Ranong is a south-western province bordering Myanmar and the Andaman Sea. As the wettest province in Thailand, Ranong has earned the nickname “Fon Paed Daet See” (Rainy Months City, literally “Rain Eight, Sun Four”) thanks to its eight-month rainy season and four-month dry season.
That being said, anyone who has been to Ranong will likely want to return. In my opinion, this city has all the makings of a perfect vacation spot thanks to its pleasant year-round temperature range and abundance of natural attractions, including the sea, mountains, waterfalls, and hot mineral springs. Because of the mild climate throughout the year, visitors can enjoy the lush vegetation and soothing waves without worrying about overheating.
Here are four of Ranong’s best sunset vantage points, which you shouldn’t miss.
1. Ranong Lighthouse (The 80th Birthday Anniversary Lighthouse)
The 80th Birthday Anniversary Lighthouse is located in Moo. 5, Ban Khao Nang Hong, Tambon Pak Nam, and was constructed in honor of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great’s 80th Birthday Anniversary. At that time, the lighthouse was part of the nine-storey Ranong Customs House Pier. On the ninth floor, you can see a vast expanse of the Thai and Myanmar coastlines, as well as the mouth of the Kra Buri River, which serves as a natural border between the two countries before emptying into the Andaman Sea. Open for visitors from 9 AM to 7 PM.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/QwjjVGqGsse4oGUR8
2. Sea Swan – Happiness Space
The Sea Swan cafe, which overlooks the ocean, features modern white and red decor. There is a wide range of photo opportunities that are appropriate for today’s lifestyle and that need to be shared on platforms like Instagram and Tiktok. The large red swan hanging on the wall is the focal point. As for the lodgings, the sea remains in the front, a large pond can be found to the side, and a mountain can be found in the back. One location suffices to call it finished. There is also some very tasty food available here. Sunsets on the water have a special kind of romance all their own. There are air-conditioned areas and open-air areas, both of which provide views of the ocean, in the guest rooms. The hours of operation are from 9 AM to 7 PM daily.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/RzBY7FxSNF951S6q7
3. Aow Yai, Koh Phayam
One of the two major islands in the Ranong Sea and Aow Yai Bay is Koh Phayam. The large bay and surrounding area give Koh Phayam its name and status as the island’s most popular tourist destination. The length of the bay is roughly 4 kilometers. When the tide is low, you can see the wide sandy beach gradually sloping down to the sea. This bay is known for its fine, fluffy sand that is easy on the feet. The Aow Yai sand is a combination of yellow and gray sand. At low tide, the stripes become stunningly visible. Powerful waves at Aow Yai make it an ideal spot for surfers looking to catch some waves before or after watching the sun set elsewhere.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/iiCkcYv9kXVD3ePaA
4. Khao Fa Chi View Point
Just 30 kilometers from Ranong’s capital, this landmark checkpoint is a must-visit for anyone exploring the province. La-Oun District is home to Khao Fa Chi. It's a 259-meter-high mountain like Fa Chi. From this vantage point, the confluence of the La Un and Kra Buri rivers, and ultimately the Andaman Sea, is a sight to behold. Views of the Myanmar coast and the islands, both big and small, are available. This is yet another stunning place to watch the sun set in Ranong Province.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/TibD2auZTEhHVcvW7