Pattaya City
Pattaya City
Pattaya is a city located on Thailand’s eastern Gulf coast. The city is known for its many resorts, beaches and nightlife.
ratings
| Category | Rating | Your Rating |
|---|---|---|
| atmosphere |
|
|
| beach |
|
|
| culture |
|
|
| food |
|
|
| nightlife |
|
|
| scenery |
|
|
| tourism |
|
|
Things to do in Pattaya City
-
Relax at Jomtien Beach
Escape the hustle and bustle of central Pattaya and head to the more laid-back Jomtien Beach. This long stretch of golden sand is perfect for those looking to unwind and soak up some sun. The water here is cleaner and calmer than at Pattaya Beach, making it ideal for swimming or just cooling off.
Jomtien is also a hotspot for water sports enthusiasts. You can try your hand at windsurfing, jet-skiing, or parasailing if you're feeling adventurous. For a more relaxed experience, rent a beach chair and umbrella, and spend the day alternating between swimming and lounging. As the day winds down, grab a spot at one of the beachfront restaurants to enjoy fresh seafood and a cold drink while watching the sunset. It's the perfect way to end a day in paradise.
-
Experience Muay Thai at Max Muay Thai Stadium
Immerse yourself in Thailand's national sport with a night at Max Muay Thai Stadium. This modern arena offers an electrifying atmosphere where you can witness the power and skill of Muay Thai fighters up close. The energy in the stadium is infectious as locals and tourists alike cheer on their favorite fighters.
Even if you're not familiar with Muay Thai, the matches are easy to follow and incredibly exciting. You'll be amazed by the fighters' agility and the distinctive style of the sport, which uses fists, elbows, knees, and shins. Between matches, traditional music and rituals add to the authentic experience. Don't worry if you're new to it all - the stadium staff are friendly and can help explain what's happening. It's a thrilling way to spend an evening and gain insight into an important part of Thai culture.
-
Wooden Wonder: Sanctuary of Truth Experience
The Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya is a jaw-dropping wooden temple that'll make your head spin. This place is seriously impressive - imagine intricate carvings covering every inch of a massive structure right by the sea. It's like stepping into a fairy tale, but with a Thai twist.
You can wander around on your own, but I'd recommend joining one of the guided tours. The guides really know their stuff and can explain all the cool symbolism and history behind the carvings. Plus, you'll learn about Thai philosophy and art, which adds a whole new level to the experience. After the tour, you've got plenty of time to explore on your own, snap some epic photos, and just soak in the atmosphere.
Heads up though - it can get pretty busy, especially during peak hours. And make sure you dress appropriately - no shorts or sleeveless shirts allowed inside. But trust me, it's worth following the rules to see this place. It's a total must-see if you're in Pattaya and want to experience something truly unique and awe-inspiring.
Powered by GetYourGuide -
Visit the Floating Market
Step into a world of vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and bustling activity at Pattaya's Floating Market. This unique attraction offers a glimpse into traditional Thai life and commerce on the water. As you stroll along the wooden walkways or take a boat ride through the canals, you'll be surrounded by vendors in traditional dress, selling everything from fresh tropical fruits to handmade crafts.
The market is divided into four sections, each representing a different region of Thailand. This gives you a chance to sample specialties from all over the country in one place. Don't miss trying some boat noodles or mango sticky rice! Beyond the food, you can watch artisans at work, creating intricate wood carvings or delicate paintings. There are also cultural shows throughout the day, featuring traditional Thai music and dance performances. It's a feast for all the senses and a great way to immerse yourself in Thai culture.
-
Explore Underwater World at Pattaya
Dive into an amazing aquatic adventure at Underwater World Pattaya! This massive aquarium is home to over 2,500 marine creatures from all over the world. As you walk through the 100-meter underwater tunnel, you'll feel like you're right in the middle of the ocean, surrounded by colorful tropical fish, menacing sharks, and graceful stingrays.
