Things To Do
in Ban Pae

Ban Pae is a serene fishing village located on the eastern coast of Thailand, known for its beautiful beaches and tranquil atmosphere. It serves as a gateway to the nearby Koh Samet island, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a peaceful getaway. The village is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a glimpse into traditional Thai life, complete with fresh seafood and local markets.

With warm hospitality and stunning sunsets, Ban Pae provides an authentic Thai experience away from the hustle and bustle of larger tourist destinations.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Ban Pae
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then take a stroll along the beach and enjoy the morning sun.

afternoon
:

Visit the Ban Pae Market to experience local culture and try some street food. Then, head to the nearby fishing piers to watch the local fishermen at work.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a beachfront restaurant, followed by a relaxing evening walk along the shore to catch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trip to Koh Samet
morning
:

Take an early boat from Ban Pae to Koh Samet. Spend the morning exploring the island’s pristine beaches.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a beachside restaurant, followed by snorkeling or swimming in the crystal-clear waters.

evening
:

Return to Ban Pae and savor a seafood dinner at a popular local restaurant, followed by some drinks at a beach bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$3-5
🏖️Beach chair rental$1-2
🚤Boat trip to Koh Samet$10
🍹Cocktail at a beach bar$5-8
🛒Souvenir shopping$2-20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Peaceful atmosphere away from tourist crowds.
  • Access to beautiful beaches and outdoor activities.
  • Authentic local culture and delicious food.
  • Limited nightlife options for party-goers.
  • Fewer amenities compared to larger cities.
  • Potential language barrier with locals.
  • "Sawasdee krub/ka" - Hello
  • "Khop khun krub/ka" - Thank you
  • "Chai" - Yes
  • "Mai chai" - No
  • "Tao rai?" - How much?

Places to Visit in Ban Pae

Visit one of these nice places.

Ban Pae Beach

A picturesque beach with soft sands and vibrant sunsets, perfect for capturing the beauty of the coastline.

Koh Samet Viewpoints

Various viewpoints on Koh Samet offer stunning panoramas of the ocean and surrounding islands.

Fishing Piers

The piers provide a great opportunity to photograph local fishermen and their colorful boats against the backdrop of the sea.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ban Pae

Ban Pae boasts a vibrant food scene that focuses on fresh seafood and traditional Thai flavors, making it a haven for food lovers.

Ban Pae Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pla Pao

Grilled fish stuffed with herbs and served with spicy dipping sauce, a local favorite.

Must-Try!

Tom Yum Goong

A spicy and sour shrimp soup that is a staple in Thai cuisine.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ban Pae Market

A bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, seafood, and a variety of street food stalls.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ban Pae has a tropical climate, with three main seasons: the dry season from November to February, the hot season from March to May, and the rainy season from June to October. The average temperature ranges from 25°C to 35°C throughout the year, with the driest months being December to February, making it ideal for beach activities. The rainy season brings occasional heavy downpours but also lush green landscapes.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for the Monks

Avoid touching monks and women should not offer them anything directly.

Wai Greeting

A traditional Thai greeting involves pressing palms together and bowing slightly; it's polite to greet locals this way.

Dress Modestly

When visiting temples or local homes, it’s important to dress modestly, covering arms and legs.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ban Pae is generally safe for travelers, but it’s important to stay vigilant, especially on beaches and in crowded areas. Keep valuables secure and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas. It's advisable to drink bottled water and be cautious of street food if you have a sensitive stomach.

Tipping in Ban Pae

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; however, some restaurants and shops may accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (November to February)

Cool and dry weather, perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploration.

Summer (March to May)

Hot and sunny, ideal for beach lovers but ensure to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.

Rainy Season (June to October)

Expect frequent rain showers; however, the landscape becomes lush and vibrant, and tourist crowds are fewer.

Festive Season (Around December)

Enjoy local festivities and events, with a lively atmosphere in the village.

Nightlife Guide

Ban Pae at Night

Ban Pae's nightlife is relatively laid-back compared to larger tourist destinations. Visitors can enjoy beach bars with live music, casual dining with ocean views, and a few local pubs. It's an ideal place for those looking to unwind with a drink while enjoying the soothing sounds of the ocean.

Hiking in Ban Pae

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Khao Laem Ya National Park

Offers various trails with stunning views of the coastline and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

Koh Samet Trails

Multiple trails on Koh Samet allow hikers to explore the island's natural beauty and scenic viewpoints.

Airports

How to reach Ban Pae by plane.

U-Tapao International Airport

Located approximately 50 km from Ban Pae, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, providing convenient access for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ban Pae is quite walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and beaches within easy reach. The village has flat terrain, making it comfortable for walking. However, during the hotter parts of the day, it’s advisable to stay hydrated and wear sun protection.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Fishermen

A significant part of the community, local fishermen contribute to the economy and cultural identity of Ban Pae.

Tourists

Visitors from around the world, drawn to the area for its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Muay Thai

A traditional martial art and sport in Thailand, with local gyms offering training and matches.

Beach Volleyball

Popular among both locals and tourists, often played on the beaches of Ban Pae.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ban Pae is generally light, with most locals using scooters and bicycles for transportation. Public transportation options include songthaews (shared taxis) that are affordable and connect to nearby towns and attractions. However, during peak tourist seasons, road congestion may occur, especially during ferry departures to Koh Samet.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ban Pae.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to specify your dietary needs clearly.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it's important to communicate specifically with restaurant staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Ban Pae is limited to small clinics and local hospitals. For more serious medical needs, it’s recommended to travel to nearby cities like Rayong or Bangkok. Travelers should ensure they have travel insurance that covers international medical expenses.

Discover Thailand

Read more in our Thailand 2025 Travel Guide.

Thailand Travel Guide