Choose from 178 Fun Things to Do in Thailand
ShowingFilter 61-80 of 178 listings.
Khao Sok National Park
The lowland jungles of Khao Sok National Park, one of the wettest areas in Thailand, are believed to be the oldest rain forests on the planet. While the Thai Islands are most famous for their stunning beaches, this 161,000-acre (65,154-hectare) park boasts spectacular limestone formations, small streams, waterfalls and dense greenery that provides a home for a dizzying biodiversity.
Famous animal residents include sambar deer, gibbon, sun bears, Malayan tapir, gaur, banteng, macaque, mouse deer, porcupine and some 200 species of birds. It’s also one of the few places in the world where you can spot the planet’s largest flower, the Raffesia.
While rain is a practical inevitability, it shouldn’t hold you back from the abundant outdoor adventures on offer in the park. Trekking, boat tours and night safaris are three of the most popular activities on the menu, but park visitors can also explore the region via caving, kayaking, zip-lining, tubing, bamboo rafting and birdwatching.
Practical Info
Flash flooding poses a risk at Khao Sok’s waterfalls and caves during the rainy season, so if you’re planning to visit these types of sites, it’s best to go with a guide.
Address: Surat Thani Province, Thailand
From $ 75
Oub Kham Museum
This private museum has an impressive collection of artifacts from the ancient Lanna kingdom of northern Thailand. The collection includes carved thrones, embroidered costumes, Buddha images, antique jewelry, and priceless items used by royalty like the oub kham – the golden bowl that the museum is named for. There are minimal signs, but the English-speaking tour guide will ensure you know the story behind each item.
Don’t forget to take a walk around the museum grounds which are resplendent with traditional Lanna architecture, statues, and fountains.
Practical Info:
The Oub Kham Museum is located about 1 kilometer outside of Chiang Rai on Nakhai Road near the Den Ha Market. The busy highway is not ideal for walking, so hire a tuk-tuk to take you here. The museum is open daily and the admission fee is payable in Thai currency.
Address: 81/1 Military Front Road, Chiang Rai, Thailand
Hours: Daily: 8am - 6pm
Admission: Adult: 300 baht, Child 200 baht
From $ 91
Maya Bay
The stunning Maya Bay became a major tourist attraction after the 2000 film, The Beach, was filmed here. It’s situated within Thailand’s Phi Phi Islands, off the coasts of both Krabi and Phuket on the mainland, and is distinguished by its beautiful white-sand beach sheltered by limestone cliffs on three sides.
There are in fact several beaches here, but most are small and some only exist at low tide. The main beach, where most boats drop passengers just offshore, is a 200-meter long strip of silky white sand. It’s surrounded by clear waters filled with colorful coral and an abundance of exotic fish, making it an absolute haven for snorkelers. Walking inland is also a treat, with a path that winds through lush greenery and reveals some simply spectacular scenery.
It’s true that Maya Bay’s popularity has taken a certain degree of the shine from this once little-heard of slice of paradise. It’s become so well-known that its shores are filled with hoards of boats dropping visitors off and picking them up throughout the day, particularly in peak season. Visitors should arrive early in the morning to avoid the larger part of the crowds.
Practical Info
Visiting Maya Bay is such a popular activity that arranging transport is incredibly easy. You can visit from both Phuket and Krabi on organized tours, or, if staying on Koh Phi Phi, simply hop on a tour from there or charter your own longtail boat for the day. If not visiting as part of an organized tour, you’ll need to pay a National Park entry fee (currently 200 baht).
Address: Maya Bay, Krabi, Thailand
Admission: 200 baht
From $ 27
Queen Sirikit Botanic Gardens
Created in 1992, the Queen Sirikit Botanical Gardens are located in Amphoe Mae Rim in the Chiang Mai Province. A beautiful place burgeoning with exotic plant life, the facility conducts research and conserves Thailand’s extensive natural plant resources; it’s main purpose is not tourism, which means that there are fewer visitors here than in many locations in Chiang Mai. Named after Sirikit, who was Queen of Thailand in 1994, the queen donated considerable resources to bring the gardens to fruition.
