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Rayong Information
There are several ways to reach Rayong from different parts of Thailand:
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From Bangkok: Buses regularly depart from Bangkok's Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) to Rayong, taking about 3 hours.
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From Pattaya: The journey by bus or minivan takes approximately 1.5 hours.
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From Koh Samet or Koh Chang: Ferries and speedboats connect these islands to Rayong, providing a convenient travel option.
Places to Visit in Rayong
Rayong offers various attractions for visitors to enjoy:
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Beaches: Mae Ram Phueng Beach, Laem Mae Phim Beach, and Sai Kaew Beach are popular spots for relaxation.
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Islands: Koh Samet, known for its white sandy beaches, is a must-see destination just off Rayong's coast.
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Nature: Khao Laem Ya National Park features hiking trails and picturesque views ideal for nature lovers.
Where to Go from Rayong
Rayong serves as a gateway to popular islands and nearby destinations:
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To Koh Samet: Ferries and speedboats depart frequently from Ban Phe Pier.
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To Pattaya: Buses and minivans are available for easy access.
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To Koh Chang: Travel via bus to Trat, then take a ferry to the island.
Things to Do, Eat, and Shop in Rayong
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Activities: Enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking in Rayong’s scenic areas.
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Dining: Try local seafood delicacies at Ban Phe Market or explore street food in the city center.
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Shopping: Visit Central Plaza Rayong for retail stores or explore local markets for souvenirs and fresh produce.
Rayong Weather: When to Visit
The best time to visit Rayong is between November and February when the weather is dry and cool. The rainy season occurs between May and October, while the hottest months are March to April.LiVa Tips
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Plan Ahead: Book your ferry or bus tickets early, especially during peak seasons.
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Sun Protection: Rayong’s coastal weather can be intense, so pack sunscreen and a hat.
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Local Transport: Songthaews (shared taxis) are an affordable way to explore Rayong.
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Cash is King: While some shops accept cards, local markets often require cash.
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Island Access: For Koh Samet trips, arrive early at Ban Phe Pier to secure your ferry or speedboat tickets.
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Departures from Rayong
1 scheduled departure leaving Rayong today — pick one to choose your date and book.
- 5h 40m2 stopsEstimated CO₂ · per passengerLowMediumHighInstant confirmation Refund available Amend available
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Piers
Sribanphe Pier
Rayong
Rayong: a relaxed coastal base in eastern Thailand
Rayong city in Thailand is a charming coastal destination known for its stunning beaches, vibrant markets, and rich cultural heritage. Located in eastern Thailand, Rayong is less crowded than major tourist hubs, making it perfect for a relaxing getaway.
Rayong city in Thailand is a fantastic destination for travelers seeking beaches, nature, and cultural experiences. With its convenient access to nearby islands and exciting local attractions, Rayong is ideal for both short getaways and extended vacations.
The province stretches along the Gulf of Thailand, with a long shoreline of sandy bays, fishing harbours and seafood markets. It works well as a first stop for travellers heading to the eastern islands, and equally well as a destination in its own right for anyone who wants beach time without the crowds.
How to get to Rayong
Rayong is reached by a mix of road and sea connections, and the services available on any given day depend on the season and the operator. On this site you can compare the options side by side, with around 1 route routes linking Rayong to other places in the region.
Because Rayong sits on the eastern seaboard, journeys from Bangkok and the surrounding provinces are overland, while travel to the offshore islands is by sea. Search your date to see which services are running and what each one costs, starting from ฿1,250.
Arriving from Bangkok and the mainland
Overland services connect Rayong with Bangkok and other eastern towns. Departure points in the capital are typically the main bus terminals, and arrivals in Rayong use the town's central terminal or a stop close to the beach areas, depending on the service you choose. Check the pick-up and drop-off points shown on your ticket before you travel, as these vary by Seudamgo.
Ports and piers
Rayong's main sea gateway is Ban Phe, the pier town a short drive east of the city centre. Boats to the nearby islands leave from Ban Phe pier, and this is also where you arrive when returning to the mainland. Allow extra time between a bus or minivan arrival and a boat departure, since the two are ticketed separately unless you book a combined journey.
Popular routes to and from Rayong
The busiest connections link Rayong with Bangkok, with the eastern islands off the Rayong coast, and with other beach destinations along the Gulf. Travellers heading further afield often combine a Rayong leg with onward travel south or east.
- Bangkok to Rayong and the return journey, the most common overland pairing.
- Rayong and Ban Phe to Koh Samet ferries, the closest island to the city.
- Connections towards Pattaya transport options and other Gulf coast towns.
- Onward links from Rayong to Koh Chang travel routes further east.
Availability changes through the year, so use the search box to confirm what runs on your date rather than relying on a fixed timetable.
Practical travel information
Book ahead during Thai public holidays and the high season, when island-bound services fill quickly. Off-peak, you will usually find seats closer to the departure date, though the choice of times narrows.
