Railay Beach, a penisula between Ao Nang and Krabi, reccomended by a friend we had met in Ko Phangang earlier in our trip we decided to head to the beach that we were promised was much more of a cultural trip than Ko Phangang and Phi Phi!

On arrival in Railay we were greeted with just what we had been told, the area doesn't have cars and is a small and friendly community. None of the bolshy sellers of Ko Sahn road occupy this serene beach but building work is definitely on the rise, however, the Tsunami devestation of 2004 is still very apparent.

After some reccomendations from the locals we embarked on the very hot and reasonable climb to the viewpoint, the view was breathtaking, the beauty of the Thai beaches really is unforgettable and this level of sight really does let you in for something special. However, once fully satisfied with this our group decided to try and find 'the hidden lagoon'

After nearly an hour of getting quite fed up and extremely hot we almost gave up trying to find the begining of the trail but a few moments later were greeted by backpackers embarking up a steep climb who informed us of the difficult journey that getting to the lagoon entailed. Needless to say we decided to give it a crack anyway!

The climb took us in a total about an hour, with four of us, it isnt an easy climb but is very do-able if your reasonably fit and not scared of heights! Ropes placed by the spry locals aid the way and overall its pretty fun and provides a great sense of adventure! (The climb up was not so rewarding)

Once we reached the lagoon it all was definitely worth it, the caves surround the water filled area, you can easily swim into the middle (just avoid the sharp rocks in the shallow) and carry on to explore the caves. It is to my great upset that I didn't have a camera and couldn't capture what is indefinitely one of the most beautiful and peaceful environments I have ever experienced.

Everyone travelling to Thailand should go to Railay, there is so much to be explored and the touristy feeling of the other islands is definitely not as apparent here. The locals offer much climbing experience and there are many beautiful sights like the lagoon to be seen and experienced.

I am exceedingly grateful that 'Chase' reccomended it to us and wish we could have stayed longer!