Railay Beach, Krabi: A Local’s In-depth Travel Review

Railay, Krabi – I want to take everyone down south of Thailand to experience the chill vibe and stunning beauty of the turquoise sea at Railay, Krabi. This place has numerous attractions and activities to offer, including gorgeous beaches and the sea for swimming, adventurous kayaking, or even stand-up paddleboarding. If you’re into rock climbing, Railay also has impressive cliffs to conquer, or you can opt for cave exploration and enjoy breathtaking views of Railay. Trust me, adventurers will fall in love with this place!

Railay Beach is one of my favorite destinations in Krabi. Railay has it all, whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation to sunbathe and swim in the sea or an adventurous trip with rock climbing and mountain hiking. I highly recommend spending a night at Railay Beach if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway to unwind before returning to work. You will not only rejuvenate in the midst of nature, but you will also participate in a variety of enjoyable activities.

✨👀 If you’re reading this travel review on my blog for the first time, I just want to say hello! My name is Kot and I’m real 100% Thai. Therefore, you can be confident that this Thai travel review is a genuine local review, not a travel review done by foreigners or Farangs. So, let’s travel like real Thai locals. Yeahh!

Let’s get to know Railay better!

Railay, alternatively called Ao Railay or Railay Beach, is a highly sought-after destination in Krabi, gaining immense popularity among travelers. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone touring Krabi. Contrary to common belief, Railay Beach isn’t an island; it’s actually a peninsula on the mainland. Surrounded by mountains, the area is only reachable by boat, which could cause some to mistake it for an island.

Nestled within the Hat Noppharat Thara – Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, Railay Beach boasts stunning natural scenery, turquoise waters, and immaculate shores, earning it the title of “Krabi’s second Phi Phi.” With impressive cliffs dotting the landscape, Railay has become a famed rock-climbing hub for both local and international visitors looking for a thrilling adventure.

Apart from rock climbing, other attractions include bat caves and mesmerizing views of Railay, a must-see spot for every visitor. Don’t miss out on this experience – the views are absolutely rewarding! Railay’s natural wonders continue with its rich forests, housing an array of caves, and numerous viewpoints around the beach. Adventure seekers can also enjoy kayaking and the trendy stand-up paddleboarding.

Last but not least, the star of the show: Railay Beach, split into East Railay and West Railay. Stroll leisurely between the two areas for a laid-back experience. To get to Railay Beach, take a boat from Ao Nang Beach or Nammao Bay for 100 THB per person, and in just 10 minutes, you’ll arrive at your destination. So come along and experience this amazing trip with me!

Railay’s Attractions

Let’s start exploring Railay together!
West Railay Beach

West Railay Beach is a crescent-shaped beach with towering limestone cliffs on both the north and south sides, making it only accessible by boat. Numerous long-tail boats can be seen lined up along the beach. Even though this is a popular spot for tourists to arrive, the area remains peaceful and private. West Railay Beach is considered the best spot to watch the sunset in Railay, and anyone who comes here shouldn’t miss this breathtaking sight.

West Railay Beach is also a great place for various activities such as playing football, volleyball, sunbathing, swimming, and kayaking. Most tourists prefer this side of the beach due to its beautiful smooth sand and the presence of several hotels along the shore. You can see people enjoying various activities along the beach, making it a lively and colorful place.

SUP Board at West Railay Beach

As my resort was located in the West Railay zone right on the beachfront, I decided to try SUP Boarding. You can easily find rental shops along the beach, and there are plenty to choose from. The rental price is 200 THB for the first hour and 100 THB for each additional hour, which is quite reasonable.

Paddling on a SUP Board at Railay is another activity that I highly recommend everyone to try. It’s both fun and a great workout since paddling requires a fair amount of strength due to the gentle waves constantly hitting the board. Paddling back and forth can be quite tiring, but the stunning view from the middle of the sea as you SUP Board is well worth the effort. I absolutely love it!

Phra Nang Beach

Next, we’re heading to the enchanting “Phra Nang Beach” or “Phra Nang Bay”, located on the east side of Railay. You can walk along the western beach and make your way to Phra Nang Beach, passing through a cave filled with towering limestone formations. This spot is a popular photo destination, offering stunning views of the massive cliffs. I recommend visiting early in the day when the sunlight streams down, showcasing the grandeur of the limestone giants. It’s another natural wonder created by Mother Earth.

