THINGS TO DO IN PATTAYA THAILAND

Things to do in Pattaya, Thailand

TRAVEL GUIDE + THINGS TO IN PATTAYA, THAILAND

Contents

Pattaya Thailand: The “Sin City”

When you have heard of the term “sin city,” Pattayahe city of Las Vegas would probably have come to mind due to its sheer popularity in catering to human vices with flying colors. But it is not only the state of Nevada in the US that is the home to this human frailty as somewhere in the southeast is yet another city guilty of the same fault—Pattaya.

Albeit colloquial and miniscule in nature, Pattaya is, to a certain extent, Thailand’s equivalent of Las Vegas. This is evidenced by the fact that the resort partly thrives in its sex industry as seen on many bars, nightclubs, and pubs. As such, this place, which is about a 100 km south-east of Bangkok, is at its liveliest during the night.

For the people who like to lavish in their brazen desires, Pattaya makes for an earthly paradise and a spiritual hell. But for a city that thrives in a human vice, it is also a place for seedy business involving locals and foreigners alike.

But, even before Pattaya hugged its darker side, the coastline area of the city is nothing more than just a sleepy fishing village. It was not until 1959 when Pattaya become a “rest and recreation” area for American soldiers that it transformed to what it is now today.

Things to do in Pattaya, Thailand

Access to the city is further heightened with the establishment of the Suvarnabhumi Airport just east of Thailand’s capital, Bangkok.

Yet, dark as the reputation of Pattaya, Thailand may exude, it is not totally depraved. A part of the city still makes for a family-friendly visit due to its botanical gardens, amusement parks, and numerous museums.

Speaking of the botanical garden, Nong Nooch makes for an outstanding place to visit for its diverse showcase of plants. However, it is also live cultural shows that are partly the reason to visit the garden.

As for the amusement park and museum, the Pattaya Crocodile Park and Ripley’s Believe It or Not make for very popular options in their own categories.

Although the quality of beaches around Pattaya may not be the best in Thailand, many water sports activities can be found in the area. Two of the most renowned beaches around Pattaya include the Pattaya Beach itself and Jomtien beach. Comparatively, Jomtien Beach from the south offers a more relaxing environment and cleaner waters than Pattaya Beach.

Things to do in Pattaya, Thailand

If you are a wanderer, however, who is not content at sticking close to the shore, an island called “Ko Lan” 8 kilometers from Pattaya makes for an exciting destination, particularly when riding a glass-bottomed boat. Reaching the island, it is a place where people go on some water sports for leisure.

But if you are into seeing aquatic creatures, the plethora of marine species in the “Underwater World” provides a complete experience which you would otherwise not get from actual snorkeling.

Lastly, there are also cabaret shows in the area which seeks to entertain. Two of the most popular transvestite cabaret shows in the area, Tiffany and Alcazar.

Top Things to Do in Pattaya, Thailand

Art in Paradise

Are you ready to awaken the artistic side of you? Then be here and enjoy the work of gifted hands as you view different exhibits and displays. Just a tip, do not forget to bring your camera with you because you will surely be goofing around the different optical illusion works which you truly deserve to have a photo taken!

Things to do in Pattaya, Thailand

Buddha Mountain

Considered as the largest Buddha engraved in the world, this place would leave you mesmerized and amazed. It might even make you wonder how such talented and gifted hands can do such engraving on the face of the mountain. Visit the place as a form of a reflective journey.

Coral Island

Looking for a place to do snorkeling or another sort of water adventure in Pattaya, Thailand? Then the coral island is the best I have got for you. Be here and enjoy the serenity of the place, and be ready to be mesmerized with the rich biodiversity as manifested by the teaming corals.

Things to do in Pattaya, Thailand

Floating Market

If you think that such an event can only be seen in Bangkok, then you got it wrong because there are a lot of amazing floating markets in entire Thailand and one of which is in Pattaya. Do some shopping with the locals, buy fruits and local products, and enjoy the scenery as your boat marvel at the different boat shops.

Cabaret Shows

Spectacular performances, mind-boggling steps, and dances, lively music, what else can you ask for? Visit this cabaret show and be ready to be entertained with all the individual presentations that they have prepared for all the visitors in Pattaya, Thailand.

Book Tiffany’s Show here

Things to do in Pattaya, Thailand

Khao Pattaya Viewpoint

If you are now looking for a more romantic place in Pattaya, Thailand, then I recommend that you take that someone special with you from this viewpoint. Why? It offers a fantastic view of the entire area! Others would opt to go here at around 6 o’clock in the evening so that they will get to witness the sunset and the beginning of lights sparkling from the bottom view.

Water Parks

A place for the kids and for those who are kids at heart? Visit the different water parks available in the area and enjoy the slides and other water activities that they offer.

Things to do in Pattaya, Thailand

Nong Nooch Tropical Garden

Be lost in the wonder of this beautiful garden as you pass over various flowers. The peace found in this heavenly place is just beyond comparison to any other garden in Bangkok.

