Daily costs per person in Thai Baht. Railay runs more expensive than mainland Thailand due to boat logistics. Ao Nang is the budget-friendly base with easy day-trip access.
Daily cost breakdown
Currency: Thai Baht (฿) (฿35 ≈ $1 USD)
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Splurge | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | ฿600–1,200 | ฿2,000–4,000 | – | |
| Food | ฿200–400 | ฿500–1,000 | – | |
| Transport | ฿200–400 | ฿500–1,500 | – | |
| Activities | ฿300–600 | ฿1,000–2,500 | – | |
| Drinks | ฿100–200 | ฿300–600 | – | |
| Daily Total | ฿1,400–2,800 | ฿4,300–9,600 | – |
Money-saving tips
Accommodation is pricier than mainland Thailand
Railay has no road access so everything is boat-delivered, pushing prices up. Budget bungalows on Railay East: ฿600–1,200/night. Mid-range on Railay West: ฿2,000–4,000. Staying in Ao Nang ($10–20/night) and day-tripping saves significant money.
Boat costs add up: plan them
Ao Nang to Railay: ฿100/person each way. Island-hopping longtail (4-island tour): ฿1,500–2,000/boat split between passengers. Book group tours from Ao Nang for ฿500–700/person including snorkelling gear.
Rock climbing is exceptional value
Railay has some of Thailand's best sport climbing: 130+ bolted routes above the sea. Half-day beginner course: ฿1,000–1,500. Full-day with 2:1 instructor ratio: ฿2,000–2,500. Gear rental only (if you have skills): ฿500/day.
Eat at Railay East for local prices
Railay West beachfront restaurants charge resort prices. Walk 5 minutes to Railay East for the same food at half the cost. The small shops on Railay East sell water, snacks, and essentials at reasonable prices. Stock up there.
