Railay is known for its beaches, especially Phra Nang Beach and Railay West Beach, but also as a climber's paradise with some of Thailand's most renowned climbing areas. Experienced climbers can scale the towering limestone cliffs and enjoy breathtaking views! Of course, beginner courses are also available on lower rock faces. Besides the beaches, the isthmus offers other attractions such as Phra Nang Cave and the inner lagoon (these should only be visited with an experienced climber to avoid accidents). The Railay East viewpoint is more easily accessible and offers a beautiful panoramic view. Alternatively, you can take the same boat tours as in Ao Nang. Hire a longtail boat directly on the beach and negotiate the price and route with the drivers. The most popular tour is the beach cruise, but full-day excursions are also available.

Sights in Railay: West Beach (หาดไร่เลย์) My rating: 3/5 stars (the most popular beach), where most tourists congregate. Phra Nang Beach (หาดพระนาง) My rating: 5/5 stars (the most beautiful beach in Railay! My absolute favorite.) A picture-perfect postcard setting: turquoise sea and golden sand. There's also a cliff with a climbing wall and two small shrines with special offerings. ;) Railay East Viewpoint (จุดชมวิวไร่เลย์ตะวันออก) My rating: 4/5 stars. The climb is somewhat strenuous, with about half the route being quite challenging. Railay East viewpoint offers a beautiful panoramic view, though not a 360-degree one. It's still wonderful to be up there! Be aware: the view is not unobstructed during sunrise.

Other places worth seeing in Railay: Phra Nang Cave Shrine & Princess's Cave. I've included these two small caves on Phra Nang Beach on one page. These two shrines are dedicated to the goddess who gave the beach its name, and the offerings presented to her are, let's just say, quite special!

Other excursion tips in Railay: Tonsay Beach can be reached via a steep, somewhat tricky path connecting Railay West with Tonsay, or via a 3 km long trail leading to the affordable bungalows in the forest. These usually have neither electricity nor running water – very Robinson Crusoe style.

Other sights in Thailand: Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, also known as Wat Yai, is an important pilgrimage site for Thais. The Chinnarat Buddha there is one of the most revered Buddhas in the country. [arrow_circle_right] You can find more information about Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat and Wat Phra Kaew with its numerous buildings adorned with gilding and elaborate decorations here. Entry is not permitted after 3:30 pm, so it's best to plan your visit for the morning. arrow_circle_right Details about Wat Phra Kaew Wat Simalai Songtham This unique temple, which extends over several levels on a mountain 12 kilometers from the northern entrance of Khao Yai National Park, is particularly interesting for its impressive architecture… arrow_circle_right Details about Wat Simalai Songtham Ba Tu Pu Te Fishing Village This Muslim fishing village, with its stilt houses and long cement walkway over the sea leading to a dugong observation tower, is one of the most interesting places to… arrow_circle_right Details about Ba Tu Pu Te Fishing Village