Ultimate Pattaya Travel Guide - Thailand’s Family Friendly City of Sin!
Nope, that’s not Hollywood, that’s Pattaya!
Ahh Pattaya, what was once a small quaint little fishing village in Thailand has now become the center for the country’s tourism as well as a hub for all things sinful (thanks to the infamous Pattaya Walking Street). Though, Pattaya isn’t solely a place of sin, it’s also a really nice weekend (or weeklong) beach getaway full of delicious seafood and exciting experiences to see and do.
Sp if you’re looking to travel to Pattaya, look no further than this Ultimate Pattaya Travel Guide where I will provide you with all the information you need to enjoy your holiday in Pattaya City!
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My YouTube Video on Pattaya!
If you prefer, you can watch my YouTube video on exploring Pattaya City and its delicious foods. Also if you enjoy the video how about subscribing to my YouTube Channel? ;)
How to get from Bangkok to Pattaya?
Pattaya is not very far from Bangkok making it a perfect weekend getaway
Pattaya City is about 150km south of Bangkok and due to Pattaya being a huge city for tourism, it’s really easy to get from Bangkok to Pattaya or from anywhere else in Thailand to Pattaya. I’ll give you two of the most popular options: via Bus/minivan, and by Airplane.
Bangkok to Pattaya via Bus or Minivan (Recommended)
My recommendation will always be taking the public buses or minivans. It’s easy, it’s relatively fast, and it’s comfortable. Tickets range from 120 - 150 THB depending on which operator you go with. And the journey will take about 2 - 3.5 hours.
I recommend pre-booking a ticket for Pattaya here so you can always ensure you got a seat.
Bangkok to Pattaya via Airplane
Though a bit cumbersome, if you prefer, you can fly from Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport to U-Tapao Rayong Airport. From there you’ll need to get on a taxi or Grab to Pattaya City which is about 40km away.
You can get on a flight from , you’ll then need to take a car or taxi to Pattaya City center which is about 40km away (40 min ride).
If you want more information regarding transportation to Pattaya from Bangkok you can check out my more detailed blog post here: How to get to Pattaya.
Top Pattaya Hotels and Accommodations
There are many hotels in Pattaya with most of them being very comfortable and quite luxurious. Though with Pattaya being a tourist city expect the prices to be a bit expensive.
Centara Life Maris Resort Jomtien
What other hotel has a pool specifically for kids?
Centara Life Maris Resort Jomtien is a luxury family friendly resort with all the usual amenities and then some. Featuring a large pool complete with waterslides, as well as a spa, this hotel is perfect for relaxation. Centara Life is also nearby several of Pattaya’s best attractions such as the Pattaya Floating Market, Pattaya Park Tower, and Tiger Park Pattaya.
Google Maps Rating: 4.3 / 5 (3,800+ Reviews)
Location: 94 Moo 1 Tambon, Muang Pattaya, Sattahip District, Chon Buri 20250
Grande Centre Point Space Pattaya
This hotel looks like an artisitc mock up but believe me, this is a real hotel.
Grande Centre Point Space Pattaya is a crazy sci-fi themed hotel in the center of Pattaya. Theme-ing isn’t the only thing it’s good at, the Grande Centre Point Space Pattaya is also a very luxurious hotel complete with a waterpark, game rooms, and a sky pool. Honestly, this resort is really fun to stay at and is perfect if you are traveling with children or you’re a child at heart. Nearby attractions are Wong Amat Beach, Terminal 21 Pattaya, and the CentralMarina shopping center.
Google Maps Rating: 4.7 / 5 (3,100+ Reviews)
Location: 888 Moo 5 Muang Pattaya, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150
Hotel J Pattaya
A nice small yet very comfortable hotel
For a more budget friendly option, Hotel J Pattaya, located in North Pattaya is perfect for solo or dou travelers. Hotel J Pattaya includes all the amenities as well as excellent staff and a breakfast buffet. Nearby is Wong Amat Beach and the vibrant shopping centers, Terminal 21 Pattaya and CentralMarina.
