General Information

Located approximately 220 kilometers from Bangkok is another delightful resort on Thailand’s eastern coast - Rayong province. A late bloomer, the province is well known for its pristine beaches stretching along a 100-kilometer coastline and scenic waterfalls amidst exotic surroundings. Aside from this, Rayong is blessed with an abundance of seafood products such as shrimp paste, fish sauce and dried seafood, and tropical fruits of which rambutan, mangosteen and durian are the most famous.

Covering a total area of 3,552 square kilometers, Rayong borders Chonburi Province on the north and the west, the Gulf of Thailand on the south, and Chantaburi Province on the east. Most of the land is marked by a series of mountains interspersed by flat plains and large tracts of forest and fruit plantations. Administratively, the province is divided into Mueang Rayong, Klaeng, Ban Khai, Bang Chang, Pluak Daeng and Wang Chan districts and Khao Chamao and Nikhom Phatthana Sub-districts.

Boasting indispensable sea-life resources, Rayong is one of the country’s major agricultural and industrial provinces. On the other hand, the province has maintained its traditions and customs in the daily lifestyle of the locals. The best months to visit Rayong are from November to February.


The Past
During the late Ayutthaya period, when the former capital was being razed to the ground by the invading Burmese, Phaya Tak led a troop of patriots, broke through the cordon of besieging troops and marched to Rayong in order to build up his navy before proceeding on to Chanthaburi. Because of his courage and bravery, the soldiers and local population anointed him as "King" in Rayong. Once he had built up sufficient troop strength, Phaya Tak who later became King Taksin of the Kingdom of Thonburi returned to Ayutthaya, routed the Burmese and set up a new capital in Thonburi.


Distances from Rayong Town to Other Destinations:
Muang District:

Klaeng District:

How to get there

By Car
Route No.1
Sukhumvit Road (Highway No.3): Starting from Bangkok passes Bangpu District, Chonburi town, Bangsaen, Sri Racha District, Pattaya, Hat Jomtien, Sattahip District, Ban Chang District to arrive in the center of Rayong Province. The total distance is 220 kilometers.

Route No.2
The most popular route, starting from Bangna-Trat Road (Highway No.34) via Bang Phli and Bang Bo District (Samut Prakan Province) and Highway No.3 at km. 70. The total distance is 220.

Route No.3
Drive along Highway No.3 to Bang Lamung, then turn off of Highway No.3 at Km.140 and continue on Highway No.36 to Rayong. Total distance is 210 kilometers.

Route No.4
Taking Highway No.344 (Ban Bung-Klaeng) at Chonburi town, passing Ban Bung, Nong Yai, Wang Chan and finishing at Klaeng District, Rayong Province. The total distance is 100 kilometers. (Bangkok-Chonburi is 80 kilometers)

This route is suitable for those who like to go sightseeing in Klaeng District and Khao Chamao-Khao Wong National Park or passing through Chanthaburi Province.

Route No.5
Use the Motorway, starting from Phatthanakarn Road, Prawet District, Bangkok and drive all the way up to Pattaya (120 kilometers), then switch to use Highway No.36 and proceed for another 50 kilometers to Rayong.


By Air
Bangkok Airways operates one flight everyday from Phuket via Ko Samui to Rayong-U Ta Pao International Airport. For more information contact Bangkok Airways in Bangkok, Tel :(662) 265 5555 or travel agencies in Rayong.


By Bus
Rayong is the gateway from the east to the north and northeast. As such, there are many regular bus services connecting Rayong and Bangkok and other province such as Chiang Mai, Nakhon Ratchasima and Nong Khai.


Getting around Rayong
Local Bus Schedule:
Bus Station - Assumption School (Red) via Laemtong Department Store
The busses run daily from 5.00 a.m. until 9.00 p.m. (Every 5-10 minutes)
Fare : 5 baht

Bus Station - Paknam (Dark Blue) via Wat Pa Pradu, Wat Lum, Laem Charoen
The busses run daily from 5.00 a.m. until 6.00 p.m. (Every 5-10 minutes)
Fare: 5-10 baht

Big C - Nicom Pattana (White) via Big C, Makro
The busses run daily from 6.30 a.m. until 18.00 p.m. (Every 15-20 minutes)
Fare : 12 baht

