Pattaya Travel Guide 2024: Beaches, Nightlife, & Culture

Thailand
Written By Anna Rooker

Pattaya, located in the Chonburi Province approximately a 1.5-hour drive South of Bangkok, is a large and lively coastal beach city known for its nightlife, beaches, watersports, and seafood. In just 3-4 days you can discover the best of what Pattaya offers and this travel guide will tell you how to do just that. From where to eat, to the best hotels in Pattaya, to the must-experience Pattaya entertainment and attractions, start planning your tropical getaway to Pattaya City today!

 

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READ ALSO: Your Guide to Visiting the Phi Phi Islands (Krabi, Thailand): Phi Phi Island Day Trip

When to Visit Pattaya & How Many Days

Pattaya is one of those tropical destinations that is worth visiting year-round. The rainy season falls between June and October with September and October being the most wet. For the best temperatures, the best months are November through February.

I visited Pattaya in mid-October and found the amount of rain totally bearable. I also admittedly enjoy visiting places during their rainy season because I love the rain. It rained for a couple hours every day I was there so I planned my day around the forecast!

I recommend 3-4 days in Pattaya! This is the perfect amount of time to see and experience the best of what Pattaya has to offer.

How to Get to Pattaya

The most convenient international airport most visitors will fly into is Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in Bangkok. Pattaya is a 1.5 - 2 hour drive south depending on traffic and route.

I recommend getting an airport taxi or Grab upon arrival to take you to your accommodation in Pattaya. Drivers are plentiful and are accustomed to making the drive to Pattaya. We paid 3,000 TBH (~$82 USD) with A.O.T. Limousine Service which has booths in the airport. Grab would be cheaper.

Alternatively, if the hotel you are staying at offers hotel pickups (car or shuttle), this could be a more convenient mode of transportation for you to arrange ahead of time and potentially more cost-effective.

Left: Songthaew; Right: Scooters

How to Get Around Pattaya

The best ways to get around Pattaya are by walking, songthaew, Grab, taxi or day hire, scooter rental, or guided day trip tours through agencies such as Viator.

Walking

Pattaya is walkable, particularly in the city and near the beaches. Most streets have pedestrian sidewalks and you will find many others walking to get around as well. If where you are heading is not far, you will likely find walking is the most efficient option to get around as traffic in Pattaya City can be heavy and slow.

Songthaew

The most popular way to get around Pattaya City is by songthaew, AKA baht buses. Songthaews are pick-up trucks with two benches in the back covered by an awning that is used as a shared taxi. These are everywhere. You can flag them down on the street, hop in the back (usually with some strangers), and ring the buzzer when you're ready to get off. This is the cheapest way to get around (besides walking). Depending on the distance, it is usually about 10 baht per person (~$0.30 USD).

Grab

Grab is the Uber of Southeast Asia and is incredibly efficient and reliable. Download the app on your phone and use it as you would Uber or Lyft to get around with a vetted and reviewed driver. Many Grab drivers, especially in Pattaya, may also offer private day-hire services for a fixed rate.

Day Hire/Taxi

Another great option if you want to get out of Pattaya City and explore more nearby destinations, is to hire a taxi or day-hire driver to take you where you want to go. This is typically offered as a fixed rate for a certain number of hours or days. You can find these services by talking to Grab drivers (some will offer this), asking your hotel to arrange a private driver, or hitting up a taxi stand.

Scooter Rental

Tourists can rent motorbikes to get themselves around. There are stalls for rentals all over Pattaya (and Thailand for that matter). While this is a fun and exciting option, I don’t recommend renting a scooter unless you have experience driving these for your safety on the busy Thailand roads.

Guided Tours

Excursion tours can be found through your hotel, tour agency stands around the city, or by booking a guided tour online with sites like Viator, GetYourGuide, or Klook. This is a great way to meet new people while traveling and visit desirable destinations without having to think about the logistics of getting there.

Avani Pattaya Resort & Spa

Where to Stay in Pattaya

For a beach destination popular among tourists, Pattaya is surprisingly affordable and achievable no matter your budget. Most of the hotels sit along the coast, many beachfront or intertwined in the bustling streets of Pattaya - the area I think is the best place to stay in the action. Prices are subject to vary.

