
Railay peninsula: A climber's view of the Railay peninsula, taken during a Krabi Rock Climbing course. Railay looks and feels like an island but it's actually part of the Thai mainland facing the Andaman Sea.

Rayavadee resort: if you want to do Railay in true luxury style, Rayavadee is your only option. The high-end resort is beautifully embedded into the natural surroundings.

Bird's eye view: An aerial photo of Rayavadee, which first opened nearly 25 years ago. It's made up of 96 spacious two-story pavilions and five villas, several of which have private pools.

Phra Nang Beach: The large resort offers direct access to both West and East Railay as well as Phra Nang, pictured.

Deluxe Pavilion: The exterior of one of Rayavadee's Deluxe Pavilions. The two-story structures come with a living area on the ground floor that can be converted into an extra bedroom for families.

Deluxe Pavilion bedroom: The second floor of the pavilion is where you'll find the master bedroom and bathroom.

Family Pavilion: Some Family Pavilions come with a freshwater, 3 x 8 meter private pool.

The Grotto: Rayavadee has four dining options. Most famous among them is restaurant "The Grotto." Set in a cave on Phra Nang Beach, the tables and chairs sit right on the sand.

Rock climbing: Railay is famous for its rock climbing. Krabi Rock Climbing is one of several companies offering equipment rentals and private guided climbs.

Railay's best views: No need for a drone when you can simply climb up a cliff for views like this. There are more than 600 climbing routes set up in 45 different areas accessible from Railay's shores, according to Krabi Rock Climbing.

Not just for the pros: "We have routes for all levels," owner Satarpon Dindang tells CNN Travel.
"Due to this and the amazing views I think this makes Railay one of the top locations in the world for climbing."
"Due to this and the amazing views I think this makes Railay one of the top locations in the world for climbing."

Railay West: A row of long-tail boats on Railay West, one of four stretches of sand that make up Railay Beach.

Langurs: This family of spectacled langurs shares the jungle with Rayavadee guests.

Phra Nang Cave: A view of Phra Nang just after sunset taken from inside the beach's main cave.

World's most beautiful pickup point?: Travelers wait in the shade on Railay West for the ferry that will shuttle them to Phi Phi Islands.

Phra Nang Beach: To have this beach to yourself, you've have to visit well before the day trippers arrive mid-morning. This shot was snapped at about 7 a.m.

Praying Mantis: Wildlife abounds in Railay. Sometimes you just have to bend down and look for it. This little guy was spotted hanging out on a beach buoy.

Walking Street: A long walking street filled with restaurants and shops connects Railay West and East.

Railay West: Tourists hang out on Raiay West towards the end of a hot April day.