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.
Rayong Beaches & Islands
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 starting from
200 baht for a bungalow with basic amenities,
while bungalows with furniture and air-conditioning
may start at the rate of 600 baht. 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 Kaeo
One of the most beautiful and most popular beaches
on Koh 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 dawn, 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 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 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 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 Nuan
Ao Nuan is located near Ao Put Sa and is a perfect
hideaway for holidaymakers in search of tranquility.
Ao Wong Deuan
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 restaurants with nice
views are also available.
Ao Thian (Candlelight Beach)
Ao Thian’s topography is painted by rocky
beach in which some nice spots for skin diving
are available. This beach is very quiet and free
from group tours with bungalows and resorts available
around the beach area.
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.
Ao Phrao
Ao Prow is one of the quietest beaches of Ko
Samet. Located quite far away from the lively
nightlife of Ko Samet; Ao Prow is preferred by
travelers who quietly enjoy the deep blue sea
and white sand in the sunshine. Ao Prow has a
long white sandy beach which is ideal for swimming.
About Rayong Thailand
