Krabi is not an island. This fact often surprises first-time visitors to Thailand, who assume it is an island like Phuket and Koh Samui. They are mistaken.

The province of Krabi is home to many islands, the most famous of which is Koh Phi Phi. However, Krabi's most popular beaches are both located on the mainland: the expansive Ao Nang beach and Railay, which is somewhat more secluded (and, as it is only accessible by boat, is practically considered an island).

I have already written extensively about Krabi in general, so today I would like to focus entirely on this topic and ask a specific question: Is Railay Beach worth a visit?

Accommodation in Railay

Generally speaking, the hotels in Railay Beach can be divided into a few categories. Some are located near the main pier in Railay East, on the mangrove side of the Railay isthmus. My favorite here is probably the Sunrise Tropical Resort, although it's become increasingly difficult to book a room there online. A good alternative if you can't reserve a room there is the Railay Princess Resort.

Other hotels are located in Railay West (the beach side), but I find most of them rather kitschy and old-fashioned. I would recommend the Railay Phutawan Resort "on the hill" instead, unless you can afford the luxury of the Rayavadee. While it does have a beach area, it feels much more exclusive than the accommodations on Railay's crowded and noisy main street.

Things to do in Railay Beach

Hike up to the viewpoint

Want to see a breathtaking view of Railay Beach like the one above? Follow the signs to the viewpoint (there's only one) – but don't be put off by the safety ropes! Despite the somewhat imposing terrain, you'll reach the precipice in just 15–20 minutes and be rewarded with an absolutely stunning view.

Enjoy the sun in Railay West

As mentioned previously, only one half of Railay is suitable for swimming – Railay West. So if you want to go swimming (or prefer sunbathing on the beach rather than by the hotel pool), please follow the signs to Railay West.

Watch the sunset in the Phra Nang cave.

Most travelers know the Phra Nang Cave because of the hidden penis shrine (and the associated, arbitrary depictions of phallic symbols). For me, however, the cave, with its dramatic setting, is one of the most beautiful places in Thailand to enjoy the sunset – although I'd be lying if I said the penises weren't a little funny.

Take a day trip to four islands

No matter how many days you spend in Railay, I highly recommend a day trip to four islands. Koh Poda (see photo above) is the most beautiful of them all. Want to enjoy the island without the crowds? Then book a private four-island tour and ask for the earliest possible pick-up time.

(Or a trip to the lush hinterland of Krabi)

Krabi is primarily known for its beaches, but that doesn't mean you should only explore the island's interior. Whether you book through your hotel or online, be sure to choose a tour that includes not only Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple), but also Sa Morakot Emerald Pool and the waterfall with its hot springs.

Railay vs. Ao Nang

To be honest, I have no desire to ever go back to Ao Nang. While it's significantly more convenient than Railay (you can take a taxi or shuttle directly from Krabi airport instead of having to transfer to a boat), that's precisely the problem for me. Anyone can go there – and therefore everyone does. Outside of the off-season, it's difficult to relax.

Furthermore, Railay (possibly due to its geographical isolation) is more scenically dramatic than Ao Nang, regardless of whether you hike to the viewpoint to fully appreciate the view. My advice? If the journey from Krabi Airport to Railay seems too complicated, experience Ao Nang itself instead.

More frequently asked questions about Railay Beach

Is Railay worth a visit?

Railay Beach is absolutely worth a visit! In my opinion, it's the most beautiful "normal" beach in Thailand and much nicer than Ao Nang or any other beach in Phuket. Plus, it's easy to reach even more beautiful islands from here (like Koh Poda and Koh Phi Phi).

How do you get from A to B in Railay?

After arriving in Railay from the mainland, most of the area can be explored on foot. Crossing between Railay East and Railay West is straightforward; the path to Phra Nang is also quite flat. While there is a slight elevation gain to hike to viewpoints or certain hotels, it's nothing particularly difficult. However, Tonsai Beach is only accessible by longtail boat.

Is Railay Beach only accessible by boat?

Railay Beach is only accessible by boat. Fortunately, there are several options. If you arrive at Krabi Airport, take a shuttle or taxi to Ao Nammao Pier, where you can board a boat. There are also direct boat services from Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta to Railay.

Conclusion

Is Railay Beach worth a visit? Absolutely, even if it wasn't originally on your itinerary. In fact, it's by far my favorite among Thailand's most popular beaches, perhaps with the exception of some on Koh Tao in the Chumphon Archipelago. And the best part? From Railay, you can take day trips to even more breathtaking tropical destinations like Koh Poda and use the beach as a base for a multi-day trip to the Phi Phi Islands. No matter how many days you spend in Railay, make your next Thailand trip unforgettable by letting me handle the planning.