4D/3N Backpacking Krabi (Relaxation & Solitude – Part 4) : Chill Out At Tew Lay Bar – A Hidden Paradise at Railay East, Krabi

It is said that the best kind of therapy is beach therapy for the cure for anything is salt water: sweat, tears or the sea. 🙂 For my relaxation and solitude getaway to Krabi, I wanted to chill by the beach, somewhere peaceful, quiet and relaxing. I wanted to lie down and listen to the sound of the waves crashing the shore – to do nothing, read a book, sip a cocktail or two, enjoy a meal or just fall asleep soundly in peace.

Tew Lay Bar – A Hidden Paradise in Railay

Thankfully, I found that special place and did all the above. 😀 My research has brought me to a hidden paradise located at the very end of East Railay or Railay East, Krabi. And, that special place is known as Tew Lay Bar. To date, not many people know about the place because of its secluded location.

In fact, I’m kind of reluctant to share this bit of information because then, my happy place will risk being flooded with people once the news gets out. But, it will benefit people especially those seeking relaxation and solitude, so I decided to share it anyway. You can thank me by buying me a drink if you happen to meet me there. My favourites are mojito or pina colada. 😉

Tew Lay Bar boasts a beautiful and tranquil setting amidst the greenery with amazing view of the Andaman Sea, mangroves and limestone hills of Railay, Krabi. There are hammocks and semi-private elevated platforms perched over the sea for one to sit back and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere. The bar serves a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails, coffee and beverages whereas the restaurant serves both Thai and Western cuisine.

Getting to Tew Lay Bar – Just Keep Walking Past “The Last Bar”

This off-the-path little bar and restaurant lies at the quiet northern end of the Railay East walkway, near the entrances to Garden View and Great View Resorts. I have to admit, it is a really long, but relaxing stroll along the beach to reach the place! And since I visited it during the low season, the walkway was kind of deserted.

If you are coming from Tonsai like me, take a long-tail boat ride from the beach to Railay. It costs THB300 to charter an entire boat. Else, the fare will be divided equally among the number of passengers present during the boat ride. The boatmen will only leave when there are enough people or when the whole sum is paid.

Most of the shops and restaurants located along the walkway were not open yet because it was still early. I wanted to get a good spot to chill at Tew Lay Bar, specifically on the platform located on the end of a tree branch perched over the sea, therefore I went early. 😛

It is relatively a straightforward path to Tew Lay Bar. Simply keep walking on the walkway until you past “The Last Bar” and its Muay Thai ring. Continue walking up the road, past the mangroves and you will see Tew Lay Bar sitting right in front of you. It is difficult to miss it with its beautiful setting and all.

Of Semi-Private Elevated Platforms, Unique Seating & a Friendly Bartender

I was the first person to arrive at Tew Lay Bar that day and did not waste any time to book my preferred seat overlooking the beautiful Andaman Sea. I love tree houses and being able to chill on one makes me a very happy person.

I met the friendly bartender at the bar which reminded me of the hula teacher (Moses Puloki) from the cartoon animation, Lilo and Stitch. 😀 There, I ordered my brunch – an American breakfast set meal (THB200) that consist of two sunny side up eggs, a slice of ham and toast with butter and jam served with a glass of coffee/tea and fresh orange juice.

The cocktails are priced at THB200 each. I am not a fan of beers therefore I did not notice its pricing. I admit, the price of the foods and beverages served at Tew Lay Bar is kind of pricey as compared to the rest, but the beautiful and relaxing ambience you get in return makes up for it. P.s: I read the recent WiFi instalment there is excellent.

A Priceless Moment of Solitude & Utter Bliss

Needless to say, I spent the rest of my day lazing on the cosy platform and slept in the hammock for a different feel. Serenaded by the soothing sound of the waves crashing below me and being caressed by the gentle sea breeze with occasional sunlight prying through the foliage, I watched the long-tail boats with their noisy motors passed by, read my book, feel asleep peacefully on the platform, and even played in the water with the children.

At that moment, I felt peaceful, calm and happy. I had no worries, only good times and enjoyed the moment to the fullest. Next, I indulged in an activity that makes me happy – cooking. 😀 Yes, I booked a Thai cooking class held at Tew Lay Bar that very afternoon!

Up next: Learning to cook simple Thai dishes with Railay Cooking Class