Three Nice days At Railay Island: Where Adventure Meets Serenity
As this time i had decided to explore some of the islands around krabi and phukhet After spending 4 days at Phi Phi islands i had picked up another island for my exploring .i had decided to spend few day at the Railay Island . It has very beautiful beach Railay Beach which has garnered lot of international acclaim for its stunning beauty. In 2018, Forbes included it among the world's best beaches, it is amongst the world 10th best beach , highlighting its pristine sands, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic limestone cliffs that create a secluded paradise accessible only by boat.
But Why Railay Island?
Railay is a unique destination in Thailand, offering a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. Unlike other crowded beaches, Railay remains relatively untouched due to its isolation from the mainland. You get tourists who reach the island to see its beach because it is very famous so the some floating crowd appears from 11 AM to 5PM . But is is better to stay on the island as you get to see the real beauty of it at the sun rise and sunset . Its dramatic limestone cliffs attract rock climbers from around the world, while its pristine beaches and hidden lagoons make it a dream destination for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike. These can only be explored if you spend few nights there instead of island hoppinh in one day .Whether you seek thrilling hikes, water sports, or simply a peaceful retreat, Railay has something for everyone.
How to reach railay island . There are ferry services from phi Phi island , Kosumai ,Phuket and Krabi . Since i had already enjoyed the ferry rides this time i decided to use typical LONG TAIL decorated Thai Boats . From Krabi Ao Nang Beach in just 10 Bhatt and in 30 min you can reach railay island which is the most economical way to reach railay .our long-tail boat glided towards Railay Beach, I knew we had arrived somewhere magical. Towering limestone cliffs, lush greenery, and the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea embraced us as we stepped onto the soft, golden sands. This secluded paradise in Krabi, accessible only by boat, promised three days of adventure, relaxation, and sheer wonder.
Exploring Railay East & West
Railay Island is divided into two major sections: Railay East and Railay West.
Railay West: This side boasts the most stunning beach with powdery white sand and clear blue waters, making it the perfect place to relax, swim, and watch breathtaking sunsets. The beachfront is lined with resorts and restaurants, offering an idyllic setting for a laid-back evening by the sea.The whole island can be coverd by walking in about 3 kms .
Railay East: While not ideal for swimming due to its mangrove-lined coastline, Railay East is the hub for budget accommodations, lively nightlife, and access to rock climbing spots. It is also the gateway to Phra Nang Cave Beach and the Railay Viewpoint hike, making it an essential part of any visit.
Accommodation as mentioned that this being a small island accommodation are less . I had homed on to one of the resort with good view .Our stay at Railay Viewpoint Resort was a delightful experience. Tucked away amidst lush greenery, the resort provided a peaceful retreat while still being within walking distance of the beaches and attractions. The cozy wooden bungalows, surrounded by tropical gardens, offered a charming and rustic feel. Waking up to the sound of birds chirping and the gentle rustling of palm trees added to the serene ambiance. Waking up to the sound of gentle waves and the sight of the sun rising over the karst cliffs was nothing short of mesmerizing.The sun rise from the resort is a treat to watch .The resort also featured a beautiful swimming pool where we could relax after a long day of exploration. With friendly staff and comfortable accommodations, Railay Viewpoint Resort was the perfect base for our adventure.Breakfast was part of the tariff and one could get vegetarian portions also and the staff easily provided that .
Special Tips for Visiting Railay Island
Pack Light: Since you will be arriving by boat, carrying heavy luggage can be inconvenient. Opt for a backpack instead.
Also land on the correct side of the island ie East / west you must not end up walking from west to east with your luggage as their are no porters etc and NO trolleys for carrying your luggage .
If your hotel / resort is on west reach railay from Ao Nang beach by the long boat as ferries do not come to this portion .
If your hotel is on the east side come by ferry they drop you on the east side .
Remember if you come to railay by ferry then be ready to shift from ferry to small boat just before you get into the lagoon on the east as big ferries cannot dock on the pier because of the low tide .It can be little challenging if you shift from ferry to boat at high seas .
Bring Cash: There are limited ATMs on Railay, and some establishments may not accept credit cards.
Explore Early: Popular spots like Phra Nang Beach and the Railay Viewpoint can get crowded, so visit them early in the morning for a more serene experience.
Stay Hydrated: The hikes and outdoor activities can be intense, so keep plenty of water with you.
Wear Reef-Friendly Sunscreen: Help protect the marine life by using eco-friendly sunscreens while snorkeling or swimming.
Respect Local Customs: Phra Nang Cave is considered sacred, so be mindful of local traditions when visiting.
Book Accommodation in Advance: Since Railay is a small area, resorts fill up quickly, especially during peak season if not booked in advance you will get stuck up and will end up at poor quality hotels .
First day was spent exploring the breathtaking Phra Nang Cave Beach, where we marvelled at the mysterious spirit house tucked inside the cave. The beach itself was a scene from a dream—soft white sand, crystal-clear water, and dramatic cliffs framing the horizon.
Next day we found ourselves hiking to the Railay Viewpoint. The climb was steep and required a bit of effort, but reaching the top rewarded us with a panoramic view of the entire peninsula. From above, Railay looked like a slice of paradise, with its emerald lagoons and endless stretches of blue sea.
Evenings were magical, with golden sunsets painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. sun set is ideally viewed from the railay beach Beach itself is just superb with very gradually waves .We dined at cozy seaside restaurants, indulging in traditional Thai delicacies. One night, we watched a mesmerizing fire show on the beach, where skilled performers spun flames against the starlit sky, adding a touch of enchantment to our stay.
One of the highlights of our trip was kayaking through the serene mangroves and hidden caves. Paddling through the calm waters, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush jungle, felt like stepping into another world. We also took a long-tail boat tour to nearby islands, stopping at secluded beaches and snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
Food & Market and Activities at railay Island
Railay's small yet vibrant marketplace is located on Railay East, offering a variety of food options and exciting activities. Some notable recommendations include:
Local Thai Cuisine: Enjoy delicious Pad Thai, green curry, and mango sticky rice at small family-run eateries are very tasty and not very costly just for 4 Bhatt per dish .
Fresh grilled seafood and beachside barbecue spots are a must-to try out .
Pizzerias and even Indian restaurants are their which cater for Indian food so to get vegetarian food was easy .
Fresh Fruit Shakes & Cocktails Again : Numerous stalls serve refreshing tropical juices and evening cocktails with a view. and they are ideal cheap replacement of meals as it is fruits are best option in thailand always cheap and variety.
For activities, visitors can explore:
Rock Climbing: Railay is a world-renowned destination for climbers, with multiple schools offering beginner and advanced courses.you can get guide with equpment for the same .
Nightlife & Fire Shows: The laid-back beach bars often host live music and fire performances.
Massage & Spa Services: Unwind with a traditional Thai massage after a long day of adventure this remains cheapest comfort.
Shopping: Small shops sell beachwear, handmade souvenirs, and adventure gear.
As our final day approached, we found ourselves reluctant to leave. The beach's unique topography not only offers breathtaking scenery but also provides excellent opportunities for rock climbing, snorkeling, and exploring hidden caves. Its tranquil ambiance and relatively untouched environment make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. had captured our hearts with its untouched beauty, thrilling adventures, and peaceful charm. With one last stroll along the shore, we bid farewell to this enchanting haven, carrying memories that would forever remind us of the paradise we had discovered.with idea to return again . we had taken the ferry back to Phuket .
