Most people arrive at Phra Nang by boat and are amazed by this beautiful cove. Phra Nang (not to be confused with Ao Nang) is more popular and busier than Railay West, especially in high season (Nov- April) and has all the ingredients of a perfect beach. Duvet soft sand, clear shallow water for safe swimming, a small island and coral reef, accessible at low tide, caves and rockpools.
All this, set against a backdrop of picturesque limestone cliffs that provide natural shade from the hot afternoon sun.
At the bottom of the limestone cliffs lies the Princess Cave or Tham Phra Nang Nok. Dedicated to an ancient fertility goddess, the cave contains a strange combination of large phallic symbols, garlands and offerings in the hope of increased potency and prosperity. Local fishermen still leave offerings although it's now becoming a local tourist attraction.
Further along the base of the cliff (south end) is a pathway to an entrance which leads inside the rocky headland to an interior lagoon. The lagoon is fed by the tides and only accessed by a strenuous climb. It's worth the climb (which needs decent shoes) to see the eerily quiet lagoon, which, in addition to its location inside the rock, is also well above sea level. At the top is a fantastic view over the whole of Railay and the coastal area beyond.
Phra Nang is a great beach to simply hang out. In the late morning the "sandwich boats" arrive. Local longtail boats equipped with ice boxes, bread and sandwich ingredients. Fancy a cheese and ham baguette? Freshly made and not expensive, the ladies on the boats will serve with a smile and often a free piece of fruit.
Just offshore, is a tiny island which you can walk to at low tide along a sand bar and go snorkeling. If you can't be bothered, just take it easy. There's no accommodation on Phra Nang Beach except the deluxe Sheraton Rayavadeee which unobtrusively occupies part of the beach. So if you really want to treat yourself, spend a few days in luxury here.
Further along the base of the cliff (south end) is a pathway to an entrance which leads inside the rocky headland to an interior lagoon. The lagoon is fed by the tides and only accessed by a strenuous climb. It's worth the climb (which needs decent shoes) to see the eerily quiet lagoon, which, in addition to its location inside the rock, is also well above sea level. At the top is a fantastic view over the whole of Railay and the coastal area beyond.
Phra Nang is a great beach to simply hang out. In the late morning the "sandwich boats" arrive. Local longtail boats equipped with ice boxes, bread and sandwich ingredients. Fancy a cheese and ham baguette? Freshly made and not expensive, the ladies on the boats will serve with a smile and often a free piece of fruit.
Just offshore, is a tiny island which you can walk to at low tide along a sand bar and go snorkeling. If you can't be bothered, just take it easy. There's no accommodation on Phra Nang Beach except the deluxe Sheraton Rayavadeee which unobtrusively occupies part of the beach. So if you really want to treat yourself, spend a few days in luxury here.
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