Located on Thailand’s eastern Gulf coast, Pattaya is a popular destination world famous for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and other exciting attractions. Here’s an overview that will help if you’re planning a visit:
1. Beaches:
- Pattaya Beach: The main beach in the city, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. It can be quite busy and is lined with numerous bars and restaurants.
- Jomtien Beach: Located a bit south of Pattaya Beach, this beach is generally quieter and more family-friendly, with a relaxed atmosphere and a variety of activities.
2. Attractions:
- Nightlife: Pattaya is filled with bars, nightclubs, and entertainment venues. It’s very lively after dark and great for those looking to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife. Enjoy the bustle of Soi 6 or the slightly more relaxed scenes of LK Metro.
- Sanctuary of Truth: An impressive wooden temple with intricate carvings and a focus on traditional Thai art and architecture. It’s a fascinating place to learn about Thai culture and spirituality.
- Pattaya Floating Market: This market offers a variety of local goods, food, and souvenirs in a picturesque setting with vendors selling from boats.
- Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden: A beautifully landscaped garden with a variety of plants, themed sections, and cultural performances.
3. Activities:
- Water Sports: Jet skiing, parasailing, and snorkeling are popular activities, particularly around Pattaya Beach and Jomtien Beach.
- Golf: There are several high-quality golf courses in and around town, catering to all skill levels.
- Day Trips: You can easily visit nearby attractions such as Coral Island (Koh Larn) for snorkeling and relaxing on beautiful beaches.
4. Food and Drink:
- Local Cuisine: Pattaya offers a wide range of dining options from street food stalls to upscale restaurants. You can enjoy Thai specialties like pad Thai, green curry, and mango sticky rice.
- International Options: There are plenty of international restaurants catering to diverse tastes, including Italian, Japanese, and Indian cuisine.
5. Transportation:
- Getting Around: Pattaya is well-connected by taxis, tuk-tuks, and motorbike taxis. Songthaews (shared pickup trucks) are a popular and affordable way to travel around the city.
- From Bangkok: Pattaya is about a 2-hour drive from Bangkok. You can take a bus, hire a private car, or use ride-sharing services. There is a bus that runs directly between Bangkok Airport and Pattaya: check here for timetable and prices.
6. Climate:
- Weather: The climate is tropical, with hot and humid weather year-round. The rainy season typically runs from May to October, so it might be wise to check the weather forecast and plan accordingly.
7. Safety and Travel Tips:
- Health: Drink bottled water and avoid ice from street vendors to prevent stomach issues.
- Safety: Pattaya is generally safe for tourists, but as with any travel destination, keep an eye on your belongings and be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night.
- Visas: Visitors from many countries may be able to enter Thailand for 30 days without any need for a visa – check the latest requirements here.
Whether you’re looking for a lively nightlife experience, beautiful beaches, or cultural attractions, Pattaya offers a diverse range of activities and experiences to suit different interests.