Beyond Bangkok, from the estuary of the Chao Phraya River, the East Coast unfolds in a series of bays and beaches to the Thai-Kampuchean border. Many popular resorts, including Pattaya, Asia's premier beach resort, occupy a coast characterized by cliff-hidden bays, palm-fringed beaches, innumerable fishing communities, lovely islands and largely tranquil Gulf waters. The region is rich in natural resources, including rubber, rice, fishing, orchards and gemstones, and scenically arresting with several national parks containing waterfalls, virgin forest and uninhabited, remote islands.

   Bangsaen, 100 kilometres southeast of Bangkok, is the capital's nearest resort. A cool palm-lined promenade separates Bangsaen's long crescent beach from seafront bungalows, a water amusement park and a modern hotel.

   Khao Khiao Open Zoo, 15 kilometer inland from Bang Phra, occupies a 1200-acre hillside setting. Favourite Asian, African and European mammals occupy spacious enclosures. Thailand's most spectacular aviary, nestling against a forested hillside, contains several rare Asian species.

      Pattaya, 147 kilometers southeast of Bangkok, is Thailand's "Riviera" and internationally famous beach resort. All manner of watersports, motor-racing, offshore coral islands, luxury accommodation and a vibrant nightlife comprise Pattaya's main attractions.

 
    Rayong, is best known for its Ban Phe fishing village and the narrow, 6-kilometre long Samet island. Ko Samet has some 15 bays and lovely beaches, Coral reefs and limpid waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, scuba-diving and fishing are found on the island's east coast.

    Chanthaburi, is famous for historic sites, Thailand's largest Christian church, locally mined star sapphires, bountiful orchards and the Khao Khitchakut and Namtok Phlui national parks which contain attractive waterfalls.

   Trat, the province bordering Kampuchea, is best known for the 52-island Ko Chang Marine National Park, which is dominated by Thailand's second largest island.