What to Do on Phra Nang Beach in Krabi?
Phra Nang Beach stands as one of Thailand’s most stunning coastal destinations, located on the southern tip of the Railay Peninsula in Krabi Province. This 450-meter stretch of powdery white sand sits surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The beach can only be reached by longtail boat from Ao Nang (15-20 minutes) or by walking 10-15 minutes from Railay East Beach along a scenic coastal path.
The beach’s most famous attraction is the Princess Cave (Tham Phra Nang Nok), located at the eastern end beneath dramatic limestone formations. Local fishermen consider this sacred site home to a mythical sea princess and make offerings of flowers, incense, and carved wooden phallic symbols for fertility and protection. The cave contains hundreds of lingam offerings in various sizes and colours, creating one of Thailand’s most unusual spiritual sites.
Phra Nang offers excellent swimming conditions with calm, shallow waters protected by surrounding islands. The beach provides natural shade from limestone cliffs and features two small offshore islands, Koh Rang Nok and Nai, accessible by swimming or walking during low tide. Activities include rock climbing on world-class limestone routes, snorkelling around coral reefs, kayaking, and exploring additional caves via rope access at the western end.
The beach becomes crowded with tour groups between 11 am and 4 pm, particularly during high season (November to April). Early morning and late afternoon visits offer more peaceful experiences for sunset viewing. Food boats serve Thai dishes directly on the beach, while the only accommodation option is the luxury Rayavadee Resort nearby.
More Photos of Phra Nang Beach
What to Do on Phra Nang Beach?
Phra Nang Cave
Phra Nang Cave is famous for sheltering hundreds of phallic wood artefacts brought here by fishermen for good fortune (apparently, Phra Nang was an Indian princess who died in a shipwreck or the wife of a fisherman who died at sea). The cave is not very large nor deep, but there is always a crowd taking photos and selfies (slightly disrespectful to plain obscene). Swimming in the shade of the karst cliffs seems to be the next popular thing to do, next to the cave.
Phra Nang Beach Map
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