Yet despite these attractions, Rayong is unlike Pattaya.  It is not as touristy and it even has a sleepy feel.  Although fine hotels line some of its beaches, the tourists visiting Rayong are mostly locals. The few foreign tourists who stray into the province mostly proceed to Ban Phe, a busy fishing port and jump-off point to Koh Samet, the island with the whitest and squeakiest sand in the kingdom.

The island is a 30-minute ferry ride away. It is a favorite among farangs as it has something for everyone — from fun-filled beaches with jet skiing and live music to tranquil, secluded spots where one can enjoy sand, sun and sea in complete privacy.

But while foreigners find island beaches more exotic, the locals have their own idea of what constitutes a better beach. Such place doesn’t need to be isolated or off island. In fact, it is just about five kilometers farther down the highway from Ban Phe.

This beach, known as the Suan Son Pine Park, is a popular picnic area among locals.

It is squeaky clean and as white and sandy as those of Koh Samet, though not as tranquil and isolated. It is in fact busy on weekends when people from other parts of the province, including those from Bangkok, flock to the beach to frolic.

Tall casuarinas trees give Suan Son its unique charm. These trees line each side of the road, which runs along the one-kilometer beach. Interestingly, the crowns of the trees from each side meet above head, making the whole length of the road look like a green tunnel.

The area, quite expectedly, teems with food stalls and food shops. And because it is not a farang haunt, food prices are cheap here.

Accommodation is also available for those who want to stay overnight. It comes in the form of bungalows or guesthouses, which are reasonably priced.

For the venturesome, they can rent a boat to explore the smaller islands nearby like Koh Kudi, Koh Kham, Koh Platin and Koh Talu.

The climate here is very tropical-like, with three distinct seasons: hot from March through May, rainy from June through October, and cool from November through February.

Average daily temperature throughout the year is 27 degrees Celsius. During the rainy season, rainfall is usually brief and the rest of the day is normally clear and sunny.

Suan Son offers tourists a good opportunity for a rewarding stroll. Traveling around the area can be relaxing because the traffic here is light and the roads are very smooth.

The surrounding areas are mostly quaint fishing villages, too laidback that they offer a perfect escape from the bustle of the city. Such a stroll will also give you a first-hand look at life in Thailand’s coastal villages.