Eastern Thailand comprises the seven provinces that lie south of Isaan and east of the Central Plains, sandwiched between Bangkok and Cambodia.
The closest beach resorts to Bangkok, this region is an absolute tourist magnet. Its most popular destinations include Pattaya and Ko Samet, but there are also some undiscovered beaches and islands.
A mountainous area off the beaten track, often ventured through on the way to Cambodia. It can also be used as a base for Khao Yai National Park.
The much-loved Ko Chang Archipelago, a popular island destination for beaches, palm trees and fishing villages. Some lesser known islands include Ko Mak and Ko Kut.
Geographically the smallest of the five regions of Thailand, Eastern Thailand contains just seven provinces. Five of its provinces border the Gulf of Thailand, and three share borders with Cambodia, all of which have at least one international border crossing (Aranyaprathet being the busiest).
While Pattaya is the original mass tourism destination, the islands of Ko Samet and Ko Chang also turned into popular beach destinations. On the other hand, the islands at the eastern tip of the region are some of the most scenic and untouched in the country.
Most visitors arrive by bus from Bangkok, but there are airports at U-Tapao and Trat.