Comprehensive Travel Guide: Railay Princess Resort & Spa-SHA Extra Plus, Krabi

Introduction

Tucked into the dramatic limestone cliffs of Railay Beach, one of Thailand’s most sought-after tropical getaways, Railay Princess Resort & Spa-SHA Extra Plus delivers a serene, comfortable escape tailored to both couples and families. Accessible only by boat (a core part of Railay’s secluded charm), this resort balances casual beachside relaxation with thoughtful amenities, making it a top pick for visitors looking to disconnect without sacrificing convenience in Krabi Province.

Hotel Overview

Located at 145/1 M.2 Ao Nang, Mueang, Krabi, 81000, Railay Beach, Thailand, this certified SHA Extra Plus resort boasts an 8.0 guest rating for its well-maintained facilities. Accommodations include spacious non-smoking rooms and family-friendly options, all fitted with air conditioning, a private bathroom with free toiletries and a hairdryer, a flat-screen satellite TV, a seating area, a mini-fridge, and an electric kettle. Most rooms open onto private balconies or terraces overlooking lush tropical gardens.

On-site, guests enjoy three year-round pools: an indoor lap pool, a sprawling outdoor main pool, and a dedicated shallow children’s pool, all free to use. Other perks include complimentary WiFi across public areas, free private parking (for guests arriving by car to the mainland side before boarding the resort transfer), 24-hour front desk service, currency exchange, and luggage storage. The resort’s on-site restaurant earns rave reviews for its included breakfast buffet, with options for special dietary needs, plus a bar, coffee shop, and snack bar for casual bites and drinks. Recreational offerings range from a full-service spa and fitness center (both with nominal entry fees for guests) to on-site cooking classes, live sports screenings, and arranged off-site activities including diving, horseback riding, sea kayaking, and fishing, all available for an extra fee. Staff speak fluent English and Thai to support international travelers.

Local Attractions

Just steps from the resort, Phra Nang Cave Beach is a postcard-perfect cove framed by towering limestone cliffs, dotted with traditional offerings left by local fishermen at the sacred cave. It’s ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and easy cliffside hikes for panoramic views. Ten minutes by longtail boat, Emerald Cave (Tham Pra Nang) is a sea cave accessible at low tide; paddle or walk through the dark tunnel to emerge into a hidden, sunlit lagoon surrounded by sheer rock walls. For a dose of adventure, Railay Viewpoint is a 30-minute steep hike from the resort that rewards climbers with sweeping views of the Andaman Sea and neighboring islands.

Travel Tips

Since Railay Beach is car-free, book the resort’s paid airport transfer service in advance to arrange seamless boat transport from the Krabi mainland. Pack sturdy walking shoes for cliffside hikes, and reef-safe sunscreen to protect both your skin and local coral. For day trips to neighboring islands like Hong Islands or Phi Phi, book through the resort’s tour desk for trusted, licensed operators at fair rates. If traveling with children, take advantage of the paid on-site childcare and kids’ club to enjoy a quiet spa day or sunset dinner for two.