Railay Climbing and Beaches in Krabi and Railay Beach
Part of the Krabi and Railay Beach travel guide — see every topic in All Krabi and Railay Beach Guides.
Railay is a small peninsula on the Krabi coast. Tall limestone cliffs cut it off from the road, so the only way in is by boat. There are no cars, just paths between the beaches. Railay has four main areas: Railay West, Railay East, Phra Nang and Tonsai. It is famous for its beaches and for rock climbing on the orange and grey cliffs. This guide explains how to get there and how to spend your time.
Getting there by longtail
Most people take a longtail boat from Ao Nang Beach. The ride takes about 10 to 20 minutes. Boats leave when they have enough passengers, often about eight to ten, so you may wait in quiet times. At low tide or in rough sea, boats may leave from Nopparat Thara pier nearby instead. You can also go from Ao Nam Mao pier, south of Ao Nang, which is often used in the wet season. Boats from Krabi Town take longer and may not run in the monsoon months. There is no proper pier at Railay West, so expect to wade in shallow water with your bags.
The four beaches
Railay West is the main swimming beach, a wide curve of sand between high cliffs, with resorts behind it. Railay East has mangroves and mud at low tide, so it is not for swimming, but it has most of the cheaper places to stay and eat. Phra Nang is a short walk from both. It has soft sand, clear water and a cave at the foot of the cliff. Tonsai is the next bay north. It is reached by a short walk over rocks at low tide or by boat. It is simple and relaxed and popular with climbers.
Rock climbing
Railay and Tonsai are among the best-known places for sport climbing in Asia. There are hundreds of bolted routes, from easy climbs for beginners to very hard overhangs. Many climbing schools offer half-day and full-day courses for first-timers, with all gear included. More experienced climbers can rent gear and buy a local route guide. Deep water soloing, where you climb sea cliffs without ropes and fall into the sea, is offered on some boat trips. The best climbing weather is in the dry season, when the rock is dry and the air is less humid.
Viewpoint and lagoon hike
Between Railay East and Phra Nang a steep, muddy path climbs up the cliff. It leads to a viewpoint over both bays and, further on, down to a hidden lagoon inside the rock. Parts of the path use ropes, and the rock is slippery, especially after rain. Many people only go to the viewpoint, which is shorter. Wear proper shoes, not flip-flops, and bring water. Do not try it in heavy rain or late in the day. If you are not sure, go with a local guide.
Wet season on Railay
From about May to October the southwest monsoon brings rain and bigger waves. Longtails from Ao Nang may stop on rough days, and boats often use Ao Nam Mao instead. Some smaller places on Railay and Tonsai close for a few months. The sea at Railay West can be rough, so watch for red flags. The good side is fewer people, green cliffs and lower prices. Climbing still goes on between showers, on routes that stay dry under overhangs. Check the weather each morning before you plan a boat trip.
Railay Climbing and Beaches at a glance
| Getting there | Longtail boat only, about 10 to 20 minutes from Ao Nang or Ao Nam Mao |
|---|---|
| Hours | Longtails run in daytime, roughly 8 am to 6 pm; private boats after dark cost more |
| Cost | Fixed longtail fares per person; climbing courses and gear rental extra |
| Best time | About November to April for calm sea and dry rock |
| Bring | Light bag, water shoes, cash; there are few ATMs |