Things to Do in Rayong 2026: Beyond Koh Samet

Rayong is best known for Koh Samet, but the province has plenty more to offer. From the long quiet beaches of Mae Phim and Suan Son to the waterfalls and elephants of Khao Chamao National Park, from the famous fruit orchards (Rayong is one of Thailand's main durian-growing regions) to the historic Sunthorn Phu Memorial Park, the province packs more variety into a small geographic region than most Bangkok visitors realise. This 2026 guide rounds up the best things to do in Rayong — beyond Koh Samet — and how to fit them into a 2–4 day visit.

Should I visit Mae Phim Beach?

Yes — Mae Phim is Rayong's best mainland beach. A 5km long stretch of fine sand on the eastern side of Rayong province, 45 minutes east of central Rayong. The beach is wide, clean, and has clear water — significantly better swim conditions than Pattaya. There's a string of casual beachfront restaurants and cafés along the road behind the beach. Several mid-range and boutique resorts have opened in recent years, making Mae Phim a viable 2-3 night base in itself. Best visited as a half-day or full-day from central Rayong, or as part of a 4–5 day Rayong trip with overnight stays. For accommodation in the area, see our Rayong hotels directory.

What about Suan Son and the Royal Pine Forest?

Suan Son Beach (literally 'pine garden') is a 15-minute drive south of central Rayong — a 2km stretch of beach lined with rows of pine trees, originally planted as a royal forestry project. It's one of the more unique beach experiences in Thailand because of the pine canopy, which provides shade and a slightly cooler climate. The beach itself is decent for swimming, and the forest area has picnic spots, vendors and a quiet atmosphere. Suan Son is most popular with Thai families on weekends and is much less touristy than Mae Phim. Free entry. Best visited as a half-day stop. Combine with the nearby Sunthorn Phu Memorial Park (5 minutes away) for a full half-day. Hat Sai Kaew Banana Boat is a good starting point.

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Is Khao Chamao National Park worth visiting?

Yes — Khao Chamao is a 84-square-kilometre national park about 90 minutes north of central Rayong, near the border with Chanthaburi. The park is famous for its multi-tier waterfall (Khao Chamao Waterfall, with 8 levels reachable via a forest trail), troops of wild monkeys, and small populations of elephants in the inner forest. Entry costs around 200 baht for foreigners (national park fee). Allow a full day. The waterfall is most spectacular in rainy season (June-October) when water flow is at maximum; in dry season the falls are reduced. Most visitors do the park as a self-drive day trip from Rayong or as part of an organised tour. Combine with a stop at the Bann Lung Mai Fruit Orchards (April-July only) for a Rayong agricultural day.

Are Rayong's fruit orchards worth visiting?

Yes — but only in season. Rayong is one of Thailand's main fruit-growing regions, particularly famous for durian (the 'king of fruits'), mangosteen, rambutan and longan. The fruit season runs roughly April to July, peaking in May-June. During this window, the surrounding countryside is full of orchards offering tours, all-you-can-eat fruit buffets (typically 200–400 baht per person), and the chance to pick fresh fruit directly from the trees. The Bann Lung Mai area, north of central Rayong, has the highest concentration of family-run orchards. Most are bookable through hotels or via direct visit. Outside the fruit season (August-March), the orchards are generally closed to visitors, though some have year-round elements like fruit-juice processing or fruit-themed restaurants.

Should I visit the Sunthorn Phu Memorial Park?

Yes — Sunthorn Phu Memorial Park is one of Rayong's most important cultural sites. Sunthorn Phu (1786-1855) was one of Thailand's greatest classical poets and a Rayong native. The park, set on his birthplace, includes a memorial pavilion, a museum dedicated to his life and works, and several large statues depicting characters from his most famous poem 'Phra Aphai Mani' (a Thai epic about a magical flute-playing prince). Entry is free or a small donation. Allow 90 minutes to 2 hours. Located about 30 minutes south of central Rayong, near Suan Son Beach. It's a quietly moving place that gives context to Thai literary tradition. Worth combining with Suan Son Beach for a half-day cultural-and-beach experience.

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What about the Rayong Aquarium and Marine Science Center?

The Rayong Aquarium and Marine Science Center is a small but well-regarded marine attraction, focused on research and education rather than commercial entertainment. It's located in central Rayong, with exhibits on Gulf-of-Thailand marine life, conservation projects, and a small touch tank. Entry is around 100–150 baht. Allow 60–90 minutes. It's a good rainy-day activity or a stop for families with curious children. Less impressive than the Bangkok Sea Life Ocean World or Phuket Aquarium, but worthwhile if you're already in central Rayong.

Are there cannabis lounges in Rayong?

Yes — since cannabis was decriminalised in Thailand in 2022, several licensed dispensaries and lounges have opened across Rayong. They're concentrated in central Rayong and along the road to Mae Phim Beach. Most operate as hybrid coffee-bar and dispensary models, with budtenders, edibles, pre-rolls and dry flower sold over the counter and consumed on-site in lounge areas. Public consumption remains illegal — consume only in licensed venues. Prices in Rayong are lower than Pattaya or Bangkok, with eighths generally 600–1,200 baht depending on strain. For verified venues, see our Rayong cannabis listings.

How long should I stay in Rayong?

Most visitors stay 2–4 nights in Rayong. That's enough to do Koh Samet (2 nights), Mae Phim Beach (1 night) and a half-day at Khao Chamao or the Sunthorn Phu Memorial Park. For 5–7 nights, add a stay at Mae Phim, more time on Koh Samet, or extension to Chanthaburi (the gem-trading town an hour east). Rayong works well as both a stand-alone destination from Bangkok and as part of a wider eastern-seaboard trip combined with Pattaya (3-7 days total). The province's compact size means you can see most highlights with a rental car or motorbike base in central Rayong or Mae Phim.

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