Railay Beach: Tours and Guided Visits

Combining sheer rockfaces with turquoise waters, Railay Beach, located in the Krabi Province of Thailand, is a breathtakingly beautiful destination that draws thousands of visitors each year.

This secluded peninsula, accessible only by boat due to its towering limestone cliffs, is a tropical paradise that offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Book your Railay Beach tour in Krabi and get the most of stunning natural scenery in Thailand, with crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and formidable cliffs that provide a dramatic backdrop to any activity.

Here's all you need to know about Railay Beach, one of the most exhilarating options for sightseeing tours in Krabi.

Where is Railay Beach located?

Railay Beach is tucked away in the Krabi Province of Thailand, between Krabi Town and Ao Nang – and it's accessible only by boat due to its towering limestone cliffs.

The secluded peninsula, which sits across the Phang Nga Bay, offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

The beach is divided into four main sections: Railay West, Railay East, Phra Nang Beach, and Tonsai Beach. Each section offers its own unique charm and activities, ranging from luxurious resorts and restaurants to rugged and hidden lagoons.

To get to Railay Beach, you have to make your way to Krabi, which is about 2.5 hours drive from Phuket (or a short boat ride).

What are the best things to do in Railay Beach?

As a diverse destination, Railay Beach has something for everyone. Whether you are looking to unwind on the pristine beaches, go rock climbing, or explore the lush jungle interior, there is no shortage of activities and attractions here.

Let's look at the most popular activities in further detail:

Try rock climbing

Railay Beach is one of the world's top rock climbing destinations, with over 700 bolted routes.

The towering limestone cliffs provide an awe-inspiring backdrop for climbers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals (ranging from 5A routes to multipitch 6As and even a few extreme 8Cs).

There are several climbing schools and guides available for those who want to try their hand at climbing for the first time.

Go island-hopping

Railay Beach is the perfect starting point for exploring the nearby islands, including the famous Phi Phi Islands.

You can hire a long-tail boat or join a boat tour to visit the stunning lagoons and beaches of the nearby islands, or take a snorkeling trip to explore the colorful corals and diverse marine life.

Relax on the beach!

With its stunning white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, Railay Beach offers the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind (especially if you've just come from Phuket or Bangkok).

Whether you want to soak up the sun, swim in the refreshing waters, or take a leisurely stroll along the sand, Railay Beach has plenty to offer for those seeking relaxation.

Trek through the jungle

Railay Beach is surrounded by lush jungle, offering several hiking trails that lead to hidden waterfalls, caves, and lagoons.

The well-trodden path to the Lagoon View Point, as well as the path to Tonsai Beach and Diamond Cave (locally known Tham Pranangnai) is particularly popular.

Along the way, expect to encounter exotic wildlife like monkeys and monitor lizards.

Go sea kayaking

Both a workout and a sightseeing tour, sea kayaking is one of the best (and most peaceful) ways to explore Railay Beach from the water.

You can rent a kayak and paddle around the stunning limestone cliffs to discover hidden bays, caves and lagoons that are inaccessible by land.

Visit a reggae bar

At places like Bamboo Bar (Railay West) and Skunk Bar (Railay East), you can enjoy the laid-back vibes of reggae music and sip on a cold beer. It serves as a just reward after a day of hiking or climbing.

Check out Princess Cave on Phra Nang Beach

On the south side of Railay Beach, you can find Phra Nang Beach – home to a centuries-old cave known as Princess Cave or Tham Phra Nang.

This spiritual site is littered with phallic symbols, and locals believe that making offerings here can bring luck in love.

There are so many noteworthy things to do in Railay Beach, so it can be hard to narrow down the list. That's why many travelers opt for a guided tour.

These tours, led by locals, check off the must-see attractions and offer an insider's look at the area. They will visit some of the most famous, quintessential landmarks in and around Railay Beach, such as those listed in further detail below.

What are the best tours to visit Railay Beach?

There are several guided tours that offer different itineraries to explore Railay Beach. Each of these is different in length and covers various highlights and activities, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.

Some of the most popular Railay Beach tours are listed in more detail below.

Railay Beach Rock climbing tours

With options for beginners, intermediate, and advanced climbers, these tours provide an introduction to the sport and offer a chance to climb some of the region's most iconic routes.

You'll receive all the necessary equipment and expert guidance from experienced climbers.

Choose from half-day tours, full-day tours that include caving, and even 2-day courses.

Krabi Islands and Railay Beach day trip

Departing from Krabi, this multi-stop day trip is a fantastic way to explore all the highlights of Railay Beach and Krabi's nearby islands in one go.

You'll visit iconic landmarks such as Phi Phi Island, Maya Bay, Poda Island, and more, with time to swim and snorkel through the crystal-clear waters. Of course, the tour also includes a stop at Railay Beach for rock climbing and relaxation.

Multi-day rock climbing courses

If you're looking for a more immersive experience, there are also several multi-day rock climbing courses that offer an introduction to the sport.

During these tours, you'll learn basic techniques and safety measures while tackling different routes in Railay Beach. It's the perfect way to gain skills and confidence with the help of experienced guides.

What are the prices of Railay Beach tours?

The cost of a Railay Beach tour can vary greatly depending on the type of experience you're looking for but start at around US$40 per person.

Small-group half-day rock climbing tours are the most affordable option, usually between US$40 and US$60 per person.

Longer tours, such as the full-day Krabi Islands and Railay Beach day trip, cost around US$75 to US$100 per person.

Meanwhile, multi-day rock climbing courses can cost around US$200 each.

Where do Railay Beach tours start?

Railay Beach tours generally start at Ao Nang, which is the closest mainland town to Railay Beach. The majority of tours also offer convenient hotel pickup, you just have to organize it in advance when booking online.

When is the best time to visit Railay Beach?

The best time to visit Railay Beach is between November and April, during the dry season. The weather during this time is typically sunny and warm, with little to no rain. This makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

The high season, which runs from December to February, is the busiest time to visit Railay Beach. If you prefer a quieter and more affordable trip, consider visiting during the shoulder season, which runs from November to March.

The low season, from May to October, is characterized by heavy rain and rough seas, making it a less popular time to visit. However, this period can be a great time to visit for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed and affordable vacation.

Travel tips

• Wear appropriate footwear: If you plan on rock climbing or jungle trekking, make sure to wear shoes with good traction and support.
• Guided tours to Railay Beach can get booked up quickly, especially during the high season, so it's best to book in advance to secure your spot.
• If possible, choose a tour that offer hotel pickup for the most convenient experience.
• Lastly, don't forget your camera!