Post Office - Map Ta Phut (Red) via Laemtong Department Store
The busses run daily from 5.00 a.m. until 8.00 p.m. (Every 5-10 minutes)
Fare : 7 baht

Post Office - Ban Chang (Red) via Century Golf
The busses run daily from 4.30 a.m. until 8.00 p.m. (Every 10-15 minutes)
Fare : 10 baht

Bus Station - Tapong (White) via Wat Pa Pradu, Tapong Fruit Market
The busses run daily from 05.00 a.m. until 6.00 p.m. (Every 5-10 minutes)
Fare : 5-7 baht

Bus Station - Nai Rai (Sky Blue) via Hat Mae Ramphueng, Ban Kon Ao
The busses run daily from 06.00 a.m. until 6.00 p.m. (Every 15 minutes)
Fare : 15 baht

Bus Station - Wang Kaew (White) via Rayong Chalet, Novotel
The busses run daily from 06.00 a.m. until 6.00 p.m.(Every 15 minutes)
Fare : 15 baht

Bus Station - Laem Mae Phim (Dark Blue) via Ban Phe, Suan Son, Rayong Chalet, Novotel, Laem Mae Phim

The busses run daily from 06.15 a.m. until 6.00 p.m. (Every 15 minutes)
Fare : 15-25 baht

Laem Mae Phim - Klaeng (Green) via Laem Mae Phim, Sunthorn Phu Monument
The busses run daily from 05.30 a.m. until 5.00 p.m. (Every 10-15 minutes)
Fare : 20 baht

Bus Station - Klaeng (Yellow) via Wat Saranat
The busses run daily from 06.00 a.m. until 6.00 p.m. (Every 10 minutes)
Fare : 20 baht

Khao Din - Khao Chamao (Green) via Khao Chamao & Klong Pla Gang Water Fall
The busses run daily from 06.00 a.m. until 4.00 p.m. (Every 20 minutes)
Fare : 20 baht


By Boat (to Ko Samet)
Ferry Timetables (from Ban Phe):

Destination: Nadarn Pier (Saikaeo / Ao Phai / Ao Thapthim)
Departure from Ban Phe : Every hour
Fare/Trip : 50 baht
Departure from Destination : Every hour

Destination: Ao Wong Duen (Ao Nuan / Ao Saengthian)
Departure from Ban Phe : 9.00 a.m., 12.00 p.m., 1.30 p.m., 5.00 p.m.
Fare/Trip : 60 baht
Departure from Destination : 8.30 a.m., 12.00 p.m., 3.30 p.m., 4.00 p.m.

Destination: Ao Wai
Departure from Ban Phe : 11.30 a.m., 2.00 p.m.
Fare/Trip : 100 baht
Departure from Destination : 2.00 p.m.

Destination: Ao Kui
Departure from Ban Phe : 10.00 a.m.
Fare/Trip : 120 baht
Departure from Destination : 10.00 a.m., 12.30 p.m., 3.00 p.m., 5.00 p.m.
For charters (15-60 persons) from Ban Phe Pier contact:
Nuan Tip Pier Tel: 0 3865 1956, 651 508 or
Sri Ban Phe Pier Tel: 0 3865 1902

Attractions

Amphoe Khao Cha-mao
Khao Chamao - Khao Wong National Park
The last piece of virgin forest in Rayong, the park is located in Klaeng District, 71 kilometers from the city. Declared as a National Park in December 31, 1975, Khao Chamao - Khao Wong covers an area of 83.6 square meters, which is home to tigers, wild elephants and bears. The park is famous for its limestone mountains, caves, high cliffs, verdant forests and waterfalls. Khao Chamao - Khao Wong National Park offers the following attractions:

Namtok Khao Chamao
Namtok Khao Chamao is situated approximately 17 kilometers off of the main highway at Km. marker 274. The main attraction and landmark of the 8-tiered waterfall is "Wang Mutcha” a large pond on the second level which is the habitat of Pluang fish. Reaching the top is easy and visitors can enjoy the refreshing scenery all the way up to the highest level of the waterfall.

Khao Chamao-Khao Wong National Park
Khao Chamao-Khao Wong National Park The last piece of virgin forest in Rayong, the park is located in Klaeng District, 71 kilometers from the city. Decleard as a National Park in December 31, 1975, Khao Chamao - Khao Wong covers an area of 83.6 square meters, which is home to tigers, wild elephants and bears.