Google Maps Rating: 4.2 / 5 (1,900+ Reviews)
Location: 221, Moo 6 Muang Pattaya, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150
Hostels in Pattaya City
If you are looking for hostels to meet new people are just want to save a bit more money to spend on experiences throughout Pattaya City, don’t worry. Pattaya is full of hostels most, if not all, are very good in quality, service, and comfort. You can use the widget below to find great hostels in Pattaya:
Exploring Pattaya, Thailand
Smooth sands and bright blue waters, Pattaya’s beaches are beautiful
Situated on the eastern Gulf of Thailand, Pattaya City was once a small little fishing village named “Thap Phraya” which means “Army of the Phraya” as according to the local stories in 1767 where the army of King Taksin marched through the area. Over time the name evolved to “Phatthaya” or Pattaya which means “the wind blowing from the southwest to the northeast at the beginning of the rainy season”. Yes long name, I know.
Pattaya’s Beach Road is full of restaurants, bars, cafes, and shopping malls
During the Vietnam War, American soldiers stationed at the U-Tapao Air Base came to Pattaya due to its beaches, thus turning the humble fishing village into a major tourist hub by the 1980s. Due to the tourism at the time consisting mainly of US servicemen, Pattaya became known for its nightlife and seedy prostitution. However, recent efforts have been made to change the city’s identity into a more family friendly location.
Terminal 21 is a famous themed shopping malls where each floor is a different country
Pattaya is divided into multiple districts:
Central Pattaya - This district is the heart of the city and is a hub for shopping, nightlife, and entertainment. Here is where you can find major shopping malls like Central Festival Pattaya as well as Pattaya Beach.
South Pattaya - Here is where you can find the bulk of Pattaya’s nightlife entertainment, including the infamous Pattaya Walking Street. This district is also home to Bali Hai Pier where you can board a ferry to Koh Larn. It’s also the transportation hub where busses and minivans to other provinces are located.
North Pattaya - This district is quieter than Central Pattaya and is more appealing to families and those seeking a more relaxed vibe. Here is where you’ll find Wong Amat Beach, Terminal 21, and The Sanctuary of Truth.
Aside form the signs and posters, Pattaya Walking Street looks like any other street
Jomtien - Located just south of Pattaya, Jomtien is a peaceful area popular for its long sandy beach and family-friendly vibe. The Pattaya Floating Market is also located here.
Naklua - Situated to the north of Pattaya, Naklua is a quieter and more residential area with a mix of local and upscale attractions and resorts.
Pratumnak Hill - Nestled between South Pattaya and Jomtien, Pratumnak Hill is a serene area with stunning views and a mix of attractions. You’ll find the Big Buddha Hill, and various viewpoints here.
The entire left side of Pattaya city is bordered by the ocean
East Pattaya - Located inland, East Pattaya offers a more residential and suburban feel. It's popular among expats and long-term visitors. Though you can find the Nong Nooch Tropical Garden here famous for its beautiful landscaping and various floral attractions.
Pattaya Outskirts and Suburbs - The areas surrounding Pattaya City include several attractions such as vineyards and the Ramanyana Water Park, one of the largest water parks in Thailand.
Things to do in Pattaya
There are no shortage of things to do in Pattaya, from idyllic beaches to interesting museums to full on water parks. In recent years Pattaya has become an incredible family friendly holiday destination with so much to offer for travelers of all types.
Swim and Relax at Pattaya’s Beaches
Hey can I get on that boat as well? Looks fun!
With Pattaya being located on the eastern coast of Thailand along the Gulf of Thailand, there is a lot of beaches to chill at. Three of the most popular are:
Pattaya Beach - Stretches for 4 kilometers, and bustling with various beachside food vendors and water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boats. This beach is very popular and quite crowded.
Jomtien Beach - Located south of Pattaya Beach, Quieter surroundings and a more relaxed vibe, making it ideal for families and couples. Full of scenic views and trendy cafes.