The gardens cover more than 2,470 acres (1,000 hectares) and are best explored by foot. Follow the paths through huge collections of azaleas, rhododendrons and many other flowering plants. Though the grounds are extensive, the greenhouses are where the real treasures are, ranging from carnivorous plants and bromeliads to orchids and water lilies. Other structures emulate the feel of arid deserts or rain forests and have the flora to match.
Practical Info
The gardens are situated about 12.5 miles (20 km) from Chiang Mai in the Mae Sa area. The best way to get there is to charter a tuk tuk or other private transportation. The Queen Sirikit Botanic Gardens are open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and cost 100 Thai baht ($3 USD) for an adult and 50 Thai baht ($1.50 USD) for children.
Address: Mae Rim, Thailand
Hours: Daily 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Admission: Adults 100 Thai baht; children 50 Thai baht
From $ 33
Princess Mother Memorial Park
Work began on the Princess Mother Memorial Park in 1993, after King Bhumibol Adulyadej, in remembrance of his mother Srinagarindra, began plans to renovate the area around her childhood home in Thonburi.
Known by the Thai people as the Princess Mother, a museum within the park depicts stories of her life and a reconstruction of her old home. Two exhibition halls within the park are dedicated to the Princess Mother’s memorabilia and mementos. The first hall displays photographs chronicling her life, while the second hall contains items relating to her various projects, and even some of her personal belongings.
However, the majority of the park is dedicated to wide-open spaces, including a number of well-maintained gardens. There’s also a pavilion featuring a statue of the princess sheltered under a gazebo.
Practical Info
The Princess Mother Memorial Park is located within the Khlong San district of Bangkok, close to the banks of the Chao Phraya River. The easiest way to reach the park is to catch the Chaophraya River Express boat to the Memorial Bridge Pier. The park museum is open daily from 9am to 4pm and admission is free.
Address: Bangkok, Thailand
Hours: Daily from 9am to 4pm.
From $ 48
Khao Yai National Park
Located just two hours northeast of Bangkok, the Khao Yai National Park is the oldest and largest national park of its kind in Thailand. Covering more than 2000 square meters in the Panom Dongrak mountain range, the park is sprawled across four provinces. The area features one of the largest monsoon forests in mainland Asia and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site (as part of the Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex).
As you might expect then, the Khao Yai National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, and offers some truly spectacular natural scenery to marvel at. Some 200 elephants call the park home, as do tigers, leopards, Malaysian sun bears, deer, gibbons, snakes, and macaques. Keen birdwatchers will be in their element around the park’s designated walking trails, with the bird list here reaching over 390 species, including one of Thailand's largest populations of hornbills.
Practical Info
At only 175 kilometers from Bangkok, the Khao Yai National Park is easily reached from the capital by both train and bus. In addition, there are now domestic flights arriving into the area from other parts of the country. There is an entrance fee of 400 Baht for international visitors to enter the park.
Address: Nakhon Ratchasima, Pak Chong District, Thailand
Admission: 400 Baht entrance fee for international visitors
From $ 114
Khao San Road
The famous half-mile (one km) stretch that is Khao San Road features bars, budget guesthouses, mid-range hotels, internet cafes, tattoo shops, travel agents and so much more. What emerged as a backpackers’ hub in the early 1980s thanks to its laidback, carefree vibe today attracts a whole range of tourists and locals, particularly musicians and art students.
Most people who visit Khao San Road simply stroll through, stopping to shop, eat and drink. There are all kinds of eateries, from local street food to restaurant fare and even a McDonalds. During the day and into the evening, this busy road is lined with stalls selling clothing and an array of typical tourist items, while after dark, bar-goers spill out onto the street while live bands and dance music entice passersby.
Khao San Road is a popular starting and finishing point for various tours of Bangkok, particularly those that focus on the Old Town area. Bike tours often begin here, while certain day and night tours end on the road, allowing travelers to enjoy everything that its energetic nightlife has to offer.
Insider's Tip: Due to its popularity among tourists, Khao San Road sees more than its fair share of scams, which are mainly centered around tours and transport. To avoid this, it’s best to book in advance.
