If you are looking for a destination with sunny beaches and a lively atmosphere, Pattaya is definitely worth considering. Only 150 kilometers away from Bangkok, Thailand’s vibrant capital, it beckons travelers of all kinds. Check out our recommendations on what to do in Pattaya to help you plan a perfect journey.
What To Do In Pattaya For Extreme Fun?
Explore the Wonders of Nong Nooch Tropical Garden
- Address: 34 Na Chom Thian, Amphoe Sattahip, Chang Wat Chon Buri 20250
- Opening hours: Daily from 8:00 to 18:00
The vast park of Nong Nooch (pronounced “nung nut”) Village offers plenty of activities suitable for families. The park features a variety of themed gardens, such as a topiary garden, a 17th-century French garden, a European Renaissance garden, and species-specific gardens that showcase tropical palms, succulents, and bonsai.
Visitors can stroll along the walkways that wind through the gardens, enjoying the vibrant and colorful displays. One can explore their passion for horticulture by visiting the beautiful orchid garden. Additionally, various live performances such as sword fighting, Thai kickboxing, traditional Thai dancing, and an elephant display are scheduled at the Thai Cultural Hall. However, the morality of the elephant display is questionable.
In addition to door-to-door transportation, you can rent bicycles to explore the park’s various parts.
> Read more: Top 8 Best Beaches in Phuket for Families to Visit
Soak up The Sun at Jomtien Beach
- Address: in the south, about 4 kilometers from Pattaya City
- Opening hours: The public can access the beach around the clock, and there are varied hours for different beach activities. The numerous beach sports and activities are usually open from 9.30 to 10:00, with closing times varying from late afternoon to 21:30 – 22:00, depending on the attraction.
Jomtien Beach is a six-kilometer stretch highly recommended for visitors to Pattaya. It provides a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of the main city, which is four kilometers away. Along its golden beaches, travelers can enjoy sunbathing or seek cover from the trees near the beach. Water sports enthusiasts can partake in a variety of activities, such as windsurfing, parasailing, jet skiing, and kitesurfing.
There are numerous eateries and cafes situated along the beach, offering fresh seafood and local delicacies. So, if you’re in need of refreshments, be sure to check them out. Additionally, the Cartoon Network Amazone water park is located nearby, which is perfect for families seeking an action-packed adventure. With its cartoon-themed attractions and characters, spiraling slides, expansive pools, and splashing fountains, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Unveil The Magnificence From the Sanctuary Of Truth
- Address: 206/2 Moo 5, Soi Naklua 12 , Naklua, Banglamung
- Opening hours: Daily from 8:00 to 20:30
Dubbed as “the magnificence of heaven recreated on Earth”, this gigantic wood-only structure is a study in Thai architectural styles. The entire building was constructed to honor ancient religions and ideas, and every accessible space is exquisitely embellished with wooden carvings.
Among the topics represented in the artwork here are the circle of life, Utopia, and humanity’s place in the cosmos. Moreover, activities like elephant trekking, horseback riding, Thai boxing, speedboat rides, and traditional presentations are too fascinating to miss.
Revel In The Majestic Of Wat Yansangwararam
- Address: 999 11 Muang Pattaya, Amphoe Bang Lamung, Chang Wat Chon Buri 20260
- Opening hours: Daily from 8:00 to 17:00
Wat Yansangwararam, also known as Wat Yan, is one of Thailand’s most impressive temples. It provides insight into the country’s ideals and Thai architecture and architectural traditions. Encircled by expansive gardens dotted with palm trees, the temple was erected in 1988 to honor King Bhumibol Adulyadej on the occasion of his 42nd year in power.
The main complex is home to priceless Buddhist relics, and on the right side of the path leading to the temple, there is a lake with striking Chinese pavilions full of antiques and antiquities. The shrine of Wat Yansangwararam is perched on a hill and is accessible via 299 steps encircled by Naga snakes.
Take An Escape to Koh Larn (Coral Island)
- Address: Bang Lamung, Chon Buri
- Opening hours: Daily from 6: 30 to 19:00
Koh Larn, sometimes known as Koh Lan, is a rather tranquil getaway from the bustling tourist area of Pattaya, only a 45-minute ferry journey or a 30-minute speed boat ride from Pattaya. The island’s coasts are home to a number of white-sand beaches with food vendors, restrooms, and an abundance of water activities. What to do in Pattaya, Koh Larn that are the most well-liked are parasailing, banana boat excursions, and underwater Sea Walking.
One of the most beautiful beaches is Tien, while Nual Beach is home to playful monkeys. To explore the island, you can rent motorbikes and spend the night at one of the many beachside resorts in Samae or Tawaen. Families often choose this location to spend the day away from the bustle of Pattaya.
Art In Paradise Gallery to Unleash Creativity
- Address: 78/34 Pattaya Sai 2 Road, Muang Pattaya, Nongprue, Bang Lamung, Chonburi Chang Wat Chon Buri 20150
- Opening hours: Daily from 9:00 to 21:00
Art In Paradise is an illusion art museum that offers great spots for entertaining photo opportunities. It’s an ideal location to visit when you need a break from the heat. You can take memorable pictures with your loved ones while enjoying lifelike artwork. You can pose to caress the belly of a whale, stroke a rhino, or take on a marlin.
The various themed areas feature dinosaurs, fantasy, the underwater realm, classic art, Egypt, and safari. This is an excellent site to visit on a wet day and a fun way to round off your trip photo collection.
