The reason to go to Railay Beach is the scenery and the nice beach.  The locale itself is built up with resorts that are nice, but make for a busy environment.  Ton Sai is just a kilometer away and is more of a low-key backpacker place- called "the peasant beach" by one resident we met. The same is true for the east side of Railay Beach, which has a mud beach.  Lots of people come for the excellent rock climbing too.

Now that we're in Ko Lanta, here's a look back at some of the scenes from Railay Beach...

 Most unforgettable were the sunsets.  The sky would seem to be on fire sometimes.

These clounds aren't exactly on fire, but look pretty magestic, I think.

The longtail boat is the only way to get to Railay Beach.

 Once you're there, though, you can explore on foot and by sea kayak, which is highly recommended. No cave for Sachi.

 I think we're both happy that we went to Railay beach, but I don't think it would make it onto the agenda the next time around.  We'd prefer the more traditional, laid back, Ko Lanta style of Thailand.