Things To Do
in Phatthaya
Pattaya is a popular beach resort city in Thailand known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene. It attracts tourists with its long stretches of golden sandy beaches, water sports activities, and lively bars and clubs. Pattaya also offers a range of dining options, from traditional Thai street food to international cuisine.
In addition to its bustling entertainment district, Pattaya is also home to cultural attractions such as the Sanctuary of Truth, a must-visit wooden temple showcasing intricate Thai architectural design.
- "Sawasdee" - Hello
- "Khop khun" - Thank you
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai" - No
- "Tao rai?" - How much?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $75
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim at Pattaya Beach. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a beachfront café with stunning ocean views.
Spend your afternoon sunbathing on the soft sands or engaging in water sports like jet skiing and parasailing. Don't forget to grab a delicious beachside lunch.
Watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand at a beach bar. Later, explore the local night market for some shopping and tasty street food.
Visit the Sanctuary of Truth to marvel at the spectacular wooden architecture and intricate carvings. Enjoy a guided tour to learn about the philosophies behind this masterpiece.
Head to the Pattaya Floating Market for a unique shopping experience along the canals. Sample local delicacies from various vendors and pick up some souvenirs.
Experience the vibrant cabaret shows that Pattaya is famous for. Enjoy a delightful dinner at a nearby restaurant featuring Thai cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and stunning coastal scenery.
- Vibrant nightlife with a variety of bars, clubs, and entertainment options.
- Rich cultural experiences, including temples and local festivals.
- Wide range of water sports and outdoor activities.
- Affordable accommodation and dining options.
- Diverse international and local cuisine available.
- Convenient access to nearby islands and attractions.
- Can be overly commercialized and overcrowded, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Issues with pollution and waste management in certain areas.
- High levels of traffic and congestion in the city.
- Perceptions of safety, particularly related to petty crime in tourist areas.
- Potential for a party culture that may not appeal to all visitors.
- Hustlers and vendors can be aggressive in tourist areas.
- Language barriers may arise for non-Thai speakers.
Best Activities in Phatthaya
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful beaches in Phatthaya such as Jomtien Beach and Pattaya Beach for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
Take a boat trip to nearby islands like Koh Larn, Koh Krok, and Koh Sak for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing on pristine beaches.
Enjoy activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, banana boating, and scuba diving in the clear waters of the Gulf of Thailand.
Visit one of the many world-class golf courses in Phatthaya for a day of golfing amidst stunning scenery.
Explore the countryside and scenic landscapes around Phatthaya by cycling or hiking through nature trails and parks.
Tours
Uncover the best of Phatthaya with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Phatthaya
Visit one of these nice places.
Popular viewpoint offering panoramic views of Pattaya Bay and skyline
Magnificent wooden temple with intricate carvings and stunning seaside views
Famous for its picturesque sunset views and vibrant beachfront atmosphere
Food in Phatthaya
Phatthaya Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic stir-fried rice noodle dish with a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors, commonly featuring shrimp, tofu, or chicken. Try it at the Pad Thai Thip Samai restaurant.
Must-Try!
A zesty and refreshing salad made from shredded green papaya, chili, lime, and fish sauce, often complemented with peanuts and tomatoes. Look for it at the Nong Beer restaurant.
A spicy and sour soup infused with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and tender shrimp. Sample this iconic dish at the Rimpa Lapin restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Phatthaya better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This lively night market offers an array of delectable street food such as grilled seafood, satay skewers, and various Thai desserts. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the local flavors amidst the vibrant atmosphere.
Known for its abundance of fresh produce, this market also boasts a diverse selection of street food stalls offering Thai favorites like mango sticky rice, pad kra prao, and crispy fried chicken.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Phatthaya, it is important to show respect for the King and the Royal Family. Avoid speaking negatively about them or showing any form of disrespect.
When visiting temples or sacred sites, it's important to dress modestly. This means covering shoulders and knees. Additionally, removing shoes before entering certain buildings is a sign of respect.
Be mindful of your behavior in public spaces, such as avoiding public displays of affection and being aware of personal space when interacting with locals. It's also customary to greet others with a 'wai' – a slight bow with the palms pressed together.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Phatthaya with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Phatthaya
Ensure a smooth experience
In Phatthaya, Thailand, tipping is not always expected but is appreciated for good service. It is common to round up the bill or leave a small tip of 10-20 baht at restaurants or for other services.
Cash is widely used for most transactions in Phatthaya, Thailand. Credit cards are accepted at larger establishments, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and markets. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Phatthaya.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with pleasant weather and lower humidity. Expect crowded beaches and higher hotel prices due to peak tourist season.
Expect hot and humid weather with occasional rain showers. Good time for water activities but may feel uncomfortable due to high temperatures.
Expect heavy rain and occasional flooding. Lower hotel prices and less crowded attractions, but outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather.
Phatthaya at Night
Hiking in Phatthaya
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot featuring a large Buddha image carved into the mountain and scenic views of the surrounding area.
A small hill offering a moderate hike and stunning panoramic views of Pattaya and the nearby coastline.
While known for its gardens, there are trails and paths that provide opportunities for light hiking amidst beautiful landscapes.
Combining nature and wildlife, the zoo features trails for visitors to explore while enjoying the natural scenery.
Home to a large Buddha statue, this area offers nearby trails that lead to beautiful views and unique religious sites.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Phatthaya through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Phatthaya by plane.
The main international airport serving Bangkok, located approximately 120 km from Pattaya.
Another major airport serving Bangkok, located about 140 km from Pattaya.
The closest international airport to Pattaya, located approximately 30 km away.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The local Thai population residing in Phatthaya, primarily consisting of ethnic Thais who maintain traditional customs and lifestyles.
A significant number of expatriates from Europe and North America who live in Phatthaya, often involved in business or retirement.
A growing demographic of Russian nationals who have settled in Phatthaya for work, tourism, or retirement.
Various expatriates from other Asian countries such as China, Japan, and South Korea, who visit or reside in Phatthaya for work and leisure.
A diverse group of international visitors who travel to Phatthaya for its beaches, entertainment, and cultural attractions, with a peak in numbers from Europe and Asia.
The Soul of Phatthaya
Discover the essence of Phatthaya through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport played on the sandy beaches of Pattaya, often drawing both locals and tourists.
Traditional Thai boxing that is widely practiced and watched in Pattaya, with numerous gyms and competitions.
Pattaya is home to several world-class golf courses, making golf a popular recreational sport among visitors.
A thrilling water sport enjoyed by tourists at Pattaya's beaches, offering rentals and guided tours.
Popular for exploring underwater life and coral reefs in the surrounding waters of Pattaya.
A favored activity in Pattaya's coastal waters, with sailing schools and boat rentals available.
A widely followed sport in Thailand, with local matches and leagues attracting fans in Pattaya.
An emerging sport with scenic routes for cycling enthusiasts around the city and its outskirts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Phatthaya.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Phatthaya provides a variety of dining establishments that cater to vegetarians and vegans, including dedicated eateries such as Ananya Vegetarian & Vegan Cafe, serving an assortment of plant-based delights.
While navigating gluten-free options in Phatthaya, consider dining at places like Casa Pascal, which offers a refined dining experience with a selection of gluten-free dishes crafted with attention to dietary requirements.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Phatthaya with these cultural adventures.