Rayong attractions

Attractions in Thailand

Open Days: Daily (within park operating hours)

Opening Hours: 08:00–18:00 – Visitors are advised to enter and leave before dusk for safety reasons

Ao Karang, located at the southern tip of Koh Samet in Rayong Province, is a truly peaceful viewpoint away from the crowds. The rocky shoreline and the open horizon create one of the most breathtaking sunset scenes on the island – golden light reflecting off the sea, gentle waves, and the sound of calm that invites you to stay awhile.

Ao Karang lies within Khao Laem Ya – Mu Ko Samet National Park. It is a small and quiet bay with crystal-clear water, unique rock formations, and a broad view of the open sea. The area is perfect for relaxation, photography, swimming, and light snorkeling along the rocky shallows. Sunset hours are especially mesmerizing here.

Getting There From Ban Phe Pier on the Rayong mainland, take a ferry to Na Dan Pier on Koh Samet. Then rent a motorcycle or take a shared local truck heading south past Ao Wong Duean and Ao Kiew Na Nok until reaching Ao Karang. Some parts of the road are steep and unpaved, so ride slowly and carefully.

The area has very limited facilities, making it ideal for travelers seeking quiet and solitude. Bring drinking water and essentials with you. Since it lies within a national park, visitors should follow park rules: no open fires, no littering, and avoid stepping on coral or removing marine life.

The best time to visit is from November to May when the weather is pleasant and the sea is clear. During the rainy season, conditions may vary, so checking the forecast is recommended. While the beach is accessible all day, returning before nightfall is safest since some roads are gravel and unlit.

Name	Ao Karang
Location	Southern tip of Koh Samet, Phe Subdistrict, Mueang Rayong District, Rayong Province (within Khao Laem Ya – Mu Ko Samet National Park)
Characteristics	Small, quiet beach with clear waters and rock formations – a perfect sunset viewpoint and snorkeling spot
Period	Modern era – protected natural area under Khao Laem Ya – Mu Ko Samet National Park
Key Evidence	Photographic records and information from Khao Laem Ya – Mu Ko Samet National Park and Rayong Tourism Office
Name Origin	Derived from the Thai word “karang” (coral), referring to the rocky coral-like formations at the bay
Travel	Ferry from Ban Phe Pier → Na Dan Pier (Koh Samet) → rent motorcycle or take local truck south past Ao Wong Duean and Ao Kiew Na Nok to Ao Karang (some steep gravel sections – drive carefully)
Current Status	Open to visitors (managed under national park regulations; day visits recommended)
Nearby Tourist Attractions with Distance	Ao Pakarang ~0.5 km; Ao Kiew Na Nok ~1.5 km; Ao Wai ~2.8 km; Ao Phrao ~4.8 km (approximate distance along the island route)