Budget Hostels & Inns in Pattaya (under $50/night)

  • Nonze Hostel is a capsule hostel offering capsules or dormitory beds in an ideal location. Close to Pattaya Beach, Pattaya Walking Street, and other notable

  • The Bedrooms Hostel Pattaya is a modern hostel located a few steps from Pattaya Beach and close to many tourist attractions and sights. You can book private rooms with shared bathrooms or dorm-style rooms for a lower nightly cost. If you are looking for a very affordable, comfortable, and clean accommodation with the beach at the front of your mind, this is it!

  • Sindy’s Hostel offers a variety of rooms whether you are looking for a dorm bed, a private room with shared bathroom facilities, or private double room on a budget. Breakfast and unlimited coffee are included with your stay at Sindy’s every morning.

  • The Green Spot is…unique, haha. Located in the party district of Pattaya, this guest house is connected to a cannabis shop and bar. Each room has an accent wall with a famous rapper or artist notorious for their love of weed painted on it (i.e. Wiz Khalifa, Snoop Dogg, Bob Marley, etc). The rooms run about USD 25/night. It’s a highly-rated option for those looking to have late nights and a lot of fun. Only about a 10-minute walk to the beach.

  • The Siam Guest House is 500m from Pattaya Beach and down the road from Pattaya Walking Street. This guest house offers intentionally basic, cheap, clean rooms with friendly staff and an excellent location for Pattaya attractions and restaurants.

 

Mid-Range Hotels in Pattaya ($50-100/night)

  • Travelodge Pattaya, located in the heart of Pattaya, is a well-rounded 3-star hotel with a rooftop pool, fitness center, updated rooms, and breakfast buffet in the mornings. Travelodge is rated exceptionally well for its amazing staff and good location.

  • DeeProm Pattaya Hotel is perfect for larger traveler groups because this hotel offers a range from double rooms to 2-bedroom suites that sleep up to 6 people. It’s a bit further of a walk to the beach but is surrounded by many restaurants and all Pattaya attractions are a short drive away.

  • Siam View Hotel and Residence is just approximately 2,500ft away from Pattaya Beach down a quieter neighborhood street. So you can be tucked away while still having access to so many sights on foot. Depending on the time of year and your room choice, the nightly cost can be less than $50!

  • 247 Boutique Hotel is a modern boutique hotel in the middle of all the Pattaya action. So much so that many reviews touch on the music from surrounding establishments until the early morning so this may not be the ideal place to rest your head for everyone. For those coming to Pattaya to be up late with the nightlife - here is a clean, trendy hotel with all the amenities and luxury comforts you’d need at a 3-star price.

 

Luxury Hotels & Resorts in Pattaya ($100+/night)

  • Avani Pattaya Resort & Spa is where I stayed for a few nights, and wow! For the location, the more exclusive and private outdoor spaces set off the main, busy road, the excellent restaurants and room service available to guests, the gym and spa, and the outstanding staff, the price for Avani can’t be beaten. Luxurious, modern, and large rooms and amenities, some with private balconies and ocean views. I highly recommend Avani!

  • Royal Cliff Beach Hotel Pattaya is an award-winning 5-star resort with mountain and sea-view rooms, an infinity pool, a tour desk, and a restaurant on site. It is located a short drive from most Pattaya attractions.

  • Hilton Pattaya is for my Hilton loyalists! Located conveniently on Beach Rd with Pattaya Beach directly across the street, this opulent Hilton hotel boasts a rooftop bar and restaurant with some of the best views of Pattaya, ocean-view suites (some with a jacuzzi ON your private balcony!!!), and maybe some of the most aesthetically beautiful rooms I’ve ever seen. I did not get the chance to stay here yet but did eat and drink in their restaurant/bar on the top floor and had an excellent experience.

  • Cape Dara Resort Pattaya features world-class service and amenities, a private beach for guests, and luxurious rooms overlooking the sea. Located about a 15-minute drive from Pattaya Walking Street, you are set away from most of the wild party streets and energy and can harvest calm and serenity in this stunning resort.

  • The Monttra Pattaya is a 4-star jungle retreat with a private beach, spa, and select suites with private plunge pools. This is a great option for couples who want to escape the center of Pattaya for lush greenery, ocean, and romantic relaxation.

 

Left: Jasmin’s Cafe; Right: Horizon Rooftop Restaurant & Bar

Where to Eat in Pattaya

Pattaya City offers a culinary experience for any palate and budget. Here are some delicious must-visit places to eat and drink in Pattaya that I personally tried and enjoyed.

  • JASMIN’S CAFE | Thai cafe gem in Pattaya serving traditional, tasty Thai dishes, western comfort food, and juices and coffee. Personally, this was my favorite place for local cuisine in Pattaya City. The dishes are high-quality and fresh.

