Railay Beach Ferries

The port of Railay Beach plays a key role in the ferry network of Thailand, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 1 ferry routes operated by - ferry companies, Railay Beach serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Railay Beach, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include Koh Phi Phi (Tonsai Pier) - Railay Beach connecting Railay Beach with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as - run regular services from Railay Beach, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Railay Beach offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

Travelers typically arrive at Railay via longtail boats departing from Ao Nang (15 minutes) or Krabi Town (45 minutes). The nearest airport is Krabi International, about 30 minutes by road to the Ao Nang or Krabi Town piers. From Bangkok, visitors can take an overnight bus (12 hours) or train to Surat Thani, then connect by minivan to the piers. Regular ferry services run throughout the day, with the last boats typically departing around 6 PM. For those arriving with luggage, porters are available at the landing points, as the beach landing means you might need to wade through shallow water.

Nestled between the bustling towns of Ao Nang and Krabi, Railay Beach stands as a stunning peninsula accessible only by boat. Cut off from the mainland by towering limestone cliffs, this car-free haven offers four distinct beaches, each with its own character. Visitors arriving by ferry are greeted with crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand, and a laid-back atmosphere that epitomizes Thailand's natural coastal beauty.

The ideal time to visit Railay Beach falls between November and April during the dry season when clear skies and calm seas make for perfect beach days and reliable ferry crossings. March and April offer the warmest temperatures, ideal for swimming and water activities, though they can be quite hot. The monsoon season (May-October) brings periodic heavy rainfall and rougher seas, occasionally affecting ferry schedules. However, September and October offer significantly lower prices and fewer crowds, with plenty of sunny breaks between showers. The Christmas and New Year period sees peak visitor numbers, so book accommodations well in advance if traveling then.

Railay serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploring Thailand's Andaman treasures by ferry. The stunning Phi Phi Islands lie just 1-2 hours away by boat, offering world-class snorkeling and the famous Maya Bay. Closer to shore, the Four Islands tour takes just 30 minutes by longtail boat to reach spectacular formations like Chicken Island and Poda Island. For a full day trip, Hong Island's emerald lagoon sits about 45 minutes away, providing one of Thailand's most photogenic locations. Adventure seekers can also reach the remote Bamboo Island with its pristine beaches and minimal development in under 90 minutes.

Rock climbing on Railay's world-renowned limestone cliffs attracts enthusiasts of all levels, with numerous schools offering instruction for beginners. The challenging hike to the Railay Viewpoint rewards climbers with panoramic vistas across the peninsula and Andaman Sea. For a unique experience, visit the Princess Cave (Tham Phra Nang) with its unusual fertility shrine filled with wooden phalluses. Culinary explorers should try the fresh seafood at the restaurants on Walking Street, particularly the grilled fish with Thai herbs. East Railay's mangrove forest boardwalk offers a quieter alternative to the beaches, especially beautiful during high tide.

Despite its beach status, Railay is technically not an island but a peninsula completely cut off by limestone karst formations that have prevented road access. The area was named after an ancient southern Thai farmer who was believed to be the first settler in this once-remote region. Local legend holds that the Princess Cave (Phra Nang Cave) is home to a mythical sea princess who helps protect fishermen, which explains the unusual offerings found there. Railay's unique geography has created one of the few places in the world where visitors can watch both sunrise and sunset over the water from different beaches on the same small peninsula.