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Rayong is a beautiful place in Thailand with lovely beaches, tasty seafood, and a calm atmosphere. It is not as crowded as other tourist places, making it great for a peaceful holiday. Visitors can relax on the beach, see waterfalls, or enjoy fresh seafood. It is also the gateway to Koh Samet, a pretty island with clear water and soft white sand. It is a perfect place for people who love nature and want to stay away from busy cities. Whether you want to rest or explore, this city has something special for everyone to enjoy.
About Rayong
Photo: Yakuzakorat / Wikimedia Commons
This city has a long history that goes back hundreds of years. It was once an important place for trade, connecting Thailand with other nearby countries. Many fishermen and traders lived here, bringing together old traditions and new ways of life. A famous leader, King Taksin the Great, gathered his army in this city after Ayutthaya fell and fought to make Thailand free again. Today, people can visit old temples, markets, and museums to learn about Rayong’s past. This province is a great place to explore history and see how people lived long ago while enjoying its modern side.
Location
Photo: kenmix2008 / Wikimedia Commons
It is a city on Thailand’s eastern coast, about 180 km from Bangkok. It has beautiful beaches and a rich marine life because it is next to the Gulf of Thailand. To the east, it is close to Chanthaburi, which is famous for its fruit farms and waterfalls. To the west, it is near Chonburi, where Pattaya, a famous beach city, is located.
How To Reach Rayong
Photo: CC0 Public Domain / Px Here/ Image For Representation Only
By Air: The nearest airport is U-Tapao International Airport, located about 40 km away. From the airport, taxis and buses are available to take travellers to the city and nearby attractions.
By Train: While this city does not have a railway station, travellers can take a train from Bangkok to Ban Chang, which is the closest station. From there, buses and taxis can take visitors to their destination.
By Road: The most common way to reach this city is by road. Buses from Bangkok’s Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) run frequently, taking about 3 – 4 hours to reach here. Travellers can also drive via Highway 7 or Highway 3, enjoying scenic views along the way.
Top Places To Visit In Rayong
Here listed are some of the best and renowned gems of this city offering the most authentic and immersive experience:
1. Koh Samet
Photo: Bjørn Erik Pedersen / Wikimedia Commons
Koh Samet is a beautiful island, famous for its clean beaches and fun nightlife. Visitors can relax on the soft sand, swim or snorkel in the clear water, and enjoy a meal by the beach. It is a great place for couples, families, and solo travellers who want a peaceful holiday. The island is easy to reach by ferry from Ban Phe Pier, making it a perfect spot for a short trip or a long stay in nature.
Best Time To Visit: November – April
2. Mae Ramphueng Beach
Photo: Mozhar / Wikimedia Commons
Mae Ramphueng Beach is one of the longest and most beautiful beaches in this city. It is 12 km long and a great place for sunbathing, swimming, and eating by the beach. The beach is quieter than other popular beaches in Thailand, so it is perfect for people who want a peaceful time by the sea. There are many small restaurants by the beach where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood. The soft sand and clear water make it a lovely place to relax.
Best Time To Visit: November – March
Ideal Trip Duration: Half-day to a full day
3. Sunthorn Phu Memorial Park
Photo: Ohm Thenizer / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Sunthorn Phu Park is a special place to honour the famous Thai poet Sunthorn Phu. He was born in this city, and the park has statues of characters from his poems. There are also pretty gardens and a calm lake where people can walk and relax. It is a good place to learn about Thai poetry and enjoy nature. The park is quiet and peaceful, making it perfect for a short visit.
Location: Klaeng District
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
4. Khao Laem Ya – Mu Ko Samet National Park
Photo: Wiranya Youwattana / Wikimedia Commons
Mu Ko Samet National Park has mountains, beaches, and forests. People can walk up Khao Laem Ya to see beautiful views, camp by the beach, or take a boat to visit small islands nearby. The park is a great place for nature lovers and those who like adventure. Visitors can enjoy fresh air, peaceful surroundings, and many outdoor activities. The beach is clean, and the water is clear, making it a nice place to swim and relax.
Location: Near Ban Phe
Best Time To Visit: November – April
Ideal Trip Duration: Half-day to full day
5. Rayong Aquarium
Photo: Sladjana Karvounis / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
This aquarium is a great place to visit for people who love sea animals. It has big tanks with many types of fish, sea turtles, and other ocean creatures. One of the best parts is the underwater tunnel, where visitors can walk through and see fish swimming all around. The aquarium also shows how people in this city catch fish and how sea animals are kept safe in Thailand.
Best Time To Visit: All year round
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Where To Stay
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This city has many places to stay, from expensive resorts to cheap hotels. If you want a luxury stay, you can choose Rayong Marriott Resort & Spa or Novotel Rayong Rim Pae Resort. For a mid-range hotel, Kantary Bay Rayong and Star Convention Hotel are good options. Happy Home Guesthouse and Ban Khiang Talay are good choices if you are looking for a budget stay.
Where To Eat
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This city is well known for its tasty seafood. Laem Charoen Seafood is a popular restaurant that serves fresh fish and prawns. Paya Seafood is famous for its spicy seafood curries, which many people enjoy. Baan Paknam is a great place to try traditional Thai food in a cosy setting. These restaurants offer different flavours and dishes, making them perfect for anyone who loves seafood.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Preecha.MJ / Wikimedia Commons
The best to visit is from November to April when the weather is cool and dry. During this time, the days are sunny, and it is easy to explore the beaches and other places. From May to October, it is the rainy season, and there are some rain showers, the city still looks beautiful.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Андрей Бобровский / Wikimedia Commons
Tips For Travellers
- Pack Light and Comfortable Clothing: Rayong’s tropical climate is warm, so wear breathable outfits and bring sun protection.
- Try Local Seafood: This city is famous for its fresh seafood. Try dishes like Pla Pao (grilled fish) and Kung Chae Nam Pla (shrimp in spicy sauce).
- Carry Thai Baht: Some local shops and street vendors may not accept credit cards, so it’s best to have cash.
- Use Public Transport: Songthaews (shared taxis) and motorbike rentals are affordable ways to get around the city.
Rayong, a hidden gem on Thailand’s eastern coast, offers a perfect blend of serene beaches, rich cultural heritage, and delectable seafood. Whether you seek relaxation at Mae Ramphueng Beach, or insights at Wat Pa Pradu, this city has something for everyone. Its vibrant markets and national parks further enhance its charm, making it a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience Thailand. Book now with TripXL for an amazing experience!
Cover Photo: Андрей Бобровский / Wikimedia Commons
