Morning, Afternoon, and Night in Railay Beach, Thailand

This video provides a comprehensive guide to experiencing a perfect day in Raleigh Beach, Thailand, covering morning, afternoon, and night activities, with flashbacks to the quieter COVID-19 era for contrast. The morning begins with a typical hotel breakfast, followed by a walk to Raleigh East, characterized by its large pier. This side of Raleigh is not ideal for swimming, but the walk along the beach is highly recommended. At the end of Raleigh East, visitors can find the entrance to Riyavadi Resort and a path leading to Pranan Cave and Pranang Beach. The journey to Pranang Beach feels like entering "Jurassic Park" due to the towering limestone cliffs. This area is a world-renowned rock-climbing epicenter, attracting climbers globally. Rock climbing shops in Raleigh offer guides and equipment, with half-day sessions costing around 1,500 Thai Baht (approximately 30 quid), considered very reasonable. Pranang Beach itself is about 600 meters long, with perfect sand. Visitors are advised to wear a bathing suit and flip-flops as the water can come all the way up the beach at high tide. The best swimming spot is near a sand outcropping. At low tide, it's possible to walk out to a large rock in the ocean. Further down the left end of the beach, a cave houses a unique shrine dedicated to a sea goddess, filled with wooden phallic offerings. This spot offers a stunning panoramic view and is popular for photos. The morning on Pranang Beach is ideal for swimming, kayaking, and enjoying the scenic beauty, a part of Raleigh often overlooked. Before transitioning to the afternoon, a quick stop at Swandy Cat, described as the best bar in Raleigh, is suggested. Nun, the owner, is a local fixture. This walking street is where most of Raleigh's activity is concentrated. The video contrasts the current busy atmosphere with the deserted streets and beaches during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the dramatic change in tourism levels. The afternoon segment begins around 3:00 p.m., aiming to be back for sunset. The plan involves walking the entire length of Raleigh West, venturing to a lesser-known beach, and then hiking over the hills back to Walking Street. An attempt to enter the exclusive Riyavadi Resort, a five-star property spanning the interior between Raleigh West and East, is met with restrictions on photography. Raleigh West becomes quieter in the afternoon as many day-trippers, who typically visit Raleigh for only an hour or two from busier towns like Ao Nang, start to leave. The video emphasizes the importance of staying a few nights in Raleigh to fully experience it. Raleigh West is family-friendly, with children enjoying beach activities. Towards the end of Raleigh West, large rental houses are visible, which appear small against the massive rock formations. Beyond this point, the adventure continues to Tonsai Beach. Reaching Tonsai involves a somewhat challenging walk around a mountainous jungle outcrop, especially at low tide, requiring navigating steep sections with ropes. Tonsai Beach offers a different, more relaxed vibe. The Tonsai Bay Resort, where the narrator honeymooned 26 years ago, has been completely redone. Another resort, Teeny D Resort, built about five years ago, offers raised bungalows and a quiet escape. Tonsai is ideal for those seeking to detach from the world, with opportunities for kayaking and enjoying a peaceful beach. The next part of the afternoon adventure is a hike through the green mountain jungle behind Tonsai. The trail, though somewhat rustic, leads to more secluded accommodations that recall a former hippie community. The hike, done in flip-flops, is challenging but rewarding, offering solitude away from the crowds and jungle sounds. Mosquito spray is advised. The path eventually leads back to civilization, ending near Walking Street around 6:00 p.m., just in time for sunset. The evening begins with enjoying the sunset and a beer. The video highlights the importance of appreciating local interactions, sharing an anecdote about the local owner Nun and the common practice of tourists asking for discounts. The night portion focuses on Raleigh's single walking street, immersing viewers in its sights and sounds. Local establishments like Ten's Jamaica Bar offer live music, and the Stone Bar is a popular spot. The video encourages visitors to leave their resorts and support local restaurants. The narrator chooses a two-story restaurant for dinner, enjoying a simple yet delicious meal of grilled chicken (gai yang) and som tam. The night concludes back at Nun's bar, emphasizing the relaxed and uncrowded atmosphere later in the evening. The video ends at the boat park, suggesting that Raleigh's true charm lies in finding its quieter moments.