Railay Bay
Rai Leh · Railay Beach · Phranang Bay
8°0.5'N 98°50.2'E
Depth
3–15m
Bottom
sand
Alarm Radius
80m
Holding
Good
Recommended Anchor Alarm Radius
80m
Set 80m radius in the main bay (Railay East or West). Railay West is the main beach side but exposed to W swell. Railay East (mangrove side) is more sheltered. Tidal range 2–3m.
About This Anchorage
Railay Bay is accessible only by sea — the peninsula is backed by impenetrable jungle-covered karst cliffs, making it one of Thailand's most unique destinations. Two distinct anchorages: Railay West (exposed white sand beach, clear water) and Railay East (sheltered mangrove bay, murkier water). West is dramatic and beautiful but exposed to W swell. East is more sheltered and better for anchoring. World-class rock climbing on the cliffs. Phranang Cave (sacred princess cave) is nearby.
Protected From
N · NE · NW
Exposed To
S · SW
Anchoring Rules
- Anchoring fee
- Free
- Permit required
- No
Hazards
- !Railay West exposed to W/SW swell — move to East anchorage if swell develops
- !Longtail boat traffic constantly crossing between beaches
- !Coral patches at shallower depths — verify sand before anchoring
- !SW monsoon (May–October) — West side untenable
Skipper's Tips
- →Railay East is calmer for anchoring; walk over the narrow isthmus to the West beach
- →World-class rock climbing on the karst cliffs — rental gear and guides available
- →Phranang Cave and beach (south of West anchorage) is spectacular and less crowded in early morning
- →Bring your dinghy — the bay requires a tender to get ashore on both sides
Facilities
Restaurants and beach bars on Railay West and Railay East beaches
Nearest provisions: Ao Nang (2nm)
Best Months & Season
November, December, January, February, March, April
NE monsoon season (November–April). Railay West is particularly calm and beautiful in December–March. Avoid SW monsoon season entirely.
Recommended Anchor Types
Nearby Anchorages
Set Your Anchor Alarm to 80m
Around the Phi Phi Islands and Krabi coast, swell can enter bays unexpectedly and the large Andaman tidal range means your position changes constantly. Safety Anchor Alarm monitors your GPS position continuously so you can enjoy the rock climbing, snorkeling, and sunsets with complete confidence.
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