Planning a trip to Railay and wondering what to do in Railay? Fret not, in this travel guide, learn about the best things to do in Railay such as rock climbing, kayaking, hiking to viewpoint, and more.
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Railay is a tiny peninsula located between Krabi and Ao Nang. It is one of those places that you cannot simply miss on a Thailand trip. Over the years, Railay has gained popularity amongst tourists for its captivating scenery, majestic limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. This place is a playground for the adventurous soul and those who want to connect with undisturbed nature. accessible only by boat, due to high limestone cliffs cutting off mainland access. However, once you step foot in here, you will realise its enchanting beauty and the plethora of activities in Railay that can delight any tourist’s heart.
Below is the list of activities to do in Railay; consider adding some of them to your travel itinerary. They are sure to give you an unforgettable experience on your trip.
1. Rock Climbing at Railay Beach
Railay is one of the most prominent locations in the world to do rock climbing. The best part about rock climbing in Railay is that it has many cliffs and routes that are suitable for all levels of climbers. Depending upon your skill and experience, you can choose half-day rock climbing, full-day rock climbing, two-day rock climbing, or even three-day rock climbing sessions. If you’re a beginner, it’s best to attend a rock climbing school, learn the basics, and start with smaller and more achievable targets. This would help you build confidence, and you can progress easily. The trainers and instructors are friendly and professional and would readily guide you through the process. Some climbs are even suitable for children, in case you’re travelling with them. The cost of rock climbing in Krabi can be anywhere from 1500 THB to 8000 THB.
2. Visit the Phra Nang Cave and Beach
Considered one of the best Railay beach attractions, Phra Nang Cave is located on the southern end of the beach. Upon visiting this cave, one can witness the striking stalactites and stalagmites rock formations. For many years, Thai people have revered this cave, as this place is imbued with local mythology. Apart from its religious significance, Phra Nang Cave offers spectacular views of neighbouring islands and boasts some of the most stunning rock formations you will ever see. The beach is where all the fun takes place. It’s a perfect spot to relax, play volleyball or soccer, take a refreshing swim, or simply soak up the serene atmosphere.
3. Explore Railay West Beach
Railay West Beach is the largest beach on the peninsula. Its sun-kissed shores are ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The long stretches of this golden sandy beach are accessible from the east side via paths through large resorts or by crossing through the lush jungle. The beach is also surrounded by towering cliffs, creating a surreal backdrop. It also has a walking street lined with restaurants, tattoo parlours, bars, and other eateries, more of which will be discussed below.
4. Island Hopping
Explore the nearby islands and beaches around Railay by taking a boat tour. These stunning islands include Hong Island, Poda Island, Chicken Island, and Tup Island. You may choose a speed boat or a relaxing long-tail boat, depending on your preference and budget. Going island-hopping is a great way to experience diverse marine life and the scenic beauty of aquamarine waters. You may stop at certain points for snorkelling or beach explorations; make sure to capture all these moments well. So why wait? Add island hopping to your list of Railay beach activities.
5. Watch The Sunset
Who doesn’t like to soak up the views of a breathtaking sunset? Whether you wish to flaunt your photos on Instagram or be present in the moment to connect with nature, the Railay sunset fulfils both of these desires. It’s the perfect way to relax and unwind. The orangish hue in the sky as the sun sets on the horizon is a captivating sight, to say the least. It’s no wonder that Railay Beach is a top favourite among tourists visiting Thailand.
6. Kayaking
Go on a kayaking voyage and discover the hidden caves and lagoons around Railay Beach. It’s an adventure you wouldn’t want to miss. Get ready to be amazed by the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you. And don’t forget to click on photos of spectacular limestone cliffs that add to the excitement of the boat ride. A two-person Kayak rental costs around 200 THB for about an hour. If this is your first time going on a kayaking trip, make sure to do it in a group or take a guided tour.