Tam Kao Wong (Kao Wong Cave - inside Kao Cha Mao-Kao Wong National Park)
The cave is part of Kao Cha Mao - Kao Wong National Park, informally called Kao Wongkot. It formed by limestone; 3 kilometers long with the area of 2,000 rais, 5 km. from east of Kao Cha Mao.

Namtok Klong Pla Kang
Located 3 kilometers from the National Park Office. The waterfall has 7 stages which are; Wang Chang Pan, Lan Pea Sua, Ang Krua Saba, Lan Pratu Pa, Tarn Koh Klang, Wang Kra Chai and Tarn Sai Hmok. Lan Pratu Pa has the most beautiful view of water running through two giant rocks.

Pha Sawan (Heaven Cliff)
Pha Sawan is situated about 1,500 meters from the Park’s Office. The cliff is famous for its scenic lookout point which offers an intriguing panoramic view of the pristine forests. Various types of plants can be found along the way up to the cliff and are ideal for nature studies.

Camping sites are available at the price of 10 baht to pitch personal tents. Bungalows are also available (8 all together), at the cost of 800 baht/bungalow and have to be reserved well in advance. For more information, call 038 894378.


Amphoe Nikhom Pattana Sub District
Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhon Herbal Garden
The Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhon Herbal Garden is located within the grounds of the Petroleum Authority of Thailand, about 25 kilometers from town on Highways No. 36 and No. 3191 in Nikhom Phatthana sub-district. It is not only a center where various herbal plants are put on display, the place as well engages in herbal research. Open daily from 8.30 a.m.-4.30 p.m. Tel: 0-3868-1817-30.


Amphoe Ban Chang
Hat Phayun and Hat Phala
Hat Phayun and Hat Phala are located approximately 32 and 34 kilometers respectively from the town of Rayong. Shaded by pine trees, the beaches offer unique opportunities for tourists to unwind in traquility. Hotels and bungalows are available as perfect hideaways.

Hat Nam Rin
Very crowded in the evening. Complete with facilities, food shops and parking area. At one end of the beach are outstandingly erected dugong sculptures.


Amphoe Ban Khai
Suphattraland
Thirty kilometres from town is Suphattraland, an extensive orchard open to the public. It grows succulent mangosteen, durian and rambutan. They generally mature in late April-June. Visitors can enjoy not only the pleasant surroundings but also taste for themselves freshly-picked fruits from the trees.

Thai Mangosteen Garden (Khun Panya’s Garden)
The garden has the area of 20 rais, mainly grown mangosteen but other fruits i.e. durian, mango and rambutan are also grown here. Food and drink will be provided for large group that scheduled to visit in advance, free admission for visitors in small group or family.

Wat La Han Rai
Located across a canal, opposite the north side of Wat Lan Han Yai. This temple was first formed in 1811 by Luang Por Sang Tao started to build a small house of monk. Later, the number of monks and constructions were increased and the place became Wat La Han Rai not too long after its first started. The interesting part of Wat La Han Rai is the temple’s main hall, constructed with timber since 1907. It is well maintained to conserve its original style and condition until today.


Amphoe Plog Daeng
Lotus Crystal Factory
It is the first Rayong’s crystal production factory. Open daily for visitors to observe the production process and shopping for quality crystal at special price.

Dok Grai Reservoir
The reservoir covers the area of 1,300 rais; also located here is the development and Service Station of Rayong-Cholburi at Pluak Daeng, another royal project of H.M. King Bhhumibhol. This station is the center of education and development in agriculture and career for people. Many small projects are running on 20,000 rais of land.


Amphoe Wang Chan
Wat Nam Tok Thammaros
Located at Tambon Pa Yup Nai with the area of 300 rais. Interesting features include Buddha images, bell tower and natural waterfall. This temple is also a place for meditation retreat.

Fruit Gardens of Wang Chan’s people
Amphur Wang Chan is truly a fruit garden district of Rayong. People of Amphur Wang Chan mostly are fruit gardeners. Fruit grown here has very high quality because gardeners are taking very good care if their garden.


