Once a modest fishing village, today - the main resort of Eastern Thailand, Pattaya amazes with its transformation. Just 2 hours from Bangkok - and you find yourself in a place where the night is brighter than the day, with enough entertainment to last a month non-stop. People come here for adrenaline, not tranquility. If this sounds like you - welcome to Thailand`s most controversial and never-boring resort.
Who is Pattaya for?
✔ Party-goers - home to Thailand`s best nightlife
✔ Lovers of exotic experiences - elephant shows, crocodiles and cabaret performances
✔ Those who want it all - beaches, shopping, and excursions in one place
❌ Not for wilderness lovers or those seeking secluded beaches
Let`s be honest: beaches aren`t Pattaya`s main attraction. Central shores are packed with sunbeds, and the water is often murky. But there are alternatives:
• Jomtien - the cleanest city beach
• Koh Larn island (30 min by boat) - turquoise water and white sand
• Luxury hotel beaches - if staying at Hilton or InterContinental
Nightlife: when the sun sets, Pattaya transforms:
• Walking Street - a kilometer of neon lights, bars and shows
• Famous cabarets - Tiffany`s Show and Alcazar with lavish performances
• Rooftop bars - like Horizon on the 34th floor of Hilton
Daytime attractions and activities:
• Cartoon Network Amazone waterpark - 30 water slides
• Khao Kheow Open Zoo - safari park where you can feed giraffes
• Floating market - atmospheric shopping and photo ops
• Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai) - golden Buddha statue and panoramic city views
• Wat Phra Khao Yai ("Sanctuary of Truth") - unique wooden structure built without nails
• Sanctuary of Truth - philosophical temple-museum with carved sculptures
• Khao Kheow Safari Park - zoo with safari where you can feed giraffes and see tigers
• Nong Nooch Tropical Garden - botanical garden with elephant shows and Thai dances
• Mini Siam - park with miniature replicas of world landmarks
Pro tips:
✔ Best season - November to February (no rain)
✔ Bargain for everything on Walking Street - from cocktails to tours
• Choose morning trips to Koh Larn - fewer crowds
• Try seafood at Bali Hai Pier - fresher and cheaper than in the city center
Final verdict: to go or not?
Pattaya isn`t about ocean meditation, it`s about:
• Frantic pace of life
• Cultural contrasts
The chance to in one vacation:
• Attend an erotic show
• Ride elephants
• Go on a shopping spree
• Swim in turquoise waters (on nearby islands)
