Perfect Seclusion in Low Season
Getting to Railay in Low Season:
From Ao Nang: 15 minutes by long-tail (100baht)
From Krabi Town: 35 minutes by long-tail (150baht)
The Railay peninsula is cut off from mainland Krabi by towering limestone cliffs and oceans. It hides quietly between the ugly tourism of Ao Nang and the backpacker hordes of Koh Phi-Phi. Access is by boat only which brings a relaxed island feel to the area and makes for the perfect hideaway from mainstream tourism.
Escaping to East Railay
The area brings perfect seclusion. The mangrove beaches restrict swimming in the area and because of this tourists favour West Railay’s white sands. This means accommodation in East Railay is cheap and lack of tourists allows wildlife to roam free. You can expect a wake-up call from passing monkeys or tropical song birds. We stayed at the Railay Great View Resort and Spa. Normally I don’t promote where I stay but for 1000baht this place was special:
Getting Around in Railay
A 10 minute jungle walk reaches West Railay with perfect beaches, famous sunsets and the island’s more expensive accommodation. The famous Pranang cave beach is a 10 minute walk from both east and west Railay. The rock climbing mecca of Tonsai Bay is a bit further out and can be reached by a 15 minute hike from West Railay.