Maybe it’s the fact that Railay Beach doesn’t have direct road access with the rest of Thailand, but this slice of the country is beautiful, relaxing, and relatively untouched. Accessible only by boat, Railay Beach is actually made up of two main beaches – and many smaller ones besides – on a cliff-strewn peninsula that separates the towns of Krabi and Ao Nang.
The many cliffs and rock formations that both separate Railay from the mainland and line its southern end means it’s a prime spot for rock climbing. In fact, people come here from all over the world for that very reason.
Once you are here, there are a number of places to stay in Railay Beach – from beachside cottages to rooms in polished resorts. No matter where you stay, you’ll be guaranteed a slice of tropical paradise to call your own.
8. Railay Phutawan Resort
With its friendly staff and bamboo-built cottages with ensuite bathrooms and cold showers, Railay Phutawan Resort is a true tropical getaway. You can even upgrade and get luxuries like air-conditioning, hot water showers, and tea and coffee making capabilities.
Set inland from both West and East Railay Beach, this resort also boasts a restaurant serving up Thai and Western cuisine, plus a rustic bar complete with a thatched roof terrace.
Though it may not be directly on the beach for seaside fun, it does have monkeys roaming the grounds and beautiful views of the glittering sea.
7. Sunrise Tropical Resort
At Sunrise Tropical Resort, you’ll find rooms spread out amidst palm-lined grounds – complete with an outdoor swimming pool – just minutes from the sand of East Railay Beach.
These rooms are set in villas that boast their own patios or balconies, and also flatscreen TVs. Upgrading means the luxury of outdoor showers to enjoy, as well as four-poster beds.
Though set on East Railay, it’s less than a 10-minute walk from this hotel to West Railay Beach. To help start the day right, there’s a complimentary breakfast on offer before you tackle activities like canoeing, or chilling on the beach.
6. Railay Bay Resort & Spa
For a refined way to spend your time in Railay, Railay Bay Resort & Spa would be an excellent option for you. The rooms are decidedly polished, stylish affairs, boasting dark wood furnishings and touches of Thai design.
For even more luxury, you could opt for your own villa, which comes with a private pool and terrace (and a hammock, of course). There’s a lovely open-air restaurant on the beach here, but it’s also just a short walk away from dining options and cafes of West Railay. For a spot of sightseeing, Phra Nang Cave is around a seven-minute walk from this hotel.
5. Avatar Railay
Set just opposite the beach, Avatar Railay is in a great spot; not only is the sand on its doorstep, but there are quite a few bars to choose from, as well as minimarts and a pier. In fact, Avatar Railay is accessible only by boat!
The rooms are decorated warmly and come with terraces or balconies. You could choose a villa – set in the tropical garden – for a more luxury feel. Amenities include a pool, restaurant, and a cocktail bar.
It’s not just for couples and backpackers; kids aged 12 and above are welcomed, so it’s a great place for those with older children in tow.
4. Railay Princess Resort & Spa
The tile-floored rooms of Railay Princess Resort & Spa come with pretty much everything you could want to enjoy a holiday away. There are tea and coffee making facilities, minibars, and flatscreen TVs. Rooms feature balconies and terraces, perfect for soaking up those views of the tropical garden this place is set in.
Featuring a pool and a restaurant with a terrace where you can enjoy eating meals right amid this tropical world, Railay Princess Resort & Spa is within easy walking distance of the beach. It is also practically next door to the picturesque Princess Cave for fantastic photo opportunities.
3. Sand Sea Resort
Sand Sea Resort is just a stone’s throw from the beach in West Railay – perfect for those who want to roll out of bed onto the sand. The rooms are sleek, but you can also opt for a bungalow – some of which come with dark wood details.
Those who like to be active will love this place; there are kayaks to use free of charge, the Phra Nang Caves are a short walk away, and there’s a complimentary breakfast to set you up for a day of exploration. When you’re done, return to the hotel for a bite to eat at the beachfront restaurant or cool off in the pool.
2. Railay Great View Resort
Set slightly away from the beach of East Railay, this hotel is located high on a peninsula – something that really helps this place live up to its name.
Wood-furnished cottages give this place a simple but luxe feeling, boasting balconies or terraces, flatscreen TVs, and even wi-fi (of course).
Only accessible by boat, Railay Great View Resort boasts its own private beach, massage services, a restaurant, and a pool that has both a bar and a section just for children. Needless to say, this is a beautiful private getaway.
1. Rayavadee Resort, Railay
Rayavadee is located right on the southern end of West Railay Beach and is, therefore, a little further from restaurant and bar offerings. Regardless, this 5-star offering is not the sort of place you’d be interested in leaving.
The rooms are decidedly polished, featuring sleek wooden details and a calm, white-washed color palette. Staff are friendly and professional.
This is the perfect place to relax, with complete with beach access, an onsite restaurant, and a great pool. Rayavadee is an excellent place to stay for a cut above the usual beach shack lodgings in this part of the world.
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