Life of Travel
Krabi & Railay
Destination Guide
Dramatic limestone cliffs, world class rock climbing, and hidden beach paradises
Welcome to Krabi & Railay
Krabi province is home to some of Thailand's most dramatic scenery. Towering limestone karsts rise from emerald waters, hidden lagoons wait to be discovered, and the legendary Railay Beach, accessible only by boat, draws rock climbers from around the world. Whether you're scaling cliffs, kayaking through mangroves, or simply lounging on a pristine beach, Krabi offers adventure and tranquility in equal measure.
Krabi & Railay In Photos
Rock Climbing
Emerald Pool
Ao Nang
Hong Island
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season
November to March
Dry season with calm seas perfect for island hopping and climbing. December to January is busiest. Book Railay accommodation well in advance.
Off Season
May to October
Monsoon brings rain and rougher seas. Some island tours limited. But fewer crowds, lower prices, and rain usually comes in short bursts.
Where to Stay
Railay Beach
The ultimate beach escape, only accessible by boat
Best for: Rock Climbing • Beach Paradise • Romance • Adventure
Ao Nang
The main tourist hub with easy access to everything
Best for: Restaurants • Family Dining • Tour Access • Convenience
Krabi Town
Authentic Thai town with great local food and culture
Best for: Local Food • Authenticity • Day Trips • Cultural Experience
Koh Lanta
Nearby island for those seeking a quieter escape
Best for: Relaxation • Families • Long Stays • Peaceful Beaches
Top Things to Do
- 🧗Try rock climbing on Railay's famous limestone cliffs, suitable for all levels
- 🏝️Island hop to the 4 Islands: Phra Nang, Tup, Chicken, and Poda
- 🛶Kayak through Hong Island's hidden lagoon and sea caves
- 🏊Swim in the Emerald Pool and Blue Pool in the jungle interior
- 🌅Watch sunset from Phra Nang Cave Beach with its spirit shrine
- 🐒Trek through Railay's jungle to the viewpoint and hidden lagoon
4 Islands Tour
Phra Nang Cave
Tiger Temple
Krabi & Railay Tips
Railay is only accessible by longtail boat from Ao Nang (15 mins) or Krabi Town (45 mins)
Book climbing courses at Railay. Half day introductions start around 1000 baht including gear
Bring cash to Railay. ATMs exist but charge high fees and sometimes run out
High tide can make the path between Railay West and East beaches impassable. Time it right
Watch out for monkeys on Railay. They can be aggressive. Don't leave food or bags unattended
Perfect 4 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive at Railay
Boat from Ao Nang to Railay West, settle in, explore both beaches, trek to the viewpoint and lagoon, sunset at Phra Nang Cave Beach
Day 2: Rock Climbing
Half day climbing course on the cliffs (beginners and children welcome), afternoon relaxing at the beach, evening dinner at a beachfront restaurant
Day 3: 4 Islands Tour
Full day longtail boat tour to Chicken Island, Tup Island, Poda Island, and Phra Nang. Snorkeling, swimming, beachside lunch included
Day 4: Jungle & Depart
Early morning swim, visit Tiger Cave Temple (1260 steps to the top), Emerald Pool if time allows, depart from Krabi Airport
Frequently Asked Questions
From Ao Nang, longtail boats run constantly and take 15 minutes (150 to 200 baht). From Krabi Town pier, boats take 45 minutes. There are no roads to Railay due to the cliffs.
Not at all. Railay has routes for complete beginners to experts. Half day courses include instruction, gear, and insurance. The cliffs are perfect for learning with routes from grade 4 to 8a+.
Minimum 2 nights to enjoy Railay properly. 3 to 4 nights allows for climbing, island hopping, and relaxation. Many climbers stay weeks. You can do Krabi as a day trip but staying overnight is better.
Absolutely. Railay's calm beaches are perfect for children, and beginner rock climbing courses welcome kids from around age 6. The 4 Islands tour is a highlight for families, with plenty of snorkelling and beach time. Ao Nang and Koh Lanta offer excellent family-friendly resorts with kids' clubs and interconnecting rooms.
Ready for Your Krabi Adventure?
Let us take the stress out of planning your perfect family holiday. From island hopping to rock climbing, we'll arrange everything including private transfers and family-friendly resorts.
Start Planning Your Trip