Rayong - Instagrammer-free Beaches and Affordable Seafood
Rayong: The Beach Escape Where Nobody Bothers You
Let’s be honest. When you say “Rayong,” most people go, “Wait, where?” And that’s exactly why you should go. This is the quiet, slightly rough-around-the-edges cousin of Pattaya, minus the chaos, minus the tourists, and minus the regretful life choices. If you want beaches without the circus, seafood without the scams, and a real slice of Thai coastal life without any hansum man catcalls, then Rayong is your spot.
Why Rayong? (Because You’re Over Basic Beach Towns)
- It’s close but feels far – Just 2.5-3.5 hours from Bangkok, but a world away from the madness.
- Seafood so fresh it might still be moving (it is). This is where Bangkok’s top restaurants secretly get their fish.
- Zero pretentiousness – No Instagram influencers, no overpriced beach clubs, just saltwater, sand, and serious relaxation.
What to Do (Besides Doing Absolutely Nothing)
1. Mae Ramphueng Beach – The Main Event
- Long, quiet, and actually clean-ish (unlike some beaches we won’t name).
- Rent a mat (20 THB), order a coconut, and watch local fishermen do their thing.
2. Suan Son Beach – Where Locals Actually Go
- Pine trees, golden sand, and way fewer people than touristy spots.
- Perfect for pretending you’ve discovered a secret paradise.
3. Koh Samet – The “Fancy” Option
- Yes, technically it’s part of Rayong. White sand, clear water, and just enough nightlife to keep things interesting. So popular it demanded its own blog post.
- Pro Tip: Go on a weekday unless you enjoy sharing the beach with Bangkok’s entire population.
4. Rayong Aquarium – For When You’re Bored of Sunbathing
- Small but weirdly entertaining. Ever seen a fish that looks like it’s judging you? Now’s your chance.
5. Local Markets – Because Eating is a Full-Time Job Here
- Talad Nam Rayong (Floating Market) – Not as touristy as others, just pure, delicious street food.
- Khao Lam (Sticky Rice in Bamboo) – Sweet, smoky, and the perfect beach snack.
Where to Stay (Because Sleeping on the Beach is Illegal)
- Budget (500-1,000 THB/night) – Simple guesthouses near Mae Ramphueng Beach. Basic but clean.
- Mid-Range (1,000-2,500 THB/night) – Beachfront resorts where you can fall asleep to the sound of waves.
- Splurge (3,000+ THB/night) – Private villas or Koh Samet’s nicer resorts for when you want to feel fancy.
How to Get There (No Excuses, It’s Easy)
- Minivan from Ekkamai (2.5 hrs, ~150+ THB) – Cheap, fast, and drops you right in the action. Warning: usually driven by complete maniacs.
- Drive (2.5 hrs from Bangkok) – Best if you want freedom to explore hidden beaches.
- Bus (If You’re Really Committed to Saving 50 Baht) – Slower but scenic, if you consider highway views “scenic.” Also greater odds of not dying in a fiery crash.
Final Verdict
Rayong is for people who actually like beaches, not just posting about them. It’s quiet, it’s real, and it’s delicious. Go now before the rest of the world figures it out.
Now grab some seafood, park yourself on the sand, and enjoy the fact that you’re not fighting for space with a thousand other tourists. Rayong isn’t flashy and that’s exactly why it’s perfect.
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