×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Expat Exchange - Discovering the Best of Ranong
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In


Discovering the Best of Ranong

By Betsy Burlingame

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

Summary: Discover the charm of Ranong with our guide to the city's top attractions, culinary hotspots, and vibrant nightlife. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, we'll also help you find the best recreational activities to enjoy, and offer advice on making lasting connections with the friendly locals.

Welcome to Ranong! If you're planning to move to Ranong, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Ranong has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Ranong.

Ranong, a small province in Thailand, is a hidden gem that offers a variety of attractions for both tourists and locals. One of the most popular sites is the Rattanarangsarn Palace, a beautiful wooden palace that was once the residence of the governor of Ranong. The palace is now a museum that showcases the history and culture of the province. Another must-visit site is the Ranong Canyon, a stunning natural attraction that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. For those who enjoy hot springs, the Raksa Warin Hot Spring is a must-visit. The hot spring is believed to have healing properties and is a great place to relax and unwind. The Khao Fa Chi Viewpoint is another popular attraction, offering panoramic views of the Andaman Sea and the surrounding islands. For nature lovers, the Laem Son National Park is a must-visit. The park is home to a variety of wildlife and offers opportunities for hiking and bird watching. The park also has beautiful beaches where visitors can relax and enjoy the sun.

The restaurant and nightlife scene in Ranong is vibrant and diverse, offering a variety of options for all tastes. One of the most popular restaurants in the area is the Kiwi Orchid & PL Guesthouse Restaurant, known for its delicious Thai and Western dishes. The restaurant also offers cooking classes for those interested in learning how to prepare Thai cuisine. Another popular restaurant is the Ruan Thai Seafood Restaurant, which serves fresh seafood dishes in a relaxed, beachfront setting. For those looking for a night out, the Ranong Walking Street Night Market is a must-visit. The market is filled with food stalls, bars, and live music, making it a lively and vibrant place to spend the evening. The Bamboo Bar is another popular nightlife spot, known for its friendly atmosphere and live music. The bar offers a variety of drinks, including local beers and cocktails.

Recreational activities in Ranong are centered around its natural beauty and outdoor attractions. One of the most popular activities is visiting the hot springs, with the Raksa Warin Hot Spring and the Porn Rang Hot Springs being the most popular. These hot springs are surrounded by lush greenery and offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. Another popular activity is exploring the Laem Son National Park, which offers opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and beach activities. The park is home to a variety of wildlife and has several trails that lead to stunning viewpoints. For those interested in water activities, the Andaman Sea offers opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and boat tours. The Ranong Pier is a popular starting point for these activities, with several tour operators offering trips to the nearby islands. For those interested in history and culture, a visit to the Rattanarangsarn Palace is a must. The palace offers insight into the history and culture of the province and is a beautiful architectural site.

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers
Get Quote

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote

Insider Tips from Expats in Ranong: Making the Most of Life and Connections

"Ranong, is a small town that is not as popular with expats as other areas in Thailand, but it still offers a variety of activities and clubs for expats to join. One of the most popular activities is yoga, with several studios offering classes. There are also fitness clubs and gyms where expats can join and meet other like-minded individuals.For those interested in the local culture, there are Thai language classes and cooking classes. These not only provide an opportunity to learn about the Thai culture but also to meet other expats and locals. Outdoor activities are also popular in Ranong, with many expats joining hiking and cycling clubs. The area is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including hot springs, waterfalls, and national parks, making it a great place for outdoor enthusiasts.In terms of socializing, many expats meet people through local bars and restaurants. These venues often host live music and other events, providing a great opportunity to mingle and meet new people. Volunteering is another way that expats meet people in Ranong. There are several local charities and organizations that welcome the help of foreigners, and this can be a rewarding way to give back to the community and make new friends.Finally, there are also online forums and social media groups specifically for expats in Ranong and Thailand in general. These platforms can be a great resource for meeting people, finding out about local events, and getting advice on living in Ranong," said one expat living in Ranong.

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers
Get Quote

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Ranong is generally peaceful and relaxed. The town is less crowded compared to other popular Thai cities, offering a more laid-back lifestyle. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those who work remotely. The local community is friendly and welcoming, and while English is not widely spoken, expats can get by with basic Thai phrases.Ranong is known for its hot springs, waterfalls, and national parks, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The town also has a good selection of local and international restaurants, as well as markets selling fresh produce. Internet connectivity is generally good, with numerous cafes offering free Wi-Fi, making it suitable for digital nomads.However, the town's remote location can make it feel isolated, and it may not offer the same level of amenities or nightlife as larger cities. The weather can also be a challenge, as Ranong is one of Thailand's rainiest towns. Despite these challenges, many expats and digital nomads enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty that Ranong offers," commented an expat living in Ranong.

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers
Get Quote

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


GeoBlue
GeoBlue

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Get a quote in 2 minutes from our partner, Cigna Global Health.
Get Quote

Cigna Global HealthCigna Global Health

Get a quote in 2 minutes from our partner, Cigna Global Health.
Get Quote

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

Copyright 1997-2025 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides