Things To Do
in Ban Na Chom Thian

Ban Na Chom Thian is a coastal subdistrict just south of Pattaya, blending quiet beaches with village charm. It sits along the Gulf of Thailand, offering a laid-back base for visitors who want water access without the noise of central Pattaya. The area is known for seafood markets, scenic coastal roads, and the nearby Nong Nooch Tropical Garden.

It’s a convenient starting point for day trips to Bang Saray and the surrounding hills, while still feeling distinctly Thai and relaxed.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Beach Relaxation
morning
:

Arrive at Ban Na Chom Thian and check into your beachfront resort. After settling in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast while soaking in views of the azure waters. Spend the morning unwinding on the sandy shores, listening to the calming waves.

afternoon
:

After a refreshing dip in the sea, head to a nearby beachside café for a delicious Thai lunch. Explore the local area on foot, taking in the vibrant sights and sounds of this charming seaside destination. Enjoy some water sports like kayaking or jet skiing as the sun begins to wane.

evening
:

As evening approaches, stroll along the beach and witness a breathtaking sunset painting the sky with vibrant colors. Indulge in a seafood dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the fresh flavors of Thailand. Wind down with a relaxing drink while listening to live music by the shore.

day 2
Cultural Exploration in Pattaya
morning
:

Travel to Pattaya, just a short distance away, to visit the famous Sanctuary of Truth, an intricate wooden temple filled with sculptures and carvings. Engage with cultural guides to learn about the philosophies represented in the artwork. Enjoy a peaceful morning amid the serene surroundings of the sanctuary.

afternoon
:

After visiting the temple, have lunch at a nearby Thai restaurant offering authentic local dishes. Spend the afternoon exploring the bustling markets of Pattaya, where you can shop for unique souvenirs and try local street food. Take a leisurely walk along the promenade and revel in the lively atmosphere.

evening
:

As twilight descends, enjoy a beautiful viewpoint of Pattaya from a hilltop restaurant. Savor a delectable dinner while taking in panoramic views of the sparkling city lights. After your meal, explore local nightlife options, whether it’s live music venues or vibrant dance clubs.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$5-10
Coffee or small cafe item$2-4
🚕Short taxi ride within town$3-7
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$40-90
🎟️Museum or attraction entry$5-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Relaxed beach vibe with easy access to Pattaya’s amenities
  • Strong seafood scene and frequent markets for fresh bites
  • Can be crowded during peak season and holidays
  • Some attractions require travel to nearby towns for deeper options
  • "สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ" - Hello
  • "ขอบคุณครับ/ค่ะ" - Thank you
  • "ช่วยบอกทางหน่อยได้ไหม" - Could you please tell me the way?
  • "ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "พูดภาษาอังกฤษได้ไหม" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Ban Na Chom Thian

Visit one of these nice places.

Nong Nooch Tropical Garden

Lush, manicured landscapes with thematic gardens, sculptures, and performances—ideal for wide shots and vibrant color photography.

Na Jomtien Beach at Sunrise

Soft morning light over a calm stretch of sand and gentle waves—perfect for silhouettes and beach portraits.

Bang Saray Pier

Colorful fishing boats and a coastal horizon at golden hour; great for harbor scenes and sunset portraits.

Ban Na Chom Thian Coastal Viewpoints

Lookouts along the coast offer sweeping sea views, rocky outcrops, and fishing activity to capture authentic daily life.

Khao Chi Chan (Laser Buddha) Memorial Area

A monumental hillside site with expansive views of the surrounding landscape; ideal for wide, dramatic compositions (note access rules and respect signs).

Culinary Guide

Food in Ban Na Chom Thian

Ban Na Chom Thian offers fresh seafood-forward Thai cuisine, with abundant markets and seaside eateries that highlight the catch of the day and regional flavors.

Ban Na Chom Thian Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tom Yum Goong

A hot and sour soup with lemongrass, lime leaves, galangal, chili, and shrimp—pungent, bright, and iconic.

Must-Try!

Som Tum Thai

Green papaya salad tossed with lime, peanuts, chili, palm sugar, and fish sauce for a crisp, spicy tang.

Pla Pao (Grilled Fish)

Whole fish stuffed with herbs and salt, grilled over charcoal and served with sweet chili sauce and sticky rice—common at seaside stalls.

Seafood BBQ

Assorted grilled seafood (prawns, squid, fish) with fresh herbs, often found at night markets and beachfront shacks.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Bang Saray Seafood Market

A working market where you can choose fresh catches and have them prepared on-site or grilled to order.

Na Jomtien Street Food Stalls

Casual stalls offering grilled skewers, crispy snacks, som tam, and refreshing coconut water with sea views.

