Things To Do
in Rayong
Rayong is a laid-back Gulf Coast province just east of Bangkok, celebrated for its pristine beaches, seafood, and lush countryside. It serves as the gateway to Koh Samet and a variety of inland parks, yet maintains a slower pace than Thailand’s busier tourist hubs. The coast is lined with fishing villages, citrus orchards, and markets where fresh seafood is daily fare.
Whether you seek island hops, nature hikes, or a relaxed beach break, Rayong offers a welcoming base with easy access to nearby attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Rayong Aquarium, where you can marvel at a variety of marine life native to the Gulf of Thailand. Afterward, head to the nearby Wat Pa Pradu, a serene temple known for its reclining Buddha statue, and take some time to reflect in its peaceful surroundings. Enjoy a traditional Thai breakfast at a local eatery, sampling dishes like Jok (rice porridge) and fresh fruit.
Spend your afternoon exploring the Rayong Cultural Center, where you can learn about the rich history and traditions of the region through engaging exhibits. Following this, stroll through the bustling local market, sampling street food and picking up unique handicrafts as souvenirs. Don’t miss the chance to chat with local vendors to gain a deeper understanding of their crafts and daily life.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a seaside restaurant overlooking the Gulf, where you can savor fresh seafood dishes. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the beach, feeling the soft sand beneath your feet and listening to the gentle waves lapping at the shore. End your day with a visit to a local bar for a refreshing cocktail while enjoying live music.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the beautiful Laem Mae Phim Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. Engage in thrilling water sports such as jet skiing or parasailing, feeling the adrenaline rush as you skim across the water. Take a moment to relax under the sun with a good book or simply enjoy the stunning coastal views.
After your morning of adventure, enjoy a beachfront lunch at one of the local restaurants, sampling regional dishes like Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup) and green papaya salad. Spend your afternoon lounging on the beach, or join a local snorkeling tour to explore the vibrant marine life of the area. The colorful coral reefs and diverse fish species will leave you in awe of the underwater beauty.
As the day winds down, watch the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Indulge in a beach barbecue dinner, where you can grill your own seafood while enjoying the company of newfound friends. Cap off the night with a beach bonfire, sharing stories and laughter under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🏨1 night in a budget hotel | $25-60 |
| 🚲Public transportation or short taxi ride | $1-5 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at a cafe | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to beautiful beaches with fewer crowds than major tourist hubs
- Strong seafood scene and easy access to Koh Samet
- Facilities and nightlife can be limited outside Koh Samet
- Public transport options are less extensive than Bangkok or Phuket
- "สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ (Sawasdee krub/ka)" - Hello
- "ขอบคุณ (Khob khun ka/krub)" - Thank you
- "ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน (Hong nam yoo tee nai?)" - Where is the bathroom?
- "ช่วยด้วย (Chuay duay)" - Help!
- "ราคาเท่าไร (Raka thao-rai?)" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Rayong
Visit one of these nice places.
Coastal viewpoints offering sweeping Gulf of Thailand vistas and island silhouettes, ideal for sunrise or golden-hour shots.
Colorful boats, nets, and working fishermen create dynamic early-morning scenes with natural light and activity.
Long sandy shore, palm-lined foreground, and pink-tinged skies—classic beach photography at blue-hour.
Serene temple complex with ornate architecture and quiet courtyards, offering architectural and cultural photography opportunities.
Food in Rayong
Rayong Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A shareable assortment of grilled or steamed fish, prawns, crab, and squid, typically served with lime, chili, and garlic dipping sauces.
Must-Try!
A hot-and-sour shrimp soup with lemongrass, kaffir lime, galangal, and lime juice; best enjoyed with steamed rice.
Whole fish steamed and topped with a zesty lime, garlic, and chili dressing, a coastal favorite at markets and restaurants.
Sweet, creamy mango served with fragrant coconut sticky rice—a perfect tropical dessert.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively harbor market where fishermen bring the day’s catch; sample grilled fish, shellfish, and spicy dips just off the quay.
Evening stalls along the beachfront offering grilled seafood, suki, and Thai snacks with sea breeze and sunset views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A gentle bow with hands pressed together; say Sawasdee krub/ka (male/female) as a courtesy.
Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering temples, speak softly, and avoid gesturing or pointing feet toward sacred objects.
Never touch someone’s head and avoid placing feet toward people or sacred spaces; use your right hand for giving and receiving when possible.
Keep voices respectful in public, particularly in markets and residential areas; modest dress in temples and villages is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Rayong
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up at casual eateries or leaving 10–15% at nicer places is common. Small tips for service staff are welcomed in tourist areas.
Cash is widely used, especially at markets and street stalls. Many venues in towns accept debit/credit cards, but carry cash for smaller vendors and riverside markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with temperatures often in the 30s–late 30s °C; stay hydrated, seek shade, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Frequent showers and possible tropical storms; landscapes turn lush, but rain can disrupt outdoor plans and seas can be rough—carry rain gear and have flexible itineraries.
Pleasant and dry, with cooler evenings; ideal for outdoor sightseeing, island trips, and sunset viewpoints.
Rayong at Night
Hiking in Rayong
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails leading to multiple waterfalls; suitable for a half-day hike through lush scenery.
Coastal trails with vantage points overlooking the Gulf and Koh Samet; best at sunrise or sunset.
Airports
How to reach Rayong by plane.
Airport serving Pattaya and Rayong; domestic and limited international flights; transfers to Rayong by road or shuttle.
Large Bangkok international hub;about 3–4 hours by road/rail to Rayong depending on traffic.
Secondary Bangkok airport with domestic and some international flights; similar travel time to Rayong as BKK.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly ethnic Thai residents with fishing, farming, and service sectors.
Active coastal communities around Ban Phe and Mae Ramphueng.
Visitors drawn to Koh Samet, beaches, and nature attractions; a modest expatriate presence in towns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional Thai boxing practiced and watched across the region.
Popular among locals; informal games and small leagues abound.
Snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding on the coast and around islands.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rayong.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Rayong, vegetarian options are readily available. Look for vegetable stir-fries, tofu dishes, and curries; request no fish sauce or broth when ordering at non-specialist eateries.