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Our Complete Travel Guide to Ranong

| Last Updated: July 2024

Once, I accompanied a friend out for a visa run in Ranong and never thought much of the province—that is until I wandered into Raksa Warin Hot Springs. 

My, just 30 minutes of those hot, sulfurous waters and I felt so relieved, like I had a thousand hands massage me. And don’t get me wrong, I’ve been to many hot springs all over Thailand, from Krabi to Chiang Mai, but this one’s for the books!

Those simmering hot waters are only where my love for Ranong begins (and yes, I’ve been coming back). In this guide, I’ll share more captivating sights and activities that will keep you hooked on this province for life, so read on!

Things to Know

Currency: Thai Baht
(Check the current exchange rate)

Language: Thai (Central Thai)

Calling Code: (+66)

Location: Ranong, Thailand

Nearest Airport: Ranong Airport

Best Time to Visit Ranong

It’s best to visit Ranong from December to February if you want the least chance of rainfall. During this time, you can enjoy sunny days perfect for sightseeing and island-hopping activities.

The daily temperatures are also more comfortable so you can explore at any time of the day. However, Ranong is also worth visiting during the rainy season if you want to take advantage of the cheaper tourism services and stronger waterfall streams.

How to Get to Ranong

Plane: Booking a flight is the fastest way to get to Ranong from Bangkok. Domestic flights to Ranong are available at Don Mueang International Airport and it only takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Bus: A cheaper option to get to Ranong is to catch a provincial bus at the Bangkok Southern Terminal. Sombat Tour is the only available bus carrier and it only departs twice daily, so be sure to book your ticket ahead of time.

Expect the bus trip to take approximately 9 hours.

Rental Car: Another option is to self-drive from Bangkok. However, you need a driver’s license and an International Driving Permit to rent a car in the capital city.

Driving a car from Bangkok to Ranong takes approximately 8 hours, but it’s a straightforward drive which is great. You only need to drive southwest via Highway 35 and switch to Highway 4 until you reach Ranong’s town center.

Where to Stay in Ranong

Bannaimong Treehouse

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Address: Bang Non

Operating Hours: 6 p.m. (Check-in) & 12 p.m. (Check-out)

Contact Number: +66 93 497 4999

Website: https://reservation.roomscope.com/1833/th

Pricing: ฿฿

If you want a private place to enjoy your Ranong trip in peace, here’s Bannaimong Treehouse. This hotel is aptly named, so expect charming wooden treehouses tucked away in a quiet and jungly neighborhood.

That makes it the ideal hideaway for couples who want intimate accommodation and nature-loving tourists who prefer the company of nature. The treehouses here also have private outdoor tubs which we think are perfect for admiring the lush scenery.

Aside from that, a small river runs through the property so you can listen to its soothing stream all day. And over it is a wooden bridge with a swing where you can sit down to soak your feet in the cold running water.

FarmHouse Hotel Ranong

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Address: 311/1 Khao Niwet

Operating Hours: 3 p.m. (Check-in) & 12 p.m. (Check-out)

Contact Number: +66 87 454 5151

Website: https://www.farmhouseranong.com/

Pricing: ฿฿

FarmHouse Hotel is a mid-tier accommodation in the heart of Ranong Town. It’s the perfect hotel for tourists who want to explore the town center to check out its popular attractions, local haunts, and hidden gems.

The hotel has modern, airy, and minimalist rooms with balconies offering a nice view of its tree-lined neighborhood. There’s also a large outdoor pool and plenty of sun loungers for guests who like to swim and laze under the sun.

We also like that they have bike rentals for tourists who want to explore the town in a two-wheeler.

A Day Inn Ranong Hostel

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Address: 204 Ruangrat Road, Khao Niwet

Operating Hours: 2 p.m. (Check-in) & 12 p.m. (Check-out)

Contact Number: +66 63 789 8711

Website: https://www.facebook.com/adayinnranong.fanpage/

Pricing: ฿

This budget hotel in Ranong is a solid option if you want an affordable and cozy room that won’t break the bank, especially for a weeklong vacation. Its interiors and rooms have pleasant old-world aesthetics which is great for fans of vintage designs.

