Rayong in short
Last checked: 7 November 2026
When to go
At the Rayong weather station, December to February has about 1–3 rainy days a month. September is the wettest month, with about 270 mm of rain.
Rain and temperature by monthGetting there
Rayong is about three to three and a half hours from Bangkok by road. Ban Phe, the pier town for Koh Samet, is on the coast east of Rayong town.
Where to stay in RayongWhere to stay
Ban Phe on the way to Koh Samet, Mae Ramphueng for a long mainland beach, Laem Mae Phim for resorts, and Rayong town for short stops.
Rayong hotels by areaKoh Samet
Speedboats from Ban Phe take about 10–15 minutes and the slow ferries about 40. Foreign visitors pay a 200 baht national park fee in cash when they land.
Bangkok to Koh SametRayong – Quiet Gulf Beaches, Local Seafood & Gateway to Koh Samet
Rayong is a coastal province on the Gulf of Thailand, located southeast of Bangkok. Known for its quieter mainland beaches, fresh seafood, and as the main gateway to Koh Samet, Rayong offers a more laid-back alternative to busier beach cities nearby. It suits relaxed weekend escapes, local-style coastal stays, and travelers looking for a calm seaside base.
Understanding Rayong as a Destination
Rayong is a coastal province on the Gulf of Thailand, located a few hours southeast of Bangkok. Unlike larger resort cities, Rayong combines quiet mainland beaches, working fishing communities, seafood markets, and access to nearby islands such as Koh Samet. For official destination information, see the Tourism Authority of Thailand.
What defines Rayong is its slower pace and more local atmosphere. It’s often chosen by Thai travelers for weekend beach breaks, while international visitors use it as a gateway to Koh Samet or as a quieter alternative to busier coastal destinations. Choosing between Koh Samet and Koh Chang? See Koh Chang vs Koh Samet.
Mainland Beaches and Coastal Areas
Rayong’s coastline stretches for many kilometers, with beaches such as Mae Ramphueng Beach offering long sandy areas and a relaxed setting. These beaches are typically less crowded than major resort hubs along the Gulf.
Offshore, Koh Samet is the province’s most well-known island, known for clearer water and compact beach coves. Many travelers combine a mainland stay in Rayong with at least one night on the island.
Accommodation and Where to Stay
Rayong offers a mix of simple beachfront hotels, mid-range resorts, and locally run guesthouses. Mainland properties are often more affordable and quieter than island resorts.
Staying near the beach allows easy access to seafood restaurants and coastal walks, while town-based accommodation provides closer access to markets and transport connections.
Activities and Day Trips
Rayong is known for fresh seafood, local markets, fruit orchards, and relaxed beach time. Boat transfers to Koh Samet are a common excursion, and some visitors explore smaller offshore islands depending on weather conditions.
The province is less focused on nightlife and more on quiet seaside living, making it suitable for travelers who prefer low-key evenings.
Who Rayong Is Best For
Rayong suits travelers looking for a calm beach atmosphere, short weekend breaks from Bangkok, or a practical base before heading to Koh Samet.
Those seeking a high-energy resort scene or extensive nightlife may prefer other coastal destinations, as Rayong’s appeal lies in simplicity and local character.
Getting Around and Practical Considerations
Getting around Rayong typically involves taxis, songthaews, or private car hire. Distances along the coastline can be longer than expected, so transport planning is helpful if staying outside the main town area.
Rayong is commonly reached overland from Bangkok by bus, private transfer, or car. Its accessibility makes it a practical option for short beach trips without flying.
How to Get to Rayong
Rayong is located on the Gulf of Thailand, southeast of Bangkok. It is primarily reached by road transport, making it an easy mainland beach destination and a gateway to Koh Samet.
The most common way to reach Rayong from Bangkok is by bus, minivan, or private transfer. Travel time depends on traffic, and Rayong is often used for relaxed weekend coastal escapes from the capital.
Traveling from Phuket to Rayong usually involves a domestic flight to Bangkok followed by a road transfer. Overland-only routes are longer and require connections.
Rayong lies southeast of Pattaya along the same coastline. Travel is typically by private transfer, taxi, or regional bus, with journey time depending on traffic conditions.