Refreshing Escapade at Ramayana Water Park
- Address: 9 Moo 7 Ban Yen Road, Na Chom Thian Sattahip District
- Opening hours: Every day except Wednesdays from 11:00 to 18:00
Ramayana Water Park, dubbed “the biggest and best water park in Thailand”, provides visitors of all ages with an exciting day of attractions with a water theme. There is a heart-stopping freefall and additional kid-friendly slides amidst a riot of bright, winding slides that wind throughout the park.
In addition, there’s a kids’ Aquasplash park featuring fountains, a double wave pool, and a green maze. The tranquil river ride winds between gushing geysers and enigmatic tunnels. Volleyball, Zumba, fish feeding, and water polo are among the daily activities that add to the excitement.
Explore Cultural Delights at Four Regions Floating Market
- Address: 451/304 Mu 12, Sukhumvit Road, Tambon Nong Prue, Amphoe Bang Lamung
- Opening hours: Daily from 10:00 to 23:00
This lively hub of business is the first and only floating market in Pattaya. It is divided into sections and offers goods from all four main regions of Thailand. Among the various things offered here are apparel, arts and crafts, and souvenirs. You may also enjoy some unique food, such as crocodile meat, scorpions, and insects.
Hiring a boat is a fantastic way to explore the markets. Unlike more genuine ones, this is a paid-for-entry floating market. However, your ticket gives you more than just a trip on the boat. Enjoying performances and events like Thai traditional dances, sea boxing, and a zip line crossing the water are among the things to do in Pattaya that will stay in your heart.
Savor The Catch at Naklua Fish Market
- Address: Pattaya-Na Kluea Rd, Muang Pattaya, Amphoe Bang Lamung, Chang Wat Chon Buri 20150
- Opening hours: Daily from 9:00 to 18:00
This fish market located in the small village of Naklua, just a 10-minute drive north of Pattaya, offers a unique experience of local culture and fresh seafood. Vendors offer on-site BBQ services and sell freshly caught seafood at discounted prices.
There are several excellent restaurants nearby, along with other locally sourced items and fresh fruit. The most economical way to travel is by group taxi, so while you’re at the beach, make some new friends and plan an excursion.
Discover Mini World Wonders at Mini Siam
- Address: 387 Moo 6 Sukhumvit Road, Pattaya City Naklua, Banglamung
- Opening hours: Daily from 9:00 to 19:00
Mini Siam features models of some of the most well-known international sites, providing an entertaining way to explore the wonders of Thailand and the world. Bangkok’s Victory Monument and Wat Arun (also called the Temple of the Dawn), New York’s Statue of Liberty, London’s Tower Bridge, Sydney Opera House, and Paris’s Arc de Triomphe are a few of the places they are on exhibit.
Children, in particular, will enjoy having the opportunity to visit a variety of famous buildings all in one place. As the sun begins to set in the late afternoon, you can admire the special warm lights that flicker on. Please note that reservations must be made at least one day prior to your visit.
Underwater World Pattaya
- Address: 22/22 Moo 11,Sukhumvit Road, Nongprue, Banglamung
- Opening hours: Daily from 9:00 to 18:00
Despite being smaller than other aquariums, Underwater World is home to an amazing variety of aquatic life from various underwater habitats. At Thailand’s first modern aquarium, you can see Thailand’s largest collection of jellyfish, feed koi fish from bottles, get up close to sharks and rays, and feel the texture of sea creatures in the touch pool.
One of the special activities for kids is the Sleepover with Sharks & Rays Camp, where children can spend a night in the underwater glass tunnel and learn about marine life.
Treasure Hunting at Thepparasit Night Market
- Address: 18 Thepprasit Rd, Muang Pattaya, Amphoe Bang Lamung, Chang Wat Chon Buri 20150
- Opening hours: Daily from 17:00 to 23:00
Both locals and visitors are drawn to this vibrant Friday through Sunday market. It’s recommended taking a tuk-tuk to Thepprasit since, although there are other markets in Pattaya, the ones in the city center usually charge more. Although there are stalls outside as well as inside, the interior portion of the market is far bigger and more attractive.
The stalls are arranged haphazardly, like in most Thai markets, with vendors selling electronics and T-shirts next to those serving hot meals. You will need to perfect your negotiating abilities and walk the entire length and width of the market in order to get the greatest deals.
Instead of dubious items and replica designer items, pay attention to paper lamps, genuine souvenirs, and unexpectedly affordable silk garments.
Capture The Giant Buddha Engraving at Khao Chi Chan
- Address: Na Jomtien Km 163, Sukhumvit Road Na Chom Thian Subdistrict, Na Chom Thian, Sattahip 20250
- Opening hours: Daily from 8:00 to 18:00
Khao Chi Chan, sometimes called Buddha Mountain, is a limestone hill that has the largest Buddha image in the world carved directly into it. The majority of the towering rock is covered in a golden carving of a sitting Buddha that is 109 meters tall and 70 meters broad.
The figure was inlaid with gold leaf after being etched into the stone using guided laser technology in 1996. It was built as a destination of pilgrimage for the local Buddhist community and as a tribute to the king.
The site is more beautiful by a serene garden with concrete walkways, a small lake, and several water pools full of lotus blossoms. The area is primarily used for worship and relaxation amid the gorgeous surroundings, though there are a few vendors and a tiny visitors center.
The mountain is only 15 kilometers outside of Pattaya, close to Jomtien beach. While you’re in the neighborhood, you can visit the Viharn Sien temple and museum. It has a stunning collection of bronze statues, as well as many archeological finds and cultural and religious treasures.
Final Thoughts
Pattaya is often thought of as a destination only for those seeking wild parties, but it truly has much more to offer. Our list of what to do in Pattaya is just the beginning, as there are numerous other amazing attractions in the area waiting to be discovered. We hope that our suggestions will enhance your travel itinerary and allow you to create memories that will last a lifetime.