📍Location: 137 หมู่ที่ 9 Central Pattaya Rd, Muang Pattaya, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand - Get directions on Google Maps

 

  • HORIZON ROOFTOP RESTAURANT AND BAR | Located on the top floor of the Hilton Pattaya is Horizon, a rooftop restaurant and bar with stunning views of Pattaya Beach and the city. For modern takes on worldwide cuisines in a luxurious location. I recommend making a reservation ahead of time.

📍Location: Thailand, Chon Buri, Bang Lamung District, Muang Pattaya (In Hilton Pattaya) - Get directions on Google Maps

 

  • CHUTNEY INDIAN: BY THE BEACH | I believe this is some of the best Indian food in Pattaya City. We ate here several times! Located on Beach Road along Pattaya Beach. It is open late and serves authentic Indian dishes.

📍Location: Next to Pizza Company, 218/2 Beach Rd, Pattaya City, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20260, Thailand - Get directions on Google Maps

 

  • PATTAYA BEER GARDEN | Located down the street from Pattaya Walking Street, Pattaya Beer Garden is a good place to stop on your way to a night out in the town for western or thai food. The restaurant sits on a pier over the water and has excellent sunset views. Try their fish and chips!

📍Location: 118/4 Beach Rd, Pattaya City, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20260, Thailand - Get directions on Google Maps

 

  • DON PEPE SPANISH TAPAS BAR | For some authentic Spanish/Mediterranean flair, try Don Pepe Spanish Tapas Bar. You can find a mix of seafood, tapas plates, and wines in a bustling but cozy atmosphere.

📍Location: 216/44-45 Moo10 Nhongprue, Pattaya City, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand - Get directions on Google Maps

 

  • SALA RESTAURANT | Tucked away in the lively Pattaya streets is Sala Restaurant. Airy restaurant (no enclosed space / air con) serving authentic Thai cuisine. Welcoming staff, spicy food, cold beer, and good ambiance will have you returning here during your trip.

📍Location: 27/7 Phattayatai 24, Pattaya City, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand - Get directions on Google Maps

 

  • ANYTIME CAFE | A cute all-day breakfast spot next to Bali Hai Pier. Anytime Cafe also serves a wide menu of cuisines from all over the world (including Thai), coffee, juices, and pastries.

📍Location: 172/1 หมู่ที่ 10 Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand - Get directions on Google Maps

 

  • CABBAGES & CONDOMS | Stunning location with picturesque sunset views serving Thai dishes. The restaurant has a fun and unique adult theme with condom decor (as the name suggests) and is located in the Birds & Bees Resort.

📍Location: 366 11 11 หมู่ที่ 12 Phra Tamnak, ตำบล หนองปรือ Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand (in Birds & Bees Resort) - Get directions on Google Maps

 

  • (💨) SMOKY GARDEN | Weed is legal in Thailand and I have a couple of recommendations! First is Smoky Garden. This is a gaming/weed cafe where you can play video games, smoke, drink a beer or even a coffee. The staff are amazing and even though it’s located on the very busy Pattaya Walking Street, the shop was always nearly empty and very chill on the late evenings I visited.

📍Location: 458, 1 Moo 10, Pattaya City, Amphoe Bang Lamung, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand - Get directions on Google Maps

 

  • (💨) TAIWAN DISPENSARY PATTAYA (BUBBLE TEA AND CANNABIS CAFE) | My second recommendation for a weed shop is Taiwan Dispensary. This is a stall located on Beach Road with just a couple chairs outside of it to sit. It’s right in the bustle of the street so it’s a fun place to smoke and people watch. They also serve drinks and bubble tea!

📍Location: 218 Beach Rd, Pattaya City, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand - Get directions on Google Maps

Best Things to Do in Pattaya

Have a Beach Day

Full disclosure - the beaches in Pattaya are not like most of the beaches you can find in other parts of Thailand with pristine white sand and crystal blue waters, especially during the high season or rainy season when the water is more churned up. This is not that kind of beach destination! However, that doesn’t mean that Pattaya doesn’t have some beautiful, worthwhile beaches to lounge on during your time in the Chon Buri Province.

Here are the best beaches in Pattaya:

Most of these beaches have public lounge chairs and umbrellas that you can rent for the day for very cheap. Some even just require that you buy a beer from the local vendor to get a chair! Be sure to have Thai baht on you to pay for this. You will be well taken care of with locals coming around with snacks and drinks they are selling and a comfortable chair to enjoy the beach’s vibe.

