Hidden in the trees of a small hilltop along the coastline in between Koh Samet and Laem Mae Phim Beach is Chao Pho To Kong Shrine. It’s one of the more than 40,000 temples scattered across Thailand and easy to drive past without even noticing. However Chao Pho To Kong Shrine is definitely worth visiting if you are in Rayong province, even if only for the amazing view.
This is most likely the only Thai navy ship shrine in the country.
The entrance to the temple and several small, colorful, elaborately decorated shrines are located at the base of the hill. Grab a handful of incense sticks, light them using the flame and then proceed to place three incense sticks at each of the three small shrines (in clockwork order starting from the shrine located furthest from the hill). The remaining incense are for the giant Buddha.
After finishing proceed up the stairs to the rest of the shrine. Even before this specific shrine was built, local fisherman have long since used this spot to pay homage before going out to sea.
As beautiful as the shrine is, don’t forget to spin around 180 degrees and soak up the amazing view of Ko Samet island.
