East Coast (Chonburi to Trat)

Koh Chang lies in the east of the Gulf of Thailand, off Trat province, near the Cambodian border, and is one of the country's larger islands. Its interior consists of forested mountains belonging to the Mu-Ko-Chang National Park; the coastal strip is primarily settled, accessed by a ring road with steep ramps.Along the west coast, the beaches line up: Hat Sai Khao (White Sand Beach) in the north is most developed, further south follow Klong Prao and Kai Bae, then the quieter Lonely Beach. At the southern end, the fishing village of Bang Bao stands on stilts over the water, from whose pier diving and island boats depart.In the interior, short trails lead to waterfalls like Khlong Phlu; longer tours through the rainforest are offered with guides. Off the southern tip are diving areas around the Koh-Rang group, as well as a shipwreck.Access is by car ferry from Laem Ngop near Trat; from Bangkok, travel is by bus or flight to Trat. The dry season from November to April is the reliable travel period – during the rainy season, there is heavy rainfall here, and some businesses close.

Pattaya, on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand, was originally a fishing village that grew into a seaside resort from the 1960s. Today, it is a city of high-rises along the beachfront promenade, a good two hours' drive from Bangkok.The Walking Street in the south is the heart of the nightlife, heavily dominated by bars and red-light establishments. Those wishing to avoid this should stay further south in Jomtien or north in Naklua, where it's quieter and more family-oriented.For culture, two destinations are worth visiting: the Sanctuary of Truth in Naklua, a temple entirely built from teak wood with intricate carvings, and the Wat Phra Yai on Khao Phra Tamnak hill, offering views over the bay. From Bali Hai Pier, boats depart for Koh Larn island, where beaches boast clearer water than the city's shores.The dry and cooler months from November to February are the most pleasant time to visit.