A kaleidoscope of neon and racy nightlife, Thailand’s second most-visited city has softened its image, drawing more couples and families to its beaches.
Situated 93-miles (150-kilometers) southeast of Bangkok, Pattaya has long been thought of as a kind of naughty little sister to the Thai capital. The massage parlors, go-go bars and late-night discos have been the main draw since the 1960s, when American servicemen stationed in Vietnam came here to let off some steam. There can be no denying that this after-hours culture is still very much a part of life in Pattaya as a stroll down Walking Street after dusk will attest. However, recent attempts by authorities to make it a more well-rounded travel destination have seen a more sophisticated side to this city emerge.
Blessed with a chain of gorgeous, curving beaches, the city offers plenty to the tourist looking for some quality beach-side rest and recreation. Stake out your place in the sun from the sea of sun lounges on Pattaya Beach. Rent a Jet Ski, take to the sky by parasailing or book a dive or snorkeling trip to the nearby Kho Larn Island. Alternatively, settle back with a good book at one of the more serene stretches of sand nearby. Dongtan Beach and Crescent Moon Beach provide a couple of havens where you can escape the crowds and beach vendors.
Climb aboard an elephant for a jungle safari at the Pattaya Elephant Sanctuary, an ecologically sound center with a focus on education and rehabilitation. Another must-do is the spectacular Sanctuary of Truth, a hand-carved, wooden complex which integrates the symbolism from Asia’s main four religions using traditional Thai artisanal techniques. If you’re looking for souvenirs, then take a wander around the Pattaya Floating Market, where you’ll find handicrafts and cuisine from each of the four main regions of Thailand.
Traffic can be chaotic and may intimidate the first time visitor. Confident drivers can rent a car, jeep or moped to get around. Otherwise, hail one of the songthaews, or Baht Buses (shared taxis), which run a number of set routes throughout the city. Prices are the same for locals and tourists, and with lots of them cruising the city streets, wait times are never long. The streets also teem with taxis and motorbike taxis, so getting around is never a problem.
Where to stay in Pattaya
South Pattaya
3.5/5Good!(32 area reviews)
The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to South Pattaya. A stop by Jomtien Beach or Walking Street might round out your trip.
Visitors to Central Pattaya rave about its stunning beaches, fantastic nightlife, and popular shops. You might also want to make some time to see Central Festival Pattaya Beach or Pattaya Beach Road while you're exploring the neighborhood.
Visitors to Pattaya Bay rave about its stunning beaches, fantastic nightlife, and popular shops. You might also want to make some time to see Pattaya Beach or Pattaya Beach Road while you're exploring the neighborhood.
North Pattaya is popular for its beaches, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Mini Siam or The Sanctuary of Truth.
You'll enjoy the beaches and restaurants in Ban Bang Saen (1). You might want to make time for a stop at Bangsaen Beach or Bangsaen Lang Beach Public Park.
This family-friendly Pattaya hotel is located by the sea, within a 5-minute walk of Tiffany's Show and Art in Paradise. Pattaya Beach Road and Hard Rock Cafe ...…This family-friendly Pattaya hotel is located by the sea, within a 5-minute walk of Tiffany's Show and Art in Paradise. Pattaya Beach Road and Hard Rock Cafe ...WWW…
4.5/5Wonderful! (508 reviews)
"I stayed for 2 nights ! The first night my room is face to the pub street! Very Noisy at night, can't sleep very well! The next day we change another side room, no more noise! Overall, the property is good!"…""I stayed for 2 nights ! The first night my room is face to the pub street! Very Noisy at night, can't sleep very well! The next day we change another side room, no more noise! Overall, the property is good!"WWW…"
This family-friendly Pattaya hotel is located by the ocean, within a 5-minute walk of Central Festival Pattaya Beach, Pattaya Beach Road, and Pattaya Beach. ...…This family-friendly Pattaya hotel is located by the ocean, within a 5-minute walk of Central Festival Pattaya Beach, Pattaya Beach Road, and Pattaya Beach. ...WWW…
4.4/5Wonderful! (1,317 reviews)
"Accomodation:- The location is centrally located with convenient shopping next to it. Food is everywhere within the vicinity. Room size and view is fantastic. Room is a little dated with some of the paint peeling and cracking. TV size is good, which is swivelable which i initially thought to be unavailable. ..."…""Accomodation:- The location is centrally located with convenient shopping next to it. Food is everywhere within the vicinity. Room size and view is fantastic. Room is a little dated with some of the paint peeling and cracking. TV size is good, which is swivelable which i initially thought to be unavailable. ..."WWW…"
Located in Central Pattaya, this beachfront hotel is in the city center and within a 10-minute walk of Terminal 21 Pattaya, Art in Paradise, and Pattaya Beach. ...…Located in Central Pattaya, this beachfront hotel is in the city center and within a 10-minute walk of Terminal 21 Pattaya, Art in Paradise, and Pattaya Beach. ...WWW…
4.3/5Excellent! (953 reviews)
"Exactly what you need near the airport. Not much food around but 7 11 near"…""Exactly what you need near the airport. Not much food around but 7 11 near"WWW…"
Action packed water-sports, exquisite boutique hotels, relaxing days in the sun and legendary night life make this beach favorite with sun-lovers the world over.
Walk amid magnificent gardens, enjoy boating on scenic lakes, ride on an elephant’s back and watch Thai cultural shows at this family-friendly theme park.
The Kaan Show marks a new era in the history of Thailand’s entertainment industry. This is a world-class stage performance combining live action and cinema in a purpose built theatre like no other.
One of the Safest and most modern outdoor track in all Asia! Digital timing system - Panoramic terrace - Snack bar We have 4 different kart models on 2 Tracks to suit your needs depending on your age and height Racing Track : 800m Beginner track: 350m Make sure to fit the qualifications to be able to drive your selected kart Fast Kart(from 15 years old & 1.
Tiffany's Show Pattaya has been voted number 4 in the TOP TEN BEST SHOWS to see around the world, so it has come a long way since it began in 1974 as a one man show performed for friend's on New Year's Eve in Pattaya! Every year the coveted Miss Tiffany's Universe beauty pageant is held.
Experience the first-ever transvestite cabaret show in Southeast Asia. Be amazed by more than 100 professional performers in dazzling costumes presenting creative impersonations through songs, dance, and tales of romance and adventure.
Step into one of Thailand's newest and grandest temples for a journey through the world of Buddhist and Hindu magnificence amid spectacular Khmer-style design. With its vast dimensions and intricate motifs, the Sanctuary of Truth offers a look at the engineering marvels and rich culture of Thailand.
Visit: Love Art Park, 129/5-7 M.8 T.Huaiyai A. Banglamung Chonburi, Pattaya 20150 Thailand Love Art Park awaits you with hundreds of erotic body sculptures and installation along with its beautiful landscape.
Best of both worlds, we were able to have quite time on the hotel's property or be stimulated by a short walk to town.
4/5 - Good
Verified traveler
Nov 28, 2019
If you like Phuket, this is perhaps a more convenient option from Bangkok.
5/5 - Excellent
Verified traveler
Nov 22, 2019
Pattaya is mostly touristy with lots of foreigners and tourists walking around. its a safe place for everyone even if you walk at nights. would definitely come back
2/5 - Disappointing
Verified traveler
Nov 21, 2019
Pattaya is the biggest whore house in the world. Not like that but if u like it is good for u
4/5 - Good
Verified traveler
Nov 20, 2019
Will be back.
4/5 - Good
JB
Nov 19, 2019
Pattaya is as it will always be noisy busy and full of drunks. Food is good and beer is cheep, very few visitors for busy season