Climate Guide

Weather

The local climate is tropical with three distinct seasons: hot and dry (roughly March–May), the rainy season (June–October) with frequent showers and high humidity, and the cool season (November–February) with milder temperatures and lower humidity. Sea breezes moderate daytime heat, while evenings can be pleasantly cool. Annual rainfall is concentrated in the monsoon period, so plan outdoor activities accordingly.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Temple and dress code

Dress modestly, cover shoulders and knees, and remove shoes where required. Speak softly in sacred spaces and show respect to monks and signs.

Respectful greetings

A wai (hands pressed together with a slight bow) is the traditional greeting; use it when greeting elders or monks and accompany with a polite tone.

Feet and gestures

Avoid pointing feet at people or religious objects and do not touch someone’s head; use a respectful tone when asking for directions.

Safety Guide

Safety

Petty theft can occur in crowded markets and on beaches, so keep valuables secure and be mindful of surroundings. Traffic can be busy, especially during peak tourist times; use licensed taxis or rideshares and wear seatbelts. Stay aware of weather alerts during the rainy season and follow local safety guidelines for sea conditions and water activities. Carry basic first-aid supplies and emergency contact numbers for local services.

Tipping in Ban Na Chom Thian

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. In nicer restaurants or hotels, rounding up or leaving 10% is common; in casual markets and street stalls, rounding to the nearest baht or small tip for good service is sufficient. Taxis typically do not require tips, but rounding fare is welcome.

Payment Methods

Cash (Thai baht) is widely used, especially in markets and street vendors. Many restaurants and larger shops accept credit/debit cards; digital wallets are increasingly common in tourist areas, but always carry cash for smaller vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with strong sun. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon, wear sunscreen, and stay hydrated. Beach days are long and can be crowded on weekends.

Rainy Season

June through October brings sudden tropical showers and higher humidity. Afternoon downpours are common; carry a light rain jacket and waterproof bag for electronics. Some outdoor plans may be disrupted, but markets and indoor attractions stay active.

Cool Season

November through February brings cooler, drier air and comfortable touring weather. Excellent for photography and outdoor exploration with pleasant evenings.

Nightlife Guide

Ban Na Chom Thian at Night

Ban Na Chom Thian itself is relatively tranquil compared with central Pattaya, with most nightlife concentrated along the Pattaya and Jomtien corridors. Expect a mix of beach clubs, laid-back bars, and night markets along the coast, offering live music, seafood, and sunset drinks. For livelier nightlife, short drives to Pattaya's Walking Street or central Pattaya yield a wider selection of clubs, cabaret shows, and late-night dining. Family-friendly evening options and relaxed waterfront venues are common in this area.

Hiking in Ban Na Chom Thian

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Coastal lookout trails near Ban Na Chom Thian

Short coastal walks offering sea views and photography opportunities; suitable for a half-day hike.

Bang Sare hills viewpoints

Light hikes with hillside vistas and temple overlooks, ideal for sunset photography.

Longer day trips to Khao Yai National Park

A few hours’ drive away; offers extensive forest trails, wildlife viewing, and cooler air for hikers.

Airports

How to reach Ban Na Chom Thian by plane.

U-Tapao International Airport (UTP)

Closest major airport serving Pattaya and Rayong; convenient for international and domestic arrivals.

Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)

Bangkok's main international gateway; about 1.5–2 hours by road depending on traffic.

Don Mueang International Airport (DMK)

Another Bangkok airport with domestic and some international flights; alternative transfer option.

Getting Around

Walkability

The core coastal areas offer walkable stretches along beaches and markets, with most sights reachable by foot in small sections. For longer distances or day trips, a scooter, bicycle, or taxi is convenient. Parking and traffic can be limited near busy markets and waterfronts, so plan accordingly.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Primarily Thai families and workers from the Chonburi region, with a growing number of expatriates attracted to the coast.

Domestic and international tourists

Visitors seeking beach access, seafood markets, and proximity to Pattaya's attractions.

Retirees and long-term visitors

Attracted by a relaxed coastal lifestyle and the area’s accessibility to Bangkok and major beaches.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Muay Thai

Traditional Thai boxing with local gyms and occasional matches in the region.

Golf

Several scenic courses within a short drive offering views of coastal and hillside terrain.

Water sports

Snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular on calm days along the coast.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavy around Pattaya and along major coastal roads, especially on weekends and holidays. Public transport includes songthaews and taxis; scooters are common for short hops. Plan extra time for trips to and from major attractions during peak hours or festival periods.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ban Na Chom Thian.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many Thai dishes can be made vegetarian by omitting fish sauce and shrimp paste. Look for jay (strictly vegan) options or ask for no fish sauce and no shrimp paste; many markets will accommodate with plant-based options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is readily accessible in Pattaya and nearby Sattahip, with private hospitals (including Bangkok Hospital Pattaya and other clinics) offering English-speaking staff. Public hospitals are available as well, and pharmacists are common in markets. Travel insurance with international coverage is advisable for longer trips.

Discover Thailand

Read more in our Thailand 2025 Travel Guide.

Thailand Travel Guide