Amphoe Klaeng
Ao Kai-Laem Tan
This little cape located beyond Laem Mae Phim in Klaeng District is located near a small fishing village, where the main occupation is to pickle jellyfish. Set in tranquil ambience the place is marvelous for seafood lovers with seafood restaurants providing reasonably priced seafood dishes of good quality. Traveling to Ko Man Klang can be done by taking a speedboat from here.

Ko Man Nai
This small island located approximately 5 kilometers off shore from Laem Mae Phim has been developed into a Sea Turtle Preservation Sanctuary under the royal initiative of Her Majesty the Queen. The place is open to the public from Monday to Sunday. Nearby are Ko Man Klang and Ko Man Nok which are famous for their immaculate white sandy beaches and hip boutique resorts. Resorts on Ko Man Klang and Ko Man Nok offer accommodation packages that include boat transfer from the Rayong pier and three meals/day.

Laem Mae Phim
This cape can be reach either from Sukhumvit Road by taking a right turn at km. makers 259.5, 263 or 268, or proceeding further for another 1 kilometer from Wang Kaew on the beach road. This is a perfect spot either for relaxation and swimming or sampling local foods. To the north of the cape is a small off-shore isle named Ko Khi Pla.

Krom Luang Chumporn Khet Udomsak’s Shrine
Located close to mouth of river Pra-Sae, 9 kilometers off KM. 28 Sukhumwit Road. Inside situates a statue of Krom Luang Chumporn Khet Udomsak, the father of Thai Navy Corp.

Sunthon Phu Memorial
Five kilometers further on from Laem Mae Phim on the beach road (Highway No. 3145) is the Sunthon Phu Memorial. The place was built to commemorate one of Thailand's most famous poets. Sunthon Phu, a Rayong native, had written his literary works during the early part of the Ratanankosin era (some two hundred years ago), with Phra Aphai Mani being his most well-known work.

Wang Kaeo
A recreational park and resort located approximately 11 kilometers from Suan Son on the beach road, Wang Kaew provides accommodations and other tourist facilities.

Wat Saranat Thammaram
Near the turning point at km. marker 256 on Highway No. 3 is Wat Saranat Thammaram, which was built in 1945. The main attraction of this temple is a beautiful ubosot and a replica of the highly revered Phra Buddha Chinnarat statue of Phitsanulok. Around the ubosot are also replicas of major Buddhist monuments from Thailand's four regions.

Wat Wang Hwa
This temple becomes a place of attention because a well-respect monk names “Phra Mongkol Sri La Charn” or Luang Pu Kram stays in this temple. Luang Pu Kram (age 100 in 1997) is highly respected by all Thais and especially by local people of Rayong.


Amphoe Mueang
Hat Mae Ramphueng
This 12-kilometers stretch of white sandy beach is a perfect place to enjoy the scenery while swimming. The beach trails along the way to meet Ban Kin Ao, where a small fishing community can be found. Accommodations and restaurants are available.

Ban Kon Ao (The Fisherman's village)
The best place in town to discover the traditional way of life is from a small but typical fisherman’s village located at the end of Hat Mae Ramphueng. Visitors can also see how they catch fish and process seafood. An additional attraction worth visiting is the Catholic Church established near the village over 100 years ago.

Ban Phe
A seaside town lacated approximately 19 kilometers southeast of the city, Ban Phe is the best place to enjoy relaxing on a long white sandy beach while sampling sumptuous seafood. Ban Phe is a major fishing community in the province, hence, the wide range of fresh and preserved seafood products or other local products. In addition, Ban Phe is also the departure point for Ko Samet.

Pak Nam Rayong and Laem Charoen
Hat Laem Charoen
This beach is located 5 kilometers from the city and is a popular area among the locals and tourists as it is the location of many great seafood restaurants.

Ko Thalu
Lacated about 12 kms away from Ko Samet, the quiet and peaceful island is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs.

Ko Kruai, Ko Kham and Ko Plateen
Situated north of Ko Kudi, the islands enjoy natural wonders, such as beautiful beaches and wonderful coral reefs.

Hat Saeng Chan
Situated approximately 7 kilometers from the city, this beach is connected to Laem Charoen beach and is also suitable for swimming. Accommodations and restaurants are available.


