How to rock climb at Railay Beach
Railay West Beach has various rock-climbing instructors who know the cliffs well and can help you improve your skills with a short training course. It is possible to try bouldering (climbing at a low height without ropes) at the bottom of the Railay cliffs, but since they are quite steep, they are much better suited to experienced rock climbers. You can also try bouldering in nearby Tonsai Beach, as there are craggier caves there more suitable for holding onto without ropes.
For safety reasons, Thai limestone requires special titanium bolts, which are glued in place and don’t rust off as quickly as steel does in a tropical coastal location like this. This is why a guide can help you navigate your climb by showing you a safe route. Rain can also make the rocks harder to climb, so the best time to climb is in Thailand’s dry season, from November to March. No matter your level of experience or how far you get up the karst, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Krabi peninsula.
How to get to Railay Beach
As there are no roads out of Railay, the only way to get there is by boat. The closest place to get a boat from is neighboring Ao Nang. The trip takes 10-15 minutes and there are lovely views of the limestone cliffs along the way. As the Krabi region is popular with tourists, it is easy to book transfers or tours taking you around its most stunning areas. There are regular speedboats from the island of Phuket straight to Railay Beach, or you can visit on a day trip or tour.
These tours usually include the town of Krabi, the Koh Panyi floating village, Wat Suwan Kuha cave temple, and Phang Nga Bay, with its famous “James Bond island” from “The Man with the Golden Gun.” Railay West Beach can also be combined with snorkeling trips around the nearby islands, one during the day and one after dark so you can see the bioluminescent plankton. If your interest is in climbing, it may be better to stay overnight in Railay as you will need your energy to scale those cliffs. There are plenty of hotels and resorts that cater to climbers. No matter your level, you’re bound to be welcomed by this adventure-loving community.
