Things To Do
in Ban Phe
Ban Phe is a coastal town in Rayong Province known for its bustling seafood markets and easy access to the islands off the Gulf of Thailand. It serves as the gateway to Ko Samet, with ferry departures from Ban Phe Pier that make day trips effortless. The town has a laid-back fishing-village vibe, where days revolve around the sea, fishing boats, and fresh catches.
Expect warm Thai hospitality, flavorful seafood, and a pace of life that invites slow travel and waterfront sunsets.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Ban Phe and check into your beachfront accommodation. Spend the morning unwinding on the soft white sands, soaking in the tropical sun with a refreshing drink in hand. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach to get familiar with the area’s serene beauty.
After a light lunch at a local seafood restaurant, explore the charming village and its vibrant market. You can shop for handmade crafts and taste local snacks, immersing yourself in the culture. Don't forget to try some fresh coconut water to hydrate in the afternoon heat.
As the sun sets, enjoy a beachside dinner under the stars at one of the popular seafood shacks. Sample fresh catch of the day while feeling the gentle sea breeze. Wrap up your evening with a beach bonfire and delightful conversations with fellow travelers.
Embark on an island-hopping tour early in the morning, setting sail towards the stunning Koh Samet. Enjoy the clear waters and pristine beaches as you hop from one island to another, exploring hidden coves. Snorkeling gear will be provided, so get ready to witness the vibrant marine life.
After a delicious picnic lunch on a secluded beach, continue your exploration around the islands. You can kayak or swim in the tranquil waters, discovering the natural charm of this tropical paradise. Capture stunning photos that will last a lifetime.
Return to Ban Phe by evening and freshen up before heading out to explore the vibrant night markets. Enjoy local delicacies such as pad thai or mango sticky rice while shopping for souvenirs. Take in the lively atmosphere as you stroll through the market under twinkling lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room (per night) | $15-30 |
| 🥤Street-food snack | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🚲Bike rental (half-day) | $5-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Fresh seafood and coastal scenery
- Easy access to Ko Samet and nearby beaches
- Small-town amenities compared to larger cities
- Seasonal variability in sea conditions and markets
- "สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ" - Hello
- "ขอบคุณครับ/ค่ะ" - Thank you
- "ขอโทษครับ/ค่ะ" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "อันนี้ราคาเท่าไหร่" - How much is this?
- "ช่วยแนะนำอาหารท้องถิ่นที่อร่อยๆให้หน่อยได้ไหม" - Could you recommend some local dishes that are delicious?
Places to Visit in Ban Phe
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm boats, soft pink and orange skies, and fishermen preparing for the day provide tranquil, classic coastal photography.
A long stretch of sand with a golden horizon and silhouettes of islands in the distance—perfect for wide-angle shots.
Colorful nets, stacked boats, and working fishermen offer dynamic, everyday-life compositions.
Food in Ban Phe
Ban Phe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Whole fish stuffed with lemongrass and herbs, grilled in salt and typically served with a spicy chili dipping sauce.
Must-Try!
Hot and sour prawn soup with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and lime juice.
Green papaya salad with garlic, chilies, peanuts, and lime; can be spicier in local stalls.
Sour Thai curry with mixed seafood and vegetables in a tamarind-based broth.
Mango sticky rice, a popular Thai dessert featuring coconut milk over ripe mango and sweet sticky rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant morning market selling fresh seafood, vegetables, herbs, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Evening stalls offering grilled seafood, soups, and steamed options with a waterfront backdrop.
Nearby market with live seafood selection; ideal for picking fresh ingredients or enjoying prepared dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Show respect in temples and public spaces; dress modestly in temples and remove shoes where required.
A polite wai (hands together in a prayer-like gesture) is customary; greet elders and shopkeepers with a smile and a small bow of the head.
Avoid touching anyone’s head and point feet away from people or sacred objects; remove shoes before entering homes and some shops.
Safety
Tipping in Ban Phe
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. Leave small change or 5-10% at restaurants if service charge is not included; for guides or hotel staff, a modest tip is common.
Cash in Thai Baht is widely accepted; many larger restaurants and shops accept credit/debit cards, and ATMs are common in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with cooling sea breezes; stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan morning or late afternoon activities to avoid peak heat.
Frequent afternoon showers and high humidity; carry a light rain jacket and waterproof shell, and expect occasional travel delays.
Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity; ideal for outdoor exploration, island hopping, and photography.
Ban Phe at Night
Hiking in Ban Phe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails and waterfall hikes within driving distance; lush landscapes and cooler elevations compared to the coast.
Short, scenic hikes and nature walks offering views of the Gulf and surrounding terrain.
Airports
How to reach Ban Phe by plane.
Nearest international gateway with connections to regional destinations; about 60-90 minutes by car to Ban Phe depending on traffic.
Major international hub; about 2.5-3.5 hours by road or rail-transfer to Rayong area plus local travel to Ban Phe.
Bangkok's secondary airport with domestic and some international flights; similar travel time to reach Ban Phe via road and transfer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primary community of fishermen, seafood workers, and long-time residents in Ban Phe and surrounding villages.
Visitors from Bangkok and other provinces, plus temporary residents who enjoy weekend island access and coastal living.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widespread across the region with gyms and occasional matches; a traditional Thai sport that’s accessible for spectators and participants.
Fishing, snorkeling, and casual boating are common along Ban Phe and nearby beaches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ban Phe.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable dishes or tofu-based options; request no fish sauce or shrimp paste; many stalls offer plain veggie stir-fries and salads.