Railay Beach
Railay Beach
4
About
West Railay, Phra Nang, and East Railay Beach make up this tranquil strip of sand. Accessible only by boat, you can easily find a secluded and peaceful spot to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy the crystal clear waters. There are pursuits like cliff jumping, rock climbing, and kayaking for the more adventurous. Park yourself at a Reggae bar and sip a delightful cocktail as you watch the sunset.
The dry season between November and March is the best time to visit Railay. You can take a boat from Krabi, Phuket, or Koh Phi Phi to get there.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.0
5,777 reviews
Excellent
2,979
Very good
1,643
Average
729
Poor
248
Terrible
178
Oscar D
7 contributions
Nov 2022 • Friends
Would highly recommend going early in the morning to beat all crowds. The beach on a good day had incredible views and crystal clear water. Arrived around 8:30am and basically had a private beach.
Written November 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Powell936
Norwich, UK53 contributions
Dec 2022
The photograph shown does not show a true reflection of Railay Beach. It’s missing the longboats. I counted 28 boats in a line leaving each end of the beach free. Number 1 problem; the rocks beneath the water. The boats have taken up the smooth sand. There is a pier on East Railay. The boats should stick to that side leaving this beautiful beach clear. The walking street has many different bars and shops all selling their wears at an over inflated price. A T-Shirt selling for 190 baht in Bangkok is on sale for 280baht in Railay. If you like the smell of green/weed, you’ll love this place. Magic Mushroom food and drink is freely available. It’s not in your face so it wasn’t a problem, the smell of cannabis is every where but it’s not a strong smell. It is worth a day trip but I would not go again. Check what plug sockets the hotels use; we were lucky and brought our own adapters from the UK
Written December 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
50cab50
Bracknell, UK199 contributions
Aug 2022 • Family
Paid 200 THB return per person for the long tail boat to Railay. This does not seem to be negotiable as the Ao Nang Long Tail Boat Service Club seem to have a monopoly on it, with booths along the promenade and at the pier entrance. If you buy from the booths further away from the pier, they will taxi you to the pier, but you need to get your own transport back to town - plenty of tuk tuks around for negotiable prices.
The long tail boat won’t travel in bad weather and the booths will put a sign out.
We had a fab day on Railay, despite overcast weather. We went early (about 9am) and arrived at Tailay West which is a beautiful arc with towering cliffs at each end. There are select hotels along the front, and then a shopping street with mainly restaurants and bars, juice stands and a couple of massage parlours. Walk along this street to the end, and turn right (following the wall on your right) to get to Railay West. The tide was in by late morning so not much beach, but follow the signs to Phra Nang Cave for a wow beach where you can see Chicken Island in the distance, watch people having a climbing lesson (book on the shopping street) and see the famous cave (a bit disappointing).
Boats leave at 5, but we left at 4 to avoid any rush. Boats leave when full so we had a ten minute wait.
The long tail boat won’t travel in bad weather and the booths will put a sign out.
We had a fab day on Railay, despite overcast weather. We went early (about 9am) and arrived at Tailay West which is a beautiful arc with towering cliffs at each end. There are select hotels along the front, and then a shopping street with mainly restaurants and bars, juice stands and a couple of massage parlours. Walk along this street to the end, and turn right (following the wall on your right) to get to Railay West. The tide was in by late morning so not much beach, but follow the signs to Phra Nang Cave for a wow beach where you can see Chicken Island in the distance, watch people having a climbing lesson (book on the shopping street) and see the famous cave (a bit disappointing).
Boats leave at 5, but we left at 4 to avoid any rush. Boats leave when full so we had a ten minute wait.
Written August 6, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
hoi61
Austria95 contributions
Mar 2023 • Couples
Stop longtailboats! This beach is dirty and extremely loud due to the constant traffic of longtail boats. You cannot hear your own words. It's grand central station for longtail boats- don't believe this to be a paradisical swimming beach. Thailand calls this a paradise! It is louder here than at an airport! The fine 'white sandy' beach is getting dark from the dirt these boats bring. At any time you have more than 50 boats lining the beach. They are allowed to bring the cheap tourists from Ao Nang to this so called paradise. This is a completely trashed 'paradise'. From the longtail boats you can walk straight up to cannabis bars, that sell you anything to make you 'happy'. My Gosh, what a sad trap this 'beach' has become. Thailand manages again and again to turn beautiful nature into abhorrent trash. Big, loud tour groups are welcome and they will soon be the only ones that accept this kind of environment, because the tours are cheap. What will happen when these tour groups no longer come one day? Thailand will be left with concrete and rubbish covered islands, which will give no more jobs and life to anyone. Only then the sickening greed will be regretted - or just forgotten. Mai pen rai.....
