Railay

 Railay Peninsula

At the south edge of Ao Nang, steep limestone cliffs hide another Krabi's jewel, the amazing Railay Peninsula. Also known as Rai Leh, it is accessible only by boats due to the cliffs cutting off mainland access. These stunning cliffs are one of world's top rock climbing destinations attracting climbers from all over the world all year around, and each year are the venue for the Rock and Fire Festival. Nevertheless, Railay is also popular due to its pristine beaches surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters and its quiet relaxing atmosphere in a breathtaking landscape among the most beautiful on the planet. In fact, the peninsula houses two of South East Asia's finest beaches, namely West Railay Beach and Phra Nang Cave Beach. The four main areas of Railay Peninsula consist of West Railay, East Railay, Tonsai Bay and Ao Tham Phra Nang, the small cove hidden on the southernmost tip of peninsula which houses the Cave Beach. West Railay Beach, also known as Rai Leh Sunset Beach, is the most popular beach within the peninsula, as well as the most developed along with opposite East Railay Beach. Ton Sai Beach lies in a small bay between Ao Nang and West Railay Beach. It is the lesser known and popular among the beaches of Railay Peninsula likely because it is not really the best spot to go swimming as it is very rocky on low tide. Encircled by tall towering limestone cliffs and thick jungle, the 400-meter long beach is better known as the Krabi’s top spot for rock climbers, and it is also ranked as one of the best places in the world for climbing. Almost unknown until the 1970s, after the 1990s, with the development of tourism in Thailand, Railay Peninsula grew up in hotel accommodations and facility while maintaining its quiet relaxing atmosphere. The area primarily caters to two groups of visitors: honeymooners/families and rock climbing backpackers. There are accommodations to suit both, they ranges from bamboo bungalows to concrete three storey hotels. Bungalows and medium-priced resorts are mostly located in East Railay, while high end hotels are focused on West Railay. Railay has also a good variety of restaurants to choose from. Some are located between the vegetation north of the beach, while most bars and beachfront restaurants are located within the resort grounds. Read More