Khao Laem Ya and Mu Ko Samet National Park
Khao Laem Ya
Travel a little further from Ban Kon Ao on the beach road and visitors will reach Khao Laem Ya and Mu Ko Samet Mational Park which are shaded with small shrubs and has a cape jutting into the sea. Along one side of the hill is a long stretch of beach where the headquarters of the Khao Laem Ya-Samet Islands National Park is located. For more information, contact Khao Laem Ya and Mu Ko Samet National Park Office: Tel. +66 (0) 3865 3034, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Ko Samet
A favorite get-away island for Bangkokians, Ko Samet offers extensive pristine beaches with clean white sand and strangely shaped rocks. A haven for relaxation, this T-shaped island is a perfect retreat for those looking for sun, sand and sea. The climate is always pleasantly cool with an abundance of rain in August and windy monsoons in May.

There are a wide range of accommodations on the island with prices at the low-end for a bungalow with basic amenties, and upper prices at bungalows with furniture and air-conditioning. Mid-range hotels and resorts mostly located around the Hat Sai Kaew area are also available. Reservations for accommodations should be made in advance as the place gets crowded especially during the festive season. Attractions on Ko Samet include.

Hat Sai Kaew
one of the most beautiful and most popular beaches on Ko Samet, Hat Sai Kaew is 1 kilometer long and 25 - 30 meters wide. The name speaks for itself, Hat Sai Kaew, which literally means Crystal Sand Beach, is a nice beach filled with activities. From dusk to down, visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, jet skiing, windsurfing, riding on a banana boat or even partying at night. Accommodations provided include bungalows and villas.

Ao Wong Deuan
is the second largest beach on the island (the first being Hat Sai Kaew). Ao Wong Deuan attracts tourist groups during both the high and low seasons due to its beautiful white sandy beach and good accommodations. On top of this, good seafood restsurants with nice views are also available.

Ao Pai
located close to Hat Sai Kaew, Ao Pai is therefore quite crowded. For visitors interested in sunbathing, this is the ideal place as swimming is not recommended as there is whirlpool on the sea, as designated by the red flag.

Ao Put Sa
is a small bay on Ko Samet which draws repeat visitors intent on relaxing. Suitable for those who are tired of crowded beaches and nightlife activities, Ao Put Sa offers a quite retreat that reunites visitors with nature in its crystal clear waters.

Ao Tub Tim
which is set in a tranquil atmosphere, is located near Ao Put Sa and is well known for its white sand and clear water. Ao Tub Tim has a small, cozy resort, which provides nice services in a well decorated compound.

Ao Nuan
is located near Ao Put Sa and is a perfect hideaway for holidaymakers in search of tranquility.

Ao Thian (Candlelight Beach)
Ao Thian's painted by rocky beach in which some nice spots for skin diving are available. This beach is very quite and free from group tours with bungalows and resort available around the beach area.

Ao Phrao
is one of the quietest beaches of Ko Samet. Located quiet far away from the lively nightlife of Ko Samet; Ao Phrao is preferred by travellers who quietly enjoy the deep blue sea and white sand in the sunshine. Ao Phrao has a long white sandy beach which is ideal for swimming.


Attractions on Ko Samet include:
Ao Noi Na
Ao Noi Na, which is located near Hat Sai Kaew, has different ambience. It is quieter and therefore more suitable for those looking for a truly relaxing experience on the white, clean sandy beach.

Ao Hin Khok
Ao Hin Khok is separated from Hat Sai Kaew by a small rocky sea point where a mermaid statue is located. The beach, which is half the size of Hat Sai Kaew, is famous for its strangely shaped rocks. There are inexpensive bungalows/huts located along the beach, and also value-for-money restaurants providing fresh, quality seafood dishes.

Ao Phutsa
Ao Put Sa is a small bay on Koh Samet which draws repeat visitors intent on relaxing. Suitable for those who are tired of crowded beaches and nightlife activities, Ao Put Sa offers a quite retreat that reunites visitors with nature in its crystal clear waters.

Ao Thapthim
Ao Tub Tim, which is set in a tranquil atmosphere, is located near Ao Put Sa and is well known for its white sand and clear water. Ao Tub Tim has a small, cozy resort, which provides nice services in a well decorated compound.


Ao Wai
Ao Wai is located within a short walking distance of Candlelight Beach. Shaded by coconut trees, the beach is a quite, scenic and serene spot for sea lovers.