Practical Info
Khao San Road is in the Banglamphu (Old Town) area of Bangkok, about a 20-minute walk from the Grand Palace. Express boats, buses and taxis all serve the area, but there is no connection via the Skytrain or metro.
Address: Khao San Road, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
Admission: Free
From $ 12
Hong Islands
The Hong Islands are a group of rocky blips in the Andaman Sea, located just off the coast of Krabi in southern Thailand. A popular day trip destination from Ao Nang or Krabi, the islands are fringed with rain forests, hidden lagoons, and white-sand beaches.
The Basics
The Hong Islands are rife with secluded beaches, coral reefs, and sea caves to explore. There’s something for every type of outdoor enthusiast—Railay is popular with rock climbers, Koh Hong's Hong Lagoon is a calm place to kayak, and Phang Nga Bay has scenic views and great sunbathing.
Longtail boat or speedboat tours are a good way to visit the islands and typically depart from Krabi or Phuket. Some excursions include snorkeling or kayaking, and often feature stops at Khao Phing Kan, Ao Nang Beach, Phi Phi Island, and Lading Island.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Some of the islands are located within Ao Phang Nga National Park, so fees may apply. Be sure to have cash on hand as most tours don’t include the national park fee.
- The sea can be choppy, so those prone to seasickness should prepare ahead of time—especially if you’re traveling by longtail boat.
- Because of the bumpy waters, most boat operators won’t serve pregnant women or children under 1 year old.
How to Get There
The Hong Islands are located about 15.5 miles (25 kilometers) southwest of Ao Nang. Organized tour boats and sea kayaks leave for the islands from Ao Nang’s ferry dock, as well as from Krabi town.
When to Get There
The tropical coast of southern Thailand is warm year-round, but April through May and September through October are the hottest and rainiest periods. November through March is a great time to visit, as breezes keep the temperature warm but comfortable.
James Bond Island
Khao Phing Kan and Ko Ta Pu, two towering limestone karst islands, are collectively known as James Bond Island thanks to their appearance in the 1974 film The Man with the Golden Gun. These islands served as the setting for an enemy hideout and later became part of the National Park. While you can still visit Khao Phing Kan, it’s now forbidden for boats to approach Ko Ta Pu due to threat of erosion.
Address: Highway 4203, Ao Nang 81000, Thailand
Admission: Free
From $ 7
Koh Nang Yuan Island
In many ways, Koh Nang Yuan is the paradisiacal location most people imagine when they think of Thailand. Consisting of three tree-topped islands adjoined by a tan-colored sandbar beach, Koh Nang Yuan is one of the most sought after destinations in all of Thailand. The best part? Unlike nearby Koh Samui or Koh Tao, accommodation options are extremely limited on the island, meaning the crowds remain relatively sparse as well.
Most people come to Koh Nang Yuan on day trips from other nearby islands and snorkeling excursions as well as scuba dives are extremely popular. And although the quick day visits are available, you'd be doing yourself a great favor by coming to the island and spending a night or two. In the evenings and early mornings, you can almost have the entire beach to yourself. During the heart of the day, activities such as snorkeling, zip-lining, and hiking are available. If you're looking for a place to get away and enjoy the side of Thailand everyone talks about, this is it. There are no vehicles on Koh Nang Yuan, nor are there crowds, or big hotel chains. This is a true getaway in a country in which such locations are becoming fewer and farther between.
Practical Info
You can come to Koh Nang Yuan via speedboats or catamarans from Koh Samui or Koh Tao. However, the cheapest way to get there is to hire out a longtail boat from the west side of Koh Tao. If you're making the long journey from Bangkok, it can be a bit more complicated. You'll need to either fly to Koh Samui and then transfer over, or take a train/bus combination to the ferry terminal on the mainland that reaches Koh Tao, then take then long boat to Koh Nang Yuan. Moreover, since the island is actually privately owned, guest must pay an entrance fee to visit and stay on Koh Nang Yuan.
Address: Koh Nang Yuan, Thailand
From $ 56
MBK Center
A giant and legendary shopping mall located just off Siam Square, the MBK Center (Ma Boon Khrong Center) attracts both locals and tourists looking to fulfill their shopping needs. Boasting eight floors crammed with 2,000 shops and a range of stalls, this sleek glass complex sells everything from bargain clothing to affordable electronics.
