The province covers an area of 3,298 square kilometres. The provincial capital is 568 kilometres south of Bangkok. Ranong is probably best known for its game-fishing, a hot spring resort and the comparative ease with which remote islands, including the Surin Marine National Park, (actually in neighbouring Phangnga province), can be reached. Ranong's hot spring is located some two kilometres east of the provlnc1al capital near Wat Tapotharam. Water temperature is a constant 65 degrees Celsius. The water is believed to be beneficial to health thanks to an unusually high sulphur content. forest surrounding the hot springs features an arboretum, known as Raksawarin which contains leisure pavilions and bathing rooms. The Hat Chan Damri Beach near the Kra Buri River estuary offers a view of Victoria Point, a Burmese township which attracts domestic tourists for reasonably-priced local products and souvenirs. The beach also offers picturesque sunsets. Phayam island, some two hours from the provinclal capital, supports a pearl farm and sea gypsy village. Other islands in the immediate vicinity, such as Sin Hai and Chang, are eminently suitable for gamefishing, scuba diving and snorkelling.