Emerging from the quiet eastern Gulf coast of Thailand, approximately 100 kilometers southeast of the bustling metropolis of Bangkok, lies the vibrant city of Pattaya. Despite being within the province of Chonburi, Pattaya stands as a self-governing municipal area, encompassing the tambons of Nong Prue and Na Klua, along with parts of Huai Yai and Nong Pla Lai. This coastal gem finds itself in the heart of the industrial Eastern Seaboard zone, rubbing shoulders with Si Racha, Laem Chabang, and Chonburi, creating a dynamic and thriving region with a population of around one million.
Exploring Pattaya: Thailand’s Lively Coastal Gem
The history of Pattaya is a tale rooted in its name. It evolved from the legendary march of Phraya Tak (later known as King Taksin) and his army from Ayutthaya to Chanthaburi, a journey that preceded the fall of Ayutthaya to Burmese invaders in 1767. On his way to Chanthaburi, Phraya Tak encountered a local leader named Nai Klom, who initially attempted to intercept him. However, their face-to-face meeting left Nai Klom deeply impressed by Phraya Tak’s dignified demeanor and his army’s discipline. Surrendering without resistance, Nai Klom joined forces with Phraya Tak, and the place where their armies confronted each other was christened “Thap Phraya,” signifying the “army of the Phraya.” This name later transformed into the Pattaya we know today, derived from the wind blowing from the southwest to the northeast at the onset of the rainy season.
Pattaya’s journey began as a quiet fishing village, only transforming into a bustling tourist destination in the 1960s. Its tourism industry burgeoned during the Vietnam War when American servicemen sought respite in its sun-kissed beaches, introducing the city to the world.
Known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a wide range of entertainment options, Pattaya has long been a popular destination for tourists from around the world. The city offers a diverse range of experiences across its various areas, making it an attractive destination for all types of travelers. Here’s a closer look at the different areas of Pattaya and what visitors can expect:
Pattaya Beach:
Highlights: As the central hub of Pattaya, Pattaya Beach is famous for its lively atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, water sports, and a range of beachfront restaurants and bars.
Experience: Pattaya Beach is the epicenter of the city’s activities. During the day, it’s a bustling beach with water sports like jet-skiing and parasailing. At night, the beachfront comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene.
Jomtien Beach:
Highlights: Jomtien Beach is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and cleaner, quieter beaches compared to Pattaya Beach.
Experience: This area is perfect for travelers seeking a more relaxed beach experience. Water sports, restaurants, and a tranquil ambiance are the hallmarks of Jomtien Beach.
Naklua and Wong Amat Beach:
Highlights: These northern areas offer a quieter, upscale experience with beautiful beaches and luxurious resorts.
Experience: Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stay, upscale dining, and the opportunity to explore local fishing communities in Naklua.
Central Pattaya:
Highlights: Central Pattaya is the heart of the city, known for its bustling nightlife, shopping districts, and entertainment options.
Experience: This area is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in Pattaya’s vibrant nightlife, shop at markets and malls, and explore attractions like Ripley’s Believe It or Not! museum.
South Pattaya and Walking Street:
Highlights: South Pattaya is famous for Walking Street, a renowned nightlife district with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
Experience: If you’re seeking a lively and entertaining night out, Walking Street is the place to be. It’s also home to many international and seafood restaurants.
Pratumnak Hill:
Highlights: Pratumnak Hill offers stunning viewpoints, such as the Big Buddha Hill and Phra Tamnak Hill, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Pattaya.
Experience: This area is great for sightseeing and relaxation, with scenic spots, parks, and a more serene atmosphere.
East Pattaya:
Highlights: East Pattaya is a residential area with local markets, golf courses, and temples.
Experience: While not a tourist hotspot, it provides insight into local life. You can explore traditional markets, visit serene temples, and enjoy golfing at world-class courses.
Pattaya’s diverse neighborhoods cater to a wide range of interests, from beach lovers and party enthusiasts to families and couples seeking a more tranquil escape. Regardless of your preferences, Pattaya offers a blend of traditional Thai culture, modern attractions, and a lively atmosphere that ensures an unforgettable experience for all visitors.
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Must-Visit Attractions
Must-Visit Attractions and Landmarks in Pattaya
Pattaya offers an array of attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. Some of the must-visit landmarks include:
Pattaya Beach
Stretching for about 2.7 kilometers from Pattaya Nuea (North) to Pattaya Tai (South), this beach was once 35 meters wide but now faces erosion issues. A restoration project is underway to widen the beach to 50 meters, ensuring its longevity.