 

Hike Up to Phra Tamnak Mountain Viewpoint

For amazing views of the bay and Pattaya City, walk up the path to Phra Tamnak Mountain Viewpoint. Along your walk, you can find local stalls for snacks or grab a coffee from Coffee Break Pattaya.

Cost: Free

📍Location: เขาพระตำหนัก หนองปรือ Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand - Get directions on Google Maps

 

Enjoy the Views from The Lighthouse of Cape Bali Hai

While visiting Phra Tamnak Mountain Viewpoint, you might as well explore more of this peninsula area by visiting the Lighthouse of Cape Bali Hai for one of the best, unobstructed sunset spots in Pattaya.

Other sites to see while visiting the lighthouse:

Cost: Free

📍Location: WVJ6+2VQ, Bali Hai, South Banglamung, Pattaya City, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri, Thailand - Get directions on Google Maps

 

Visit the Sanctuary of Truth Museum

Sanctuary of Truth is an impressive wooden castle and temple in Pattaya and the largest of its kind in the world. It sits on the coastline with a backdrop of the blue Gulf of Thailand. There are timed tours throughout the day in several languages that take you through the wood workshops and into the massive temple where you can admire the detailed woodwork and intricacies of this masterpiece.

Note: You need to dress appropriately before entering the temple (knees and shoulders covered).

I also feel that it is necessary to mention that elephant riding is an activity for tourists here, which is something I greatly disapprove of and discourage all from partaking in. This costs extra to do so while your ticket into the museum itself is worth the visit, you WILL see this activity occurring and if you are sensitive to these issues as I am, you may want to reconsider your visit to the Sanctuary of Truth Museum.

Cost: 500 baht/adult (~$14.30 USD) - this cost includes a guided tour of the castle/temple. Other activities, tourist sites, etc available on the grounds cost extra

📍Location: 206 ตําบล นาเกลือ, 2 Soi Na Kluea 12, Muang Pattaya, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand - Get directions on Google Maps

 

See a Show at the Alcazar Cabaret Show

Alcazar Cabaret Show is known to have some of the best, most exquisite drag performances in Thailand! Alcazar attracts locals and foreigners from all around the world to their large 1,200-seat theater every evening.

Cost: 1,800 baht/VIP adult (~$52 USD)

📍Location: 78, WVVQ+WRX, 14 Pattaya Sai Song Rd, ตำบล หนองปรือ, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand - Get directions on Google Maps

 

Central Pattaya mall and food court

Spend Some Money at the Malls & Markets

Pattaya has several shopping areas whether you want to spend money on local goods and souvenirs or to shop Western or local brands for apparel.

  • Central Pattaya - Shopping mall with a range of well-known and local brands selling apparel, electronics, etc

  • Terminal21 Pattaya - Shopping mall with a range of well-known and local brands selling apparel, electronics, etc

  • Central Marina - A mix of a shopping mall with brand names and local street stalls for goods and food

  • Pattaya Night Bazaar - Lively night market with over 250 stalls selling souvenirs, clothes, etc

  • Pattaya Park Night Market - Covered night market with a variety of vendors selling apparel, local dishes, etc

  • Tree Town Night Market - Another night market featuring a maze of stalls selling souvenirs and street food

  • Wat Chai Mongkhon Market - A traditional Thai market where you can get a good sense of shopping as a local for produce, seafood, and more

 

Experience the Pattaya Walking Street at Night

You can’t visit Pattaya without walking down the notable Pattaya Walking Street late in the evening. The heart of the red-light district of Pattaya (and Thailand for that matter) is a street that overwhelms all of your senses. Flashing, bright lights, loud music, crowds, endless bars and “clubs” (if you know what I mean). Visit at night when the height of the energy of this street comes alive! It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Cost: Free to walk around

📍Location: Walking St, Pattaya City, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand - Get directions on Google Maps

 

Visit Nearby Temples

While in Thailand, you should explore some of the religious sites and temples near Pattaya. Here is a list of temples in order from nearest to furthest from Pattaya (but under 1-hour drive).

  • Wat Chai Mongkhon - Conveniently located in the center of the city is an intricate Buddhist temple complex

  • Grand Buddha - An impressive gold sitting Buddha at the top of a grand staircase with views of Pattaya

  • Wat Phon Prapa Nimit - An all-white Buddhist temple with an ornate, silver interior in a quiet location

  • Khao Chi Chan Buddha - Buddha depiction carved into the side of a mountain

Note: To enter temples you need to dress modestly, covering your shoulders, upper arms, and knees. Shoes typically need to be removed.

