Railay Beach is a small but popular beach town on the coast of the Krabi province in Thailand. Known for it’s towering jungle-covered karst mountains, it is home to some of the country’s most scenic rock climbing.
But what makes Railay Beach special is its location. Nestled on the neck of a peninsula surrounded by beautiful peaks, the town is isolated from the mainland – only reachable by long-tail boat. Even within Railay Beach there are no roads, only a handful of walking paths that connect the east and west sides of town, each of which face a different part of the Andaman Sea.
It didn’t take me long to fall in love with Railay Beach. As soon as I caught a glimpse of it from our long-tail boat, I knew our time here would be nothing short of extraordinary. And I was right.
The view arriving at Railay Beach East
Long-tail boats wait in the shallow waters on Railay Beach West
On our first night in Railay Beach, we were gifted with the most stunning sunset. Dare I say it is the most incredible one I’ve ever seen. There is a rain storm in the distance over what looks to be Phuket. The long tail boats bob up and down in the water as deep yellows and orange hues take over the sky. It started to rain but that only seemed to add to the amazingness of this moment. In that moment, it finally started to sink in that we were in Thailand. A country that has been number one on my bucket list for years. What an incredible welcome.
Admiring the view and the crystal clear water at Phra Nang Beach
By mid-morning Phra Nang Beach is packed with tourists from nearby islands. But the long-tail boats on display are picture perfect.
The ribbons and hanging garland on the tail of the boat are offerings to the Thai goddess of safe journey – to ask for good luck and protection
Early bird gets the worm. Enjoying Phra Nang Beach in the early morning, when no one else was around, was like a dream.
Such a beautiful beach! Amazing pictures! I like that even at such a popular destination you can still enjoy some calmness and privacy even if it’s only early in the morning.
Beautifully said, Zhanna! There’s always a way to get away from the crowd and enjoy what’s around you!
Ugh! This looks amazing – I love all of your boat photos. Enjoy and safe travels <3
Thank you, Courtney! It was a dream being in Thailand! Have you been?
Your pictures are always a treat to eyes! Loved reading this. 🙂
Thank you, Samita!!! Railay Beach was definitely a treat for the eyes and the soul 🙂 If you ever go, definitely let me know! I have tons of recommendations!
Very pretty picture, thank you very much for sharing.