Railay Beach Krabi: How to Get There & What to Do

Railay looks like an island, feels like an island — but it is actually a peninsula, cut off from the rest of Krabi by walls of limestone so steep that no road has ever reached it. The only way in or out is by boat, which is exactly what keeps Railay special. Here is your complete guide to visiting.

How to Get to Railay Beach

From Ao Nang, shared longtail boats make the 10–15 minute crossing for around 100 THB per person — but they only leave once about eight passengers have gathered, and they drop everyone at the same busy landing. From Krabi Town's Chao Fa Pier, boats take about 45 minutes. The most comfortable option is a private longtail charter: leave when you want, land directly at the quieter side of the peninsula, and combine Railay with Phra Nang Cave Beach and a swim stop in a single trip.

The Four Beaches of Railay

• West Railay — the postcard beach: wide, golden sand framed by cliffs, ideal for swimming and sunsets.

• East Railay — mangrove-lined and not for swimming, but home to most restaurants, bars and the walking street.

• Phra Nang Cave Beach — consistently ranked among Thailand's most beautiful beaches, at the southern tip of the peninsula.

• Tonsai — the laid-back climbers' beach just around the headland from West Railay.

Phra Nang Cave Beach & the Princess Cave

At the end of Phra Nang Beach sits the famous Princess Cave, a shrine where local fishing families have long left offerings to a sea princess spirit for safe voyages and good catches. The beach itself is a stunner: soft white sand, emerald water, and karst towers rising straight from the sea. It fills with longtail boats by 11 am, so come at 8–9 am or after 3 pm for space to yourself.

Things to Do in Railay

• Rock climbing — Railay is one of Southeast Asia's most famous climbing destinations, with routes for total beginners.

• The Railay viewpoint hike — a short, steep scramble rewarded with a view over both sides of the peninsula.

• Kayaking and swimming off West Railay and Phra Nang.

• Exploring Diamond Cave and watching the sunset from the sand with a fresh coconut.

Best Time to Visit

November to April is peak season, with dry weather and calm seas — perfect boat conditions. Mornings are the quietest time on every beach. In green season, Railay stays accessible on most days and feels wonderfully local, though afternoon showers are common.

See Railay the Comfortable Way

With a Krabi Voyager private longtail charter, Railay becomes one highlight of your own custom day on the water — arrive before the crowds, add Phra Nang Cave Beach, a snorkel stop or a sunset cruise, all on your schedule. Plan your private Railay trip here.