The area of Railay is actually a large peninsula jutting out into the Andaman, but what makes this place truly place special is that it’s cut off from the rest of the mainland by a row of steep hills, which means you can only get there by boat. Railay has risen from peaceful fishing village to a world-class tourist destination, thanks to its imposing limestone cliffs that shoot out of the crystal blue waters to tower over the white sandy beaches.

Railay actually covers three beaches, each with its own distinctive character. Though Railay West is ideal for sunbathing, do be warned that the southern-end is pretty rocky. Further north is Ton Sai Bay, a good spot for rock climbing.The towering limestone karsts that dominate the landscape mean Railay is also a haven for rock climbers, and the area offers more than 700 different climbing trails with an annual Krabi Rock and Fire International Contest hosted annually.