Once you arrive at the eastern zone, you’ll find Phra Nang Beach. The best time to visit this beach is before noon when the sunlight is perfect and the crowds are minimal. The first sight that will catch your eye is the immense limestone cliffs that soar above the beach. So tall, you’ll have to crane your neck to see their peaks! The view is so breathtaking that I believe everyone will be awestruck. You’ll also see groups of tourists climbing the cliffs – it’s quite a challenging spot for rock climbing! I’m tempted to give it a try, but maybe I’ll save that for my next visit. (laughs)

Visitors to Phra Nang Beach might be intrigued by the surrounding phallic-shaped wooden sculptures of various sizes. According to local legend, a beautiful maiden once lived in a temple by the sea, not far from the current Shell Cemetery. Her beauty attracted many suitors, but she showed no interest in any of them.

One day, a young man from Koh Hua Khwan came to profess his love, but she refused. He tried to abduct her by force, but luckily, a young man from Koh Poda arrived to save her. The maiden agreed to marry her savior, and on the wedding day, the young man brought a procession to ask for her hand in marriage. However, when the other suitors found out, they refused to accept the outcome, and a chaotic fight ensued. A hermit living in the cave heard the commotion and tried to stop the fighting, but when no one listened, he cursed everyone involved to turn them into stone. The beautiful maiden became the Phra Nang Cave, while her suitors transformed into nearby islands and mountains. The sunken wedding gifts became the mountain resembling a dowry, and the sticky rice brought for the wedding turned into the Shell Cemetery.

Local fishermen and boatmen believe in the sacredness of Phra Nang and that her spirit protects and grants their wishes. They often bring offerings to the shrine, such as flowers, incense sticks, and most commonly, wooden phallic sculptures, which they believe promote fertility, prosperity, and abundance for the world and humankind. There are two shrines at Phra Nang Beach where you can take a closer look or even pay respects if you’d like, but be sure to bring your offerings with you.

I have to share a little secret about Phra Nang Beach that not many travelers know! I only found out about it because a local suggested I explore the area in the morning. It turns out there’s a hidden spot nestled inside a cave beneath the limestone cliffs near the Phra Nang Shrine. You can walk through it when the tide is low, usually before 10 am. If you look closely, you’ll see a hole that lets you pass through the seawater and emerge inside the hidden rock chamber.

Trust me, it’s incredibly beautiful and truly a hidden gem of Phra Nang Beach. If you want a unique Railay photo, you can walk into the cave before 10 am, right next to the Phra Nang Shrine. You’re guaranteed to capture an extraordinary shot unlike anyone else’s.

Overall, Phra Nang Beach is a solid 10 out of 10 for me. The stunning natural wonders, like the massive limestone cliffs reaching toward the sky, are truly awe-inspiring. Plus, there are plenty of adventurous activities to try out in the area, and the atmosphere is just fantastic – I absolutely love it!

For those of you hanging out and enjoying various activities on Phra Nang Beach until the evening, I recommend staying to watch the sunset. Phra Nang Beach is one of the most beautiful sunset spots in Railay, rivaling western Railay Beach. The sight of the big, round sun casting its golden-orange hues across the sea against the backdrop of the long mountain range is simply breathtaking. As the last light of the day gradually fades away, it’s another incredible sunset experience to cherish. If you’re looking for a quieter, less crowded sunset spot compared to western Railay Beach, this is the place to be.

Bat Cape (ถ้ำค้างคาว)

After taking photos and having a good time, we strolled from Phra Nang Beach to the end of the beach, passing through a famous hotel with a restaurant inside a cave. Another unique attraction in Railay is the “Bat Cave” a massive limestone mountain that stands majestically. Climbing the mountain to enjoy the view from atop the Bat Cave, which provides a bird’s-eye view of Phra Nang Beach, is the main activity here.

To get to the viewpoint, you need to walk through the forest on the right side of Phra Nang Beach. Keep an eye out for the small hidden entrance, which may be difficult to find. If you can’t find the path or are concerned about getting lost, simply wait for other visitors and follow them, as the Bat Cave has become quite popular with people climbing nonstop.

The climbing route begins with a short walk through the forest until you reach the first section, which isn’t too steep but has a variety of sized rocks. There is a big rope to help pull yourself up if you’re worried you won’t be able to climb. For those who feel uncomfortable using a rope, I advise firmly grasping the rocks with your hands, setting your feet firmly, and slowly ascending like a gecko. Be cautious and take care while climbing.