Wong Amat Beach - Located in the north of Pattaya, clean waters, less crowds, upscale resorts and beachfront hotels. Good beach to just swim and relax without any disturbances.
Visit Koh Larn for a Quick Day Trip
Koh Larn is a small island but I much prefer the beaches here
Just off the coast of Pattaya is Koh Larn (Coral Island), a perfect island getaway and a perfect place for a quick day trip. It only takes a quick 40 minute ferry ride (or a 15 minute speed boat ride) from Bali Hai Pier.
For those of us who are seeking a lively atmosphere, Tawaen Beach is Koh Larn’s most popular spot, bustling with tourists and offering a variety of water sports activities. The beach is also lined with restaurants and shops, making it a perfect place to enjoy some great seafood with an incredible view.
Koh Larn isn’t just an extension of Pattaya’s beaches but the island also boasts scenic viewpoints and various delicious local seafood restaurants and relaxed bars.
I actually have a blog post about my Day Trip to Koh Larn if you would like to read more about traveling to Koh Larn.
Visit the Sanctuary of Truth
Constructed by hand entirely out of wood, the Sanctuary of Truth is truly impressive
The Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya is an incredible masterpiece of art, philosophy, and spirituality. Standing 105 meters tall on the shores of the Gulf of Thailand, this awe-inspiring wooden structure is a is both a temple and an icon of Thailand’s culture.
Commissioned in 1981 by Thai businessman Lek Viriyaphant, the Sanctuary of Truth, built entirely from teakwood, was conceived as a place where visitors from all over the world could reflect on humanity’s spiritual journey and our connection to the universe. Every inch of the structure is adorned with carvings depicting gods, celestial beings, and mythical creatures from Buddhist and Hindu legends.
The Sanctuary of Truth requires an entry ticket, I recommend purchasing it online as to avoid the long queues and to make your experience smoother.
Visit the Wat Phra Yai Temple
Climb up these stairs and be greeted with the enlightening image of the Buddha
Wat Phra Yai Temple, literally translating to “Big Buddha Temple”, is one of Pattaya's most iconic landmarks. Perched high atop Pratumnak Hill between Pattaya and Jomtien, the temple is home to a massive golden Buddha statue standing 18 meters tall. Wat Phra Yai, constructed in 1977, represents Phra Buddha Sukhothai Walai Chonlathan and is a significant symbol of Thai Buddhism.
I’m not a temple man myself, I don’t really enjoy going to temples in Thailand but, don’t let me stop you from enjoying the beauty of Pattaya’s Buddhist culture and history.
Nong Nooch Tropical Gardens
Mom: We have Jurassic Park at Home, Jurassic Park at home:
Awarded as the 4th most beautiful garden in the entire world, Nong Nooch Tropical Garden Pattaya is a massive floral garden covering a whopping 670 acres of land. While it’s officially known as a garden, Nong Nooch is more like a Jurassic Park: Thailand Edition.
Nong Nooch Tropical Garden is densely packed with various themed gardens, statues, cafes, and restaurants. There is literally so much to explore you’ll need to spend about half a day here to truly appreciate and experience all that Nong Nooch has to offer.
Like Koh Larn, I also have a blog post with further details about Exploring the Nong Nooch Tropical Garden in case you want to learn more.
Ramayana Water Park and Columbia Pictures Aquaverse Waterpark
Thailand unfortunately doesn’t have a Disney theme park but at least we got Columbia Pictures!
Ramayana Water Park is located about 20km south of Pattaya, and it’s the largest water park in Thailand and one of the top-rated in all of Asia. Spanning over 45 acres, the Ramayana Water Park is full of thrilling water slides, in fact 20 of them! From Freefall, to Twisting Python to the exhilarating AquaLoop. Aside from that, Lazy Rivers and family friendly zones are also available for the younger kids.
You can purchase a Entry Ticket for Ramayana Water Park here online so you don’t have to wait in long queues.
