Railay Beach is a secluded beach in the Thai province of Krabi. Although both are part of the mainland, Railay beach and its neighbor, Tonsai beach, are surrounded by steep limestone hills and the ocean. Thus, they are only accessible by sea.
Thanks to its unique nature, Railay beach is one of the finest places to stay in Krabi, especially for families or tourists who prefer a serene and relaxing stay.
Even though there are several hotels and resorts nearby, not all of them are worth booking. Thus, I decided to write this article to separate the wheat from the chaff, so you can find the right property that matches your preferences and budget without hassle.
Affiliate Disclosure: Tourist Sense uses affiliate links in this article. Through them, we may receive a small commission from our partners if you book resorts at Railay beach.
However, we are always committed to integrity and transparency. You can be confident that the information we present here is unbiased.
Unless stated in the citations, the property images in this article are provided by Agoda’s Image Links.
Things You Should Know
How do I get from Krabi to Railay Beach?
Most Railay beach hotels and resorts arrange private transportation for their guests. It is thus crucial to contact them in advance (2 days plus) so that a driver can pick up your group at the airport. I prefer this option even if it may cost more. The reason is that I do not want to be frustrated with the logistic mess that had once almost ruined my trip.
If your resort does not offer a transfer, you will need to take a bus to Ao Nang or Krabi Town and get on one of the long-tail boats to Railay beach. I prefer Ao Nang since the boat trip will be shorter (15 min vs. 45 min.)
Riding long-tail boats is generally safe. I have done so many times since I was young. Wear your life jacket properly, and you will be fine.
Should you stay on Railay West or East Beach?
Both sides of Railay beach have excellent hotels and resorts. However, Railay West is generally a superior option for first-time travelers.
Railay West has a long white-sand beach with crystal-clear waters, making it optimal for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. Hotels with private beach access are only available in Railay West.
Railay East beach is generally unsuitable for swimming due to the presence of mangroves and the beach’s muddy nature. The sea view is undoubtedly subpar.
However, it is a superior choice for adventure-lover tourists who want to participate in Railay beach’s famous rock climbing activities. Several climbing spots and schools are nearby. Krabi’s tropical mountain views are stunning as well.
Still, Railay West and East beaches are within walking distance of each other. Therefore, tourists can still visit both with ease.
Criteria
Best Hotels in Railay West Beach
Top Pick: Railay West
Rayavadee Hotel
- Spacious pavilions and villas
- Relaxing atmosphere
- Stunning ocean views
- Amazing facilities
- World-class Services
1. Rayavadee Hotel
As the only five-star resort at Railay Beach (West), Rayavadee hotel is unarguably the best resort in this area. The location is superb since the resort is surrounded by two iconic white-sand beaches and towering limestone cliffs. The ocean views from the resort are probably the best Krabi has yet to offer.
Furthermore, the resort is not too far from the village, where restaurants, shops, and bars are available. The iconic Railay viewpoint is nearby as well.
- Address – 214 Moo 2, Tambol Ao-nang, Amphur Muang, Railay, Krabi, Thailand
Rooms
All rooms are free-standing pavilions or pool villas, where guests can enjoy their stay with the utmost privacy and exclusivity.
The exterior is stylishly decorated in a tropical style, while the interior features a modern design with wooden furniture and warming decor. Each room blends well with nature and forms a calming atmosphere, thanks to the verdant garden and the scent it provides.
Below are the room options that Rayavadee Resort offers:
Pavilions
- Deluxe Pavilion – 90 SQM/969 SQft
- Terrace Pavilion – 115 SQM/1237 SQft, open-air ground floor
- Pool Pavilion – 115 SQM/1237 SQft, private pool
- Family Pavilion – 137 SQM/1474 SQft, extra bedroom, and an outdoor terrace
Each pavilion is two-story and offers an extremely generous living space. The spacious living room is on the ground floor, allowing guests to relax under the sea breeze and the fragrance of nature.
The amenities in each pavilion cover everything you need for a convenient stay, including satellite TV, tea & coffee making facilities, a daybed & sofa, etc.
