Koh Phi Phi to Railay Beach tickets
Koh Phi Phi to Railay Beach Trip Overview
Railay Beach to Koh Phi PhiDistance 31 km (19.4 miles) | |
Price range US$ 20-US$ 39 | |
Ride Duration Range 30m-2h | |
Earliest Departure 02:30 | |
Latest Departure 10:00 | |
Most Popular Operator |
Find up-to-date information on departure times, schedules, and prices so you can easily compare and book your tickets.
Taking a ferry from Koh Phi Phi to Railay Beach
Fastest ferry: 30m
Cheapest ferry: US$ 20
About the ride from Koh Phi Phi to Railay Beach
Travelers eager to hop back to Thailand's mainland to explore Railay Beach have an easy choice: the ferry.
The ferry is the only way to reach Railay Beach from Koh Phi Phi. It is the best option for traversing the 30.8-kilometer (19.1-mile) distance between these two tropical destinations.
You can opt for a speedboat ferry that zips across the Andaman Sea in 30 to 45 minutes. Otherwise, you can save a few dollars and ride the slow ferry for a relaxing sojourn across the water.
Whichever option you choose, you'll soon find it's a lot easier to get to Railay Beach than it is to leave.
What is Railay Beach like?
Railay Beach is in the Krabi district on the coast of Thailand's mainland. Facing the sparkling waters of the Andaman Sea, it's an idyllic destination for anyone needing some relaxing beach time.
The main beach is a crescent-moon-shaped awash with golden sand bordered by thick jungle and limestone rock vistas.
Despite its small size, this area overflows with beaches, caves, forests, viewpoints, and so much more. There truly is something for everyone here, and you'll want to take your Thai masseuse home with you.
Unmissable activities in Railay Beach
Railay Beach is full to the brim with exciting activities to entertain you during the trip. Make sure to check off all these attractions:
Learn to rock climb: Learn to climb or brush up old skills by climbing the cliffs overhanging the beach. Krabi province is a famous place to climb, with numerous professional climbing schools. Popular climbing spots include Phra Nang Beach, Tonsai Beach, and Railay East.
Enjoy a beach day: The area of Railay Beach is a picturesque dream. Spend the day on the main beach, swimming in the deep water and sunbathing on the golden sand shore. Save your snorkel for another day, though, as there isn't a lot of wildlife to see here.
Visit the famous fertility shrine cave: Head to Phra Nang Beach to dive beneath the waves and discover underwater seascapes. While there, check out the renowned fertility shrine in the cave. You'll see dozens of phallic symbols in all different shapes and sizes left here to promote fertility.
Immerse yourself in beautiful landscapes at Railay Beach East: While it's not the best spot for swimming, the eastern part of Railay Beach is known for its incredible views. Grab a hammock and spend the afternoon people-watching and looking out for monkeys in the surrounding mangrove forest.
Hike to Railay Viewpoint: This 25-minute hike is an intense workout but worth it for the surreal view at the top. Once you've surmounted it and taken a dozen Instagram pics, keep going to reach Railay Lagoon.
How to get from Koh Phi Phi to Railay Beach
The only way to get from Koh Phi Phi to Railay Beach is to take a ferry.
You can choose between a speedboat ferry, which takes 30 to 45 minutes to reach Railay Beach, or the slower and cheaper tourist ferry, which takes about two hours. Tickets start at $15 for the slower ferry and $22 for the faster ships.
Boats depart from Ton Sai Pier on Koh Phi Phi, a small pier in the middle of the island at the southern end. You'll arrive at East Railay Floating Pier. From there, you'll need to take a taxi to your accommodation.
Possible amenities for the speedboat ferry include:
Air conditioning
A luggage allowance of one large bag weighing up to 20 kg (44 lbs) and one small piece of hand luggage
Life jacket provided
Children aged 0-2 can ride for free on some services when sitting on their parents' laps.
Possible amenities for the slow ferry include:
Air conditioning
WC on board
Food and drinks can be purchased onboard.
TV
A single large bag weighing up to 20 kg (44 lbs) and one small piece of hand luggage are allowed. There is a 100 baht fee for every bag over the weight limit.
Life jacket provided
Children aged 0-2 can ride for free on some services when sitting on their parents' laps.
Try to book your tickets in advance because this is a popular route. Arrive at the pier around 30 minutes before departure to find the right ferry and get your luggage on board.
How long should I spend in Railay Beach?
Backpackers should set aside two to three days to see everything this magical slice of land offers. This gives you plenty of time to check off all the top sites and to enjoy one full day of sunbathing and swimming.
However, the Railay Beach area is also ideal for an extended beach vacation. If you're looking for somewhere to truly relax and recuperate, this is the place for you. Come for up to two weeks and make the most of this idyllic paradise.
The best things about the journey from Koh Phi Phi to Railay Beach
There's plenty to see on this ferry crossing, particularly when taking the slow ferry.
Ensure you get a spot on the top deck or by a window to enjoy the incredible views on display in the Andaman Sea. Wear plenty of sunscreen to protect yourself from the unforgiving rays while you enjoy the sun.
Watch the gorgeous coastline of Koh Phi Phi recede into the distance as you pass more stunning islets and sheltered islands. Lucky eagle-eyed travelers might see some porpoises or dolphins popping their heads above the waves.
When you pull into the pier, brace for the flurry of activity as everyone rushes to get off the boat and local porters throw suitcases onto the jetty. Make sure you carry anything fragile before leaping onto dry land and starting the next adventure.
When is the best time to visit Railay Beach?
The best time to visit Railay Beach is between November and April during Thailand's dry season.
These months see very little rainfall and bring glorious, sunny days. Thailand's average temperature is between 64.4 and 100.4°F (18 to 38°C).
While these months bring the best weather, you might want to avoid booking a trip over the Christmas holidays. The country sees a significant spike in tourism and accommodation prices.
If you want to see the area at its quietest, book a trip during the wet season from May to October. There's a chance it'll rain half the time, but the showers are short, and you'll still be able to enjoy the beaches.
Where should I go after Railay Beach?
After you've mined all the treasures in and around Railay Beach, check out the rest of Krabi province.
Head north to dive into the stunning area of Ao Nang Beach, where you can also book climbing excursions.
If you want to experience Thailand's wild nightlife, hop over to Phuket and immerse yourself in the chaos. Alternatively, you'll also find plenty of wild parties in nearby Koh Lanta.
Or, if you're eager to hang out in nature instead of in bars, book a trip to the spectacular Khao Sok National Park. You can stay overnight in huts on the water and go on multi-day jungle treks.
Companies Operating from Koh Phi Phi to Railay Beach
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Popular stations and stops in Koh Phi Phi and Railay Beach
Departure stations in Koh Phi Phi
Arrival stations in Railay Beach
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FERRY: Kanichta Speedboat | Railay Eco Tour | Koh Yao Sun Smile | Ao Nang Princess
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