EASTERN THAILAND Attracting thousands and thousands of visitors, both Thai and foreign, the East Coast is today one of the most popular destinations.

Holiday-makers flock to the region, particularly over weekends and long holidays, which offers an immense variety of marine and other natural attractions.

The choice of facilities and conveniently close to Bangkok by road, it is virtually a year-round destination.

Stretching over 400 kilometres of coast-line, from Chon Buri and Pattaya to Rayong, Chantaburi on to Trat, are fine beaches, coves and bays with countless off-shore islands. Visitors can opt for a relaxing stay along the beach, or choose the more vibrant atmosphere of a modern coastal town.

The more actively-inclined can go for the many tourism-related activities. Inland are verdant forestlands with lovely cascades and waterfalls. The East Coast is also famous for its abundance of culinary choices, from fresh seafood to spicy local dishes.

In addition, it offers a vast range of seafood products to take home. Tropical fruits grown here are among the tastiest in the country.

Pattaya Province An internationally well-known seaside resort, Pattaya is a vibrant city night and day. Its population is a colorful potpourri of mixed nationalities from near and far.

A vast range of tourism-related activities await the pleasure of visitors, from relaxing on the beach, actively taking part in land and sea-based sports to visiting the scores of attractions in and around Pattaya. See maps of Pattaya here

Rayong Province Another delightful resort on the eastern coast, Rayong is just beginning to gain popularity.

With a 100 kilometre-long coastline, it boasts several beautiful beaches and scenic waterfalls amid natural surroundings.

Rayong is also rich in sea-life resources and considered a major agricultural and industrial province.

Rayong is 180 kilometres from Bangkok and covers a total area of 3,552 square kilometres. Located in a national park, Ko Samet is a highly popular destination of Rayong. Blessed with lovely scenery and beaches, it is easily accessible. There is a considerable range of different accommodation facilities to choose from.

Trat Province A small province at the easternmost frontier bordering on Cambodia with the Khao Banthat mountain range forming a natural demarcation.

Trat is a resort town with over fifty large and small off-shore islands, long white sandy beaches and unspoiled coral ranges.

It is also a major fruit-growing and fishing area. About 315 kilometres from Bangkok and covering an area of 2,819 square kilometres.