 

Take the Family to Ripley's Believe It or Not! Pattaya

A family-friendly activity in Pattaya is visiting the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! This is also a good activity to keep you indoors for a few hours if the weather isn’t ideal. It is located in the Royal Garden Plaza on Beach Rd and features 8 different attractions and exhibits.

Cost: Depends on how many and which exhibits you wish to visit. Browse the available exhibits on the website here

📍Location: 218 Beach Rd, Pattaya City, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand - Get directions on Google Maps

 

Go Golfing

There are a number of popular golf courses and resorts around Chon Buri, mostly South of Pattaya under an hour's drive away from Pattaya Beach, for those who enjoy swinging a golf club on vacation.

Here are some options for where to golf near Pattaya:

 

Get Outside with Water Sports or ATVs

Pattaya is well known for its water sports! The waters are filled with boats, jet skis, and water activity-lovers. Whether you are interested in water or land sports but just need to itch your adrenaline junkie push, you have options in Pattaya.

These activities may include - ATV’s, jet skis, parasailing, scuba diving, snorkeling, banana boat rides, flyboarding, sailing, and more.

Note: Only book adventurous excursions with accredited companies that prioritize safety over customer turnover. It is no secret that Thailand has had its fair share of disastrous outcomes from a lack of safety checks and maintenance. The above recommendations are all highly rated by their customers but are still naturally a safety risk given the activity.

 

Take a Day Trip to Koh Larn

Koh Larn is a nearby island, just a quick 35-minute pedestrian ferry ride away from Pattaya Pier (Bali Hai Pier). Koh Larn is a relatively small tropical island with beachfront resorts, hiking, mountainous terrain, and the perfect picturesque beaches and turquoise waters you may imagine when you think of Thailand.

You can visit the ferry’s Facebook page for the departure schedule from both piers, cost, news and updates on ferry operation, or message the page with any questions you have.

Cost: One-way ferry cost is 30 baht/person (~$0.90 USD)

📍Pattaya Pier Location: Get directions on Google Maps

📍Koh Larn Pier Location: Get directions on Google Maps

Tips & Things to Know Before Visiting Pattaya

  • Keep Thai Baht on you. Thailand is still a country where cash is used frequently. It’s best to have some on you just in case.

  • You can get an eSIM card ahead of your arrival in Thailand using the app Airalo. Get $3 off your first eSIM card with my referral code, ANNA5384

  • As with the rest of Thailand, do not drink tap water. Most hotels supply your room with bottled water. If not, you can order from restaurants or go to nearby convenience stores to grab some!

  • In busy party areas, keep an eye on your drinks and belongings. Though it is rare, drugging and pickpocketing do happen as it does in most crowded areas and destinations, unfortunately. Only take what you absolutely need with you when you go out.

  • Keep an open mind! Pattaya City is the sex tourism capital of the world. You will see a significant amount of sex workers all over the city. “Massage” parlors are common, and down the Pattaya Walking Street are shows and clubs. Go with an open mind and have fun!! If you aren’t willing to do that, skip going near Pattaya Beach and Pattaya Walking Street at night especially. If you do choose to partake in any activities, please be safe and smart.

  • There is a lot more to Pattaya than its street and nightlife. As alluded to in this blog post, you should set intentions to explore all that Pattaya has to offer as there is much more to the city than just its nightlife.

  • There are dedicated swimming areas on Pattaya Beach marked off with buoys. It is recommended to only get in the water in this area for your safety as the rest of the waters along Pattaya Beach are busy at all times of day with boats and water crafts.

  • Use reef-safe sunscreen for both your own skin protection and the protection of the wildlife in the ocean.

  • If you plan to visit any temples while in Pattaya, be sure to cover up to adhere to and respect the religious customs of entering temples. This includes covering your shoulders and knees and wearing loose-fitting clothing to appear modest.

  • Use mosquito spray-repellent! Especially during the rainy season, the mosquitos can get bad. To avoid excessive bites or sickness, I recommend stopping at a convenience store upon your arrival to buy repellent or bring some with you on your trip.

  • Download the Google Maps region of where you will be visiting on your phone so that in the event you do not have cellphone service, you can still use offline Google Maps to get directions.

Map

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Anna Rooker
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