Railay Beach The Ao Nang and Railay peninsular is a land of incredible mountains, impenetrable forests and beautiful beaches most inaccessible without a boat.What any map can't effectively show you is how the striking countryside actually is but to help you explore this amazing area and choose where you want to base yourself to do that, the locations of all the major hotels and resorts are shown here.
There are 3 beaches -Rai Ley West, Rai Ley East and Phra Nang. Though on the peninsular, the area feels like an island because it is only accessible by boat. In the 80's it was a travelers paradise with its white sand beaches, aqua blue sea, incredible limestone scenery, memorable sunsets, simple delicious food, basic cheap bungalows, friendly staff and laid-back atmosphere.
Then came development. The beach, sunsets & scenery are still as impressive, but the other elements have changed. Phra Nang beach has virtually been taken over by the Luxury Dusit Rayavadee Resort Complex.
Rai Leh East & West beach suffer from over-crowding as bungalow complexes are crammed into the small area between them. Upgraded over the years, budget accommodation is now limited, often full in the high season when most accommodation is overpriced. Food standards are low. Staff are overworked, underpaid, complaints from customers are common.
Despite the negative points, Rai Ley is still one of the most beautiful areas in Thailand, it has retained a relaxed atmosphere, and remains a favorite with many visitors.
Rai Ley attracts many rock-climbers. It is also a popular center for scuba diving.
Local Transport
Bus Services to the beaches. Local minibuses leave from outside the Seven Eleven store on Maharaj Road every 15 minutes, from 07:00 until 17:30; and go to Ao Nang, Noppharat Beach and The Shell Cemetery Beach.
Journeys take about 40 minutes and cost 20 Baht per person, each way. Buses also leave from outside Thaimit Tours on Ut-Tarakit Road every 5 minutes for Wat Tham Seua Koa Gaew the famous Tiger Cave Temple. The 9 Km journey costs 30 Baht per person, each way.
There are no roads at Rai Ley. You have to take small paths to move this place.
Wether of Railay
Rainy season : May-Dec
Monsoons : Sep- Nov
Dry season : Jan-Apr
Average Temp. : 17-37 degrees
High Season : Nov-May
Low Season : Jun-Oct
Sights
Rock-climbing (very popular), hiking, volleyball and the usual sea-based activities - snorkeling(50B + fin 50B), diving, fishing and kayaking are available.
Beach: Hat Tham Phra Nang: 5 min from the village. a very beautiful beach with a cave.
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