Tonsai Beach is a beautiful beach located next to Railay Beach. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in the region, and is known for its relaxed atmosphere, crystal-clear waters, and impressive rock formations. A very popular place among backpackers and rock climbing lovers visiting Thailand. Its immense seaside rock walls make Tonsai Beach, one of the most famous places for climbing in the world. Its immense seaside rock walls make Tonsai Beach, one of the most famous places for climbing in the world.
The atmosphere here is more calm than Railay, with a more relaxed, rustic, and bohemian vibe, which makes it a unique place that you should visit. Unlike the beaches of Railay, in Tonsai you will find an almost virgin beach, practically deserted, truly a unique and different place. Tonsai is an amazing beach town that still retains the mystique of the old times.
Tonsai Beach is one of the most famous places in the world for rock climbing.
How to get to Tonsai Beach
Like Railay, Tonsai Beach, it is located in a remote area that is not very easy to access. To get to Tonsai Beach from Railay West, you have to walk along a seaside path from Railay West and it takes about 15 minutes. It is not a very big challenge but it can only be done if the tide is low. The other alternative is a path through the middle of the jungle, longer and more challenging.
Long-tail boats offer a convenient transportation option, departing from Ao Nang, the area's primary tourist hub. The 15-minute boat ride typically costs around 100 baht, with slightly higher fares at night. For a more adventurous approach, rent a kayak from Railay West and paddle to Tonsai Beach in just 10 minutes. While swimming from Railay West Beach is possible, it's advisable to assess sea conditions and tide levels beforehand.
Climbers paradise
Tonsai Beach is one of the most famous places in the world for rock climbing. The cliffs in this area are a real dream for enthusiasts of this sport. Every year thousands of climbers from all over the world come to Tonsai Beach, and to Railay Beach, with the sole desire and intention of climbing its enormous vertical walls. And to be able to enjoy unique and privileged views of the Andaman Sea from above on this Krabi peninsula.
Without a doubt this is the king of sports in the area. There are over 700 climbing routes for all levels of experience, from beginners to professionals. If you are not afraid of heights, this is a unique place to start and be encouraged.
Some companies offer interesting experiences that include transportation from Ao Nang. But in Tonsai and also in Railay you can find the most prestigious climbing schools in Thailand that offer a wide range of courses taught by experienced and qualified instructors. Courses last from half a day to three days and they also rent all the necessary materials and equipment for experienced climbers who dare to climb on their own.
Other activities
While the main attraction in this beautiful little town is climbing, Tonsai Beach offers a variety of activities for all tastes:
Swim and sunbathe: The crystal clear waters of Tonsai Beach are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Kayak: It is possible to rent kayaks at beach to explore the area or you can rent a kayak at Railay West and visit Tonsai in 10 minutes.
Snorkeling: The area around Tonsai Beach is a good place for snorkeling but not the best in Krabi like Phi Phi Islands
Hiking: There are several trails that lead to the caves and viewpoints near the area.
Yoga: For Yoga lovers, Flower of Life Yoga offers regular classes with international teachers at a great atmosphere. An excellent place to practice yoga in this part of Thailand.
Accommodation
As for where to stay in Tonsai Beach, this small village offers a variety of slightly cheaper accommodation options than Railay, from small hotels and hostels to luxury beachfront resorts.
Hostels and small hotels are the most popular option for backpackers . These accommodations offer budget rooms without air conditioning or shared rooms. Luxury resorts offer private rooms with all kinds of services and amenities. These accommodations usually have swimming pools, restaurants, spa and other services.
It should be noted that this area is a little more isolated from the Railay peninsula, which has its very positive things such as its tranquility and virgin landscapes, but it is not super comfortable if you want to explore all of Railay or if you do not have many days to be here.
If you are one of those young backpackers who is traveling through Southeast Asia for months, this is your perfect place to enjoy nature and adventure for a few days in a hippie and relaxed atmosphere.
Here you have a selection of the best hotels in Tonsai Beach:
Tinidee Hideaway Tonsai Beach Krabi (SHA Extra Plus) 9.1
Tonsai Bay Resort 8,2
Dream Valley Resort Tonsai Beach 7,2
Garden View Resort Tonsai 7,8
Chill Out Bar and Bungalows 7,2
Gastronomy
Tonsai Beach offers a good variety of options to eat and are generally very affordable. The small village has many local restaurants that serve traditional Thai dishes. Like Railay Beach, here you will find small bars and restaurants made with wood and bamboo, where the hippie and reggae atmosphere reigns. These restaurants are usually affordable and offer a wide variety of delicacies that you can only try in Thailand, although lately some local restaurants also prepare some international dishes.
Last tips before visiting Tonsai Beach
Tonsai Beach is a great place to relax on the beach, rock climb, explore nature, and experience its bohemian and reggae vibe. If you are interested in visiting this beautiful town, here are some tips for planning your trip:
1. Book your accommodation in advance, especially if you are traveling during the high season.
2. Bring cash, there are no ATMs in Tonsai and also only a few shops or restaurants accept credit cards.
3. Wear comfortable clothes and good shoes if you decide to walk from Railay West and also if you come in the rainy season.
4. Not all places have electricity all day long. Some hostels or restaurants don't have light from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
5. There is internet here but the connection is not the best.
6. Please be environmentally friendly.
7. Enjoy.