After we managed to climb past the first point, we came across a magnificent and enormous bat cave that I couldn’t believe was nestled on top of the mountain. At that moment, I felt like I was hiking a trail in a foreign country, not in Thailand (I’m Thai! haha.) – it was genuinely amazing. But this was only halfway; we still had to continue on because our final destination was further inside, where we had to climb even higher. To reach this point, we had to walk up to the upper part of the bat cave and then climb up some bamboo stairs that were laid against the cave. The stairs were a bit steep and, at the very end, we had to turn to the right because we couldn’t walk straight up. At this point, I was a bit scared, probably because the stone staircase was quite narrow.

After breaking a sweat and finally arriving at the famous spot that everyone visiting the bat cave must take a photo from, we continued up the bamboo stairs and squeezed our way through a cave opening. If you can’t find it, just watch what other tourists are doing. They will be entering a dark hollow that you need to walk through until you find a rocky ledge with a breathtaking view of Phra Nang Beach and the surrounding landscape as far as the eye can see. From this vantage point, people walking down on the beach below look tiny, like little beansprouts. The atmosphere up here is absolutely incredible and well worth the climb.

We soaked up the atmosphere until we were content and then it was time to retrace our steps back down. We decided to go back the same way we came up, but if you want to try a different experience or want to collect more rock climbing points, you can rappel down from the bat cave. However, you’ll need to contact a guide to lead you from the start of your climb. They will guide you to climb down another side of the cave. I caught a glimpse of the route, which required walking deeper into the cave before reaching the rappelling point. If you’re the adventurous type, don’t miss this opportunity – the view is spectacular with a backdrop of massive rock formations.

Tew Lay Bar 

After all that energy spent, we continued strolling along the beach and ended up at Tew Lay Bar, a small and famous café and bar known for its stunning ocean views and a variety of Thai and international dishes. It’s one of the most popular spots on Railay Beach among both Thai and foreign tourists who come to chill out and enjoy the vibes.

Tew Lay Bar is open from 9 AM until midnight, offering a variety of seating zones, most of which consist of wooden benches and low tables paired with beanbags to sit on. However, what most people love is the seating area by the sea, and of course, we couldn’t miss that. As soon as a spot opened up, we swooped in and enjoyed an incredible view of the shore, watching small boats pass by amidst the cool, refreshing breeze. After a tiring day, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind.

The highlight of Tew Lay Bar is taking photos of the tree branch that extends over the sea. The café has created a unique seating area on the branch, allowing visitors to pose for some cool snaps. It’s become the signature of the bar, and almost everyone who visits tries to climb up and take a photo. I couldn’t resist joining the fun, even if it was a little scary and I felt like I might fall into the sea!

As for the drinks we tried, we started with a Watermelon Shake (80 THB) that tasted like a whole garden of watermelons in a glass. The aroma and sweetness of the watermelon were refreshing, making for a delicious drink. We also had a Mango Lassi (90 THB), a smooth and creamy mango drink with the perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors. If you’re a fan of mango shakes, this one is a must-try. Lastly, we had an Iced Chocolate (90 THB) to contrast with the fruity flavors. The chocolate was rich and not too bitter, with just the right amount of sweetness. It was another refreshing drink to enjoy amidst the sunshine and sea breeze.

Overall, Tew Lay Bar is a café and bar I highly recommend visiting. It has a good ambiance, a roomy layout, and seating areas that make it feel cozy even when it’s busy. There are also plenty of nice photo locations that Instagram enthusiasts will undoubtedly enjoy. The drinks are satisfying and reasonably priced, both in terms of taste and cost.

Phra Nang Nai Cape (ถ้ำพระนางใน)

We continued our adventure before the sunset after refreshing ourselves with some drinks. We headed to Phra Nang Nai Cape, also known as Tham Phet (Diamond Cap), located to the north of Railay East Beach. Even though the cave is not particularly big, it is incredibly beautiful and home to stunning stalactites and stalagmites that shine brilliantly in the light. There is a 40 THB per person entrance fee to the cave.

A raised wooden walkway that extends far into the cave makes it very easy to enter. The inside has the setting of a long corridor leading to a large chamber where we can circle around. Large stalactites and stalagmites can be seen up close in the cave, whether they are growing up from the cave floor or hanging from the walls. The distinctive feature of these unusual formations is that they are all white. The staff installed multiple colored lights inside the cave, and when the lights hit the rocks, they play with the light and sparkle, earning the cave the moniker “Tham Phet” (Diamond Cave).