If you’re more into theme parks and films, then the Columbia Pictures Aquaverse Waterpark in Pattaya, Thailand, is a one-of-a-kind entertainment destination for you. There are lot of rides and attractions based on classic films such as:
Ghostbusters Proton Stream Zone - Experience ghostly fun with a lazy river, splash zones, and family-friendly slides.
Jumanji Jungle Adventure - A jungle-themed zone with wild rides, including the heart-pounding Jaguar Mountain plunge.
Hotel Transylvania - Perfect for families with younger kids, this section features a kid-friendly splash area and interactive play zones.
Bad Boys Raceway - Test your driving skills at the go-kart track inspired by the high-octane action of Bad Boys.
Zombieland Apocalypse - A daring obstacle course with zombie-themed elements for thrill-seekers.
Tickets for the Columbia Pictures Aquaverse Waterpark can be purchased online
Soar Through the Forest at Flight of the Gibbons
Soar through the forest canopy just like…. a gibbon...? Gibbons don’t fly do they?
Flight of the Gibbons opened in 2007 and it has become one of the most prolific zipline experience operators in Asia. Flight of the Gibbons Pattaya is set in lush tropical forests and the course spans a whopping 3km through 23 different platforms. You’ll face challenges like your typical zipline as well as walking on suspended sky bridges, and abseiling experiences
I went to Flight of The Gibbons Pattaya as part of a high school field trip when I was younger and it was one of the most memorable experiences I’ve ever had in my young life. My favorite part was this long 300m stretch through open air that gives you a gorgeous view of the forest’s canopy.
NOTE: Due to a fatal accident that occurred in 2019, Flight of the Gibbons Pattaya has been temporarily closed until further notice, I will update this blog post whenever it opens again….
Explore the Sin City: Pattaya Walking Street
I found Pattaya Walking Street pretty uncomfortable but others might find it like pure bliss ;)
Of course you can’t talk about Pattaya without mentioning its infamous Walking Street. Known as Thailand’s most famous nightlife district, this roughly one kilometer long road is packed to the brim with bars, discos, dance clubs, happy-ending massages, sex shows, ping pong shows, some other shows…
I have a whole section dedicated to detailing Pattaya’s nightlife and the Pattaya Walking Street at the bottom of this blog post, so scroll down if you want to read more. But for now just know that this isn’t a place you should be bringing your children…
Succumb to Illusions at Pattaya’s Art in Paradise Museum
Be glad that time travel machines aren’t real
Art in Paradise Pattaya is Thailand’s first optical illusion art museum featuring over 100 interactive 3D art pieces and installations that are perfect for some family friendly fun. You can expect to find a lot of themed art exhibits like:
Aquatic World - Pose as if you're diving with whales or standing on a shipwreck.
Fantasy - Enter magical realms featuring unicorns, floating castles, and dreamscapes.
Wildlife - interact with (fake) elephants, lions, and other animals in stunning environments.
Classic Art - Interact with iconic pieces of art like the Mona Lisa or Van Gogh’s Starry Night, often reimagined with a quirky twist.
Ancient Civilizations - Explore ancient Egyptian tombs, Roman ruins, and more.
Thailand Zone - Experience Thai culture and landmarks through interactive art.
You can purchase an Art in Paradise Pattaya ticket online here for a good discounted price.
Underwater World Pattaya
I wonder what it’s like to be a shark
If you prefer something more real, then the Underwater World Pattaya is the de facto aquarium in Pattaya, a perfect place to explore the deep ocean and learn about the Gulf of Thailand’s inhabitants.
Underwater World Pattaya features 5 zones including a touch pool where you can physically interact with sea creatures like starfish and sea cucumbers. My personal favorite zone is the 100 meter long see-through tunnel providing a 180-degree view to the underwater world around you, you’ll be able to see sharks, manta rays, coral reefs, and more.
