Suan Son Pradiphat Beach
A free army-administered beach backed by pine forest — calm, clean, and shaded by trees, this eastern Gulf gem is entirely unknown to foreign tourists.

About this Place
Suan Son Pradiphat Beach is one of Thailand's most unexpected gems — a 4km pine forest-backed beach administered by the Royal Thai Army, providing free access to a clean and well-maintained coastal park on the eastern Gulf. The pine trees shade the beach up to the water's edge, creating a dappled light atmosphere unlike typical Thai resort beaches. The beach is clean, the water is calm, and the crowds are primarily Thai families and young couples from Bangkok weekend trips. Simple food stalls and restaurants operate from the park. Bicycle hire available. The beach fronts Mae Phim Bay, known for its gentle waves suitable for beginners learning to kayak or swim. Rayong province has several other quiet beaches (Laem Mae Phim, Ao Mung Gorn) that remain genuinely undiscovered by foreign tourists. Accommodation is limited — mostly day trip from Pattaya (1 hour) or Bangkok (3 hours).
Location
12.6198, 101.3299
More Nearby Locations
Bangkok's nearest fine white sand island — Koh Samet's silica-rich beach glitters uniquely, just 3 hours from the capital within a national park.
The ferry town gateway to Koh Samet — a working fishing port with morning boat markets, excellent fresh seafood, and the best fish sauce and shrimp paste in Thailand.
Seven-tiered waterfalls, wild elephants, gibbons, and rare pheasants inland from Rayong coast — one of eastern Thailand's most rewarding undiscovered parks.
A government marine research centre with sea turtle rehabilitation — watch rescued turtles recover and learn about Gulf of Thailand marine conservation.
Nearby Guides
- Best Beaches in Rayong: Hat Mae Ram Phueng, Laem Mae Phim & the Eastern Seaboard
- Koh Samet Island Guide: Rayong's White-Sand Paradise in the Gulf of Thailand
- Rayong Seafood Markets & Coastal Cuisine: Thailand's Eastern Gulf at Your Table
- Rayong Fruit Orchards & Farm Visits: Durian, Rambutan & Thailand's Fruit Belt