Book Nong Nooch Tropical Garden and Koh Larn Day Tour from Pattaya here

Ripley’s Believe it or Not

Well, a mixture of amazement and the wisdom of science is something that other tourists would like to witness. So, if you think that you are in for this kind of activity, then visit this place, and you will undoubtedly learn a lot of new things.

Things to do in Pattaya, Thailand

Sanctuary of Truth

Often being visited by those who would like to see the natural beauty of the sanctuary, this place serves as a center of art, philosophy, and religion in the place. Aside from that, people are also amazed by the idea that all architectural displays on the sanctuary are all made-up of natural resources.

Skip the line, Book The Sanctuary of Truth here

Walking Street

This is a 500-meter street filled with food chains, bars, restaurants, shops, and all the things that you are looking for if you are up for a nightlife adventure in Pattaya, Thailand.

Things to do in Pattaya, Thailand

Big Buddha Hill

Most of those who are fond of visiting temples would usually go here because they get to have a journey and reflection moment on their way up. This is located in an elevated place, so, being at the top also offers a fantastic view.

Hotels | Where to Stay

Various hotels that will fit in the budget of various kinds of travelers are found all over Pattaya.

Click here to choose your hotel in Pattaya, Thailand

Things to do in Pattaya, Thailand

Internet

Stay connected one your visit to Pattaya, Thailand. You can buy the tourist sim card in advance for pick up at Thailand airport.

4G SIM Card (Thailand Pick Up) for Thailand

How To Get There [ Things to Do Pattaya, Thailand ]

There are various ways to get to Pattaya, Thailand. You can choose one which suits your budget or travel style.

For an easier and hassle-free booking of your trip. You can click on our various links below. Please take note that booking in advance will make your vacation more enjoyable and worry-free.

Book your Cheap Bangkok-Pattaya Transport Here

Below is

Private Bangkok and Pattaya Airports Transfers (UTP, DMK or BKK) for Pattaya

This is the most convenient mode of transportation which can bring you from the airport straight to your Pattaya Hotel. The price is PHP 1,600.00.

You can book this transport on the link below:

Book Private Bangkok and Pattaya Airports Transfers (UTP, DMK or BKK) for Pattaya here

Pattaya, Thailand by Bus

The most popular and the cheapest mode of transportation from Bangkok to Pattaya, Thailand, is by bus. The travel time is approximately two and a half hours from different terminals in Bangkok.

Many buses are departing the Eastern (Ekkamai) Bus Terminal starting from 5:20 AM until 11:20 PM. The interval of the schedules is every 30 minutes. The air-conditioned buses cost around 199 Baht. They charge 20 Baht for the luggage below 10 kilos and 20 Baht for 21 to 50 kilos.

Similarly, you can also take a bus from the Northern Bus Termina as well as the Southern Bus Terminal. You can ask your hotel in Bangkok, which terminal is nearest to you.

From Pattaya, you can also get a Bus bound for Suvarnabhumi International Airport and vice versa for only PHP 471/person. You can book this transportation on the link below:

Book Shared Transfers between Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Pattaya here

Pattaya, Thailand by Van

Another option to get to Pattaya is by Van. Most Van offers a door to door pick up and drop off. Vans would usually cost 450+ Baht.

From the Airport, you can book in advance a shared transfer going to Pattaya. Vans are suitable for first-time travelers and of course, more convenient.

Pattaya, Thailand by Taxi

The most convenient mode of transportation, of course, is by taxi. It offers, of course, a door-to-door pick-up and transfers. Travel time can take around 2 hours, depending on the traffic in Bangkok. Fare would cost at about 1,600 Baht, but you can haggle if you are traveling alone. I was able to get a Taxi from Bangkok at 1,200 Baht. I took the taxi simply because I was exhausted from my previous travels and activities, and my luggage was quite challenging to carry.

Pattaya, Thailand by Grab

A little expensive than a taxi, but they have a fixed rate. This option is good because the driver has no reason to tell you that he doesn’t know your hotel.

Things to do in Pattaya, Thailand

Getting Around

Depending on your location, it would be great to explore Pattaya, Thailand by foot. They also have the Baht Bus, it is like the jeepneys in the Philippines and would only could you 10 Baht for a short trip. If your destination is quite far or out of their way, they would typically tell you a different price if you don’t want to argue with the driver, better to take a Grab taxi. I usually choose Taxi or Bike in Pattaya. The bike is a lot cheaper of course than the cab.

Happy Trip Tips for Pattaya, Thailand

The peak season in Pattaya is from December to May. June onwards maybe rainy but you can check the weather. Usually, rates during the off-season are quite low, especially for hotels.
It is still hot during rainy days, so you better arm yourself with sunscreen.
Many restaurants are offering cheap food, depending on your location.
If you cannot stand some spicy food, various Convenience Stores are scattered all over the area. There are also western fast-food chains all over.
ATM Machines and Money Changers are conveniently located in most touristy areas.