On the education side, you can find special exhibits that highlight endangered species and Thailand’s rich marine heritage. There are also live feeding shows where you can watch trained professionals feed sharks and other dangerous creatures. Kids also have the chance to feed sea creatures themselves, though only regular fishes and turtles.
Entry tickets for Underwater World can be purchase here for a good discounted price.
Experience the Dazzle of the Tiffany Show Pattaya
These performers look divine with their amazing costumes!
The Tiffany Show Pattaya is a world-famous cabaret performance, complete with dazzling costumes, intricate choreography and some of Thailand’s most talented and vibrant performers!
What makes the Tiffany Show Pattaya so unique from other cabarets is that the performers are are gorgeous ladyboys! Now some of you might cringe in disgust (and to those people, please just open your mind…). These performers showcases Thailand’s cultural vibrancy with their incredible singing, dancing, and acting.
The performances combine Broadway-style theatrics with elements of Thai culture and acts often include themes of ancient Siam (ancient Thailand), Korean pop culture, Chinese dynasties, and Hollywood glamour. Sometimes even Bollywood-esque themes.
The Tiffany Show Pattaya is family friendly and a great fun for all ages.
You can purchase tickets for the Pattaya Tiffany Show online, there are different ticket variants for different seating options and some that include drinks and snacks.
Discounted Tours and Activities
You can find more tours and activities for great discounted prices using the widget below:
Foods to Try in Pattaya
There is so much good food in Pattaya, from classic Thai street food dishes, to the freshest seafood in Thailand. And with Pattaya being a large international tourism hub in Thailand, a lot of international restaurants can be found in Pattaya, mainly German, Italian, and Indian restaurants.
Eating Fresh Seafood in Pattaya
Steamed crabs are a classic Thai seafood dish
Pattaya is a beachside town so of course you’ll want to try some fresh seafood! Some classic Thai seafood dishes that I recommend you must try in Pattaya are:
Grilled Prawns - Famous in the regions of Ayutthaya but in Pattaya it’s also good. Juicy and smoky, served with a spicy Thai seafood dipping sauce.
Steamed Crab - Sweet and tender crab, often enjoyed with Thai S.
Tom Yum Goong - Thailand’s famous hot and sour shrimp soup, packed with herbs and spice.
Fried Snapper with Fish Sauce - Crispy fried fish topped with a sweet and salty fish sauce glaze, also sometimes topped with a fresh citrusy mango salad.
Where to Try Pattaya Seafood:
Pupen Seafood Pattaya - A famous Casual, oceanfront spot for local seafood in a rustic, brick-lined dining room with outdoor seats. One of the best seafood restaurants in Pattaya.
Khrua Ban Por Ta - Local seafood restaurant in South Pattaya, highly recommended by foodies. Great seafood, good atmosphere, delicious food.
Srinuan Seafood - Local seafood and local atmosphere. Great food.
Enjoying Classic Thai Street Food in Pattaya
I always associate Roti with the beach, when I was young the beaches are where I usually had roti
Street food is the backbone of Thai society, so of course, you’ll be able to find all sorts of Thai street foods in Pattaya. My recommendations for Thai street foods is the same in every part of Thailand so here are some food items that I think best fit the beach town vibes:
Moo Ping - Classic Thai street food, sweet and savory pork skewers, often paired with sticky rice.
Khanom Jeen - Rice noodles served with a variety of curries and pickled vegetables.
Roti - A classic Thai street food snack, a warm crispy and flaky flatbread with various sweet toppings, my favorite is condensed milk, banana, and chocolate.
Pad Thai - Come on, you know what this one is, rice noodles stir fried with tamarind sauce and various other seasonings and vegetables.
Where to Try Thai Street Food in Pattaya:
Thepprasit Night Market - A bustling weekend street food night market with a vibrant mix of Thai street food, affordable shopping, and lively local atmosphere.
Jomtien Night Market - Outdoor seaside market with street food stands & vendors selling clothing, souvenirs & cosmetics.
