Pla Beach credit image by FB Sirapat Sutham
Pla Beach (Hat Phla), Ban Chang, Rayong
A Relaxing Beachside Getaway You Shouldn’t Miss
Located in Ban Chang District, Rayong Province, Pla Beach (Hat Phla) is one of the three main beaches in the area, alongside Payoon Beach and Nam Rin Beach. Of these, Pla Beach is the largest and most popular, acting as a central hub for seaside activities in Ban Chang.
Pla Beach offers a wide, expansive sandy shoreline that is perfect for families. Children can enjoy swimming safely along the beach, while adults can relax with beachside dining at the many seafood restaurants available. Visitors can also bring their own mats for a cozy picnic right by the sea. Parking is convenient with plenty of space along the beachfront.
Pla Beach credit image by FB Pailin Sander Faust
In the late afternoon, Pla Beach becomes a prime spot for watching the sunset. The combination of soft sea breezes, colorful skies, and the relaxed atmosphere creates a memorable experience.
The beach stretches nearly 3 kilometers, with beautiful blue waters and brownish sand. On weekends and holidays, the central area of the beach becomes lively, especially with families and children playing along the shore. You can rent beach umbrellas, chairs, and enjoy fresh seafood from local vendors.
For those seeking a quieter, more private experience, we recommend heading towards the casuarina pine grove along the beach. This area is lined with towering pine trees, providing natural shade and a peaceful environment. Locals often hang hammocks between the trees to relax and nap. Many visitors also bring their picnic gear for a full day of leisure, taking photos, dining, and enjoying the cool sea breeze.
Pla Beach credit image by FB Thanakor Tossadon
Another highlight not to be missed is the Pla Beach Pier, located behind Wat Phla (Phla Temple). Set your GPS for Wat Phla, and you’ll find the pier easily. The pier features a long concrete walkway extending into the sea, with a colorful sign reading “มา พัก ล้า @ บ้าน พลา” (“Come Relax @ Ban Phla”). It’s an ideal place to stroll, enjoy the sea breeze, and watch the sunset. From the pier, you can also observe the local fishermen’s lifestyle and the skyline of Rayong’s industrial estate in the distance.
In the evenings, a unique local tradition unfolds along the beach road: locals park their cars along the shoreline, set up camping chairs next to their vehicles, and picnic while watching the sea — an activity that’s rarely seen at other beaches in Thailand. It’s a simple yet charming scene that adds to the special atmosphere of Pla Beach.
While the water here may not be crystal clear like southern beaches, the relaxed and genuine atmosphere more than makes up for it. Once you settle into your chair under the pines or along the pier, you’ll find yourself so relaxed you won’t want to leave.
📍 Location
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Pla Beach (Hat Phla)
Phla Subdistrict, Ban Chang District, Rayong Province, Thailand
🚗 How to Get There
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From Bangkok: approximately a 2-hour drive (about 170 kilometers).
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Best route: Motorway No.7 → exit towards Rayong → Sukhumvit Road (Highway No.3) → Ban Chang → turn onto Tesaban Phla 3 Road to reach the beach.
🕰 Opening Hours
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Open 24 hours
(Restaurants and beach activities are most active between 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM.)
🌤 Best Time to Visit
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November to May: Ideal weather, calm seas, clear skies.
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Peak Season:
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December – February (cooler and breezier weather).
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March – May (hot but great for beach lovers — just bring sun protection).
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Rainy Season (June – October): Possible rains and rougher seas; check weather forecasts before traveling.
⭐ Highlights
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Swimming and beach play
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Picnicking under the pine trees
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Taking photos at “Come Relax @ Ban Phla” pier
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Watching beautiful sunsets
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Experiencing the unique “seaside camping” local lifestyle in the evenings
In short:
If you’re looking for a relaxing, easygoing beach destination not far from Bangkok, filled with genuine local charm — Pla Beach in Ban Chang is absolutely worth a visit!
