Rayong is a province on Thailand's eastern seaboard, facing the Gulf of Thailand between Pattaya and the fruit-growing lands of Chanthaburi. It is known for island beaches, orchards heavy with durian and mangosteen, and a relaxed seaside pace that feels a world away from Bangkok. The province is served by U-Tapao Rayong–Pattaya International Airport, which is the airport this page focuses on. If you are comparing flights to Rayong, landing at U-Tapao puts you close to both Rayong's coast and the resort city of Pattaya.

About U-Tapao Rayong–Pattaya International Airport

Location

U-Tapao sits in Ban Chang district in the western part of Rayong province, near the coast. It began life as a military air base and still shares its runway with the Royal Thai Navy, while civilian flights use a dedicated passenger area. Pattaya lies to the north-west along the coastal highway, and Rayong town is to the east.

Terminals

Passenger facilities at U-Tapao are modest compared with Bangkok's airports, which makes arrival quick and uncomplicated. Domestic and international flights are handled in the passenger terminal area, so check your e-ticket for any terminal details before you travel.

Getting to and from the airport

Taxis and pre-booked private transfers are the most direct way to Rayong town, Ban Phe or Pattaya. Shuttle buses and minivans also connect the airport with Pattaya and other parts of the eastern seaboard, and car rental desks are available for travellers who want to explore the coast freely. For Koh Samet, head to Ban Phe pier, where ferries and speedboats cross to the island.

Direct and connecting flights to U-Tapao, Rayong

Flights into U-Tapao come from a mix of Thai domestic cities and a smaller number of regional international routes, and the network changes from season to season. On Traveloka, search for your dates and use the Direct filter to see which nonstop options to U-Tapao are available from your departure city.

If nothing suitable is flying into U-Tapao, Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport has far more routes and connects to Rayong and Pattaya by road, with buses, minivans and taxis. Travellers already in Bangkok usually find the road journey more practical than a flight. For an overview of every airport option for the destination, see the flights to Rayong city page.

When to fly to Rayong

Rayong follows the Gulf of Thailand's tropical rhythm. The cool, dry season from around November to February is the most comfortable time for beaches and island hopping. March to May is hot, and from around April into the early rains the fruit season arrives, when orchards and roadside stalls overflow with durian, rambutan and mangosteen. The rainy season from roughly June to October brings afternoon showers and greener landscapes, though many days are still bright.

Thai holidays, especially Songkran in April and long weekends, bring crowds from Bangkok to the Rayong coast and Koh Samet. From Singapore, the June and December school holidays and Chinese New Year are the usual peaks, so compare dates on the fare chart here before you commit.

Popular places in Rayong

Koh Samet

A short boat ride from Ban Phe, Koh Samet is part of a national park and is known for soft white sand, clear water and a string of bays, from lively Sai Kaew to quieter coves further south.

Mae Ramphueng Beach

This long stretch of mainland coast east of Rayong town is lined with casuarina trees and seafood restaurants, and it is popular for evening walks and cycling.

Khao Chamao–Khao Wong National Park

Inland, this park protects forested hills, caves and a waterfall where streams tumble into pools full of fish, making it a cool escape from the heat.

Fruit orchards

Rayong's orchards open to visitors in the fruit season, when you can sample freshly picked durian, mangosteen and rambutan straight from the trees.

Pattaya

Close to U-Tapao, Pattaya offers beaches, viewpoints, water sports and nightlife, and it pairs easily with a quieter stay in Rayong.

Where to stay in Rayong

Ban Phe is convenient for ferry departures to Koh Samet and has plenty of simple guesthouses. Mae Ramphueng and the seafront around Rayong town suit travellers who want mainland beaches and local seafood. Koh Samet itself is ideal for a few nights by the sea, while staying in Ban Chang keeps you close to U-Tapao for early departures. Many visitors also split their stay with Jomtien or central Pattaya.

Food to try in Rayong

Grilled seafood

Along the coast, restaurants grill freshly caught squid, prawns, crab and fish over charcoal, served with a punchy chilli and lime seafood dip.

Nam pla from Rayong

The province has a long tradition of making fish sauce, and its salty, savoury depth flavours many local dishes. Bottles make a practical souvenir.

Durian and mangosteen

Rayong's orchards are famous for durian, the so-called king of fruits, and mangosteen, its sweet and tangy queen. Both are best eaten fresh in season.

Som tam

Green papaya salad pounded with chilli, lime, fish sauce and peanuts is a staple here, often served with sticky rice and grilled chicken.

Beaches, islands and fruit orchards make Rayong an easy, rewarding escape on Thailand's east coast. Compare flights to Rayong through U-Tapao on Traveloka, set a Price Alert for your preferred dates and keep your e-ticket in the app for a smooth trip.