Teddy Bear Museum
Southeast Asia’s first and only museum dedicated to teddy bears. It’s a joyous place, particularly for children, offering fantastic photo opportunities.
Underwater World Pattaya
An impressive oceanic attraction showcasing over two thousand marine animals, including rare species. The shark and ray fish feeding sessions are crowd favorites.
Nong Nooch Tropical Garden
This stunning garden is a popular tourist spot, known for its Thai cultural and elephant shows.
Art In Paradise
An interactive art gallery with over 100 3D paintings, including optical illusions, wildlife, and nature-themed works.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
Housed in Royal Garden Plaza, this museum features hundreds of intriguing exhibits that seem right out of the TV show.
Upside Down Pattaya
A unique and fun theme park where everything is upside down, offering visitors a whimsical experience.
Monster Aquarium
This fantastic aquarium features a reptile terrarium, petting zoo, and a wide range of species, including some rare ones.
Dolphin World
A mesmerizing dolphin show that showcases these intelligent creatures’ skills, allowing visitors to take photos and even feed the dolphins.
How to Get To Pattaya
Pattaya is easily accessible by various modes of transportation:
Fastest Route To Pattaya | 1hr 32min by Car
Road: You can reach Pattaya via the Bangkok-Chonburi-Pattaya Motorway (Hwy 7), which connects to Bangkok’s Outer Ring Road (Hwy 9). There’s also an entrance at Si Nakharin and Rama IX Junction. The Bang Na-Trat Highway (Hwy 34) provides another route from Bangkok to Pattaya.
Rail: There is a daily train service on the Eastern Line of the State Railway of Thailand that connects Pattaya to Hualumphong Station in Bangkok.
Bus: Pattaya is served by bus services from Bangkok’s Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit) and the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekamai), connecting to the main bus terminal in Pattaya on Pattaya Nuea (North Pattaya Road).
Air: Pattaya is approximately 120 kilometers by road from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), Thailand’s largest international airport. Alternatively, you can use U-Tapao International Airport (UTP), which is a 45-minute drive south of the city, and serves scheduled flights to and from Pattaya.
Best Time To Go Pattaya
Best Time to Visit Pattaya
Pattaya enjoys a tropical climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The ideal time to visit Thailand generally is during the dry season, which spans from November to February, offering pleasant weather and cooler temperatures. However, you will find the weather in Pattaya pretty good all year round as it is protected largely by it geographical position.
Best Way To Get Around
Getting Around Pattaya
Navigating Pattaya is convenient, thanks to an array of transportation options. Songthaews, fondly called “baht buses” or “blue taxis,” are the primary mode of public transportation within the city. You can also Download The Bolt Taxi App which is much like the internationally recognized Uber app offering easy pickup and collection with linked maps and cheap fares.
Off the Beaten Path Hidden Gems
While Pattaya is renowned for its bustling nightlife and entertainment, there are hidden gems for travelers seeking unique experiences. Explore the city’s lesser-known wonders like:
Historical Shipwreck Diving
Whilst no for everybody, Pattaya is coined the Wreck Diving Capital of Thailand being home to 7 Shipwrecks, 4 visited daily by many diving companies. If you are interested in becoming a wreck diver and exploring underwater history then Pattaya is the place to go.
Khao Chi Chan
This impressive Buddha Mountain is etched onto a cliff and adorned with intricate details. It’s a serene and lesser-visited site compared to other attractions.
Sanctuary of Truth: A stunning wooden temple that boasts intricate carvings and is an architectural masterpiece.
Silverlake Vineyard: Pattaya’s very own vineyard offers serene surroundings, wine tasting, and beautiful sunset views.
Koh Larn
A short ferry ride away, this picturesque island boasts pristine beaches and clear waters, perfect for a day trip.
Wat Yansangwararam
This temple complex offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful gardens, serene ponds, and intricate architecture.
Mabprachan Lake
Often spelled as Mapachan Lake, is a picturesque and serene freshwater lake located approximately 15 kilometers from the city center of Pattaya, Thailand. This natural attraction is a popular escape from the hustle and bustle of Pattaya’s main tourist areas, offering a tranquil environment surrounded by lush greenery and the refreshing waters of the lake. Here’s what you need to know about Mabprachan Lake and its surrounding restaurants:
The Lake and Its Scenery: Mabprachan Lake covers an area of around 400 acres, making it one of the largest reservoirs in the Pattaya region. It was originally constructed to supply water to Pattaya City and its surrounding areas. Today, it serves as a peaceful retreat for both locals and tourists. The lake is encompassed by rolling hills, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers, joggers, and cyclists.
