Ranong is a small town on Thailand's northern Andaman coast, close to the Myanmar border and wetter than almost anywhere else in the country. It is not polished, and it is often treated as a transit point for boats to Koh Phayam, but that sells it short.
The town has a strong border feel: Burmese-style temples, Chinese-Thai family histories, wet green hills, and hot springs that locals use as casually as a neighbourhood park. The long rainy season gives Ranong a washed, mossy look that feels different from the drier beach towns farther south.
The best day here mixes the Rattanarangsarn Palace, Raksa Warin Hot Springs, and one of the green escapes south of town. Ngao Mangrove Forest Research Centre shows the tidal side of the province, while Phu Khao Ya is the odd treeless grass hill locals treat as Ranong's signature view.
Ranong is best for travellers who like damp, borderland towns and nature within easy reach. If you only want beach time, go straight to Koh Phayam; if you have a spare day before the boat, stay and look around.