The highlight of the visit is definitely the shark feeding show. Watch in awe as divers hand-feed these incredible predators right before your eyes. It's a thrilling experience that'll get your heart racing! For those feeling brave, you can even sign up for a diving experience with the sharks (with proper safety measures, of course). If that's not your thing, the touch pool area lets you get up close with gentler sea creatures like starfish and small rays.
-
Elephant Encounters: Ethical Sanctuary Experience in Pattaya
Get up close with gentle giants at this ethical elephant sanctuary near Pattaya. It's a chance to connect with these amazing animals in a way that puts their wellbeing first. You'll get to feed the elephants by hand, which is pretty cool - just imagine those big trunks reaching out for fruit! The best part is helping give them a bath. It's messy but so much fun splashing around with them.
The guides really know their stuff about elephant behavior and conservation. They'll share all kinds of interesting facts and stories about the individual elephants living at the sanctuary. You can tell they truly care about protecting these incredible creatures. The whole experience feels authentic, not touristy at all. It's awesome to support a place that's setting an example for responsible wildlife tourism in Thailand.
After all the elephant action, you get to refuel with a tasty Thai lunch. Lots of people say it's some of the best food they had on their whole trip. The half-day tour flies by, but you'll walk away with memories (and probably some muddy clothes) that'll stick with you forever. If you love animals and want to do something meaningful on your Pattaya trip, this is it.
Powered by GetYourGuide -
Pattaya Extreme ATV & Buggy Adventure
Get ready for an adrenaline rush on this wild off-road tour through the Thai countryside near Pattaya! You'll hop on a powerful ATV or buggy for a 2-hour ride that'll test your skills on all kinds of crazy terrain. We're talking deep ruts, big rocks, and steep hills that'll have your heart racing.
As you zoom along the 32 km course, you'll climb high into the hills for some seriously amazing views. It's a chance to see the real Thailand away from the busy city. Make sure to bring your camera because you'll want to snap pics of the stunning scenery during the water breaks. Fair warning - you're gonna get dusty out there, but that's half the fun!
After all that off-road action, you'll be ready to refuel. The tour includes a tasty burger lunch (veggie option available) with fries and a salad. Plus you can cool off with soft drinks and fresh fruit. It's the perfect way to cap off an epic morning or afternoon of adventure in the Thai countryside. This tour is no joke though - it's for experienced riders looking for a challenge. If you're up for it, you're in for one heck of a ride!
Powered by GetYourGuide -
Island Hopping Adventure: Catamaran Tour to Pattaya's Hidden Gems
Ready for a day of sun, sea, and island exploration? Hop aboard a luxurious 71-foot catamaran for an unforgettable journey to three stunning islands off the coast of Pattaya. As you sail across the sparkling waters, you'll feel like a VIP with the spacious deck, comfy seating, and attentive crew.
The tour kicks off with a visit to Koh Pai, where you can dive into crystal-clear waters for some epic snorkeling. Keep your eyes peeled for colorful fish darting around the coral reefs! Next up is Koh Rin, another tropical paradise where you can soak up the sun on pristine beaches or take a refreshing dip. The grand finale is Koh Ped, also known as Monkey Island. Here, you'll get up close with cheeky monkeys who love to show off for visitors.
Between island stops, you'll be treated to a delicious Thai buffet lunch on board. And don't worry about getting bored during the sail – the catamaran is decked out with fun extras like a water slide, paddleboards, and even a floating pool. With 8 hours of island-hopping bliss, this tour is the perfect way to escape the busy streets of Pattaya and discover the natural beauty of Thailand's coast.
Powered by GetYourGuide
Where to stay in Pattaya City
Best hotels in Pattaya City:
-
New Star (budget hotel)
New Star offers a great spot to stay right in the heart of Pattaya. It's just a short walk from the beach and close to loads of bars, restaurants and shops. The rooms are pretty basic but clean and comfy, with air con and balconies overlooking the city.
