Rating: 4/5 (4 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: All day – 24 hours

 

Mae Ramphueng Beach (Ban Kon Ao) is one of Rayong’s most popular beaches—a go-to for sea lovers whenever “Rayong hi” comes up. The shoreline stretches for about 12 kilometers alongside a scenic beach road of roughly 10 kilometers, lined with shady pines, picnic spots, seafood eateries, and a wide range of stays from local homestays to true beachfront resorts where the clear water is just a few steps away.

 

The vibe here is simple and sincere: fine sand, clear blue water, generally gentle waves and a soft slope—great for families or anyone who wants to slow down on holiday. Evenings steal the show: this is among the Gulf of Thailand’s lovely sunset stages, and on clear days you can spot Koh Samet on the horizon with the naked eye.

 

The beach lies about 11 kilometers from downtown Rayong—an easy ten-minute-plus drive before you pull over, spread a mat, and settle in. The “Ban Kon Ao” end is especially popular for its open views and plenty of local seafood joints. Stroll for ages along the shore, photograph the pine belt and local fishing boats, or cycle in the sea breeze for a different pace.

 

A quick safety note: the “mid-beach” section has had occasional rip currents in some seasons. Always check the lifeguard flags and on-site notices before swimming. If you’re with young children, favor the ends of the beach where conditions are typically calmer, and avoid going deeper than waist level.

 

There’s plenty to do all day—morning walks in soft light, a seafood lunch under the pines, a lazy afternoon with waves as your soundtrack, and then camera-ready for golden hour. Between 17:30–18:30 you’ll usually catch the best colors in the sky.

 

Getting There From Bangkok, several routes work—pick based on traffic and your driving style:

• Highway 7 (Motorway) → 7 → 36 to Rayong → continue into town and on to the beach. ~175 km. Typical time 2 – 2.5 hrs (fastest and most comfortable).

 

• Highway 36 (Bypass) → Take Bang Na–Trat to around km ~140 (Bang Lamung), turn left onto 36 to Rayong. ~210 km total. Around 2.5–3 hrs.

 

• Highway 34 (Bang Na–Trat) → Connect to Highway 3 (Sukhumvit) through Chachoengsao–Chonburi–Rayong. ~220 km. About 3 hrs (±).

 

• Highway 3 (Sukhumvit) → Coastal route via Bang Saen–Si Racha–Pattaya–Sattahip–Ban Chang–Rayong City. Scenic but slower. ~220 km. About 3–3.5 hrs.

 

Once in Rayong City, follow Sukhumvit Road to around km 229 and turn right to Mae Ramphueng Beach. Continue a few more kilometers under the pine canopy and you’ll hit the sand. “Ban Kon Ao” sits at one end of the beach with great viewpoints and clusters of local eateries.

 

Nearby side trips for a half-day include the Sunthorn Phu Memorial (about a 15–20-minute drive), Laem Mae Phim (another ~7–10 km), or boats to Koh Samet from Ban Phe Pier (frequent service). If you’re after more nature, Khao Laem Ya and the Rayong Aquarium aren’t far either.

 

 

A: About 11 kilometers, roughly a 10–20 minute drive depending on traffic.

 

A: Generally yes, but avoid the mid-beach section where rip currents have been reported. Always check flags/notices before entering the water.

 

A: The Ban Kon Ao end and the side toward Khao Laem Ya—both offer wide, unobstructed horizons.

 

A: Je Yindi Seafood, Je Phon Pak Tai Seafood, and Pa-Ya Seafood—all beachfront and easy to reach, with fresh catches.

 

A: Yes—options include White@Sea Resort, Piya Resort, and Nice Beach Hotel, all just a short walk to the water.

 

A: The fastest is Motorway 7 then Highway 36 to Rayong (~2–2.5 hrs). For coastal scenery, take Sukhumvit (Highway 3) but expect a longer drive.

 

A: Take a bus from Bangkok’s Ekkamai to Rayong, then transfer by songthaew or local taxi to Mae Ramphueng Beach.

 

A: Late November to March brings clear seas and cool breezes. For sunsets, 17:30–18:30 usually delivers the best colors.