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 Walking Street, the craziness of Soi 6 or the more relaxed atmosphere of LK Metro. You can check out what’s on in the Pattaya Events Guide.
- 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.
- Shopping: If you want some retail therapy, there are some excellent malls, markets and outlets in town – check out the Pattaya Shopping Guide.
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.