Located approximately 220 kilometers from Bangkok, Rayong is another delightful seaside province on Thailand’s eastern Gulf coast. Most of Rayong Province is marked by mountains interspersed by flat plains and large tracts of fruit plantations and forests. However, the province is most well known for its pristine beaches stretching along its 100-kilometer coastline and its scenic waterfalls set amidst exotic surroundings. Aside from these natural attractions, Rayong produces an abundance of seafood products, such as shrimp paste, fish sauce, and dried seafood, and grows a number of tropical fruits of which rambutan, mangosteen and durian are the most famous.
Historically, in the late Ayutthaya period following the razing of the capital city by the invading Burmese, General Tak (Phaya Tak) led a troop of patriots who broke through the cordon of besieging troops and marched to Rayong in order to build up his navy before proceeding onto Chanthaburi. Because of his courage and bravery, the soldiers and local population anointed him as "King" in Rayong. Once he had built up sufficient troop strength, King Taksin returned to Ayutthaya, routed the Burmese and set up a new capital in Thonburi, across the river from modern-day Bangkok.
Boasting indispensable sea-life resources, Rayong is one of the country’s major agricultural and industrial provinces. On the other hand, the province has maintained its traditions and customs in the daily lifestyles of the locals. Most renowned for its quiet and unspoiled beaches, including Mu Koh Samet National Park, Rayong is a popular beach getaway destination for Bangkok residents and a renowned producer of seafood related goods.
