“The crescent-shaped rock breakwaters along the coastline create a unique scenic landscape. It offers a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for sunset views and enjoying delicious local seafood.”
Saeng Chan Beach, or "PMY Beach" as it's often called locally, is a unique beach in Rayong City that differs from other beaches in Thailand. Instead of a long, continuous sandy beach, its coastline has been designed and maintained with breakwaters built to prevent coastal erosion. This has resulted in a series of small coves along the coastal road, which has become an iconic image of the area.
Located only about 5-6 kilometers from Rayong city center, it's easily accessible and popular with both locals and day-trippers. The overall atmosphere is simple, not a large resort, but a coastal area that blends the lifestyle of fishermen, seafood restaurants, and the daily seaside relaxation of Rayong residents.
The most distinctive feature of Saeng Chan Beach is the "breakwaters" arranged in sections along the coastline, creating several shallow, lagoon-like pools. While some areas are suitable for swimming or strolling along the shore, the beach isn't generally designed for open swimming due to the rock structure and changing currents along the protective coastline.
In the evenings, the coastal road becomes particularly lively, lined with seafood and local restaurants. People often come to enjoy the sea breeze, watch the sunset, and savor fresh seafood such as grilled shrimp, grilled squid, and various other dishes. This has become a more significant attraction of the area than the direct water activities themselves. It's also a popular photography spot where you can see the sunset reflecting beautifully on the water's surface and the breakwater.
Another important dimension of Saeng Chan Beach is its role in environmental and coastal engineering. The breakwaters seen today were built to address changes in ocean currents and coastal erosion resulting from infrastructure development and industrial zones in nearby areas. This has significantly altered the beach's landscape and serves as an example of a coastline reshaping by humans to maintain a balance between the marine environment and the coastal community.
Overall, Saeng Chan Beach is not just a beach for relaxation, but an area that reflects the lifestyle of the coastal community, urban development, and marine environmental management simultaneously. It's ideal for a relaxing getaway, a scenic drive along the coast, or spending an evening experiencing the simple yet unique atmosphere of Rayong city.
How to Get There
- From Rayong city center, take Sukhumvit Road heading west and turn towards the coastal road (Saeng Chan Road). Easily accessible by car or motorcycle, with parking available along the road.
Travel Tips
- Visit in the late afternoon for the best sunset light and cooler weather
- Choose a seating spot near the coves for the best sea and rock views
- Wear sandals or non-slip shoes due to rocky surfaces
- Be careful on wet rocks as waves can make them slippery
Admission Fees:
- Free admission.
Opening Hours:
- Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (except Thursdays).