Tham Phra Nang Nai is a stunning natural attraction all around. The stalactites and stalagmites are truly one of a kind and unlike any other because, when the light plays with them, they appear to have diamonds embedded within them. With its sturdy wooden walkways and evenly spaced lighting, the cave makes for a pleasant experience when exploring. However, because some areas can be a little dark, you might need to use the flashlight on your phone in those areas. I strongly advise going to Tham Phra Nang Nai if you enjoy exploring caves and want to get close to nature. Since there was only us there at the time, the cave felt serene and allowed us to fully enjoy nature to the fullest.

Watching the Sunset at Railay West Beach

After leaving Phra Nang Nai Cape, we strolled back to Railay West Beach, which was also where we were staying. Let me tell you, we spent the entire day exploring because we took our time, truly savoring the atmosphere of each location. So, there was no rush. By the time we returned to Railay West, we found a perfect spot to sit and watch the sunset. Railay Beach is not only known for its adventurous activities, but it also offers a stunning sunset view that looks like it’s straight out of a painting.

If you visit Railay, I highly recommend taking the time to watch the sunset. The golden rays reflecting on the ocean, swaying palm trees lining the shore, and fishing boats docking along the beach create a picturesque scene. Adding to this are the tourists swimming or kayaking in the sea, making the overall mood incredibly relaxing. Railay West Beach feels like a romantic escape surrounded by tranquility.

At that moment, we felt the ultimate relaxation. The sounds of waves crashing against the shore, chirping birds, and flocks of bats flying across the sky intensified the calming atmosphere.

After enjoying the sunset, it’s time for dinner. In the evening, there is a Walking Street lined with various shops and stalls, offering everything from restaurants, and souvenir shops, to bars and cozy hangout spots. The atmosphere along the street is lively, with over 90% of the crowd being international tourists. We rarely came across any fellow Thai visitors. If you’re hungry, there are plenty of food options to choose from, with prices catering to different budgets.

For those who have already had dinner and want to indulge in the beach’s atmosphere, I recommend grabbing your favorite drink and heading to the beach. There are convenience stores along the street selling alcohol, so you can purchase your drink of choice and enjoy it by the shore. When we visited, there were plenty of mats laid out on the beach, and we didn’t know whose they were. But we sat down, and nobody came to say anything or shoo us away. Haha!

Guys, the evening atmosphere was just as fantastic as during the day. Sitting leisurely, listening to the sound of waves crashing against the shore, and feeling the cool sea breeze on our faces, it was a delightful experience not to be missed. For those who enjoy a chill vibe, I believe you’ll love it too.

And that’s it for the attractions, activities, and viewpoints that I got to experience in Railay! Personally, I think Railay has one of the most beautiful beaches ever. It’s not just about the crystal-clear water, but also the complete package within a single location. You’ll find amazing sunset views ranking among the top in Thailand, adventure activities like rock climbing – which attracts climbers from all over the world – and kayaking and SUP boarding options for you to try according to your preferences. What I loved the most was climbing up to see the panoramic view of Railay from the Bat Cave, which was simply breathtaking. You can experience all of this at Railay, making it a must-visit destination for southern Thailand beach lovers.

Stayed Resort in Railay, Krabi
Sand Sea Resort

For my stay in Railay this time, I chose Sand Sea Resort, a beachfront hotel on the west side of Railay. Its location is very convenient because when arriving by boat from Ao Nang, you can easily walk to the hotel with your luggage right from Railay Beach. The hotel has a very relaxing atmosphere, surrounded by lush trees, and offers a choice of room types, including building rooms and separate villas.  

I reserved a villa that included breakfast for the room. The villa had a sizable balcony where guests could relax and sit comfortably for three people. The interior featured a Thai-style design with white and wood tones, complete with Thai furniture and decorative paintings. The bathroom was huge and equipped with all the necessary amenities, including a water heater, refrigerator, TV, and even a clothes rack. The room had a well-sized dressing area separate from the sleeping area. The resort also offers guests access to a fitness center and an outdoor pool.

The best thing about staying here is the spacious room, suitable for a group of friends or family. The bed was comfortable, and all the facilities were available. The resort’s breakfast was also fantastic, offering a wide variety of Thai and Western dishes, as well as plenty of snacks. And since the resort is located on the west side of Railay, you’ll be able to enjoy stunning sunsets right by the sea without worrying about a long walk back to your room.

For those who want to explore the other side of Railay Beach, guests at Sand Sea Resort can easily walk through the resort to get to the other side, saving you a lot of walking time. If you’re looking for a place to stay in Railay, I highly recommend Sand Sea Resort.

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