
Pattaya (and vicinity)
What you need to know before you go
Pattaya is a vibrant coastal city that shot to fame in the early 1980s and has remained one of Thailand’s most popular vacation destinations ever since. From sunrise to sunset, its beaches are constantly brimming with watersports lovers and sun-worshippers enjoying the surrounding waters. It’s considered one of Thailand’s better scuba diving destinations, having consistently calm waters throughout the year and the most interesting shipwrecks to discover.
After dark, the action shifts to the streets, where you can experience an electrified nightlife scene that lasts until dawn and is significantly more budget-friendly than Phuket’s or Bangkok’s. While the city has a reputation as an adults-only party place, Pattaya is a great destination for just about everyone, from couples and families to solo and business travelers. The city is 147 km from Bangkok, making it one of the closest beach resorts to Thailand's capital city and a popular weekend getaway for the capital’s residents.
What to see & do in Pattaya (and vicinity)
Featured stories & fun stuffWhere & what to eat in Pattaya (and vicinity)
Where to shop & what to buy in Pattaya (and vicinity)
Where to go & what to do at night in Pattaya (and vicinity)
7 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Pattaya
The best things to do after dinner in Pattaya illustrate why the city has its international reputation. This is a carefree party town where people seek endless evening fun. There are other aspects of its reputation which it perhaps deserves...3 Best Rooftop Bars & Restaurants in Pattaya
Pattaya is unusually blessed with breathtaking sunsets. Having a west-facing coastline and generally good weather, the sun puts on...6 Best Nightclubs in Pattaya
The best nightclubs in Pattaya are a big part of what makes the city such a famous party destination. Mostly...