🔄 Updated 21 Jun 2026
The Sunthorn Phu Monument sits on Sunthorn Phu Road in Kram subdistrict, Klaeng district, Rayong, along the Klaeng–Laem Mae Phim route, about 5 kilometres before you reach Laem Mae Phim beach. This area is believed to be the birthplace of Sunthorn Phu's father, which is why the monument was built here in his memory. Locals usually just call it 'Sunthorn Phu Park,' since the grounds are a wide, easy garden you can stroll through.
Why stop here
The spot everyone photographs most is the seated statue of Sunthorn Phu, raised on a mound at the centre of the plaza as the main figure, with a pond below it. Around it stand three real bronze sculptures of characters from Phra Aphai Mani: Phra Aphai Mani himself, the mermaid, and the sea ogress (Nang Phisuea Samut). Seeing them, the literature you studied in school suddenly has a face. Kids love it because they get to see the characters for real, not just in a book.
- Sunthorn Phu statue — the centrepiece of the plaza, set on a mound; the main photo spot
- Phra Aphai Mani + the mermaid — bronze sculptures beside the pond, the pair people photograph most
- Nang Phisuea Samut (the sea ogress) — the giantess from the story, standing in another corner of the garden
- Exhibition hall — inside it tells the life and works of Sunthorn Phu; good to take kids through
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Hours, entry and getting there
- Hours: daily, 08:00–17:00
- Entry: free, no ticket charge
- Address: Sunthorn Phu Road, Moo 1, Kram, Klaeng, Rayong 21190
- Getting there: driving yourself is easiest; it's on the Klaeng–Laem Mae Phim road, about 5 km before the beach, with a car park
- Time to look around: about 30–45 min, just right for a quick stop
Tip
From mid-morning into the afternoon the sun is harsh, and the plaza is wide open with no shade. For nicer photos and less heat, stop by early after opening or in the late afternoon before closing. Bring an umbrella or a hat.
Sunthorn Phu and this place
This monument was built in memory of Sunthorn Phu, one of Thailand's greatest poets. The foundation stone was laid back in 1955 and it was completed and officially opened in 1970. The grounds cover a little over 8 rai, with the sculptural work designed by several artists, and the statue and character sculptures cast in bronze. Every year on 26 June, Sunthorn Phu Day, the site holds memorial events and literary activities. People around Rayong also revere him as a sacred guardian figure of the area.
Where to go next
The nice thing about this stop is that it sits right on the road down to the sea. Once you've seen the monument, another drive of under 10 minutes gets you to the beach. It works well as a half-day trip combined with the beach and the seafood spots nearby.
Laem Mae Phim Beach
A long, quiet stretch of sand about 5 km from the monument, with beachside seafood restaurants to sit at after your visit.
Mae Ramphueng Beach
Rayong's popular beach, a long stretch of white sand with restaurants and cafes along the shore; carry on from Klaeng toward town.
Markets & food in Klaeng town
Before or after your visit, it's easy to stop for noodles and local food in Klaeng town centre.
Honest take
This is more of a quick photo stop, and a chance for kids to see the Phra Aphai Mani characters for real, than a full-day attraction. If you're already in Klaeng and heading to the beach, it's worth pulling over. But don't make a special long drive just for it.
Plan your whole Rayong trip — beaches, food, places to stay
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