Rayong retreat: lily pads and quiet beaches

Rayong was a breath of fresh sea air after the bustle of Bangkok. On Day 68 we paddled through canals carpeted with lily pads at the Rayong Botanical Garden while the kids explored by bike. We stopped at Wat Phlong Sawai temple for a quick climb and ended the day watching the sun set over Mae Pim Beach before a dip in the pool.

Rayong province sits on Thailand’s eastern coast and is known for its laid‑back beaches and nearby Ko Samet island. Adventure here can mean kayaking among mangroves, cycling along the cape or snorkeling off the coast. Markets overflow with shrimp paste, dried squid and tropical fruits. It’s a quieter slice of Thailand compared with Pattaya or Bangkok.

Family travel tip: Rent bikes and kayaks early, visit temples in the late afternoon to avoid the heat, and pack plenty of snacks and water for long days outside.

For us, Rayong’s slower pace was just what we needed. Days like this remind me why we travel: unplanned parenting at its core—slow adventures, simple discoveries and endless wonder through our children’s eyes.

Could a quiet day at the beach be your family’s favourite part of a trip? If you’re looking to get off the beaten path with kids, our customised itineraries can make it happen. Our stay was $120, a solid deal for the comfort we got. Dinner cost $43, proof that tasty doesn’t mean pricey. We spent $12 on activities worth every cent. Transport ran us $12, cheaper than many cities. Altogether, we spent about $187 for the day.