Things To Do
in Ranong

Ranong is a small coastal town in southern Thailand, known for its hot springs and proximity to the Andaman Sea. It serves as a gateway to the Mergui Archipelago, offering stunning views and rich biodiversity. The town showcases a blend of Thai and Burmese cultures, evident in its architecture and cuisine.

Visitors are drawn to Ranong for its unspoiled natural beauty and laid-back ambiance.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Ranong
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Ranong Walking Street, where you can enjoy local breakfast delicacies and shop for handmade crafts.

afternoon
:

Visit the famous Ranong Hot Springs for a relaxing soak, followed by a stroll through the nearby mangrove forests.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant along the waterfront, followed by a visit to the night market for some delicious street food.

day 2
Day 2: Island Adventure
morning
:

Take an early boat trip to Koh Phayam, a beautiful island known for its pristine beaches and laid-back vibe.

afternoon
:

Spend the day exploring the island's beaches, snorkeling in clear waters, or renting a scooter to explore the local villages.

evening
:

Return to Ranong and unwind with a seaside dinner, enjoying fresh seafood while watching the sunset.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Noodles$1.50
🍚Plate of Rice with Curry$3.00
🍤Seafood Meal$6.00
Coffee$2.00
🚖Taxi Ride (within town)$2.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and islands.
  • Rich cultural experiences influenced by Burmese traditions.
  • Less touristy compared to other destinations in Thailand.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Some areas may lack English-speaking services.
  • Transportation can be less convenient than in larger cities.
  • "Sawasdee krub/ka" - Hello (male/female)
  • "Khob khun krub/ka" - Thank you (male/female)
  • "Chan mai kao jai" - I don't understand.
  • "Chai" - Yes.
  • "Mai" - No.

Places to Visit in Ranong

Visit one of these nice places.

Ranong Hot Springs

Capture the serene setting of natural hot springs surrounded by lush greenery.

Koh Phayam Beaches

Stunning beaches with soft white sand and crystal clear waters, perfect for sunset shots.

Mergui Archipelago

Breathtaking views from the numerous islands, showcasing untouched nature and vibrant marine life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ranong

Ranong offers a delightful culinary experience, with a rich mix of flavors influenced by both Thai and Burmese cuisines. Local markets and eateries are brimming with fresh seafood, traditional curries, and unique street snacks.

Ranong Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Khao Soi

A spicy coconut curry noodle soup, often served with chicken or beef, and garnished with pickled vegetables.

Must-Try!

Burmese Mohinga

A traditional Burmese fish soup with rice noodles, flavored with lemongrass and served with hard-boiled eggs.

Tom Yum Goong

A hot and sour soup made with shrimp, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and chili.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ranong Night Market

A bustling market offering a variety of local street food, from grilled seafood to sweet desserts.

Sangkhla Walking Street

A lively street market on weekends, featuring food stalls, crafts, and local entertainment.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ranong has a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by high humidity and substantial rainfall, especially during the rainy season from June to October. The dry season from November to February sees cooler temperatures and less humidity, making it the best time for outdoor activities. The hot season from March to May can be quite warm, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). Rainfall is heaviest in September and October, so visitors should prepare for possible disruptions to travel plans during these months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for the Monks

Always show respect to monks; women should not touch them or their belongings.

Removing Shoes

It's customary to remove shoes before entering homes and some businesses.

Polite Greetings

A traditional 'wai' (bowing with palms together) is a common greeting; a smile is always appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ranong is generally a safe destination for travelers, though standard precautions should be taken. Petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, so keep valuables secure. It's advisable to avoid walking alone at night in secluded areas. Additionally, be cautious when swimming in the ocean, as currents can be strong in certain areas.

Tipping in Ranong

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; ATMs are available, and some places accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November - February)

Expect cool, dry weather, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the islands.

Hot Season (March - May)

Temperatures rise, making it perfect for beach visits but be prepared for heat.

Rainy Season (June - October)

Frequent rain showers; the landscape becomes lush, but some outdoor activities may be limited.

Festive Season (Songkran in April)

Experience vibrant water festivals and local celebrations, a unique cultural experience.

Nightlife Guide

Ranong at Night

Ranong's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger Thai cities. The waterfront area offers several bars and seafood restaurants where visitors can relax with drinks while enjoying the sea breeze. Occasionally, local events or festivals bring music and entertainment to the streets, providing a glimpse into the local culture. There are a few night markets that come alive in the evenings, offering food and shopping opportunities.

Hiking in Ranong

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Koh Phayam Trails

Trails on Koh Phayam offer scenic hikes through lush forests and along the coastline, with stunning views of the sea.

Khao Toh Chong National Park

Located nearby, this national park features well-marked trails leading through diverse ecosystems and to scenic viewpoints.

Airports

How to reach Ranong by plane.

Ranong Airport

The closest airport, located just a few kilometers from the town center, offers domestic flights to Bangkok and other nearby locations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ranong is a compact town, making it relatively walkable. Key attractions, local markets, and restaurants are within a short distance from each other. Sidewalks are available in many areas, though some streets may be less pedestrian-friendly. For longer distances, tuk-tuks and taxis are readily available.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Thai Nationals

The majority population, with a rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Burmese Migrants

A significant number of Burmese individuals have settled in Ranong for work, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Muay Thai

A traditional martial art and sport popular across Thailand, with local training camps available.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played and followed, with local matches and teams engaging the community.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ranong is generally light, making it easy to navigate on foot or by vehicle. Public transportation options include songthaews (shared taxis) and tuk-tuks, which are affordable and convenient for getting around. The town has a relaxed pace, so traffic congestion is rarely an issue.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ranong.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to specify your needs as some may include fish sauce.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; it's best to communicate dietary needs clearly when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Ranong includes several local clinics and a main hospital that provides general medical services. For serious medical emergencies, larger hospitals are located in nearby cities like Phuket or Krabi. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as services may not meet the standards of more developed countries.

Discover Thailand

Read more in our Thailand 2025 Travel Guide.

Thailand Travel Guide