Ao Kiu Nok
This bay is a perfect secluded den for those planning to keep their distance from the busy, crowded beaches and vibrant nightlife. From Aow Kiew Nok, visitors can actually walk to Aow Kiew Nai which is the ideal spot to see the spectacular sun rise and sun set.

Ao Karang
The best place to experience the traditional lifestyle of the residents of Koh Samet is at Ao Karang where there also are a number of seafood restaurants providing fresh seafood dishes at reasonable prices.

Ao Wiang Wan
Ao Wiang Wan is located on the west of Na Dan Pier, a large bay where lots of sport activities such as fishing, etc. take place.

Phra Chedi Klang Nam (Wat Samut Khongkha or Wat Pak Nam)
Built at the center of the isle at the mouth of the Rayong River, the pagoda is located about 2 kilometers from town. The origin of the pagoda, which stands about 10 meters high, is still unknown. Sailors once used it as the sign of arrival in Rayong. An annual celebration held during November, features an exciting boat and Loy Krathong Festival.


Koh Saked (Saked Island) or Koh Saked Petch
This small island, only 3 kilometers from Sai Thong beach is a famous tourists’ attraction for very long time.

Since the development of Eastern Seaboard; the project of developing seaside area to become the center of Petrochemical industry, 6,000 rais of land next to Sai Thong beach was called back by the government. Construction of Maptaphut Industrial Estate comprises of more than 50 large factories on the site. Part of the sea was filled to extend land for factory buildings. By this action, the beach front became destroyed more by sea wind and water. Thus, the Maptaphut Industrial Estate constructed a dam on Sai Thong beach. This makes Sai Thong beach becomes a dam and leaves the beach only in people’s memories.

Sri Muang Park
located behind the old town hall, the 70-rai. With shady aymosphere and a holy Buddha image, the historic and health park is ideal for rest and relaxation.

Suan Son
This beach is located approximately 4 kilometers from Ban Phe. Travel along the beach-front road and visitors will find a place that offers true relaxation under the shade of pine trees. The scenic beach is eminently suited to relaxation and swimming. Accommodations and food shops are also available.

The City Pillar Shrine
A pavilion located on Lak Muang Road, the shrine was previously made from wood, and later was restored, using brick and mortar, as a Chinese-style pavilion. Highly revered by the locals, the shrine is usually crowded especially during the Song Kran Festival.


The King Taksin Shrine
Located at Wat Lum Mahachai Chumpon on Taksin Road, the shrine was built to commemorate King Taksin the Great's brief stopover in Rayong to mobilize his troops and liberate the Kingdom of Ayutthaya from the Burmese. Legend has it that King Taksin the Great’s elephant was believed to be stabled at a large Parkia tree (in front of the shrine). A well-regarded place by the locals, especially the Sino-Thais, the shrine attracts big crowds during Chinese New Year and on December 28th.

The Sopha Arboretum
The extensive grounds located near the entrance to Ban Phe, just about 200 meters off Highway No.3 at Km. marker 238 are home to various flowering plants. A 100-year-old Thai-style wooden structure houses porcelain ware from various periods, in particular the Ban Chiang style. The place is open daily except Thursdays from 8.00 a.m. until 5.00 p.m. Contact Tel: 0-3865-1688 for more information.
Ticket Fee: 50 Baht /person.


Wat Lum Mahachai Chumphon
Also dubbed "Wat Lum Market” by the locals, the temple is located next to a market which offers interesting local Thai and Chinese food.

Just watching the old houses located along the street behind the market can inspire your imagination on daily activities and lifestyles of the past.

Wat Pa Pradu
Located on Sukhumvit Road, Wat Pa Pradu was constructed in the Ayutthaya Period and is one of the area’s leading temples. It features a large reclining Buddha which is over 11 metres long and over 3 metres high. What is unique about the Buddha is that it reclines on its left side rather than the usual right side. This difference makes the image highly revered amongst local people.

Wat Kod (Wat Timtharam)
You will be amazed to know the fact that this (look like) new temple has over 500 years of age. The fact is the temple was so old and fell apart that need to be rebuilt in 1975 (completed in 1985) to make it alive again. Antique wall painting inside the old main hall is the evidence confirming its long history. The painting is believed to draw in the late Ayudhya or the beginning of Rattanakosin period. The temple’s main hall is also registered as a conservation area by the Department of Fine Arts.