In addition to retail outlets, MBK has two expansive food courts—one on the sixth floor serving local Thai food and an international one on the floor below. MBK is particularly well-known for its range of cheap electronic items, with the fourth floor dedicated to cell phones, cameras, games consoles, MP3 players and more.
The top floor of this huge mall features an extensive entertainment center, with a multi-screen cinema, karaoke facilities and a games arcade. There’s also the 3D Trick Art Museum, a fun family attraction that both younger and older kids can enjoy. For a unique way to visit the MBK Center and other malls in the area, take a Bangkok city tour that incorporates trips to many of the capital’s major sights via several different modes of public transport.
Practical Info
The MBK Center is located in the Siam Square area, the most central neighborhood in Bangkok. It's particularly easy to reach thanks to a direct walkway linking the mall to the National Stadium BTS Skytrain station.
Address: 444 Phayathai Road, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Hours: Daily 10am–10pm
From $ 33
Old Phuket Town
The prominence of Phuket’s beaches and out islands mean that Old Phuket Town is often overlooked. Yet, it offers a wealth of 19th-century architectural delights and fantastic photo ops. Beside the latticed windows of Malay-style shop-front buildings on Soi Rommanee, Old Phuket Town boasts temples, museums, and restaurants.
The Basics
Due to the compact size of Old Phuket Town, the area lends itself well to walking tours and is easy to explore in a couple of hours. It's a popular choice for visitors with limited time. The majority of Phuket sightseeing tours combine a stop at Old Phuket Town with a visit to Wat Chalong, Phuket’s most famous Buddhist temple, and the Karon Viewpoint. More in-depth tours of Old Phuket Town reveal the wet market and Chinpracha House (Baan Chinpracha).
Things to Know Before You Go
- Old Phuket Town is a must-see for travelers interested in colonial history and architecture.
- Don’t miss the Amulet Market for special Buddhist souvenirs.
- Wear comfortable shoes and a hat if you’re planning to explore old town on foot.
- By day and night, old town takes on a different identity, so it’s worth visiting twice.
When to Get There
If you’re planning to explore Old Phuket Town on foot, its recommended to do so early in the morning, before the midday heat makes sightseeing uncomfortable. If you do need a break, Old Phuket Town has a plethora of cafes and bars that you can dip into for a cold drink. At night, Old Phuket Town’s bars come to life with live music and free-flowing drinks.
How to Get There
If you’re staying by the beach, you can take either public transport or a chartered taxi to old town. If you’re staying in one of the many nearby hotels, all attractions are within walking distance.
Culinary Delights in Old Phuket Town
Phuket’s vibrant mix of cultural influences means that its cuisine is as rich and varied as its architecture. A prime location beside the sea means it’s a great place to try seafood and classic southern Thai dishes such as tom som pla krabok, a hot and sour fish soup, and gaeng sataw, a combination of green beans and prawns.
Address: Phuket City, Thailand
Admission: Free
From $ 6
Racha Island
Racha Island is, in fact, two islands—Racha Yai and Racha Noi—both known for their excellent snorkeling and diving. Whether for day-long underwater exploring trips or stays of a few days to relax on the unspoiled beaches, the southern Thai islands are popular with water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
The Basics
Around 20 miles (40 kilometers) south of Phuket, Racha Island is quintessential Thailand—white sand, turquoise ocean, and softly swaying palm trees. Racha Yai has a small number of resorts and bungalows, and is becoming a popular place to stay for visitors to Phuket, while Racha Noi is uninhabited. Both islands offer excellent diving offshore, and you can snorkel right from the beach on Racha Yai. Many travelers choose to visit the islands as part of an organized snorkeling, diving, or catamaran tour from Phuket.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Racha Island is ideal for snorkelers, divers, and those looking for a quiet island escape from Phuket.
- Most tours leave Phuket in the morning to spend the day around both Racha Yai and Racha Noi.
- Snorkelers and divers can expect to see colorful corals and many types of tropical fish.
- If snorkeling or diving is not your thing, catamaran trips are also available.
- Many tours include lunch, refreshments, and water sports gear.
