The province of Rayong is one of the smallest in Thailand, and works for those who enjoy lounging by the pool or the quiet desertion of local beaches.
Location
Rayong is only 220 km from Bangkok and approximately 65 km from Pattaya, which is what makes it a haven for those living in the capital come the weekend.
Travel to the south-lying province is easy thanks to regular bus service between Bangkok, Pattaya, and within Rayong.
Beach Vacations
The coastline of this province is an impressive 100 km, offering quiet, calm, and unfrequented beaches. The most popular of them are Lam Mae Phim, Mae Ram Phyang, Suanson, and Phala, all of which offer chairs, but no sunbeds. If the vertical position is what you’re after, you’ll have to throw down your towel in the sand.
Should you choose to visit Haad Rin We, Payyun, or Wang Kaew, be forewarned that there are next to no facilities or services – just sand and sea. Meanwhile, from the pier in Ban Pae, you can quickly reach the well-known Koh Samad, which will take about 20-30 minutes depending on your chosen beach.
Sights
In the province of Rayong, there are just a few sights worth mentioning. One is a mangrove forest near the town of Pak Nam Pra Sae, which the locals call "the eighth wonder of the world". You might want to check out the waterfalls in the Khao Cham – Khao Wong National Park, and while you’re at it don’t miss the Wat Saranat Tammaram Buddhist Temple, considered one of the most beautiful in Thailand.
These and other places open to the public are scattered all over the province, with the only option of seeing them in person in your own rental car, or, even better, with a driver who knows the area.
Entertainment and Activities
Typical western nightlife haunts are not available in Rayong. But there are other options, such as various seasonal festivals and celebrations, including the famous Festival of Fruit. Not coincidentally, the Prince of Thailand and many wealthy Thai people spend their free time in Rayong, as, among the quiet, mineral and geothermal springs, rare in Thailand, are found here.
Family options might include the Rayong Aquarium and Suan Sri Muang, which boasts tennis courts, a soccer field, a large playground, a gym, and outdoor equipment for people with disabilities.
Rayong is a fishing province and is famous for its local seafood restaurants, most of which are located in Rayong city proper and in Ban Pae. Additionally, shopping is very modest; items for purchase include seafood, fruit, and souvenirs.
Please note:
with the exception of hotel staff, the local population primarily speak Thai. Tourists should also be aware of a distinct lack of developed infrastructure, with large distances between services and facilities.
Another important caveat: as industrial projects in Rayong are numerous, swimming is prohibited in beaches such as Lam Charon and Sang Chan.