Rayong City Guide 2025
Discover Rayong, Thailand's industrial hub with beautiful beaches, famous fruit orchards, and gateway to popular islands. A blend of business and leisure.
About Rayong
Rayong is a coastal province and city in eastern Thailand, known as the industrial center of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). Home to major petrochemical plants, automotive factories, and port facilities, the city of 163,000 residents combines industrial importance with natural beauty.
Despite its industrial reputation, Rayong offers pristine beaches, famous fruit orchards, and serves as the gateway to popular islands like Koh Samet. The province is renowned for producing Thailand's best durian, rambutan, and mangosteen, making it a paradise for fruit lovers.
Best Areas to Live
City Center
Best for: Convenience, shopping, local culture
Urban core with government offices, traditional markets, and local restaurants. Good for experiencing authentic Thai city life with all amenities within reach.
Map Ta Phut Industrial Area
Best for: Industrial workers, expat communities
Modern residential areas built for industrial workers. International communities, good infrastructure, but limited local charm. Close to major employers.
Laem Mae Phim Beach
Best for: Beach lovers, retirees, weekend homes
Coastal area with resorts and beach access. Quieter than city center with seafood restaurants and beachfront properties. Popular with Bangkok weekenders.
Ban Phe (Port Area)
Best for: Island access, fishing, maritime activities
Fishing port and ferry terminal to islands. Local fishing community with fresh seafood markets and traditional atmosphere. Gateway to island life.
Fruit Orchards Area
Best for: Rural living, agriculture enthusiasts, nature lovers
Rural areas surrounded by famous fruit orchards. Peaceful countryside living with seasonal fruit harvests and agro-tourism opportunities.
Climate & Weather
Hot Season
Mar - May
30-36°C, very humid. Peak durian season, fruit harvest time.
Rainy Season
Jun - Oct
27-32°C, afternoon storms. Lush green landscapes, rambutan season.
Cool Season
Nov - Feb
24-30°C, pleasant. Best weather, mangosteen season, perfect for beach visits.
Things to Do & Attractions
- •Fruit Orchards: Visit famous durian, rambutan, and mangosteen farms
- •Laem Mae Phim Beach: Clean beach with pine trees and sunset views
- •Wat Pa Pradu: Temple with famous reclining Buddha statue
- •Rayong Aquarium: Marine life displays and sea turtle conservation
- •Suphatthara Land: Fruit garden and cultural park
- •Khao Chamao National Park: Waterfalls and wildlife watching
- •Local Markets: Fresh seafood and fruit markets throughout the city
- •Island Day Trips: Ferry access to Koh Samet and other islands
Cost of Living
Budget Living
฿12,000-18,000/month
- • Apartment: ฿4,000-7,000
- • Local food: ฿100-150/day
- • Motorbike: ฿1,500-2,500
- • Utilities: ฿1,000-1,500
Comfortable Living
฿25,000-40,000/month
- • House/condo: ฿10,000-18,000
- • Mixed dining: ฿200-300/day
- • Car ownership: ฿5,000-8,000
- • Full utilities + amenities: ฿2,500-4,000
Transportation
Songthaews
Primary public transport with routes throughout the city and to beaches. ฿10-30 depending on distance. Regular service during day hours.
Motorbike Taxis
Quick transport for short distances. Drivers wear colored vests and gather at designated spots. ฿20-60 within city center.
Private Vehicles
Car ownership popular due to industrial work commutes and family needs. Good road network to Bangkok and surrounding provinces.
Inter-city Transport
Regular bus services to Bangkok (3 hours). Train connections available. Ferry services to islands from Ban Phe pier.
Work & Industry
Rayong is a major industrial hub with diverse employment opportunities:
- •Petrochemicals: PTT, Chevron, and other major oil companies
- •Automotive: Ford, Mazda production facilities
- •Port Operations: Map Ta Phut deep-sea port logistics
- •Agriculture: Fruit processing and export businesses
- •Tourism: Hotels, restaurants, island transport services
Local Specialties & Food
Rayong is famous throughout Thailand for its exceptional tropical fruits:
- •Durian: Considered Thailand's best durian, with sweet creamy flesh
- •Rambutan: Juicy red fruits, peak season June-August
- •Mangosteen: Purple "queen of fruits," available November-February
- •Fresh Seafood: Daily catches from local fishing boats
- •Nam Pla Wan: Local sweet fish sauce specialty
💡 Living in Rayong Tips:
- • Try local fruits during peak seasons for the best flavors and prices
- • Consider industrial work opportunities - good salaries for skilled workers
- • Use Rayong as base for exploring nearby islands and beaches
- • Learn about fruit seasons to enjoy the best produce year-round
- • Respect industrial safety regulations if working in factories
- • Join expat communities - significant international population due to industry
- • Stock up during fruit seasons - prices are incredibly low for premium quality
- • Explore rural areas for authentic agro-tourism experiences
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