Wat Ban Don's Nang Yai Musuem
Situated in Wat Ban Don, tambon Cherng Nern, Amphoe Muang about 5 kms away from town, the musuem displays a large collection of over-200-year-old Nang Yai. Nang Yai shows are occasionally available in Rayong.

Koh Chan and Koh San Cha Hlarm
These 2 small stone islands on south of Koh Samet are the nesting and egg laying place of dove and very good for fishing.

Pa Hnan Garden
Activities include garden tour, “pick and taste”. Fruit grown are rambutan, durian, mangosteen, longkong and zalacca.

Wat Baan Laeng
Very old temple, built in Ayudhya period (around the year 1742). Important parts of this temple are the old main hall and scripture hall. Both architectures are constructed with timber and decorated with traditional Thai arts and crafts. If you are a fan of art and architecture, don’t miss this interesting spot.

Rayong Aquarium
Located in Tambon Pay, Amphoe Muang, about 4 kms away from Ban Pay's pier, the aquarium displays a large variety of aquatic animals and exhibition on fishery development. It is worth visiting.

Open Industrial Estate Door
Visit modernity of leading industries such as Petrochemical, Chemical Fertilizer, Crude Distillation, Steel, and Electricity Plant. Their investments have created huge products to the country, concerned on environment, and supported society.

Yai Da -* Jay Boon Chuen Garden
Activities include garden tour, “pick and taste”, fruit buffet and home stay. Fruit grown are rambutan and durian.

Ta Pong Community
The community is very lively during fruit season (May-July). Tourists and everyone passinf by will stop to shop for fresh fruits at Ta Pong fruit market. Moreover, Ta Pong community is one of the ecotravel place set by the Tourism Authority of Thailand. You can visit the fruit market, taste local food (some also available in can for take away) and visit various part of the community.

Festivals

Rayong Fruit Fair
Rayong Fruit Fair, held around May-June, is designed to promote and market fruits and other products made from fruits and seafood of the province. Colorful fruit-decorated floats vie for prizes. There are fruit contests and agricultural exhibitions.


Sunthon Phu Day
Sunthon Phu Day is held annually on 26 June, the date of his birth. Sunthon Phu was the early Rattanakosin Period’s foremost poet, and his poems are widely acclaimed for their lyrical verse and pictorial language.

The best of his poems is the epic romance Phra Aphai Mani. In 1986, he was listed as a person of international literary distinction by UNESCO. Activities include a procession of cars featuring Sunthon Phu’s literary works, competitions on poetry writing and painting of scenes from Sunthon Phu’s poetry.


The Robing of the Phra Chedi Klang Nam
The Robing of the Phra Chedi Klang Nam is a traditional fair held annually during the full-moon period of the 12th lunar month, coinciding with Loi Krathong Festival in November. Held at Wat Pak Nam in Mueang district, there are religious rites, long boat races, a delightful Loi Krathong and other pleasant entertainment.

Shopping

Crystal products
Handmade products of Thailand that come with high, internationally accepted quality. Visit Lotus Crystal Factory in Pluak Daeng District to see how good they are.


Fried Durian
A popular product among Thai and foreign tourists alike. With its delicious taste, travelers just can’t help sampling one and buying two packs to take home.

Fried Durian can be purchased at Ban Phe market and the Fruit market at Tapong.


Fruits
Fruits are famous in Rayong, particularly from May until the middle of July, when durian, rambutans and mangosteen are available.


Reed Mats
Reet mats and other beautiful reed products, such as purses, handbags and hats, are a local cottage industry in the villages of Kram and Klaeng Districts. One of the best places to buy this gift is from the women’s charity group located near the monument of Sunthorn Phu.


Seafood Products
Seafood Products such as shrimp paste, fish sauce, dried prawns, squid and other dried seafood are important and well known local products, due to their high quality and moderate prices. The best places to buy these products are in Ban Phe market or in any of Rayong's markets.
 

Hotels in Koh Samet

Ao Prao Resort Le Vimarn Cottages & Spa Malibu Garden Resort Mooban Talay Resort Nim-ma-no-ra-dee Paradee Resort & Spa Saikaew Beach Resort Saikaew Villa Samet Cliff Resort Samed Club