How to Get There
Racha Island, located south of Phuket in the Andaman Sea, is accessible only by boat. Speedboats travel from Ao Chalong and Rawai on Phuket, or you can book a snorkeling, diving, or catamaran tour to access the islands.
When to Get There
High season in Phuket runs from November to March, when the weather is warm and sunny. April and May can be very hot, and tropical rainstorms are possible from June to November. Some resorts and tour operators close up shop or run only limited services in the rainy season.
See Phuket’s Big Buddha
For a photo opportunity extraordinaire, take a trip to see Phuket’s Big Buddha, a 150-foot-high (45-meter) statue sitting atop the Nakkerd Hills, close to Kata. The statue was constructed in 2004 and is made of concrete overlaid with glittering white jade marble. From the base of the Buddha you can enjoy panoramic views over the whole island.
Address: Racha Island, Phuket, Thailand
From $ 107
Koh Phangan
In a country famous around the globe for its beautiful islands, Koh Phangan is the quintessential easy-going beach bum’s paradise. More rustic than Koh Samui, much of the island caters to backpackers, hippies and budget travelers looking for affordable accommodations and a stretch of sand to sun on.
Had Rin, located on the island’s southeastern peninsula, has become famous for its monthly Full Moon Party, where upwards of 10,000 visitors descend upon Had Rin Nok Beach for a night of trance, dance and buckets of tropical libations. The popularity of these parties have inspired other smaller celebrations, like the Half Moon and Black Moon parties.
Koh Phangan isn’t just about beaches and partying, however. Secluded resort areas on the north and west coasts of the island feel worlds away from the din of Had Rin, and the interior of the island offers hiking trails and a series of yoga and meditation centers for travelers in search of a spiritual retreat. The waters off the coast of Koh Phangan have some of Thailand’s best dive sites, including Sail Rock.
Address: Gulf of Thailand, Thailand
From $ 37
Pak Khlong Talat Flower Market
In a city and country known for its colorful markets, none stands out so vividly as Pak Khlong Talat Flower Market. Stalls feature local and imported fresh-cut flowers piled high: delicate orchids, bunches of colorful carnations, fragrant roses, lilies, forget-me-nots, and more. Vendors also sell flower arrangements and hand-strung garlands.
The Basics
The largest retail and wholesale floral market in Bangkok, Pak Khlong Talat can be visited independently or with a guide who can tell you about the flowers’ use as offerings at shrines and spirit houses. Combine a trip here with a long-tail boat cruise on the Chao Phraya River, or with a tour of Wat Arun and Wat Pho illuminated at night, sampling some street food along the way.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Unlike most attractions, the bustling flower market is best experienced at its busiest time—around midnight.
- Wandering the narrow lanes of fragrant blooms is not for the faint of heart: the scent of jasmine and kaleidoscope of colors can overwhelm the senses, in the best way.
- Don’t forget your camera, comfy shoes, and a bit of extra cash for any purchases.
How to Get There
Pak Khlong Talat flower market sits on the banks of the Chao Phraya River just south of Wat Pho, near Chinatown. You can take the Chao Phraya Express Boat to Memorial Bridge (Saphan Phut), stop N6. From here it’s a 6-minute walk directly to the market located on Chakkraphet Road.
When to Get There
The market stays open 24 hours a day. In the late evening, new shipments of flowers arrive from the north of Thailand, and porters wheel crates of colorful wares through the stalls. This is an optimal time to visit, when fewer tourists are around and the shops are full of flowers.
Not Just a Flower Market
Pak Khlong Talat starts each day primarily as a vegetable and fruit market before giving way to flowers. Freshly cut flower bundles are often sold in packs of 50 or 100, but you can also purchase hand-strung garlands. After a look around, it’s an easy stroll to your choice of bars and cafes, many overlooking the river.
Address: Chak Phet Road, Bangkok, Thailand
From $ 33
Hellfire Pass Museum
During the construction of the Death Railway from Burma to Thailand during World War II, Allied prisoners of war worked 18 hours a day in sweltering heat chiseling through rock in what is today known as Hellfire Pass. The Hellfire Pass Museum opened in 1998 as a place to honor and remember the men — both POWs and Asian laborers — who suffered and lost their lives during the war.
