Discover Rayong: Temples, Coast and Nature

Rayong can be explored for trip planning through distinct themes: coastal landscapes, islands, mangroves and wetlands, as well as temples and cultural history. The places also differ in whether the focus is on views, observing nature or historical connections. This can help you consider which side of the region interests you most during your stay.

Coast and Islands

Pine trees and tropical almond trees grow at Laem Mae Phim Beach, with pavilions along the shore. Khao Laem Ya offers a different vantage point: the low hill is covered with grass and low shrubs. From there, you can see Mae Ramphueng Beach and Ko Samet; the hill also serves as a viewpoint for sunsets. Khao Laem Ya–Mu Ko Samet National Park is on the Mae Ramphueng–Phe Road in Phe, Mueang Rayong District, Rayong Province.

The Man Islands in Klaeng District consist of Ko Man Nai, Ko Man Klang and Ko Man Nok. Ko Man Nai is the closest to the mainland. It is home to the center of a sea turtle conservation and breeding project. The island group therefore offers not only geographical orientation but also a connection to the protection of these animals.

Mangroves and Wetlands

Thung Prong Thong is a mangrove area of more than 6,000 rai at the mouth of the Prasae River. Walking through the area is designated as an activity for observing and studying nature. At Rayong Botanical Garden, a large wetland in Klaeng District, other ways of exploring take center stage: boat trips, nature walks and cycling are offered there.

Rayong Botanical Garden covers more than 3,000 rai and is home to more than 400 rare and endangered plant species from eastern Thailand. The difference between the two areas is clear when making your choice: Thung Prong Thong is defined by its mangrove landscape at the river mouth, while the botanical garden brings several activities together in a wetland. Operating arrangements at the garden may change. If a particular activity is important to your plans, check the current conditions before visiting.

National Park, Waterfall and Caves

Khao Chamao–Khao Wong National Park extends across Khao Chamao and Klaeng districts in Rayong Province, and Kaeng Hang Maeo District in Chanthaburi Province. The park therefore reaches beyond Rayong into another province. Within the national park, Khao Chamao Waterfall is accompanied by a clear stream that stretches for 3 kilometers.

Khao Wong Cave comprises 86 limestone caves, 16 of which are open to visitors. As access conditions may change, check the latest information before visiting. Together, the waterfall and caves illustrate two different landscape features of the national park, but this does not mean that the same visiting conditions apply to both places.

Temples, Literature and Tradition

Wat Pa Pradu is an old temple dating from the Ayutthaya period and was formerly known as Wat Pa Le Laiy. Wat Pluak Ket has a golden chapel. The grounds of the Sunthon Phu Monument feature a statue of Sunthon Phu seated as he writes poems. These places offer different points of interest: historical temple names and architecture sit alongside a monument depicting the poet at work.

Chedi Klang Nam is a stupa located on an island in the Rayong River. Phraya Si Samut Phok Chai Chok Chit Songkhram (Ket Yomchinda) built it in 1873. A tradition associated with the stupa takes place annually on the full moon of the twelfth lunar month. If this timing matters for your trip, check the specific event dates in advance. At the Chedi Klang Nam Mangrove Learning Center, a nature trail runs through the mangrove forest and can be explored on foot.

Discover more destinations: Rayong, Phang Rat, Ban Chang, Phe, Pluak Daeng District, Ban Khai, Chak Bok, Kram, Bang But, Klaeng, Mae Nam Khu, Mueang Rayong District, Chakphong, Ban Na, Nong Bua.

For the overview of the wider region: Thailand.