Located on Thailand's eastern coast between Koh Samet and Pattaya, this coastal city has wide sandy beaches, fresh seafood markets, and the Khao Chamao waterfalls nearby.
Rayong lies 200 kilometers southeast of Bangkok along the Gulf of Thailand. This coastal city remains an active fishing port where you can watch boats unload their morning catch, walk through century-old shophouses on Yomjinda Road, or swim at Mae Ramphueng Beach under tall pine trees. Local markets sell fresh seafood caught the same morning, while nearby Koh Samet island makes for an easy day trip or weekend getaway.
Getting to Rayong
Minibuses depart every 45 minutes from Bangkok's Victory Monument, taking about 4 hours to reach Rayong. You can also drive from Bangkok, which takes around 2.5 hours via Highway 7, or catch a bus from the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai).
Beaches Along the Gulf
Mae Ramphueng Beach extends for 12 kilometers, with rows of pine trees creating natural shade along the shore. Local vendors cook grilled seafood and green papaya salad right on the beach. At Saeng Chan Beach, concrete breakwaters form small, protected bays where children play in gentle waves. Thai families often gather here on weekends, many swimming in t-shirts and shorts as is typical throughout Thailand.
Walking Through Old Town
Yomjinda Road follows the Rayong River through the city's original trading district. The street's shophouses date from the early 1900s, when boats were the main form of transportation. Today, local artists run small galleries and cafes from these restored buildings. Inside Wat Pa Pradu temple, you'll find wall paintings showing scenes of daily life from the past 200 years.
Markets and Local Food
At Roi Sao Market, vendors prepare dried squid in different styles - some marinated in tamarind chili syrup, others served with crushed peanuts. You'll find stalls selling fresh fruit, locally produced fish sauce, and crispy durian chips. The night market near the bus station opens from 5 PM daily, with dozens of food stalls cooking fresh seafood and local dishes.
Port Life and Industry
Each morning at 6 AM, fishing boats dock at Rayong's port to unload their catch. You can watch workers sort fish by type and size, while others prepare batches for the local markets or fish sauce production. While new factories and automotive plants line the outskirts of town, the central port area maintains its daily rhythm of fishing boats coming and going.
Natural Areas
In Khao Laem Ya-Mu Ko Samet National Park, a 600-meter hiking trail leads to a viewpoint overlooking the Gulf of Thailand. Wear sturdy shoes, as parts of the path involve climbing over rocks. Several small beaches connect via wooden boardwalks, and you'll find basic facilities like restrooms and food stalls near the park entrance.
