Koh Samet

The East Coast extends from Chonburi southeast of Bangkok, through Rayong and Chanthaburi, to Trat on the border with Cambodia. It is the coast reachable from Bangkok by land — without a domestic flight or an overnight train.The character changes quickly: Pattaya in the north is a large, noisy beach resort with its own history, while Koh Chang and the islands off Trat are considerably quieter and largely comprise national park. The region shares its sea with the Gulf of Thailand, but differs in access and travel time: It lies over 700 kilometers from Koh Samui and Koh Tao and has a different monsoon rhythm.

Pattaya, on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand, was originally a fishing village. From 1959, US soldiers came here for recreation, and during the Vietnam War, it grew into a resort town. Today, it's a city with high-rises along the beachfront promenade, about 150 kilometers southeast of Bangkok.The Walking Street in the south is the center of nightlife, heavily dominated by bars and red-light establishments. Those wishing to avoid this are better off staying further south in Jomtien or north in Naklua, where it's quieter.Two cultural highlights are: the Sanctuary of Truth in Naklua, a temple built entirely from wood with intricate carvings, and Wat Phra Yai on Pratumnak Hill, offering views over the bay. From Bali Hai Pier, boats depart for Koh Larn island, whose beaches have clearer water than the city beaches.The drier months from November to February are the most pleasant time to travel.

Koh Chang is situated in the east of the Gulf of Thailand, off Trat province and close to the Cambodian border. Covering approximately 210 square kilometers, it is one of the country's largest islands. Its interior comprises forested mountains, part of Mu Ko Chang National Park. The coastal strip, traversed by a road with steep ramps, is the primary inhabited area.Along the west coast, the beaches line up: Hat Sai Khao (White Sand Beach) in the north is the most developed, followed further south by Klong Prao and Kai Bae, then the quieter Lonely Beach. At the southern end, the fishing village of Bang Bao sits on stilts over the water, with its pier being the starting point for diving and island boats.In the island's interior, short trails lead to waterfalls like Khlong Phlu, and longer rainforest tours are available with guides. Off the southern tip lie additional national park islands, accessible by boat.The island is reached by car ferry from Ao Thammachat Pier near Laem Ngop; from Bangkok, travel to Trat is by bus or flight. The dry season, from November to April, is the most reliable time to visit. During the rainy season, heavy rainfall occurs, and some businesses close.

Koh Kood (also Koh Kut), located in Trat province, is Thailand's easternmost island, near the Cambodian border. This mountainous island is covered in jungle, with mangroves lining its river courses. Its most famous waterfall is Khlong Chao, complete with a natural swimming pool. Nightlife is scarce, public transport is absent; most visitors rent a scooter. Ferries depart from Laem Sok, near Trat.

Hua Hin is one of Thailand's oldest seaside resorts, closely linked to the royal family. It features a long sandy beach, the historic train station with its royal pavilion, and, near the coast, the summer palaces Klai Kangwon and Mrigadayavan. At the southern end of the bay, a temple stands on Khao Takiab, offering views over the coast. In the evenings, the town gathers at the night market on Dechanuchit Road. The most pleasant time is from November to February.