A free audio guide leads visitors through the museum and includes several firsthand accounts from former POWs who were forced to work on the Thai-Burma Railway. A staircase from the museum leads down to the rail bed itself. A viewpoint overlooks the Hellfire Pass cutting, where many visitors leave behind flowers and flags. The Office of Australian War Graves built and maintains the museum.
Practical Info
The Hellfire Pass Museum is located along Highway 323 about 50 miles (80 kilometers) northwest of Kanchanaburi.
Address: Rte 323, Sai Yok District, Kanchanaburi 71150, Thailand
Hours: Daily 9am to 4pm
From $ 1,095
Khlong Toey Market
This bustling local gem is the largest fresh food market in Bangkok, with stalls selling produce straight from rural farms, raw meat and seafood direct from the nearby fishing port. Khlong Toey is particularly crowded in early mornings, when locals arrive in search of the best fare but despite long lines the vibe is still pretty relaxed.
While travelers can find random items like batteries and electronics, the real draw here is food. Come prepared to sample fruits and vegetables straight from market shelves, or to tuck into steaming hot plates of green curry at one of the mom and pop breakfast and lunch stalls.
Practical Info
This market is open from 6 a.m. until 2 p.m. It is accessible via the MRT at Khlong Toey station. It is also possible to reach using the 45, 46, 72, 102 and 107 buses.
Address: Bangkok, Thailand
Hours: Open from 6 a.m. until 2 p.m.
From $ 30
Koh Haa
A tiny, remote cluster of five uninhabited islands some 10 miles off the coast of Koh Lanta in the Thai Andaman hides an underwater paradise. Here, striated granite pinnacles dotted with gnarly trees tower above some of Thailand’s clearest and bluest waters. Koh Haa’s shock of white sand beneath its central, protected cerulean lagoon affords a breathtaking backdrop for some of the best snorkeling and diving in the country.
Comprised of northerly Ko Haa Neung, central Koh Haa Sam and southerly Ko Haa Yai, as well as two tiny unnamed pinnacles guarding sentry at the mouth of the lagoon, the underwater landscape is just as rugged as the rocky islets themselves. Protected swim-through caves hide lobster, morays and schools of shimmering fish, while vibrant coral is littered with psychedelic nudibranchs (sea slugs), and drop-offs provide the occasional glimpse of deeper denizens such as sharks. Sixteen recognized dive sites with names such as Lost Pinnacle, The Cathedral, Lionfish Den and Cliff Jump Cove divulge some of what’s in store.
Practical Info
It’s not easy to get to Koh Haa, which means chances are high you’ll share this paradise with only a few other boats. However, as word has gotten out, tour operators from as far afield as Phuket—more than 50 miles away—have begun offering day-long snorkel trips to the area. These often involve long boat rides and can incorporate other island stops. An alternative allowing for more snorkel or dive time around Koh Haa is to leave from points on the island of Koh Lanta. Regardless of your point of origin, the open ocean crossing to Koh Haa can be rough even in the calmer seasons post-monsoons between November and March. Make sure that if you make the trip, you do so with a trusted outfitter.
Address: Koh Haa Islands, Khao Thong, Mueang Krabi District 81000, Thailand
From $ 94
Koh Panyi (Floating Muslim Village)
The limestone island of Koh Panyi is home to a floating Muslim fishing village, built on stilts over the water. The village has a mosque and a school, and is home to around 100 families who make their living from fishing.
Seafood restaurants are a big hit here, and market stalls sell souvenirs, T-shirts and postcards.
An overnight stay in a traditional home with a local family, in a room hovering over the water, is a unique Thailand experience.
Practical Info
Ko Panyi (Floating Muslim Village) is an island in Phang Nga Bay, in Phang Nga province. Krabi is 1.5 hours away by bus.
To get here from Phang Nga, sail over in a traditional longboat.
Address: Highway 4144, Phang Nga 82000, Thailand
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 43
Railay Beach
Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and backed by thick forest, the interconnected fairy-tale beaches of Railay are accessible only by boat. The four beaches—Tonsai, Phra Nang, East Railay, and West Railay—offer powder-soft white sand, clear calm waters, and a decidedly bohemian vibe perfect for those looking to get away from it all.