A few points worth knowing before you travel:
- Arrive early. Aim to be at the terminal or pier well before departure so you have time to find your counter and check in.
- Bring ID. Carry your passport or the identification used at booking, as some operators check it against the ticket.
- Check luggage rules. Allowances differ between operators and vehicle types, and oversized items may be charged separately.
- Watch the weather. Sea crossings can be affected by conditions during the rainy season, and departures may be adjusted at short notice.
- Keep your confirmation. Have your booking reference ready on your phone or printed, in case you need to exchange it for a boarding pass.
Cancellation and change conditions are set by each Seudamgo and are shown at checkout, so read them before you confirm.
What to see and do in Rayong
The beaches are the main draw. The coastline near the city offers long stretches of sand, calm swimming and beachfront seafood restaurants where the catch comes in daily.
Rayong's markets are a highlight in their own right, from fresh produce and dried seafood to the fruit stalls that appear in season. The province is well known for tropical fruit, and local shops sell nam pla, the fermented fish sauce the area has produced for generations.
Cultural sites are easy to fit into a short stay. Temples around the city and the literary heritage associated with the region give a sense of Rayong beyond the shoreline, and quiet coastal parks are within easy reach for a half-day trip.
For island time, Ban Phe puts the nearby islands within a short boat ride, making a day trip or an overnight stay simple to arrange from a Rayong base.
Book your trip to Rayong
Compare departures, journey times and fares for Rayong in one place, then book the option that fits your plans. Enter your travel dates to search availability and secure your seat.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the pier that my ferry departing from?
Phuket Ferry :
We understand that pier details are important to our customers. That’s why we’ve made the information as clear as possible. Your departing pier address is clearly shown on your e-ticket, which we sent to your email. Additionally, go to our Pier Information page for the most comprehensive local pier information you can find anywhere. Finally, if you still need more information, contact our Customer Service Agents; we are happy to help.
Ferry Samui :
FWe understand that pier details are important to our customers. That’s why we’ve made the information as clear as possible. Your departing pier address is clearly shown on your e-ticket, which we sent to your email. Additionally, go to our Pier Information page for the most comprehensive local pier information you can find anywhere. Finally, if you still need more information, contact our Customer Service Agents, we are happy to help.
Bali Ferry :
We understand that pier details are important to our customers. That’s why we’ve made the information as clear as possible. Your departing pier address is clearly shown on your e-ticket, which we sent to your email. Additionally, go to our Departure Point Information page for the most comprehensive information you can find anywhere. Finally, if you still need more information, contact our Customer Service Agents, we are happy to help.
What are the tourist seasons ?
Phuket Ferry :
Phuket really just has two seasons, which are known as "high season" and "low season" (or "green season"). During the low season months (May- September), boat numbers are reduced. During the high season (October - April), boats to the surrounding islands are increased so you will have some more options.
Ferry Samui :
There are three distinct weather seasons on the tropical island of Koh Samui: the dry season (December until February), the hot season (March until August) and the rainy season (September until November).
Bali Ferry :
Bali actually has a variety of tourist periods, notably around the Balinese New Year, 15 December - 15 January, and 1 June - 30 September. During these high traffic periods, boats to the surrounding islands are increased so you will have some more options. The quieter periods are between 16 January - 30 April and 1 October - 14 December historically.
Will bad weather affect my travels?
Ferries are large and can usually operate in the rain, except in extremely bad weather. During storms or strong winds, the journey may take a little longer than usual.
Speedboats are more likely to be canceled than ferries. If a trip is canceled due to bad weather, you can choose to receive a refund or reschedule. Please note that refunds for bad weather are only issued if the ferry operator cancels the trip.
On rough days, we recommend bringing motion sickness medication and taking it about 20 minutes before boarding if you are prone to seasickness. Boat staff may also provide Dramamine upon request, but you will need to remain indoors during rough conditions. On sunny and calm days, the sun deck is open for passengers to enjoy the weather.
What's the boarding process on the day of my trip?
At the pier named on your ticket, look for the staff of the ferry operator listed on your ticket as well. Please present your e-ticket (QR code) from your phone or other device—they’ll provide you with a sticker and/or boarding pass and direct you to your boat. Most piers have staff available to help load your luggage. In Koh Samui, staff are usually stationed at booths near the boarding area; at other locations, they’re typically near the boats, wearing their company uniforms.
When will I receive my ticket confirmation?
After completing your online booking, your reservation will remain in “Pending” status until it is processed. Once confirmed, we will send your e-ticket via email. The process is usually very quick.
On the day of travel, please present your e-ticket to the ferry staff at the relevant booking counter. If you do not receive your confirmation within 24 hours, contact us immediately.
What are the baggage allowances?
Your ferry e-ticket includes ferry transport, baggage fees, and handling. The free baggage allowance per person is 20–25 kg, depending on the operator. If your baggage exceeds this limit, you can pay the extra fee directly to the ferry operator in cash.
To check the baggage allowance for your specific trip, please refer to the trip details for your selected route.