But they also have modern amenities, so you can still expect your stay to be comfortable. In fact, the hotel’s shared spaces are always well-maintained and spotless which is a massive plus.

If you want a place to relax, they also have a charming backyard where you can sit back and read a book peacefully.

Where to Eat in Ranong

J&T Restaurant

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Address: 267 Ruangrat Road, Khao Niwet

Operating Hours: 10:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. (Daily)

Contact Number: +66 81 891 5990

Website: https://www.facebook.com/JandTranong/

Pricing: ฿

J&T Restaurant is a popular Chinese restaurant in Ranong, so we think it’s definitely a must-try if you’re in town. It serves a wide range of Chinese and Southern-style Thai dishes, so there are plenty of food options for foodies to dig in.

My go-to dish is their crab omelet—affordable but still loaded with crab meat! In fact, two people can comfortably share one serving.

Don’t forget to try their Southern-style soft-shell crab curry for more crabby goodness. 

FarmHouse Restaurant

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Address: 311/1 Ruangrat Road, Khao Niwet

Operating Hours: 7 a.m. – 11 p.m. (Daily)

Contact Number: +66 94 424 2459

Website: http://www.farmhouseranong.com/

Pricing: ฿ – ฿฿

This restaurant next to the FarmHouse Hotel Ranong is great for tourists who like full-on variety. It has a massive menu consisting of Thai, European, and other international cuisines, so you get a lot of dishes to choose from.

We are particularly fond of their breakfast buffet. For an affordable price, this buffet gives you a wide selection of delicious local and international dishes, so it’s certainly a steal.

They also have a dedicated plant-based menu which our vegan and vegetarian staffers particularly love. That makes it ideal for health-conscious travelers.

Buono Ranong

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Address: 99 /17 Soi Cobyantas Padat Road, Khao Niwet

Operating Hours: 10:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. (Friday – Wednesday)

Contact Number: +66 83 632 9844

Website: https://www.facebook.com/p/Buono-Ranong-100052996637944/

Pricing: ฿฿ – ฿฿฿

Buono Ranong is an exquisite Italian restaurant known for its pizza and premium steak offerings. In fact, my Italian friend says it’s one of the best pizza spots he’s ever been to in Thailand.

Our favorites are the Margherita and Gorgonzola pizzas, but you certainly can’t go wrong with any variant. Their pizza has high-quality dough, generous toppings, and large portions which makes them worth every penny.

Aside from pizza, their premium selection of imported and local steaks is worth a try as well!

What to See and Do in Ranong

Stroll around the Rattanarangsarn Palace Park

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Address: Luvung Alley, Khao Niwet

Operating Hours: 9:10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (Wednesday – Sunday)

Contact Number: +66 80 142 7575

Admission Costs: 100 baht

Rattanarangsarn Palace Park is the place to be if you want to go sightseeing while learning about Ranong’s history. It’s a replica of a 19th-century palace, with a picturesque garden, royal architectural elements, and an ornate Buddhist shrine.

This place also has historical exhibits, miniature displays, and traditional teakwood palace interiors which are popular among history buffs. Guided palace tours are also available if you want to get the most out of your visit.

Enjoy island-hopping in Laem Son National Park

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Address: 36/6 Village 4, Muang Kluang Subdistrict, Krapue District

Operating Hours: 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (Daily)

Contact Number: +66 77 861 431

Website: https://www.facebook.com/laemson.nationalpark/

Admission Costs: 200 baht (Adults), 100 baht (Kids)

Laem Son National Park is a protected area in Ranong consisting of gorgeous uninhabited islands and pristine beaches.It also has mangrove forests and rainforests which are popular among hikers and bird watchers. 

However, the park’s biggest highlights are Koh Khang Khao and Koh Kham. These islands have beautiful and unspoiled sandy beaches with crystalline waters, teeming with coral reefs and marine life which makes them ideal for snorkeling.

