Railay Beach is located on the shores of picturesque Railay peninsula swept by the warm waters of the Andaman Sea in Thailand. Although it is connected to the mainland, the beaches may only be reached by boat. The peninsula is thriving with lush, tropical jungles and national parks home to unique indigenous fauna and flora, and stunning limestone cliffs which tower over the clear waters and white beaches.
Rock Climbing and Other Activities
Many travelers are attracted to Railay Bay to engage in rock climbing activities and tours. As one of the top rock climbing destinations worldwide, experienced climbers from across the globe come to explore the cliffs overlooking the gorgeous beaches. There are also many first-time climbers who try out rock climbing for the first time, and many who enjoy to just stand and watch the climbers and local instructors who have been doing it since they were very young, and with their amazing skills seem quite at home in some of the most dangerous spots.
Being such a popular location, highly trained instructors are available, who work under very strict safety regulations enabling people of many ages and abilities to experience. Courses are available for beginners and family groups, as well as intermediate and advanced climbers. There are also climbing certification courses which can be taken. Other activities include abseiling, cave trekking, snorkeling, and diving.
Rock Climbing Courses for Beginners
The family and beginners tour is a half-day event. Instructors will guide you step by step as you make your way along the limestone cliffs to overlook the scenic Railay Beach. During the course, you can learn all the basics including safety tips, how to use the gear effectively, and the necessary techniques to get you started.
This option can even be extended to a full-day which includes abseiling and trekking through the caves in the surrounding national park. Children as young as five years of age may join the caving and climbing tours.
Tours for Intermediate and Advanced Climbers
Private climbing sessions for intermediate and advanced climbers on the cliffs of Railay and Tonsai Beach are also either a half-day or full-day option. Climbers can explore the different rock faces along different climbing routes and be rest assured that they are in safe hands under the guidance of their instructors. The abseiling adventure is located at the Railay’s top viewing points, 150 meters up the cliffs offering breathtaking glimpses of the surroundings.
Rainforest Discovery and Elephant Ride
For a tour, which requires far less physical exertion, the Rainforest Discovery and Elephant Ride is a full-day tour. If you select this tour, you will take a journey into the tropical jungles of Thailand located within the Khlong Thom National Park. Deep in the lush, green rainforest, you will encounter natural hot springs where you can take a dip and just sit back and relax and enjoy the exotic natural habitat. There is ample time to walk through the rainforest observing the local species. You can visit the Khlong Thom Waterfall and the crystal-clear Emerald Pool where you can cool down before indulging in a delicious Thai lunch. After lunch, you will make a stop at the Tiger Cave Temple before taking an elephant ride and visiting the elephant camp where you can interact with these magnificent animals.
Exotic Eco Living
Thailand has some of the top resorts in the world where travelers can rest in the most beautiful, tranquil surroundings. If you are visiting Railay Beach, some eco-accommodation options worth considering are Rayavadee Resort, has gorgeous pavilions which are nestled among the trees near the edge of the Krabi Marine National Park. The resort practices sustainable water and waste management, and none of the trees were removed during the construction of the pavilions. At Railay Bay Resort and Spa the bungalows are in a natural setting among exotic coconut trees where guests can make their way along walkways through the beautiful surroundings.