Railay Bat Cave – Hidden Viewpoint on Phra Nang Beach, Krabi
In between the popular attractions on the Railay Peninsula lies a hidden gem that not many people know about: the Railay Bat Cave. Only a short hike from the famous Ao Phra Nang beach, you will find breathtaking panoramic views of white sands and turquoise waters.
We usually are not fans of bat caves, but the hidden Railay Bat Cave in Krabi was different! There were no bats, no people, only possibly the best views of Ao Phra Nang Beach and Koh Rang.
This guide provides everything you need to know to add this hidden Bat Cave to your Railay trip.
Where is the Railay Bat Cave located?
The hidden Railay Bat Cave is located in the southern part of Thailand, on the Railay Peninsula in Krabi, which is only accessible by boat.
Railay Bat Cave on Map
Best Time to Visit Krabi?
The best time to visit Krabi is typically during the dry season, which runs from November to March. This period offers sunny weather and low humidity, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as beach visits, island hopping, and hiking.
However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, and Krabi is a very popular destination in Thailand, so expect crowds and higher prices.
For the most enjoyable and peaceful time in Krabi, try visiting in the shoulder seasons, usually right after and just before the rainy season. In Krabi, these months are October-November and April.
BEST Boat Tours in Krabi
Check out our handpicked boat tours in Krabi and tick off some must-see attractions.
Phi Phi Islands Boat Tour
Private: Create Your Dream Itinerary with this Exclusive Phi Phi Tour
Shared: Join a Fun Speedboat Day Tour to Explore the Phi Phi Islands
4 Islands Boat Tour
Private: Discover the 4 Islands with a Private Longtail Boat
Shared: Experience the 4 Islands on a Shared Snorkeling & Sunset Tour
Koh Hong Boat Tour
Private: Explore Hong Island on with a Private Longtail Boat Tour
Shared: Join a Day Tour to Hong Island by Speedboat
How to Get to Railay Bat Cave?
To get to the Railay Bat Cave, you first have to reach the Railay Peninsula, which is only accessible by boat. To do so, take a long-tail boat from Ao Nang or Ao Nam Mao.
We opted for the 10-15 minute shared long-tail boat ride from Ao Nang, which costs 100 THB per person and offers breathtaking views. Alternatively, you can book the journey from Ao Nam Mao to Railay on 12go!
The long-tail boat from Ao Nang will drop you off at Railey Beach. On the Railay Peninsula, you can access all the attractions, such as the Railay Bat Cave, by foot. From Railey Beach, it’s a 15-minute walk to Ao Phra Nang Beach.
Once you arrive at Ao Phra Nang Beach, walk for about 10 minutes to the northern end of the beach, where you will find a short green trail leading you to the starting point of a 5-minute hike to the hidden Railay Bat Cave. Be cautious as the trail is short but very steep, with some parts requiring climbing.
Railay Bat Cave: Our Experience & Recommendation
First of all, don’t confuse the Railay Bat Cave with the popular Princess Cave located at the shore directly when you arrive at Ao Phra Nang beach. The Princess cave is dedicated to the spirit of the drowned princess Phra Nang and attracts many visitors throughout the entire day. The Railay Bat Cave is hardly visited, we stayed there for 30 minutes in the afternoon and didn’t see anyone else.
To get to the Railay Bat Cave and viewpoint, be prepared for a steep climb up, including bamboo ladders, ropes, and a narrow tunnel. Keep an eye out for the tunnel, as after going through it you will have the best spot for amazing panoramic views of white sands and turquoise waters.
We usually are not fans of bat caves, but the Railay Bat Cave one was different! There were no bats, no people, only possibly the best views of Ao Phra Nang Beach. From the cave viewpoint, you will see the hidden beach, Koh Rong Island, and the beautiful Ao Phra Nang Beach. Bring mosquito repellent.
When walking in the direction of the starting point of the Railay Bat Cave hike, you will pass by a hidden beach. Don’t miss out on this hidden gem, after the hike, we went straight for a swim there.
Combine your visit to the Railay Bat Cave with other amazing things to do on the Railay peninsula, such as Railay Beach, Ao Phra Nang Beach, an incredibly touristy but also extremely beautiful beach, and Koh Rang Island.
If you want to visit the Railay Peninsula as a day trip, make sure to take the first long-tail boat leaving around 8 AM or earlier, as it gets crowded during the day.
However, the Railay Bat Cave is a hidden gem, which means using the early morning time to visit popular spots like Railay Beach and Ao Phra Nang Beach and visiting the Bat Cave when the beaches get overcrowded.
Wake up to this view!
Check out the Railay Village Resort for an unforgettable stay in front of Railay Beach.
Best Tours in Krabi
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Organized tours always ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience. Some tours even combine must-see places, such as the famous 4 islands and Ao Phra Nang Beach, making it possible to explore more attractions in one day.
Discover here top-rated and handpicked Krabi tours:
Phi Phi Islands Boat Tour:
- Private: Create Your Dream Itinerary with this Exclusive Phi Phi Tour
- Shared: Join a Fun Speedboat Day Tour to Explore the Phi Phi Islands
4 Islands Boat Tour:
- Private: Discover the 4 Islands with a Private Longtail Boat
- Shared: Experience the 4 Islands Together on a Shared Snorkeling & Sunset Tour
PRO TIP: Combine Phi Phi Islands with 4 Islands in Early Bird this tour!
Koh Hong Boat Tour:
- Private: Explore Hong Island on with a Private Longtail Boat Tour
- Shared: Join a Day Tour to Hong Island by Speedboat
Khao Sok Day Tour:
- Discover Khao Sok National Park on a Day Tour from Krabi!
Rock Climbing:
- Take a Beginner Rock Climbing Lesson at Railay Beach
Mangrove Kayaking:
- Discover Krabi’s natural beauty with this Mangrove and Kayak Tour
Where to stay in Krabi
We recommend staying either in Ao Nang, which is accessible by public transportation, or on the Railay Peninsula, which, although only accessible by boat, has beautiful beaches nearby.
Check out top-rated and handpicked accommodations in Krabi in different price ranges.
Best Hotels in Railay
- Budget ($): Rapala Rock Wood Resort
- Mid-range ($$): Avatar Railay
- Luxury ($$$): Rayavadee- SHA Extra Plus
Best Hotel in Ao Nang
- Budget ($): The Phu View
- Mid-range ($$): The Scene Cliff View Villas
- Luxury ($$$): Aonang Eco Villa
PRO TIP: Stay on the Railay Peninsula overnight to be the first one at the beautiful beaches before all the day tourists arrive.
Where to Go After visiting Krabi in Thailand?
Another popular destination on most Thailand Itineraries is Phuket. If you plan to visit, check out our guide with the 10 Hidden Gems in Phuket.