By Paula Parker
East Railay Beach is the least attractive beach out of the four beaches within the Railay peninsula.
The beach itself is lined by mangrove trees and is used as the main pier for longtail taxi boats that arrive from Krabi and Ao Nang.
Up until a few years ago, there was no pier; on low tide, longtail boats were unable to moor on the shore, leaving their passengers to walk in knee-deep water and slippery mud to reach the shore.
Whilst this was not a big problem for most people, elderly people or those unsteady on their feet found this a bit challenging.
In recent years, a floating pier was installed at East Railay, allowing for easier access for many visitors.

As you can see from the pictures, East Railay Beach is not suitable for swimming.
However, if you're planning on staying for a few nights, this area in the Railay Peninsula is much quieter and more laid back than West Railay, especially throughout the day when day trippers arrive at West Railay Beach.
From East Railay Beach, it is only a short 10-minute walk to West Railay or Phra Nang Beaches.
Both West Railay and Phra Nang beaches are easy to find; just follow the paths that wind around the resorts to gain access to West Railay Beach or follow the path along the beach and around the base of the cliff until you reach Phra Nang Beach.

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Whilst East Railay beach doesn’t have a beautiful beach like West Railay and Phra Nang beaches.
This area still attracts many visitors, as this is where the majority of affordable low-cost accommodation is located within the Railay Peninsula.
There is a good variety of accommodation to choose from at East Railay, including affordable luxury hotels, resorts and cheap bungalows, which are priced to suit all budgets.
You can see the full list of East Railay accommodation or read about some of our favourite places to stay below.

Bhu Nga Thani Resort & Villas are located near the Pier at East Railay Beach.
This 4-star resort caters for all travellers, with 60 rooms and pool villas to choose from, including two-bedroom pool villas, which are perfect if you're travelling with kids to the Railay Peninsula.
Hotel Facilities include:

The Railay Phutawan Resort is set in a peaceful location within the stunning
limestone cliffs between East Railay Beach and West Railay Beach.
This 3-star resort offers good value for money, in a tranquil setting with magnificent
views. The views from the infinity swimming pool are absolutely breathtaking.
The resort has a good selection of room choices, including family rooms.
I would highly recommend booking the
Deluxe Seaview rooms for the best views.
Resort Facilities include:



East Railay boasts a variety of restaurants and bars, which are more affordable than what you will find on West Railay or Phra Nang Beach.
Some of our favourites are:
The nightlife on the eastern side of the Peninsula is somewhat different to what is offered at West Railay Beach.
There is a selection of bars, such as Joy’s Bar, the Skunk Bar, the Bamboo Bar and the Last Bar, which has a fantastic atmosphere, great food and features live music and fire shows.
East Railay has some facilities, including a first aid clinic, pharmacy, internet cafes, an ATM, tour offices and mini marts; however, the mini marts are more expensive compared to the prices at Ao Nang.

The main activities within the Railay Peninsula are rock climbing, cliff jumping and deep water soloing.
Located around the eastern side of the peninsula are many rock climbing schools.
Other activities include:
Longtail boats from Ao Nang to East Railay - Tonsai - West Railay or Phra Nang Beach cost 100 baht per person, or 200 baht return.
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