Rayong Province is one of the smallest provinces in Thailand. It is perfect for people who prefer quiet vacation by a pool at a hotel or on a deserted beach: a few tourists and rather modest infrastructure.
Location
Rayong is only 220 kilometers from Bangkok and approximately 65 km from Pattaya. Therefore, people from the capital, as well as guests of the popular resort often come here to relax on weekends.
A regular bus service is available between Bangkok, Pattaya, and Rayong.
Beach vacation
The coastline of the province has a length of 100 km. The beaches are quiet, calm and unfrequented. The most popular of them are Lam Mae Phim, Mae Ram Phyang, Suanson and Phala. They do not have sunbeds, only chairs to sit on. You can lie on the sand.
In Haad Rin We, Payyun, and Wang Kaew, the infrastructure is practically not available, just the sand and the sea.
From pier in Ban Pae, you can quickly reach a famous Samad island. It will take about 20-30 minutes to get there depending on the beach.
Sights
There are just a few sights. It is mangrove forest near the town Pak Nam Prothero, which is named by locals as "the eighth wonder of the world"; waterfalls in the Khao Cham - Khao Wong National Park, as well as Saranat Tammaru Buddhist temple, considered one of the most beautiful places in Thailand.
The places that you can visit are scattered all over the province and public transportation do not go there, so the only option is to rent a car, or even better, a car with a driver who knows the area.
Entertainment and infrastructure
Nightlife and the usual Western entertainments are not available, but you can visit authentic festivals and celebrations, including the famous Festival of fruit. Not coincidentally, Rayong is chosen as a residence of the Prince of Thailand and many wealthy Thais. There are rare for the country mineral and geothermal sources.
If you rest with your family, we recommend to visit Aquarium (one of the best places in Thailand) and the recreation park Suan Sri Muang. It has tennis courts, a soccer field, a large playground, gym, and outdoor equipment for people with disabilities.
Rayong is a fishing province and it is famous for its local seafood restaurants. Most such restaurants are located in Rayong town (the administrative center of the province) and in Ban Pae.
Shopping is very modest, so you can buy just seafood, fruits and souvenirs.
Prices
In Rayong, the cost of the accommodation and the meals in any hotel is usually lower than its equivalent in any star hotels located in popular resorts.
Attention!
Almost all local population speaks only in Thai, except hotels staff. Lack of developed tourist infrastructure is another disadvantage of the Province. Even shops are located at far distances.
Another important caveat: as there are many industrial enterprises in Rayong, you cannot swim in some beaches, like Lam Charon and Sang Chan.
