Mention Rayong and many people will think of the city they travel through on their way to Koh Samet, the nearby island that remains one of the country’s most popular beach escapes. That’s a shame, because they are missing out on a province and town that has a lot more to offer. Its role as the nation’s largest finishing port means some of the freshest seafood is found here, and the abundance of cafes and restaurants in its ancient Thai-Chinese quarter focused around Yomjindra Road make the main town more than worth a full getaway. 

 

Visits here also got a lot more appealing with the launch of the new Hilton Garden Inn Rayong, the city’s newest and arguably best located hotel with surreal views of the surrounding province—seriously it feels like you can see from edge-to-edge at the top of this thing. 

 

 

One of the main benefits of a hotel being this new is the accommodations feel every bit 2024, and HGI Rayong is no different. You’re getting a hotel that feels fancier than the price tag might indicate. The rooms feature tall, almost floor-to-ceiling, windows that let natural light pour in and give a preview of the stunning views found at the top of the hotel. The rooms and suites, which range between 29 to 32 square meters, all include open-plan living areas swathed with blonde wood floors, modern decor, and plush beds with 250-thread count sheets. There’s also all the requisite nice-to-haves, like 55-inch LCD TVs, mini-fridges, soothing rain showers, bathroom amenities, and a rollaway bed to sleep an extra guest if needed. 

 

 

Like the other Hilton Garden Inn in Bangkok, HGI Rayong boasts Together & Co. as its daily workhorse for food and drinks. Head here for breakfast spreads at the crack of dawn or international and Thai favorites during lunch and dinner—there’s also seating outside in the breezy garden terrace if you like to chill out in an alfresco setting. Head to Social, the hotel’s rooftop restaurant and bar, to sip on poolside cocktails and take in some of the best views of the surrounding province. We can’t understate the views enough—it’s a must see if you stay here. Pull up to the outdoor bar and grab a signature cocktail from the mixologist on site, or, if you are with a crew, the indoor seating area is great for larger groups and still comes with a view. Social is positioned as a new party spot in town that will attract guests from even outside the hotel, and the quality of food and drinks here reflect that. 

 

 

One of the hotel’stop selling points is its location relative to most everything you would want to do in Rayong. The province’s largest shopping center, Central Plaza Rayong, sits adjacent to the hotel and plays host to weekly flea markets in addition to the levels upon levels of shops and restaurants. You’re also no more than a short cab ride away from Yomjindra Road, the town’s historic old Thai-Chinese quarter. Here, sip on coffee at Laan Ek Coffee House, a 110-year-old building that’s been refurbished as an art gallery and cafe, or head to Rayong Boat Noodle—and old rice mill turned into a restaurant—to get a “real deal” bowl of one of the nation’s most iconic noodle dishes. Lastly, hit up Satudom House, the official Rayong Heritage museum, to learn about local art and the province's unique culture. At the end of the night, if you are not at Social for cocktails, try Kuad for imported and local craft beers or a single malt if you are feeling fancy. 

 

Looking to escape Bangkok and explore Thailand’s east coast, but don’t want the chaos of Koh Samet? Rayong is a foodie and art head’s paradise these days. Book a stay at Hilton Garden Inn Rayong to get the most out of your stay and some of the best views of the province you’ll find anywhere.