Activities:
- Fishing: Mabprachan Lake is renowned for its fishing opportunities. The lake is stocked with various species of fish, including catfish and carp. Anglers often visit here for a chance to catch some impressive specimens. You can either bring your own fishing gear or rent equipment from local shops.
- Cycling and Jogging: The scenic surroundings of the lake are perfect for cycling and jogging. There are well-maintained paths and trails that offer a pleasant outdoor experience. You can rent bicycles in the area if you don’t have your own.
- Picnicking: Many visitors come to Mabprachan Lake for picnics with family and friends. There are designated picnic areas where you can relax, enjoy a meal, and take in the natural beauty.
Surrounding Restaurants: The area around Mabprachan Lake is home to several restaurants and eateries where you can satisfy your hunger after a day of outdoor activities. While these restaurants are not as numerous or as commercialized as those in downtown Pattaya, they offer a more laid-back and scenic dining experience. Here are a few options:
- The Lake Kitchen: This restaurant offers a stunning view of the lake and serves a mix of Thai and international cuisine. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a meal while taking in the natural beauty of the surroundings.
- The Bistro Pattaya: Located near Mabprachan Lake, this restaurant features a diverse menu that includes Thai, European, and seafood dishes. It’s known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly staff.
- The Horseshoe Point Restaurant: Situated in the nearby Horseshoe Point Resort & Country Club, this restaurant offers a selection of Thai and Western dishes. The restaurant overlooks the equestrian center and is an excellent choice for a leisurely meal.
- Mabprachan Garden: This is a popular restaurant located close to the lake, offering both Thai and international cuisine. They have a relaxing garden setting where you can dine al fresco.
While the dining options around Mabprachan Lake are not as extensive as in downtown Pattaya, they provide a peaceful and scenic backdrop for enjoying a meal. It’s an ideal place to unwind and savor delicious food in a more relaxed atmosphere away from the city’s crowds.
Local Cuisine / Best Restaurants?
Exploring Pattaya is not complete without indulging in its local cuisine. Thai cuisine is renowned for its flavorful dishes, and Pattaya is no exception. Be sure to try:
Street Food: Pattaya is famous for its street food, including fried chicken, satay, phat kaphrao, som tam (papaya salad), and a variety of delectable snacks.
Seafood: Being a fishing village, Pattaya serves some of the freshest seafood. Don’t miss out on shrimp, lobsters, parrotfish, and fresh raw mussels.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options: If you’re a vegetarian or vegan, Pattaya has options like Thai pineapple fried rice, vegetable Thai yellow curry, and more.
- Terminal 21 and central Malls have amazing quality restaurants and food courts catering to both Thai and international dishes.
- International Dinning is everywhere in Pattaya serving all the flavours of the world.
Ayutthaya Thailand
Activities in Pattaya
Pattaya is a vibrant city with an abundance of activities to keep you entertained throughout your stay. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in this bustling coastal destination. Here are some top activities to enjoy in Pattaya:
- Water Sports: Explore the Gulf of Thailand by indulging in various water sports such as scuba diving in Pattaya, parasailing, windsurfing, and banana boat rides. Pattaya’s warm blue waters make it an ideal spot for water enthusiasts.
- Beach Time: Pattaya boasts several beautiful beaches, including Pattaya Beach, Jomtien Beach, and Wong Amat Beach. Relax on the sandy shores, swim in the warm waters, or enjoy beachside activities like beach volleyball.
- Sanctuary of Truth: Visit this awe-inspiring wooden temple by the sea, entirely hand-carved from teakwood. The Sanctuary of Truth is a unique architectural marvel that combines art, culture, and spirituality.
- Nong Nooch Tropical Garden: Explore the lush botanical gardens of Nong Nooch, where you can witness traditional Thai dance performances, marvel at intricate topiary gardens, and enjoy the beauty of exotic plants.
- Pattaya Floating Market: Immerse yourself in Thai culture at the floating market, where you can shop for souvenirs, sample delicious street food, and take a traditional boat ride through the market’s bustling canals.
- Art in Paradise: Get creative at the interactive 3D art gallery known as Art in Paradise. Here, you can pose with incredible optical illusions and become part of the artwork.