The only drawback is that all pavilions do not have ocean views. This is hardly an issue since the resort has several beachfront restaurants where you can dine in and appreciate magnificent sea views.
Pool Villas
Rayavadee Resort’s pool villas are among the most luxurious in Krabi. Each features a modern setting with some exquisite Thai-inspired decor and furniture.
Most are located next to a dramatic landscape of gigantic limestone on one side and the picturesque ocean on the other. Such an ambiance is absolutely memorable and not what any five-star resort can offer.
The following are the villas that are available to select from:
- Raitalay Villa – 260 SQM/2799 SQft
- Family Villa – 345 SQM/3713 SQft
- Rayavadee Villa – 417 SQM/4488 SQft
- Phranang Villa (401/404) – 417 SQM/4488 SQft
All villas are spacious, and most have stunning ocean views (the family villa does not, though.) The Raitalay villa is on the exclusive corner of Railay beach, while the rest faces the renowned Phra nang Beach.
Each villa has luxurious amenities, including a private pool and an outdoor living space with sun loungers. Ocean-view villas even have a kitchenette and an ensuite bathroom. Dedicated butler services are also provided for all guests.
Facilities and Services
- Access to two private beaches: Railay beach and Pranang Beach
- 4 Restaurants and bars: Most of which are beachfront. One of which uniquely nestles in a grotto next to the beach, providing an unforgettable dining experience
- An outdoor swimming pool and a gym
- Comprehensive spa facilities
- A boutique store
- Sea and land excursions
- Thai cooking classes
- Event and wedding management
- Airport Transfer (recommended by the resort) and parking lot
Testimonial
I stayed at this resort once, and all I could say was that the experience there was one of the most memorable I had ever had. The ocean views from my room were phenomenal. The atmosphere was soothing, and the services provided by the staff marked the pinnacle of Thai hospitality. I wholeheartedly recommend this hotel without hesitation.
2. Railay Village Resort
Suppose you are looking for a more affordable resort in Railay West Beach. Railay Village Resort is one of the best available. Guests can stay in its spacious and well-equipped room without breaking the bank.
The resort’s location is ideal since it resides in Railay West beach. Hence, its private beach is beautiful and suitable for most beach activities.
Address: 544 Moo 2 Ao Nang , Muang , Krabi 81180 Thailand
Rooms
Railay Village Resort offers both standard hotel rooms and villas. All of which stylishly incorporate a modern design with Thai wooden architecture. Every bedroom has a vaulted ceiling, which makes the atmosphere less cluttered and conveys a higher sense of comfort.
You can choose from the following room types:
- Deluxe Pool View/Pool Side – 44 SQM/474 SQft
- Jacuzzi Villa – 50 SQM/538 SQft
- Honeymoon Sweet – 60 SQM/646 SQft
- Family Suite – 75 SQM/807 SQft
All rooms provide ample living space. Each also has a spacious balcony with a table where you can sit and relax with the relief of a soothing tropical sea breeze.
Complete amenities are present in each room, including daily fresh Thai fruits and coffee & tea facilities. The Deluxe Pool View/Pool Side rooms have bathtubs, while the rest has a luxurious jacuzzi tub.
However, all of this resort’s rooms do not have ocean views. Guests can appreciate them at the restaurant, though.
Facilities and Services
- Private beach access
- A beachfront restaurant and a cafe
- An outdoor swimming pool
- Beach activities, such as kayak rental
- Island-hopping tours
- Airport Transfer and a parking lot
Bottom Line
Railay Village Resort offers well-designed rooms with outstanding amenities despite costing only a fraction of a luxurious resort. The facilities and services are fantastic.
Finally, its prime location in Railay West allows guests to watch a gorgeous sunset, dine on a walking street, and start their beach excursions conveniently.
Best Railay East Hotels
Top Pick: Railay East
Bhu Nga Thani Resort Railay
- Spacious rooms and villas
- Top-notch Location
- Exceptional amenities and facilities
- Affordable Room Rates
3. Bhu Nga Thani Resort Railay
Located in Railay East beach, Bhu Nga Thani Resort Railay is another excellent accommodation whose guests can appreciate the gorgeous views of the limestone mountains of Krabi.