Pattaya Night Bazaar - Lively market with 250+ stalls for clothing, shoes, luggage, jewelry, Thai souvenirs & of course delicious Thai street food.
Explore International Foods in Pattaya
This is a legit pizza with a good crust, in Pattaya of all places!
You can find as many international restaurants as you can local Thai restaurants. Mostly Indian and European restaurants as these nationalities are the largest immigrant population in Pattaya. Since there are so many dishes to point out, I’m just going to list some good international restaurants.
Where to Try International Foods in Pattaya:
Fusillo Italian Restaurant - If you want some damn good Italian food in Pattaya then this restaurant is the best of the best. Pasta, pizza, gelato (oh my god the pistachio gelato is so good here), I highly recommend.
Amritsr Restaurant - Some of the best Indian food you’ll ever have in Thailand. Butter Chicken, Palak Paneer, etc… So any delicious dishes.
Pattaya Nightlife and Pattaya Walking Street
I keep hearing this word “Agogo” can somebody tell me what it means?
*TRIGGER WARNING: SEX. I will be going fairly deep into the details of various sexual experiences you can find in the Pattaya Walking Street. If you find these things upsetting then you should probably skip this section.
There are many bars and nightlife opportunities spread throughout Pattaya, but I’m going to talk about the one that tourists care about the most, the infamous Pattaya Walking Street.
Pattaya Walking Street is the epicenter of nightlife and sin in Thailand, attracting millions of visitors each year. Stretching about one kilometer along the coastline from the Bali Hai Pier to the corner of Beach Road, this vibrant street is filled with bars, nightclubs, go-go bars, restaurants, and street performers.
Activity really starts ramping up around the evening, during the day, this road is just a normal street like any other, albeit both sides are lined with closed bars.
Though in recent years, the Thai government has taken actions to turn Pattaya into a more family friendly travel destination, The Pattaya Walking Street still stands strong.
What Makes Pattaya Walking Street Special?
Party goers will absolutely love Pattaya Walking Street
So much sex. While prostitution and any sexual display is totally illegal in the Kingdom of Smiles, the police and government have decided to turn a blind eye to Pattaya Walking Street, and who honestly blame them. Th city brings in so much money… While I do not agree with all this debauchery, I still can’t deny the impact this form of entertainment has brought to Thailand’s economy.
Anyways, within the Pattaya Walking Street you can find:
Bars and Clubs - Countless bars, pubs, and clubs that with your classic Chang Beer, loud EDM music, and half naked women.
Go-Go Bars - Lively bars with sexy dancers and really raunchy performances. Some shows you can find at these bars are:
Ping Pong Shows - Half naked girls doing disturbingly impressive things with ping pongs and their womanhood
Sex Shows - Literally like watching porn but in person.
Banana Show(?) - Not sure what it’s officially referred as but it’s basically men slapping their bananas around and onto metal poles.
Street Performers and Games: A variety of street performers, including musicians, magicians, and even artists creating live paintings. Also a few places to play carnival games like shooting balloons, or throwing balls to dunk some ladies into water.
Happy Ending Massages - Not like your regular Thai massage.
A Note About Pattaya Walking Street
Seafood and nightclubs? That’s an insane combo!
Obviously, the Pattaya Walking Street is very seedy in their operations. This street is loosely regulated meaning, it’s officially not legally meant to be here, but the government and police do little to stop it.
Furthermore safety is a big issue, be wary of your surroundings, scams, theft, and in some extreme cases, kidnappings and trafficking. Things might seem vibrant and exciting on the surface but underneath a lot of the workings going on in this street is shady.
On the subject of trafficking, a lot of the girls working here are known to be underaged or are forced to work as sex workers. Yes, it’s a sad reality and there are certainly past scandals relating to some of the establishments here housing and indirectly promoting some heinous acts.
Be responsible, if your gut tells you something is wrong then trust it, go into Pattaya Walking Street as a curious tourist, not as a sexpat, and you’ll mostly be fine.
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