7. Explore the Diamond Cave
Diamond Cave is a bejewelled natural wonder in Railay. Located at the eastern end of Railay Beach, this cave is adorned by stalactites and stalagmites rock formations. This cave got its name due to a section inside the cave that reflects light off the rocks, which makes them shine like diamonds. Capture the breathtaking rock formations with your camera. They will leave an indelible impression on your mind. The cave is not too big, so exploring it won’t take much time. In just 15 to 20 minutes, you can easily cover the Diamond Cave and soak in its natural beauty. The admission is 80 THB to 100 THB.
8. Snorkelling
Snorkel around Railay Beach to get enchanted by its colourful marine life, underwater landscapes, vibrant coral reefs, and aquatic plants. Whether you are an experienced snorkeler or a beginner, you can explore the underwater world by yourself or with a group of fellow adventurers. Snorkelling is one of the most rewarding Railay beach activities. The average price for snorkelling is 500 THB to 800 THB. While prominent snorkelling locations could cost anywhere from 1000 to 1500 THB, especially during the high season.
9. Go Fishing
Railay, now known as a popular rock climbing destination, was once a picturesque fishing village. If you’re looking for unique things to do in Railay, you can give fishing a shot in the beautiful waters around Railay Beach. There are many local fishing tours available. You can also go out with a fisherman for a more authentic experience. Hop on a fishing tour and see what you can catch. Many tourists like to click photos with their caught fish, and you can do it too. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or a beginner, fishing is a fun activity that can add a new layer of fun to your Railay Beach vacation.
10. Take a Yoga Class
For the ultimate healing and relaxation, join a yoga class with Railay’s stunning scenery as a backdrop. You would realise how incredibly rewarding this group activity can be for your mind and body. Practice yoga on the soft sand, feeling the gentle breeze and the warmth of the sun on your skin. After the class, take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear water or simply relax on the beach, feeling the tranquillity all around you. It’s a great way to begin your day and reconnect with your inner self in a serene and beautiful environment.
11. Soak in the Scenery from Railay Viewpoint
Join an exciting hiking adventure to the top of the Railay viewpoint and reward yourself with an Instagrammable view of Railay Beach and the surrounding islands. The hike to the viewpoint is relatively short and takes no more than 20 minutes. Once you reach the summit, the stunning vistas will leave you in awe of the beauty all around you. Get ready to witness a 360-degree view that is incredible, to say the least. You can see the entire Railay Beach, towering limestone cliffs, lush green forests, and the sparkling turquoise sea.
12. Try the Delicious Cuisines
Railay offers a wide variety of dining options to cater to every taste and budget. From traveller-oriented eateries to resort restaurants, there are plenty of choices available to the tourists. Thai cuisine is the main highlight here, with staples like pad Thai, Thai green curry, and tom yum soup being some of the must-try dishes. For those of you who prefer familiar Western cuisine, many restaurants also serve pizza and burgers alongside Thai dishes. However, be prepared to pay a bit more, as even basic meals like fried rice can cost around 100 baht or more. If you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, small pockets of nightlife can be found in Railay with bars serving up refreshing cocktails and chilled beers.
13. Take a Stroll on Railay Walking Street
Lastly, take a stroll on Railay Walking Street, located on the west side of Railay. This lane is lined with restaurants, tattoo shops, apparel stalls, bars, and other small eateries. Unlike the neon-lit walking streets of Thailand, the Ralaiy walking street is pretty demure and isn’t very crowded. This makes it easier for people who wish to avoid crammed-up lanes and want to explore the walking street in peace without any push or pull.
This brings us to the end of the Things to Do in Railay list. Despite being a small peninsula, Railay is a hotspot for tourists, especially those who like to engage in exhilarating adventure sports. Many people add Railay to their Krabi tour packages. You, too, can explore this gem of a destination on your next Thailand trip. Book a package with Thailand Tourism, get ready to pack your bags, and go!