Written March 6, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Yvette F
Buckingham, UK245 contributions
Mar 2022 • Couples
Was staying in ao nang so got a longboat taxi from beach to railay. 100baht each way, 15 mins in longtail. Can buy return ticket and the boats go when they have 6-10 passengers waiting. Went immediately going out and had to wait about 20 mins on way back for boat to fill. Beach is beautiful, with several bars coffee shops and tourists shops in the town. Very chilled hippie vibe to it, advertising mushroom shakes and hash brownies, though not sure about authenticity. Also access to phra nang beach 15 min easy flat walk. You cannot access these beaches by road and they are worth the visit, crystal clear waters, rock climbing, kayaking. There is also a chemist if you need.
Written March 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Erez2018
Modiin, Israel277 contributions
Sep 2022 • Couples
Very nice beach in Krabi area, next to Prha Nang beach.
Great vibe during sunset, good access from Ao Nang to those who arrive for stay or just a day tour.
Many restaurants and cafe near by and some shops … very popular and packed during high season, quite calm during low season
Great vibe during sunset, good access from Ao Nang to those who arrive for stay or just a day tour.
Many restaurants and cafe near by and some shops … very popular and packed during high season, quite calm during low season
Written September 27, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
LON-ZAF
London, UK91 contributions
Nov 2022 • Couples
The cliffs around the beach are beautiful but that's about it. There are too many boats, the sea is really rocky and not deep enough to swim. We did not enjoy "swimming" there at all. Also the prices are really high around the beach, it's expected for a popular beach but at this level it feels like a big tourist trap. I strongly recommend booking a return ticket before getting there - if not be prepared to wait a long time to get back to Ao Nang. The longtail drivers, bar staff and tourist center staff were not friendly at all. There are so many other (nicer) beaches around, I wish I had not wasted my time on this one.
Written November 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dao1949
Chiang Mai, Thailand1,534 contributions
Apr 2022
We have enjoyed visiting this beach and the Panang Beach too! These beaches are some of the most beautiful that we have ever experienced in south Thailand! Because these areas are "landlocked" it is not possible to drive or walk to them. The only way to get here is by ferry or long boat. Longboats are usually the best and cheapest service.
Written April 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Steven S
Pattaya, Thailand618 contributions
Nov 2020 • Solo
Firstly, let me address the review dated 13 August. From your review we have to assume you were only one passenger and thus quoted 1400 baht return. You had the option of waiting for other passengers which would have reduced your cost but you did not wish to do this. My understanding is that all the boat drivers are regulated now and it is my perception that each boat driver is allocated one return trip each day, returning to pick up from West Railay beach at your designated time. A ripoff, I think not, the boat drivers have to earn a living.
Secondly, the review of 16 August states that the boats no longer drop off/pick up from West Railay beach. That may well be true during low season but not during high season.
I waited at the Ao Nang office for other passengers. The regulated price is 100 baht each way per person for maximum of 8 passengers. When there was 5 of us the office lady negotiated a price of 300 baht return which we all agreed to. We then discussed and agreed upon a return time for pick up. We were dropped off and picked up from West Railay beach.
As far as West Railay beach goes, it was low tide upon arrival, yes it is set in a scenic location but I felt Phra Nang beach was prettier (at low tide). In any event, I enjoyed a refreshing swim in the clean, clear, calm water. Of course, it is certainly a must visit. Best visited in high season.
Secondly, the review of 16 August states that the boats no longer drop off/pick up from West Railay beach. That may well be true during low season but not during high season.
I waited at the Ao Nang office for other passengers. The regulated price is 100 baht each way per person for maximum of 8 passengers. When there was 5 of us the office lady negotiated a price of 300 baht return which we all agreed to. We then discussed and agreed upon a return time for pick up. We were dropped off and picked up from West Railay beach.
As far as West Railay beach goes, it was low tide upon arrival, yes it is set in a scenic location but I felt Phra Nang beach was prettier (at low tide). In any event, I enjoyed a refreshing swim in the clean, clear, calm water. Of course, it is certainly a must visit. Best visited in high season.
Written November 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JollydeeDundee
Dundee, UK262 contributions
Mar 2023 • Solo
Caught the early morning long tail boat about 8.30 am arrived inn15 mins. Lovely beach to laze on but be early! You can walk about 20 mins to phra nang cave beach through the resort…
Written March 20, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Razek Z.
