Railay Beach (Rai Leh Beach)

Railay is a narrow peninsula that is cut off from the surrounding area by high limestone cliffs. Whilst these cliffs are very popular with climbers it means that Railay is only accessible only by a short boat ride from Ao Nang or Krabi. This should be seen as a blessing as it has protected the resort from the tourist frenzy in nearby locations such as Ao Nang. The other benefit is there are no cars in Railay making it supremely child friendly.

It is on the western side of the peninsula that you will find Railay’s finest beaches. The main beach is of fine white sand lapped by the gentle green waters of the Andaman sea. Backed by a short promenade lined with cafes and shops, the beach is flanked by the huge limestone cliffs. Perhaps the best known of these cliffs is the “Sleeping Indian”; at sunset, when the cliffs are thrown into silhouette, the outline of these cliffs bear an uncanny resemblance to a 1Km long reclining Indian complete with feather in headdress!

Whilst swimming in the daytime sun is a given at Railay a nighttime (skinny?) dip can be something else. The waters in this part of the Andaman are home to bio-luminescent plankton which glow a brilliant blue and put on a magical light show.