The resort is sheltered by massive cliffs and lush mangroves on one side and the ocean on the other. This is, thus, where you can rejuvenate your soul and let go of your work fatigue.
Despite the exotic surroundings, shops, restaurants, and bars are still within walking distance.
- Address – 479 Moo 2, Railay East, Ao Nang, Muang Krabi Thailand 81180
Rooms
Bhu Nga Thani resort offers both standard hotel rooms and pool villas. Hotel rooms are located in a building furnished in a colonial style. The interior of each room features an elegant contemporary style with some distinct Thai decor.
You can select from the following options:
- Deluxe Room – 47 SQM/506 SQft
- Deluxe Elegant Room – 58 SQM/624 SQft
- Deluxe Grand Room – 64 SQM/689 SQft
The rooms are pretty spacious. Each also has luxurious amenities, including a sizable private balcony with a day bed where you can lie down and enjoy the scent of nature at will.
Regarding pool villas, they also feature a contemporary style with some oriental aspects, but each has a vaulted ceiling, adding more space to an already spacious room.
There are two types of pool villas at this resort:
- Pool Villa – 124 SQM/ 1335 SQft
- Two-Bedroom Presidential Pool Villa – 328 SQM/3531 SQft
Both are spacious and have an oversized bathtub, a private pool, and an outdoor space with double sun loungers. The two-bedroom villa is even more luxurious, comprising ensuite bathrooms, a grand living/dining room, and a waterfall.
The only drawback is that all rooms and villas do not have ocean views. However, you can appreciate the scenery any time at an infinity pool or an all-day beachfront restaurant.
Facilities and Services
- A beachfront restaurant
- A beachfront outdoor pool and a pool bar
- A fitness center
- A souvenir shop
- Island-hopping tours
- Airport Transfer
Bottom Line
Bhu Nga Thani Resort Railay is unarguably one of the finest hotels in Railay East. The location is exceptional. Its spacious rooms and villas are well-equipped with modern amenities, offering maximum comfort to its guests. The staff are also friendly and professional.
All of these come at an affordable price per night. If you are looking for accommodation that offers value for money in Railay East, this resort should be the first to consider.
4. Avatar Railay Resort
Avatar Railay Resort is a boutique resort located in Railay West. Its location is not far from the base of gigantic limestone cliffs and is surrounded by a verdant garden.
Near the resort are several minimarts, shops, restaurants, and bars. Thus, there are many alternatives for guests to dine in and hang out. Several rock climbing schools are also nearby as well. The general atmosphere is lively but remains adequately serene, making the resort an excellent choice for young adults.
- Address – 629 Moo 2, Tambol Ao Nang, Muang Krabi 81000, Thailand
Rooms
All rooms combine modern design with nature-inspired decorations, creating a relaxing ambiance. A sizable balcony with a dry bed is present in each room for guests to immerse themselves in nature and let the sea breeze and scent of nature calm their stress.
Below are the rooms that you can select from:
- Deluxe – 35 SQM/377 SQft
- Pool Access – 35 SQM/377 SQft (have direct pool access)
- Deluxe Corner – 42 SQM/452 SQft (additional space due to being at the corner of each floor)
- Villa – 50 SQM/538 SQft (two-story)
- Pool Suite – 80 SQM/861 SQft
- Pool Villa – 82 SQM/883 SQft (direct swimming pool access)
The rooms are pretty spacious for two guests. In-room amenities are all top-notch, including Egyptian cotton bed linens (many former guests praise the softness of the bed) and coffee-making equipment. The Deluxe Corner Room, The Pool Suite, and the villas all have jacuzzi tubs to enrich your stay.
Facilities and Services
- An outdoor swimming pool
- A restaurant and bar
- Island tours
- Airport Transfer
Bottom Line
Avatar Railay Resort is a Railay East resort that offers comfortable rooms with excellent amenities. Although ocean views are not available, the vista of limestone cliffs is indeed memorable.
Furthermore, the facilities are superb, and the services are professional. This comes with a very reasonable cost. Undoubtedly, this resort is one of the best mid-range options in Railay East.
