Thailand Guides - Rayong

To reach Koh Samed, tourists must take a local fishing boat, from Ban Phea in Muang District of Rayong Province for about 30mins. Ideal activities here are sunbathing on the beach, making an inland excursion on foot or by chartered bus, and taking a boat trip around the island. Also recommended is making a trip to some nearby isles.

Activities and events

Beaches -- one can rent a beach chair on its several shady white beaches; Laem Mae Phim, Hat Mae Ramphung, Laem Charoen, Hat Sang Chan or Hat Suan Son, to relax and enjoy scenery or just dip into the ocean for a swim. There are the usual assortments of breezy seaside eateries and souvenir shops along these beaches.

Islands -- Or one can take a ferry out to Koh Samed, which is about 30 minutes off the mainland from Ban Phe, is ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving. Popular beaches such as Sai Kaeo, Wongdeun or Thap Thim have full accommodation facilities, good restaurants and variety of activities. Koh Kudi, Koh Kham, Koh Platin, and Koh Talu, east and north to Koh Samed, are also ideal for scuba diving.

Speical event -- Rayong Fruit Fair is held around May-June and is designed to promote and market fruits and other local products. Colourful fruit-decorated floats competing for prizes, fruit contests and agricultural exhibitions are the main activities.

Time to visit

The best months are from November to May. The monsoon period during June and October is rather dangerous for travelling to the islands.