1. Railay West Beach
The classic choice, and for good reason — a wide, uninterrupted view over the Andaman Sea with limestone karsts silhouetted on either side. Grab a beanbag at one of the beach bars an hour before sunset to get a good spot.
2. Ao Nang Viewpoint
A short, moderately steep walk up from the eastern end of Ao Nang beach leads to a viewpoint looking back over the bay and out toward the islands — quieter than the beach itself and a good option if you're staying in Ao Nang and don't want to boat over to Railay.
3. Khao Ngon Nak Ridge
Technically a sunrise hike (see our full guide), but the ridge also catches a good late-afternoon light if you time the hike for a sunset descent instead — just bring a torch for the walk down.
4. Phra Nang Cave Beach
Quieter than Railay West once the day-tour boats leave, with the added atmosphere of the cave shrine at one end of the beach.
5. A longtail boat, anywhere offshore
Chartering a longtail for the last hour before sunset, and simply drifting off Railay or Ao Nang, gets you a totally unobstructed horizon — cheap to arrange through any boat operator on the beach.