5. Railay Phutawan Resort
Nestled on the hilltop overlooking Railay East Beach and enclosed by limestone cliffs and tropical forests, Railay Phutawan resort is probably the most desirable resort in Railay for guests who want to escape into nature.
The best part is that all guests can appreciate the panoramic ocean views of Railay Beach, which are breathtaking. Few resorts in Railay Beach can offer such scenery.
Although the resort is in a secluded area, it is not too far from the town center (5-10 minutes on foot but not recommended because you need to walk uphill.) A complimentary shuttle service is also available for guests to conveniently reach restaurants, bars, and shops.
- Address – 479 Moo 2, Railay East, Ao Nang, Muang Krabi Thailand 81180
Rooms
Unlike most other resorts, Railay Phutawan resort only offers standard hotel rooms, which seamlessly blend a modern design with Thai-style wooden architecture. Colorful fabrics contrast nicely with the wooden room wall, and form a vibrant impression that enlivens your mood.
The following are the currently available rooms:
- Deluxe Double with Balcony – 25 SQM/269 SQft
- Superior Double/Twin – 25-30 SQM/269-323 SQft (No balcony, but the room is very close to a restaurant and other facilities)
- Deluxe Cottage – 35 SQM/377 SQft
- Deluxe Pool View – 38 SQM/409 SQft
- Deluxe Sea View – 38 SQM/409 SQft
- Family Room – 60 SQM/646 SQft
The rooms there are not the most spacious in Railay East, but they provide sufficient living spaces for two guests. All rooms (excluding the Superior) have large balconies.
Suppose the budget is not a cause for concern. I highly recommend booking the Deluxe Sea View room, where guests can appreciate the entire landscape of the cliff and the sea. The vista from this room is probably the best in all of Railay Beach.
Standard amenities are available, including bath amenities and a satellite TV, ensuring you will be comfortable throughout your stay.
Facilities and Services
- An open-air restaurant and bar with stunning views
- An outdoor infinity pool
- Island-hopping tours
- Rock-climbing course
- Airport Transfer + Complimentary Shuttle Service
Bottom Line
Travelers who love the ocean views should seriously consider Railay Phutawan resort. The ocean, cliff, and forest views are stunning, and this panorama alone makes the resort worth booking.
Apart from that, the rooms are well-equipped with modern amenities. The staffs are also friendly. The nearby village is also within walking distance. In general, this resort has all you need for your comfortable stay.
6. Railay Princess Resort & Spa
Located beside the East Railay beach pier, Railay Princess Resort & Spa is in a prime location. Every landmark of Railay beach is within a 3-5 minute walk. Shops, restaurants, and bars are all around. This makes the resort a perfect base for tourists to explore the area.
- Address – 145/1 Moo 2, Ao Nang Muang Krabi, 81180 Thailand
Rooms
The rooms at this resort are furnished with modern design, which brilliantly mingles lighter-tone walls and ceilings with a pop of color from fabrics. The room types are as follows:
- Superior – 30 SQM/323 SQft
- Deluxe/Grand Deluxe – 42 SQM/452 SQft
The rooms are relatively spacious. Room amenities are full-fledged for a convenient stay. The best part is that guests can enjoy the marvelous limestone cliff view from every room’s private balcony.
Facilities and Services
- A beachfront restaurant
- A rooftop pool (with extraordinary cliff views) and a fitness center
- Spa facilities, including massages and treatments
- Island tours and beach excursions
- Event and meeting management
- Airport Transfer
Bottom Line
Railay Princess Resort & Spa boasts spacious rooms with high-quality amenities. In addition, the facilities are amazing and more or less in line with a 4-5 star resort, despite the price tag being 80% cheaper! This resort is thus a definite value hotel that budget-conscious travelers will love.
7. Budget Hotels in Railay Beach
If you are looking for budget-friendly hotels (price per night is lower than 1500 THB) in Railay beach, the list below may be helpful.
- Railay Garden View Resort – An excellent accommodation offering bungalows in a secluded area of Railay East. The price per night is low (around 1000-1200 THB.)
Top Accommodations in Krabi
- Koh Lanta – A serene island retreat located in the south of Krabi
- Ao Nang – Coming Soon
