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Railay Beach is, in fact, a small peninsula which counts four beaches. Now on every savvy traveller's list, Railay is nevertheless one of Thailand's most sought-after beach areas. Just south of Ao Nang Beach, around a rocky headland and accessible only by boat, Railay presents a tranquil and extraordinary world. In just one small peninsula you'll find gorgeous white sand beaches, soaring limestone cliffs, viewpoints, caves and a lagoon hidden inside the cliffs, shaped and fed by the changing tides. All within walking distance!

Top 10 Things To Do in Railay Beach

1) A Railay Must: Go on the Four Islands Tour,

The 4-islands boat tour you can take from Railay is a classic trip that is a must-do. The four-islands tour name is a bit misleading since you only have three stops, yet it’s three great ones. This longtail boat trip from Railay is similar in nature to the longtail boat tour that many travelers to Thailand take in Phi Phi Don. But here in Railay, you can do this island hopping trip without the tourist masses that descend on the Phi Phi destination. While the 4-island tour from Railay is arguably not quite as scenic, it can definitely be a much more relaxing experience overall with the lack of crowds that often swarm Phi Phi.

2) Relax on Railay Beach
Railay Beach West is surrounded by limestone cliffs

This is the sole reason why some people come to Railay. And no judgment from us if the only thing you do in Railay is simply relax away the days on Railay Beach. Why not? It really is a beautiful beach surrounded by those signature limestone cliffs on both sides of Railay Bay. During low and shoulder season, it never seems to get even a tad bit crowded and you’ll often find that you have this entire beautiful stretch of beach all to yourself. Plop down in the sand and enjoy the incredible surroundings!

3) Adventurous Railay Activities: Go Rock Climbing

Railay is a rock climber’s paradise and many climbers head directly to Ton Sai, where much of the climbing activity is based. There are some great beginner routes, even appropriate for those who are having there first ever climb.

4) Go to Phra Nang Beach & Pranang Cave (Princess Cave)

Which beach is better, Railay Beach or Phra Nang Beach? That’s an intense debate that we’re not going to get in the middle of. The fact remains that they’re both pretty awesome beaches right next to each other and each enclosed with Railay’s signature limestone cliffs. So we say try both!

Yet in addition to an incredible beach, Phra Nang Beach holds a peculiarity. On the southern side of Phra Nang Beach, you’ll find a strange little cove full of phalluses! These penis carvings are placed here by fisherman, other locals, and visitors as offerings to the princess of the cave who will hence bring them prosperity.

5) Hike Up to the Railay Beach Viewpoint and the Lagoon

It’s a short but tough trek. Yet once you get to the viewpoint, soak in the spectacular views of the isthmus below!
Its not a far hike, less than a kilometer in total. But it’s a vertigo-inducing and intense climb, so just be prepared for that. If you’re afraid of heights, this is not the activity in Railay for you. Hoisting yourself up using nothing but a rope, you may begin to second-guess this idea, but just push yourself and keep going up!

6) Go Kayaking in Railay Beach

You can rent kayaks on Railay West Beach from the resorts or right in front of Walking Street. Just look for the kayaks lined-up on the beach and pick one. Kayaks are rented by the hour or by the day. We recommend at least a two-hour trip to paddle around the coast and outcroppings south of Railay Beach.

7) Watch an Epic Sunset on Railay Beach

Railay sunsets are magical. The formula of beach + ocean + cliffs becomes a perfect recipe when the sun is dropping down into the sea. Railay West is the obvious choice to watch the nightly spectacle and it’s a good place to do it. Grab a drink and enjoy the show!

8) Explore Phra Nang Cave (Diamond Cave)

See what all those limestone cliffs look like from the inside! You can get right in the middle of Railay’s signature cliffs by taking a quick stroll though Phra Nang Cave, also known as Diamond Cave. You’ll see stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and even some bats!

9) Search for Monkeys in Railay

You shouldn’t have to actually go searching very far to see some monkeys on Railay. If you walk around the peninsula enough, you’ll certainly run into a group of those mischievous macaques. These primates can often be spotted on the trail to the viewpoint or ransacking the dumpers behind Walking Street’s restaurants. Walk around Railay enough and you’re bound to have a rendezvous with these naughty little rascals.Never feed the monkeys and keep any food and valuables close to you. These monkeys can be very snatch-happy.

10) Railay Cooking Class (Cookery School)

We’re firm believers that one of the best souvenirs you can buy for yourself is learning how to cook a local dish in its native place. Once you return home you can recreate that recipe you learned and have those flavors mentally transport you right back to that place you were taught these newfound skills. A Thai cooking course in Railay is a great place to learn how to cook a few Thai staples.

Ready to visit paradise?