Guide to Best Railay Beach Hotels & Resorts in Krabi, Thailand

We really enjoyed visiting Railay Beach, which is one of the best places to visit in Krabi for a reason. We loved the adventurous parts of Railay, such as rock climbing, hiking to the stunning Railay East Viewpoint, and exploring the mysterious Bat Cave. And we also loved just chilling on pristine Phra Nang Beach. 

But if you’re wondering whether you should book a stay in Railay Beach and which are the best Railay hotels, we wrote this Railay accommodation guide to answer just that!

About Railay Beach Peninsula

Railay Krabi is a small peninsula cut off from the rest of the mainland. There’s no other way to get to Railay but a boat ride, and going around the place is mainly on foot. 

It is an absolutely stunning area with beautiful waters, high limestone cliffs, and many small picturesque islands in the distance. You can easily explore the offshore area by renting a kayak or one of the awesome boat tours that take you to some of the best places in Krabi.

Beaches are the highlight of Railay, but there are other attractions you can visit, including the Princess Cave, Bat Cave, and the hidden Princess Lagoon. You can also partake in many activities in Railay, like rock climbing, swimming in the clear turquoise waters, and hiking to viewpoints.

Railay can easily keep you busy! You can check out our travel guide to Railay Beach for a complete list of things to do there!

Why should I stay in Railay Beach?

Some of the best resorts in Krabi are located right here at the Railay Beach. Additionally, Krabi’s best beaches are also here in Railay, specifically Railay Beach and Phra Nang Beach. So, if you’re looking for a beach vacation, Railay is the place!

When deciding where to stay in Krabi, Railay Beach and the peninsula are great areas to consider. And don’t worry – you won’t miss out on anything.

Railay Beach offers various food and beverage choices, as the peninsula hosts many street food vendors, restaurants, and bars. Getting to the mainland of Krabi is also easy by frequent, affordable taxi boats. Plus, all the best Krabi tours depart from Railay.

However, note that the Railay Beach area can get crowded too, especially when people visit for a day and as a stop on many tours.

So, don’t expect a fully calm and secluded area. If that’s what you’re looking for, read our Best Areas to Stay in Krabi Guide to find an area for yourself.

BUT, staying at Railay overnight can help you have a more peaceful time in the early mornings and late evenings when most other day tourists leave Railay.

Accommodations are also abundant at Railay Beach, so you’ll find properties offering both cheap dorms and luxury rooms.

Plus, many Railay Beach hotels have absolutely stunning pools with views to die for! 

Best Railay Beach Hotels & Resorts

Here are our top picks for the best hotels and resorts in Railay Beach – the best-rated accommodation options for all budgets.

Best Luxury Hotels and Resorts in Railay Beach

1. Rayavadee

This “hidden” 5-star resort is one of the most outstanding Railay Beach hotels, with two-story pavilions, luxurious villas with private pools, four restaurants, and an activities center.

Rayavadee is the best choice for a romantic getaway for couples in Railay Beach, but also for families.

It also has one of the super famous restaurants, The Grotto @ Rayavadee.

2. Railay Bay Resort and Spa

This beautiful resort at Railay Beach offers tropical-style cottages, beachfront pools, and a soothing massage service at the spa.

Best Mid-Range Hotels in Railay Beach

1. Railay Phutawan Resort

A peaceful resort surrounded by green hills that offers well-equipped rooms and a stunning sea view from the bar and pool.

2. Avatar Railay

This adult-only hotel offers mountain views, a superb pool, and a cocktail bar with movies and music, making it one of the best hotels for couples in Railay.

Best Budget Hotels in Railay Beach

1. Railay Garden View Resort

Within walking distance of Railay’s top attractions, this resort offers a rustic stay in its hillside bungalows.

Railay Garden View Resort is the best-budget Railay Beach hotel.

2. Rapala Rock Wood Resort

Rapala Rock Wood Resort is another great-budget Railay Beach hotel with great views from its restaurant.

This affordable resort has well-equipped bungalows guaranteed to make you feel at home.

Best Hostels in Railay Beach

1. Blanco Hideout

This lively hostel comprising mixed-gender dorms and private bungalows is a perfect place to socialize, thanks to its daily events.

2. Social Quarters

This fun Railay hostel is perfect for meeting new people, party at night, and stay in dorms for an affordable price.

Bonus: Stay at Tonsai Beach

Located on the western part of Railay, Tonsai Beach is a picturesque shoreline with a laidback atmosphere. Like the rest of Railay, it is cut off from the rest of the Krabi mainland, which means getting there involves a boat ride – or a jungle walk.

Tonsai Beach is popular for the amazing rock climbing opportunities nearby at Tonsai Tower and a more peaceful environment.

The best place to stay at Tonsai Beach in Railay is Tinidee Hideaway, where you can stay in beautiful villas.

But there are also options for budget travelers and backpackers – check out Chill Out Bar and Bungalows for dorms and simple rooms and Tonsai Bay Resort for an affordable resort stay.

Railay Beach Hotels Map

You can easily explore the different areas and find top-rated hotels on this interactive Railay accommodation map.

Things to know before booking a hotel in Railay

You’re not missing out on anything by staying in Railay Beach! There are regular taxi boats to take you to mainland Krabi, and all the best Krabi tours also depart from Railay Beach!

While the Railay Peninsula is not that big, there are a few different areas to stay at: West Railay Beach, East Railay Beach, inland Railay, and Phra Nang Beach. No matter which one you choose, you shouldn’t have more than a 30-minute walk to the furthest part of Railay.

• Read next: Things to do at Railay Beach Krabi (Guide)

During high season (November-April), the best hotels in Railay Beach get sold out quickly. Book your hotel in advance to secure the best deal!

If you want to enjoy Railay Beach in Krabi without many crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder season (October-November or April-June). That is also when the hotel prices are super cheap compared to the season. However, note that it’s more likely to rain at this time, and the sea can be a bit more rough. We visited at the end of May and had the whole area almost to ourselves.

Must Do Experiences in Railay Beach Krabi

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Thank you for reading our Guide to Best Railay Beach Hotels & Resorts in Krabi, Thailand. We hope we helped you plan your trip. 🥰 If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below.

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