In December 2025, we spent four unforgettable nights at Railay Bay Resort & Spa in Krabi, and Railay Bay instantly became one of those places that feels almost unreal. Towering limestone cliffs, jungle paths, soft white sand, and that uniquely Thai rhythm of life where everything slows down the moment you arrive.

Railay isn’t technically an island, but it feels like one. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and accessible mainly by boat, it has that “secret escape” vibe; remote, peaceful, and beautifully wild.

Staying at Railay Bay Resort & Spa: nature right at your doorstep

One of the most charming parts of our stay was how close we felt to nature, sometimes very close.

We had local wildlife right around our villa: frogs living in the small pond nearby, croaking away at night like they owned the place (honestly, they probably did). And then there were the monkeys, not hidden in the distance, but strolling through the hotel trees, hopping between branches, watching guests with that confident “this is our resort” energy.

It made everything feel alive, like you weren’t just visiting Railay, you were temporarily sharing it.

East Railay Bay: the gateway to Railay (and the start of your adventures)

From the resort, you can easily access East Railay Bay Beach, where the pier is located. This is the hub for:

• Arriving to Railay after your airport transfer (boat access happens here),

• Departing for day trips and island hopping,

• And booking excursions, including tours to the Phi Phi Islands.

East Railay has a more “working waterfront” vibe than a classic lounging beach, but it’s an essential part of the Railay experience: longtail boats, luggage, salty air, and that exciting feeling that adventure is always one boat ride away.

Railay West Beach: postcard-perfect… but bring water shoes

On the west side, you’ll find Railay Beach West, and this is the iconic Railay you’ve probably seen in photos: white sand, gorgeous sunsets, and cliffs framing the bay like a natural amphitheater.

But here’s a practical tip we really recommend:

Bring water shoes.

There are many rocks buried under the sand, and it’s surprisingly easy to step wrong and get hurt. With water shoes, you can walk into the sea confidently and enjoy the beach without constantly watching every step.

The lively street between East and West: grill seafood and nightlife

Connecting East Railay to Railay West is a street that becomes full of life in the evening. It’s Railay’s little nightlife corridor, buzzing, warm, and inviting, with plenty of local restaurants serving grilled seafood.

It’s the perfect place to end the day: a short walk, a cold drink, the smell of charcoal grills, and seafood sizzling right in front of you.

Phra Nang Beach: the crown jewel of Railay

To the south, just about a 10-minute walk from the resort, you’ll find Phra Nang Beach, and for us, it was the most beautiful beach in the entire area.

The walk itself is part of the fun: a jungle-like path with cliffs overhead and, yes… more monkeys along the way.

Phra Nang feels more dramatic, more “hidden,” and simply stunning. From the shoreline you can spot the small islet Ko Rang Nok.

Swim to Ko Rang Nok (when the tide is low)

When the tide is low, you can easily swim across to Ko Rang Nok, and we absolutely recommend it. It’s a small, simple adventure that makes you feel like you’re unlocking a secret level of the beach.

(Just keep an eye on the sea conditions, if the current is strong, play it safe.)

Fewer rocks… but still protect your feet

Phra Nang has fewer rocks in the water than Railay West, but we’d still recommend protective footwear if you plan to explore along the shoreline.

And here’s a small detail that made this beach even more memorable:

If the water is calm, swim closer to the rock walls of the islets, where the waves break. Look carefully and you’ll spot tons of crabs hiding in cracks and crevices, tiny movements everywhere once you start noticing them.

Why Railay stays with you

Railay Bay isn’t just beautiful, it’s a whole atmosphere. A place where boats are your taxis, cliffs shape the skyline, and nature is present at every step: frogs by your villa pond, monkeys in the trees, and beaches that shift character depending on which side of Railay you’re on.

If you go, take:

• Water shoes (seriously),

• Respectful distance from the monkeys,

• And time to slow down.

Because Railay isn’t a place you rush through—it’s a place you sink into.