The staff here are super friendly and helpful - they'll go out of their way to make your stay easy. While it's not a fancy place, you get good value for the price. The location can't be beat if you want to be in the middle of the action.
One thing to note is that there's no elevator, so you might have to climb some stairs. But overall, New Star is a solid budget-friendly option if you're looking for a simple place to crash in central Pattaya.
-
Amari Pattaya (luxury hotel)
Amari Pattaya is a beachfront resort that offers stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand. The rooms are spacious and modern, with private balconies perfect for watching the sunset.
The hotel has two awesome pools - a big one for adults and a fun water park for kids with slides and play areas. There's also a spa if you want to treat yourself to some pampering.
Food-wise, you've got options. The main restaurant serves up a killer breakfast buffet, and there's an Italian place for pizza and pasta cravings. The location is pretty sweet too - it's right on Pattaya Beach but still close enough to walk to shops and nightlife.
Overall, Amari Pattaya is a great pick if you want a relaxing beach vacay with plenty of amenities, but still want to be near the action of central Pattaya. The staff are super friendly and go out of their way to make your stay enjoyable.
-
DeeProm Pattaya Hotel (medium range hotel)
DeeProm Pattaya Hotel is a great spot if you want to be close to the action but not right in the middle of it. It's about a 20 minute walk from central Pattaya, so you can easily head into town but still get a quiet night's sleep.
The rooms are clean and comfy, with nice decor and all the essentials you need. There's a good-sized pool to cool off in, and the staff are super friendly and helpful. Breakfast gets good reviews, with both Western and Thai options available.
While it's not right on the beach, you can walk there in about 20-30 minutes. Or grab a quick tuk-tuk ride if you don't feel like hoofing it. Overall, it's a solid mid-range option in Pattaya that offers good value for money. Just don't expect a luxury resort and you'll likely be happy with your stay.
-
Sandalay Resort (resort)
Sandalay Resort offers a relaxing beachfront escape in northern Pattaya. Just steps from the sand, this laid-back property features simple but comfortable rooms with bright, modern decor. Many rooms have balconies with sea views - perfect for watching the sunset over the Gulf of Thailand.
The small outdoor pool provides a refreshing spot to cool off, while the on-site restaurant serves up tasty Thai and international dishes with ocean vistas. Location is a big plus here - you're close to Central Festival mall and Walking Street, but far enough away to avoid the noise.
While not luxurious, Sandalay delivers good value with its prime beachfront setting, decent amenities, and friendly staff. It's a solid choice for couples or families wanting a fuss-free beach getaway in the heart of Pattaya.
book now on booking.com
Best hostels in Pattaya City:
-
Happy Hostel (boutique hostel)
Happy Hostel in Pattaya City is a great spot for budget-conscious travelers looking for comfort and convenience. The hostel offers both private rooms and dorm-style accommodations, so there's something for everyone. One of the best features is the indoor swimming pool - perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring the city.
The location is really convenient, just a short walk from Pattaya Beach and close to lots of restaurants, bars and shops. Inside, the rooms are clean and air-conditioned, with free WiFi throughout the property. There's also a shared lounge area where you can relax and meet other guests.
The staff are friendly and helpful, and there's a 24-hour front desk if you need anything. Overall, Happy Hostel provides good value for money in a great location. It's a solid choice if you want a comfortable place to stay without breaking the bank in Pattaya.
-
Kaen Hostel (hostel)
Kaen Hostel offers budget-friendly accommodations right in the heart of Pattaya, just a short walk from the beach. The rooms are simple but clean, with options ranging from shared dorms to private rooms with en-suite bathrooms. Some rooms even have garden views and terraces for relaxing.
The hostel has a chill vibe with common areas where you can hang out, including a shared kitchen and lounge. There's also a bar on-site if you want to grab a drink and meet other travelers. The staff are friendly and can help arrange tours or give tips on things to do nearby. With free WiFi throughout, it's easy to stay connected. Overall, Kaen Hostel is a solid choice if you're looking for affordable lodging in a great location in Pattaya.