Written by: Ai Narapol
Why this place?
It’s known as a tourist destination, but because it’s more secluded and less accessible, most visitors tend to come for a quick day trip rather than stay overnight. By sunset, the beaches are often almost completely empty, giving you the feeling of having them all to yourself.
Because it’s not as easily accessible for families, it tends to attract a younger crowd, making it a popular spot for young travellers.
Must-do experience
I’m not much of a beach person – I can’t even swim! But there’s something really special about heading to Phra Nang Beach, renting a kayak for just £5 for two hours, and exploring the coastline.
There aren’t many boats around either, so the water is often calm and peaceful.
It’s also a stunning spot for rock climbing if you’re into that, with the dramatic limestone cliffs making the whole experience even more memorable.
Favourite place to eat or drink
I don’t have one particular place to recommend, but I was genuinely surprised by how affordable the food was. It felt comparable to other popular holiday destinations like Phuket, without ever feeling like you were being ripped off.
That said, I’d still recommend seeking out the more local-looking vendors. They tend to take more pride in their food and are focused on satisfying local customers, which often makes for a much more authentic experience.
Hidden gem
There’s a cave on Phra Nang Beach called the Nang Cave Shrine (Princess Cave), which is filled with carved wooden phallic symbols left as offerings to the fertility goddess. It might seem a little unusual or even silly at first, but for me, it represents something much more meaningful: hope.
Fishermen also come here to pray for good luck and protection before heading out to sea.
This is one of the things I love about Thailand – people still hold onto and cherish their traditions, even as the country continues to modernise.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit would be in April, during the Songkran Festival. Thai people are gearing up to celebrate the New Year, so there’s an incredible energy and sense of excitement everywhere you go.
It is also the hottest time of year, but the trade-off is that it’s generally less busy, as the main tourist season comes to an end in March. If you don’t mind the heat, April is a great time to experience Thailand with a more local, festive atmosphere.
Top tip
Everything you need to know about Thailand is easily accessible online, but if you want more of an adventure, don’t be afraid to ask the locals. Thai people are incredibly welcoming and are often more than happy to help point you in the right direction.
One practical tip: definitely get an eSIM or 5G SIM card when you arrive. You can pick one up at the airport or even at 7-Eleven, and having reliable data will be your lifeline for maps, translations, bookings and getting around.
That said, Railay felt incredibly safe, so don’t be afraid to put the phone away sometimes and just explore.
Fun fact or memory
I remember thinking how touristy these places in the south would be, but I was genuinely surprised by how much natural beauty there was. Despite the tourism, there was still this incredible sense of freedom and escape.
Even now, thinking back to it gives me goosebumps. It’s one of those places that stays with you long after you’ve left.
Ideal for…
Thailand really does have something for everyone, including families. It all comes down to what you’re looking to get out of your trip. Whether you want adventure, parties, a relaxing getaway, or simply to meet new people, there’s a destination and experience to suit you.
The key is to do a little research before you go and figure out which areas best match the kind of trip you want. And with Thailand being so affordable, you can experience a lot without breaking the bank.
There are also plenty of YouTube videos and online guides that can help you plan. Do a bit of research beforehand, but leave some room for spontaneity too – some of the best experiences can come from simply seeing where the journey takes you.
