Phra Nang Cave (Princess Cave) Railay Beach Krabi
A unique spiritual cave shrine and stunning beach, famed for its fertility offerings and dramatic limestone cliffs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Phra Nang Cave (Princess Cave) Railay Beach Krabi
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique spiritual cave shrine and stunning beach, famed for its fertility offerings and dramatic limestone cliffs.
"The most 'enlightening' cave I've ever visited – a must-see for beauty, culture, and humor!"
Boat to Phra Nang
Take a long-tail boat from Ao Nang to Railay Beach (10 min) or directly to Phra Nang Beach. :boat:
Respect the Cave
The Princess Cave is a sacred site. Be respectful of the offerings and local traditions. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Princess Cave Shrine
Phra Nang Beach
A unique cave shrine dedicated to a sea princess, filled with hundreds of wooden phalluses as offerings.
Phra Nang Beach Beauty
Southern tip of Railay Peninsula
Stunning white sand beach framed by towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Limestone Cliff Formations
Phra Nang Beach
Majestic limestone karst formations rise dramatically from the sea, offering a dramatic backdrop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Phra Nang Cave
Respecting the Sacred Site
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Boat to Phra Nang
Take a long-tail boat from Ao Nang to Railay Beach (10 min) or directly to Phra Nang Beach. 
Respect the Cave
The Princess Cave is a sacred site. Be respectful of the offerings and local traditions. :pray:
Walk from Railay
If you're already at Railay West, it's a pleasant 15-minute walk to Phra Nang Beach.
Bring Water & Snacks
Limited facilities on the beach. Stay hydrated and energized for your exploration. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
Boat to Phra Nang
Take a long-tail boat from Ao Nang to Railay Beach (10 min) or directly to Phra Nang Beach.
Respect the Cave
The Princess Cave is a sacred site. Be respectful of the offerings and local traditions. :pray:
Walk from Railay
If you're already at Railay West, it's a pleasant 15-minute walk to Phra Nang Beach.
Bring Water & Snacks
Limited facilities on the beach. Stay hydrated and energized for your exploration. :water_wave:
Capture the Uniqueness
The cave's offerings are unique! Bring your camera and sense of humor. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the unique spiritual energy and surreal nature of the Princess Cave, often describing it as an unforgettable cultural experience. The stunning natural beauty of Phra Nang Beach, with its white sands and dramatic cliffs, is universally praised. While the cave's offerings are a highlight, some find them surprising.
"Honestly, I have no words… I’ve never seen a place like this before. Princess Cave is so unique and full of energy..something about it just stays with you. A must-visit if you're nearby, it’s not just beautiful, it’s something you feel."
Jai Sawle
"Awesome island. Great views. Cleanliness and hygiene properly maintained.
Highly recommendable.
Must visit places. Crystal clear water 🌊 Beaches were awesome."
Abhinandan Roy
"The Most “Enlightening” Cave I’ve Ever Visited – Princess Cave, Railay
Let me just say this right off the bat: I’ve seen a lot of caves in my travels — stalactites, bats, underground rivers... but nothing quite prepared me for the delightful surprise that is Princess Cave in Railay, Thailand.
Tucked into the side of the stunning Phra Nang Beach, this cave is dedicated to an ancient legend about a sea princess. Sounds mystical, right? Now imagine stepping inside and being greeted by... hundreds of wooden phalluses. Yes, you read that right. This isn’t just a sacred cave — it’s also a full-blown shrine to fertility, and apparently, the offering of choice is... well... creatively carved manhoods in all shapes, sizes, and colors.
It's a spiritual site, but also something straight out of a surreal comedy sketch. I couldn’t help but giggle (okay, laugh out loud) as I tried to keep a straight face among these enthusiastic, ahem, "offerings." But beyond the humor, it’s genuinely fascinating — both culturally and historically. Locals and fishermen have been leaving these symbols for decades as part of a deeply rooted belief in blessings, prosperity, and protection at sea.
What makes it even better is the setting: just steps from the most beautiful beach I’ve ever seen, with limestone cliffs towering behind and the sea stretching endlessly ahead. You can go from sunbathing to experiencing an unforgettable cultural oddity within 60 seconds.
If you're coming to Railay and want a mix of beauty, culture, and an unexpected dose of well-endowed humor, the Princess Cave is a must-see. Bring your camera, your curiosity, and your sense of humor — you’ll need all three.
10/10 – Come for the beach, stay for the... educational woodwork. 🌞🍆✨"
Christoph Thomas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Phra Nang Cave is by taking a long-tail boat from Ao Nang Beach. The journey is short, about 10-15 minutes, and offers scenic views of the coastline.
