Beach hotels are affordable and give you the opportunity to fully relax in paradise. 

Furthermore, if you are traveling from Ao Nang to Railay Beach after 6:30 pm, then one-way tickets cost around 150 THB. The boat drops you off at Railay Beach West, which is one of the best places to visit in Thailand. 

Where to Stay: Railay Beach, Thailand

Now, after reaching this paradise, another question that strikes is: where to stay on Railay Beach Thailand and is it even worth it? So, let us tell you, staying at Railay Beach Krabi is one of the best experiences, as you can fully explore the area without worrying about time and going back. And guess what, staying at Railay Beach overnight also gives you an amazing opportunity to witness the stunning Railay Beach sunset, which is world-famous. Railay beach accommodation has lots of options as per your budget: 

• Railay Beach Hotels: Railay Beach is a small area, but surprisingly, there are a decent number of hotels to choose from, depending on your budget. Some of our recommendations are -  Railay Bay Resort & Spa, Sand Sea Resort Railay Beach, Railay Phutawan Resort and many more. 

• Bailey Beach hostels: If you are someone who is on a budget and looking for budget options, then you are in luck! There are some good Railay Beach hostels where you can plan your stay. Social Quarters Blanco - Youth Hostel and Garden View Resort at Tonsai are the options. 

Railay Beach Things To Do 

If you are wondering about what you can explore at Railay Beach Thailand, then here are some of our top recommendations: 

1. Enjoy Water Activities at West Railay Beach: 

Railay Beach, Krabi, is a cluster of beaches, and there are mainly 3 beaches, with one of them being West Railay Beach. It is the drop-off location of long-tail boats that come from Ao Nang. It is a curved beach surrounded by towering limestone cliffs to the north and south. This makes this beach perfect for postcard-perfect photos and relaxing while soaking in the beauty. 

One of the major highlights that you cannot miss when you are here is witnessing the Railay Beach sunset. There are many other Railay beach things to do which you can enjoy at West Railay Beach. Enjoy other activities like football, volleyball, sunbathing, swimming in the sea or kayaking. You can try SUP boarding as well to witness stunning views from the middle of the sea. 

2. Try Railay Beach Rock Climbing 

Another Railay beach things to do is try rock climbing at the towering limestone cliffs soaring above the Phra Nang Beach. These rock formations have made Railay beach a world-renowned rock climbing destination, attracting lots of tourists to try this challenge. To reach here, you can walk along the western beach and make your way to Phra Nang Beach, passing through a cave filled with limestone formations. The best time to visit this place is before noon when the sunlight is perfect and the crowd is less. This breathtaking view of limestone cliffs and beach will steal your heart away. 

3. Explore Railay Beach caves

One of the most popular Railay beach caves, which you should definitely explore, is the Phra Nang cave, which is full of phallic-shaped wooden sculptures of various sizes. It is a sacred place and local fishermen bring offerings such as flowers, incense sticks and wooden phallic structures to the shrine of the beautiful maiden in order to protect and grant their wishes. 

Another popular cave which you should explore is the Bat Cave also known as Bat Cape. It is a massive limestone mountain that stands majestically on the beach. You have to climb the mountain to enjoy the views from atop the Bat Cave. It offers you panoramic views of Phra Nang Beach. Last but not least, don't forget to visit Phra Nang Ni Cave, also known as Diamond Cap. The cave is home to some of the stunning Stalactites and stalagmites, which shine brightly in the light. You have to pay 40THB per person to enter the cave. It is one of the unique gems on its own, which you should not miss. 

Is Railay Beach Thailand Worth Visiting?

100% Railay Beach Thailand is worth visiting to witness this secluded and stunning paradise away from the usual crowds. I think Railay has some of the best beaches and activities to do to fully enjoy the beauty. But one thing which you cannot miss is the Railay Beach sunset which is mesmerising to watch. If you are thinking that you do not want to get into planning, then you can book the Railay Beach tour directly with us, and we will keep everything arranged for you. 

Conclusion

Railay Beach is a must-visit destination in Thailand for beach and adventure lovers. So, book your flights to Thailand with Experian Airfare now and explore this stunning island without any worries. We hope that this guide on Railay Beach will help you plan your trip smoothly. Let me know in the comments if you have any questions. 

Also Read: Phuket Island Paradise

FAQs

Q- How to get around Railay Beach Krabi?

Railay Beach Krabi, is only accessible through long-tail boats and has no roads. So, the best way to get around Railay is to walk from one place to another. Railay is a relatively small island that you can easily explore on foot. However, there is no availability of cars, taxis or scooters. 

Q- What is the best time to visit Railay Beach?

The best time to visit Railay Beach Thailand, is during the sunny and dry season, which is from November to April. The weather is pleasant during this time, and you can easily reach the island from Ao Nang. Try to avoid visiting during the monsoon season (May to October) as the unstable sea makes it difficult to reach Railay beach. 

Q- Is Railay Beach a party place?

Railay Beach has lots of beachside nightlife in the high season. You can visit Railay West Beach for fire shows, live music and parties. Bamboo Bar and Tew Lay Bar are the popular choices to enjoy the vibrant club parties.