
The Sopha Arboretum is located near the entrance to Ban Phe about 200 meters off Highway No.3 at Km. 238. The extensive grounds are home to various flowering plants. A 100-year-old Thai-style wooden structure houses porcelain ware from various eras, particularly the Ban Chiang style. Open daily except Thursdays between 8.00 a.m.-5.00 p.m. Tel: 0-3865-1688.
A turn between Km. 231 and Km. 238, leads to Ban Phe which is about 19 kilometres from the township. A Major fishing community of the province, it is also the main embarkation point for the ferry to Ko Samet. On sale are popular fresh and dried seafood as well as other local products.
Located in a national park, Ko Samet is a highly popular destination in Rayong. Blessed with lovely scenery and beaches, it is easily accessible. There is a considerable range of different accommodation facilities to choose from.
Triangular-shaped, most of the land area is forested with beaches dotting intermittently on the north and east sides of the island. The south side tapers into the sea with small isles of rocky formation off shore, serving as habitat and egg-laying grounds for seagulls.
Ko Samet is 6.5 kilometres off Ban Phe and can be visited virtually the whole year round. The exception is during the Monsoon season mostly in May. It is recommended that you check the weather forecast before setting out.
From Ban Phe, ferry services run throughout the day. The trip takes about half an hour. Fares range from 40 baht to Hat Sai Kaeo and 50 baht to Hat Wong Duen. Getting from one place to another on the island is popularly by foot, but there are also land or sea transports serving the beaches.
Some 6 kilometres off shore is Ko Kudi , which is to the east of Samet. To the northeast are white, sandy beaches and popular viewing points. Off its northern tip are several coral-rich small islets.
Suan Son , about 4 kilometres further from Ban Phe along the beach-front road, offers areas shaded by verdant pine trees. The scenic beach is eminently suited for relaxation and swimming. Accommodations and food shops are also available.
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