- Pattaya Viewpoint: Take in panoramic views of Pattaya and its coastline from the Pattaya Viewpoint, also known as the Pattaya Hill Top. It’s a popular spot for breathtaking sunset views.
- Elephant Sanctuary: Experience an ethical elephant encounter at sanctuaries like Pattaya Elephant Sanctuary. Here, you can learn about these magnificent creatures and even help bathe and feed them.
- Pattaya Floating Market: Explore this cultural attraction where vendors sell their wares from boats, and you can sample a wide variety of Thai street food and snacks.
- Tiffany’s Cabaret Show: Enjoy a dazzling cabaret performance at Tiffany’s Show Pattaya, featuring extravagant costumes, impressive choreography, and talented performers.
- Mini Siam: Discover the world in miniature at Mini Siam, a park featuring scaled-down replicas of famous landmarks from around the globe.
- Nightlife: Pattaya’s nightlife is legendary. Experience the vibrant bar scene, dance the night away at clubs, or enjoy a quiet drink by the beach.
- Thai Cooking Classes: Learn the art of Thai cuisine by taking a cooking class. You can shop for fresh ingredients at local markets and then cook up delicious Thai dishes.
These activities offer just a glimpse of what Pattaya has to offer. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking to relax by the sea, Pattaya has something to make your visit memorable.
Unique Cultural Experiences
Immerse yourself in Pattaya’s rich culture by witnessing traditional Thai performances and festivals. Nong Nooch Tropical Garden hosts Thai cultural shows, while annual events like Songkran (Thai New Year) and Loy Krathong (Festival of Lights) offer captivating cultural experiences.
Language
Local Language of Pattaya
While Thai is the official language, you’ll find that English is spoken in almost all areas. Learning a few basic Thai phrases can enhance your travel experience and show respect for the local culture.
While Thai is the official language, you’ll find that English is spoken to varying degrees in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Thai phrases can enhance your travel experience and show respect for the local culture.
- Hello – สวัสดี (Sawasdee khob/ka)
- Thank you – ขอบคุณ (Khob khun)
- Yes thanks- ใช่ (Chai Krub)
- No thankyou- ไม่ (Mai ow khub)
- Please – โปรด (Prôd)
- Excuse me / Sorry – ขอโทษ (Khǒ tots)
- How much is this? – นี่เท่าไหร่ (Nī tao rai?)
- Where is…? – …อยู่ที่ไหน (…yû tī năi?)
- I don’t understand – ฉันไม่เข้าใจ (Mai khao jai)
- Goodbye – ลาก่อน (Lā gon)
Accommodation in Pattaya
In Pattaya, you’ll find a diverse range of accommodation choices to match your budget and preferences:
Luxury Resorts: For an opulent stay, immerse yourself in the lap of luxury at renowned resorts like the Anantara Pattaya Resort & Spa.
Mid-Range Hotels: There are plenty of comfortable mid-range hotels to choose from, including options like the Wave Hotel Pattaya and Centara Pattaya Hotel.
Budget-Friendly Guesthouses: Traveling on a tighter budget? Pattaya offers numerous guesthouses and hostels like Nonze Hostel, ensuring an affordable stay without compromising on comfort.
Boutique Retreats: Explore Pattaya’s charming boutique hotels, each offering a unique and personalized experience that adds a touch of elegance to your stay.
Check Out These Accommodation Guides
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How's the weather in Pattaya?
Pattaya experiences a tropical climate, characterized by a wet season from May to October and a dry season from November to February. Average temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) to 32°C (89.6°F) throughout the year, with the cooler, drier months being the most popular for tourists.
Recommended Itinerary
1 Week in Pattaya
For a fantastic week in Pattaya, consider this itinerary:
Day 1-2: Explore Pattaya Beach, Teddy Bear Museum, and Art In Paradise.
Day 3: Visit Nong Nooch Tropical Garden and enjoy a traditional Thai cultural show.
Day 4: Discover the wonders of Underwater With Pattaya Scuba Adventures and try scuba diving day trip to a local island.
Day 5: Experience the excitement at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! and Upside Down Pattaya.
Day 6: Embark on a day trip to Koh Larn for beach relaxation and water activities.
Day 7: Explore hidden gems like Khao Chi Chan and Wat Yansangwararam before indulging in some street food.
Pattaya, with its blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and vibrant nightlife, offers a dynamic experience that caters to every traveler’s desires. Whether you seek relaxation on its stunning beaches, adventure in its aquatic wonderlands, or immersion in Thai culture, Pattaya has it all, making it an unforgettable destination in Thailand.