Yes, if you are staying on the Railay Peninsula, Phra Nang Cave is accessible via a pleasant 15-minute walk from Railay West Beach. The path is scenic and takes you along the coast.
No, Phra Nang Cave is located on a peninsula and is not accessible by car. Access is primarily by boat or walking from Railay.
While you can walk between Railay West and Phra Nang Beach, many visitors opt for a short long-tail boat ride for convenience and to experience the Andaman Sea.
Yes, many island-hopping tours from Ao Nang and Krabi include a stop at Phra Nang Beach and the Princess Cave as part of their itinerary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to visit Phra Nang Cave or Phra Nang Beach. Access is free for all visitors.
Phra Nang Cave is an open-air natural attraction and is accessible at all times. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the surroundings.
No, Phra Nang Beach is a public beach and does not have an admission fee. You only pay for your transportation to get there.
While you can often buy boat tickets on the spot, booking in advance, especially during peak season, can save you time and ensure availability.
While there are no strict restrictions, visitors are asked to be respectful of the sacred nature of the Princess Cave and its offerings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Princess Cave is famous for its unique shrine dedicated to a sea princess, featuring hundreds of wooden phalluses as offerings, symbolizing fertility and protection for fishermen.
Besides the cave, you can relax on the beautiful white sand beach, swim in the clear waters, admire the towering limestone cliffs, and even try rock climbing.
Phra Nang Cave is generally safe to visit. However, be mindful of the tide, especially if you venture further into the cave. Always supervise children.
Light, comfortable clothing is recommended. You may want to wear swimwear if you plan to swim. Be prepared to remove your shoes if you enter the shrine area.
Yes, you can take photos, but it's important to do so respectfully, especially around the shrine area.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are no formal restaurants directly at Phra Nang Cave, there are usually a few long-tail boats converted into floating food stalls selling snacks, drinks, and simple meals.
You can typically find fresh fruits, smoothies, grilled seafood, and local Thai snacks from the boat vendors.
For a wider selection of restaurants, head back to Railay West or Railay East, which offer various dining experiences from casual to more upscale.
Prices at the boat vendors are generally reasonable, offering a convenient way to grab a bite while enjoying the beach.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy on Phra Nang Beach. Just be sure to dispose of your trash properly. :wastebasket:
📸 📸 Photography
The entire Phra Nang Beach offers stunning photo opportunities with its limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. The cave itself, with its unique offerings, is also a memorable subject.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, while late afternoon provides a beautiful golden hour glow.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment before flying a drone. :noentrysign:
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and cliffs. A waterproof camera or phone case is useful if you plan on swimming or getting close to the water. :iphone:
The unique offerings within the cave provide a distinct photographic subject. Capturing the contrast between the natural beauty and the cultural artifacts can be striking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own food and drinks to save money on expensive beachside vendors. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Aim for early mornings or late afternoons for the best light and fewer crowds. +1 The unique offerings within the cave provide a distinctive subject matter that blends culture and nature. Don't forget a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive scenery and a waterproof case for your phone or camera if you plan on getting close to the water. :camerawithflash:Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Princess Phra Nang
+1 Her spirit is said to protect fishermen and ensure safe passage on the Andaman Sea. This belief has led to the tradition of fishermen leaving offerings in the cave before embarking on their journeys.These offerings have evolved over time, with the most prominent being hundreds of wooden phalluses in various shapes, sizes, and colors.
Beyond the shrine, the cave itself is a natural wonder, carved by the elements over millennia. The dramatic limestone formations surrounding the cave and the beach add to its mystical ambiance. It’s a place where natural beauty and ancient traditions converge, offering a glimpse into the spiritual heart of the local seafaring community.
Experiencing Phra Nang Beach
+1 It's consistently ranked among Thailand's most beautiful beaches, offering a postcard-perfect tropical paradise. The beach is divided into two main sections: the main Phra Nang Beach with the cave, and a smaller, more secluded area accessible by a short walk or swim around the rocks.Activities abound for visitors. Beyond admiring the scenery and exploring the Princess Cave, you can swim, sunbathe, or simply relax on the sand. For the more adventurous, Phra Nang Beach is a popular spot for rock climbing, with numerous guided tours available for all skill levels. Kayaking is another fantastic way to explore the coastline and nearby hidden lagoons.
+1While there are no formal restaurants directly on the beach, several long-tail boats are often converted into floating food stalls. These vendors offer a convenient way to purchase refreshing drinks, fresh fruits, and simple Thai dishes.
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