Hugging the sandy shores of the Gulf of Thailand, Rayong Province is blessed with charming beach towns, including the popular capital city of Rayong. Along with fresh seafood and alluring beaches, Rayong Province provides a number of snorkelling and wildlife-watching opportunities, as well as rich cultural and religious immersion.
Things to do in Rayong
The capital of Rayong is a bustling coastal city with modern shopping malls, various dining neighbourhoods and white-sand beaches. Rayong’s thriving seafood and nightlife scenes attract both families and young backpackers, while the Ko Kloy Floating Market is perfect for picking up unique souvenirs, feeding fish or listening to live music. Don’t miss the Rayong Adventure Park and its pools with inflatable obstacle courses.
Want to explore the local beach scene? Mae Ram Phueng Beach is one of Rayong Province’s best spots for sunbathing, swimming and spotting crabs. Come nightfall, the restaurants overlooking the beach offer authentic Thai cuisine, fresh seafood and alfresco seating.
Head over to the Phe Arboretum and admire the native plants and trees housed in this modest botanical garden by the Gulf of Thailand. If you prefer to venture beneath the surface, organise a snorkelling or scuba diving excursion at the nearby island of Ko Samet. This tropical haven is renowned for its statues, picturesque beaches and vibrant marine life.
Active travellers should head to Khao Chamao-Khao Wong National Park and take on the challenging hiking trails over mountains, through jungles and past cascading waterfalls. Alternatively, you can camp and hike along the coastline at the Khao Laem Ya National Park.
Getting around Rayong
The Rayong Province is serviced by U-Tapao Rayong Pattaya International Airport and numerous long-distance buses. You can get around most cities and townships using songthaews and taxis, hire a car to explore the region or catch a ferry to the offshore islands.