1 contribution
Are there cliff jumping options available (tours or private boats) around Railay or the nearby islands?
stephen b
Havant, UK217 contributions
Hi we were in railay beach in february , i can honestly say no jumping from cliffs to the water , but plenty of rock climbing , but there are plenty of boat trips to nearby islands with lunch and snorkelling equipment , these trips are brilliant and suit both couples and families with children .
have a good trip.
crississ
Malmö, Sweden24 contributions
Is is better the avatar or the sand beach? (I know avatar is in the other side, not in the west side)
Andreas Ruoff
Stuttgart, Germany16 contributions
Definitely the Sand Beach, the other side is nice for the Sunrise, but the Shows is on the West Side!
stephen c
Wakefield, UK5 contributions
Is there any other boat apart from the long boats that can get to the island.
Steven F
Reno, NV31 contributions
Try Ploy Siam speed boat charters. They are a little more cost, but not as crowded and very accommodating if your schedule is tight.
They still have to shuttle you in on Long Tail boats. Prepare for a knee deep splash as you disembark the smaller boats.
Kathleen W
Maple Ridge, Canada1,062 contributions
we are flying into Krabi airport, do you know how to get from airport to Railay beach? Any suggestions for places to eat or things to do? we've booked a 4 island long boat tour with Viator. thanks in advance Kath
Dan L
Brookings, OR64 contributions
Plenty of restaurants and street food in Ao Nang, Railey, it’s busy but nice once you get settled in.
Douglas K
Seattle, WA1 contribution
I just arrived on Railey. Has anyone seen the Bioluminescence, glowing Plankton?
If yes, where exactly? It is my Quest!
27Vivien77
Singapore, Singapore193 contributions
Check with the the people handling the boats.
SeekingTravel
1 contribution
We are going to Thailand the first two weeks of December. We plan to be on the beaches the first week. I can't decide which island, most the information I found is dated. I am debating between Railay, Phuket, or Koh Lanta. I'm afraid Phuket is going to be way too busy. Is Railay also? The things that I want are to be able to look out to the cliff rock formations, teal water, decent snorkeling, and hopefully the least amount of people. Obviously, there will be people, but I want some space and not jammed packed and loud. We would also prefer cheaper but still relatively nice accommodations. It will just be my husband and I, we are young 30s. We don't care about shopping and don't need fancy food options. Mostly just hanging on the beach, snorkeling, kayaking, and exploring a little. Thank you for the help!
Matt H
15 contributions
Phuket is very very crowded. The tourist beach area is almost a bit like Bangkok. Railay is not crowded at all but you can only access it with those dodgy longboats. They Cost money and can be quite annoying as not all drivers are professional. Phi phi is kind of in between. Not crowded enough but everything there is a bit more classy.
We are in Ao Nang and heading to Railay tomorrow for 3 nights. We are staying on the east side. We have 2 young kids and luggage. I am worried about getting off the boat at the beach as I read we will be in waist deep water. Can we get a boat to the west side ? Any other suggestions?
Benji H
7 contributions
hello, i find relay beach nice to visit nut not for staying, everything too expensive, touristic and and not good standard..better stay in ao nang.. or spend alot money for a good place. be careful with ice in coctails(at relay beach), we got sick from it!!
dmtarry
Manchester, UK7 contributions
Hi Christelle where did you stay that you would recommend at Reilly Beach?
Kimberly C
Shanghai Region, China228 contributions
We loved Railay! We stayed 3 days and have decided we would even go back again.
We are traveling for 42 days with kids so we have been in budget rooms. I do not recommend CAN ONLY rooms - its too hot there!
Lots of nice resorts if you want to go pricey, nice mid-road too - just sort by price in trip advisor and pick which you like best... All locations are the same and you can walk from one side to the other side in 10 minutes.
Great for families, couples and singles (can read my review). Nice water too.
Railay Beach - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Railay Beach
- We recommend booking Railay Beach tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 27 Railay Beach tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Railay Beach:
- 4 Island Tour by Traditional Big Longtail Boat from Krabi (From $30.22)
- Separated Sea and 4 Islands - The Unseen of Thailand Full Day Tour From Krabi (From $34.87)
- Phuket to Railay Beach by Ao Nang Princess Ferry (From $22.67)
- 4 Island Speed Boat Tour by Sea Eagle from Krabi (From $36.27)
- Krabi 4 Island Tour: Private Long-tail Boat Charter (From $117.75)
- Restaurants near Railay Beach:
- (0.08 mi) One Stop Takeaway Shop
- (0.13 mi) Railay The Corner Restaurant
- (0.22 mi) Kohinoor Indian Restaurant & Pizza
- (0.26 mi) Bang Bang Bar
- (0.16 mi) Summer Fresh @ Railay Beach
- Attractions near Railay Beach:
- (0.17 mi) Bamboo Bar
- (0.05 mi) Railay Anda SUP Board
- (0.18 mi) Freebird Paddle Co.
- (0.20 mi) Krabi Rock Climbing
- (0.14 mi) Railay Fashion House Railay Beach Krabi
Railay Beach Information
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