Go on a boat trip to Koh Chang and Koh Phayam

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Address: Andaman Sea, Mueang Ranong District

Operating Hours: 24/7

Koh Chang and Koh Phayam are arguably the two best island destinations in Ranong. These paradise islands are well-known for their white-sand beaches, scenic coastlines, and nature trails.

This gives you plenty of activities to do, from hiking to swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, scuba diving, and more. Moreover, both islands have plenty of beach resorts, restaurants, and bars..

Take a relaxing dip at the Raksa Warin Hot Spring

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Address: Khao Niwet, Mueang Ranong District

Operating Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (Daily)

A trip to Ranong isn’t complete without visiting Raksa Warin Hot Spring. This place has numerous hot pools where you can dip your foot or submerge your body for a relaxing hot bath.

Though the hot spring is open to everyone, you also get access to essential amenities: towels, showers, lockers, and changing rooms. However, there are also paid services that let you choose between different temperature levels. 

Food and drinks are also available in the hot spring which is why it’s also a popular picnic spot among local families.

Explore Namtok Ngao National Park

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Address: Village 1, 76/5 Ngao, Mueang Ranong District

Operating Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (Daily)

Contact Number: +66 77 810 651

Website: https://www.facebook.com/ngaowaterfallnationalpark

Admission Costs: 100 baht (Adults), 50 baht (Kids)

Namtok Ngao National Park is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts vacationing in Ranong. Here, you’ll find several hiking trails where you can observe the local flora and fauna – plus, it’s dog-friendly!

The park’s most popular attraction is Ngao Waterfall which is one of the province’s best cascades.

Ngao Waterfall isn’t big, but its relaxing and gentle stream is definitely worth seeing at least once.

Check out Punyaban Waterfall

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Address: Bang Non, Mueang Ranong District

Operating Hours: 24/7

Admission Costs: 100 baht

If you’re fond of waterfalls, Punyaban Waterfall is certainly a must-see if you’re vacationing in Ranong. It’s also next to the main road, so you don’t have to traverse a steep jungle trail to reach it.

Its vigorous stream is particularly impressive during the rainy season, so it’s definitely best to visit during this time. There’s also a small cafe in the area where you can enjoy affordable snacks while enjoying the waterfall’s view and atmosphere.

Admire Wat Baan Ngao’s gilded architecture

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Address: 63/2 Village 1, Ngao Sub-district, Mueang Ranong District

Operating Hours: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Daily)

Contact Number: +66 84 630 0788

Website: https://www.facebook.com/watbaanngao/

Wat Baan Ngao is arguably the most beautiful temple in Ranong, so it’s definitely worth adding to your itinerary. It’s famous for its elegant gilded architecture with intricate wall, pillar, and platform carvings.

The temple is also predominantly red and gold which gives it a striking luxurious appearance. Inside, you’ll also find a large seated Buddha image and more intricate golden carvings on the walls and ceiling.

If you like taking temple photographs, you’ll have plenty of photo opportunities here.

Visit Wat Suwan Khiri

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Address: Pak Chan, Kra Buri District

Operating Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Daily)

When it comes to golden Buddhist structures, Wat Suwan Khiri doesn’t disappoint. This temple is well-known for its numerous golden pagodas, Buddha images, and Burmese-style architecture.

It’s also one of the oldest temples in Ranong, which makes it an important religious site in the province. That’s why it attracts crowds of local worshippers, especially during special occasions.

Wat Suwan Khiri’s golden pagoda is a smaller replica of Myanmar’s Shwedagon Pagoda, so it’s worth visiting if you haven’t seen the real one yet.

Watch the beautiful sunset at Chan Damri Beach

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Address: Pak Nam, Mueang Ranong District

Operating Hours: 24/7

If you’re looking for a quiet place to enjoy the beautiful sunset in Ranong, here’s Chan Damri Beach. It’s a small underrated beach, so it’s a great place for tourists who want to avoid huge crowds.

Its biggest highlight is the long wooden bridge stretching out to the sea. This bridge makes for an excellent photo subject with the setting sun behind it.

There’s a hotel and a few restaurants near the beach, so you’re covered for accommodation and food.

FAQs about Ranong

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