The Basics
While the talcum-soft sand is certainly a compelling reason to visit Railay Beach—visitors can easily find day trips by longtail boat from Phuket and Ao Nang—the other big draw is the rock climbing here. It’s considered some of the best in Thailand, especially on the rocks around Railay East, and you don’t need any special experience to try it. Guided climbing tours cater to climbers of all ability levels, including newbies.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Railay Beach is a must-visit for sun seekers and adventure travelers.
- Don’t forget to bring a towel, swimsuit, and sun protection for time on the beach.
- Excursions to Railay Beach can take anywhere from four to eight hours, depending on the option chosen.
- Bring sturdy shoes if you plan to rock climb or hike to some of the area viewpoints.
- Purchase sunscreen, snacks, and drinks before you arrive, as prices tend to be higher in Railay.
- Be sure to keep your electronics and valuables in waterproof bags during the boat ride to Railay Beach.
- Island-hopping day tours that include Railay often stop at Chicken Island, Poda Island, and Tup Island.
How to Get There
Though on the mainland, Railay Beach is only accessible by boat, either from Krabi (90 minutes) or Ao Nang (15 minutes). There are no motorized vehicles in the area, but all the points of interest can be reached on foot.
When to Get There
For the best balance of good weather and sparser crowds, plan to visit in either May or October. The dry season falls between December and April, when the beaches become busy with day trippers. September is the wettest month in this region.
Other Attractions in Railay Beach
Aside from the soft sand and limestone rocks, Railay Beach has a couple of other notable points of interest. Just to the north of Railay East sits Phra Nang Cave, also called Diamond Cave, where visitors can follow a boardwalk past glittering cave formations. Phra Nang Shrine, located at the northern end of Phra Nang Beach, has become known for the collection of carved phalluses left there by local fisherman asking safe journeys of the drowned princess the beach is said to be named for.
Address: Railay Beach, Krabi, Thailand
From $ 24
Morakot Cave (Emerald Cave)
Morakot Cave, aka Emerald Cave due to the water’s emerald color that is refracted from the sunlight, is one of the most popular attractions in Thailand’s Trang islands. At first blush the cave looks like only a hole in a limestone cliff—but once you venture inside the dark entrance, a paradisiacal, sunny white beach appears.
The Basics
The tricky-to-access Emerald Cave is well worth the adventure. To reach the beautiful lagoon, you must join a guided tour that leads you on a swim through a 260-foot (80-meter) lit up by provided headlamps. Your destination is a large hall illuminated by sunlight shining through a small opening, and a sandbar surrounded by trees.
Most tours to Morakot Cave are included in the 4-island tour from Koh Lanta to Koh Chuak, Koh Muk, Koh Kradan, and Koh Ngai. These tours allow time for visitors to spend the day swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking in and around the four islands, discovering the underwater marine life and admiring the picturesque island scenery.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Morakot Cave is a must-visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
- Be sure to bring sunscreen, preferably one that is coral-reef friendly, and a towel.
- Do not attempt to visit the cave without a knowledgeable guide to direct you through the tunnel.
- Most tours offer snorkeling equipment, a buffet lunch, and light refreshments.
- Lifejackets are provided but be prepared—and fit enough—for a lengthy swim to access the cave.
How to Get There
The Emerald Cave is located on the western coast of Koh Muk, in the Trang province. You can access the cave only via one of the many tours offered on the Trang islands, and then by swimming through the narrow tunnel.
When to Get There
You can access the cave only during low tide, generally between 10am and 2pm, as the entrance passage is small and low. The best time to visit Koh Muk, and Thailand is general, is during the dry season (November to April).
Koh Muk
Branch out beyond the Emerald Cave and spend more time on Koh Muk. A 45-minute ferry ride from Khuan Tuang Ku Pier on the mainland, the small island has a handful of budget and mid-range accommodations (that generally operate only during the high season). Koh Muk’s beautiful beaches and great snorkeling spots offer spectacular ways to enjoy a relaxing holiday.
Address: Koh Mook, Thailand
From $ 31