Pattaya is a city located on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand, about 165 km southeast of the capital, Bangkok. It is a popular destination for tourists, particularly from East and Southeast Asia. Pattaya is predominantly known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and various tourist attractions.
In addition to its nightlife, Pattaya offers a variety of activities, from water sports to golf and shopping. There are many water parks, unique religious masterpieces, and art galleries to explore. The city also has a vibrant street food scene, with vendors serving up delicious Thai dishes.
Discover nature, artwork, science, and civilization in new ways. Pattaya is home to a large number of ex-pats, which has resulted in the city changing slowly over time.
However, this has only increased investment into the city’s development, making Pattaya one of the most enjoyable places to visit for a few days on your Thai Travels.
Here’s our roundup of the best things to do in Pattaya.
20 Best Things To Do In Pattaya, Thailand…
Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden
Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden is located in Chonburi Province, Thailand, about 17 km south-east of Pattaya city. It covers an area of 565 acres and is an internationally recognized botanical garden and tourist attraction.
The garden was established in 1980 by Khun Nongnooch Tansacha and Khun Nongluk Tansacha, who had the vision to create a place of beauty and leisure for all to enjoy. Nong Nooch is known for its vast array of tropical plants and trees, orchid displays, and spectacular Thai cultural shows.
The botanical garden is also home to over 3,500 species of plants, including palm trees, cacti, rare orchids, and bonsais, as well as an extensive range of animals, such as tigers, elephants, and water buffalo. There are also regular cultural performances and traditional shows, such as the Thai Cultural Show and the Elephant Show. Nong Nooch is a great day out for the whole family and is a must-see when visiting Pattaya.
This is a wonderful place to spend a relaxing afternoon if you enjoy flowers, trees, and beautiful gardens.
These gardens have won numerous honors for their features and will continue to do so in the future due to their superb maintenance. There are approximately 670 orchid species, as well as an elephant talent show, among the flowers and trees. This is without doubt one of the most beautiful attractions in Pattaya and a must see!
The Floating Market In Pattaya
In Thailand, there are a variety of floating markets, but this one in Pattaya is special… The Floating Market in Pattaya is an exciting and unique shopping experience. Located close to the Sukhumvit area of town, the market is a great place to browse a variety of traditional Thai goods and products.
The market is made up of a series of canals, with vendors selling their wares from traditional wooden boats. You can buy everything from souvenirs and local crafts to fresh fruit and vegetables. For a truly unique experience, you can even take a boat ride around the canals and explore the market from a different perspective. The market is open during the day and early evening and is a great place to spend an afternoon.
The market is officially known as the ‘Four Regions Floating Market,’ because it is divided into Thailand’s four regions: north, northeast, south, and central.
Products from that region of the country are sold in each segment of the market.
Some of the stores are aboard boats that travel around the canals, while others are stilted homes along the banks. Hop on a boat and explore everything on offer to get the most out of the market. Its definitely one of the most unique activities in Pattaya.
Explore Pattaya’s Walking Street
Walking Street is unlike any other street in Thailand in terms of sights and sounds. After 6 p.m, automobiles are not permitted on Walking Street, which is 500 meters long.
Clubs, clubs and restaurants, go-go bars, hotels, and beer bars abound on the main street as well as several side streets. The road is nearly desolate during the day, but after the sun sets, neon lights, loud music, and a legion of girls descend upon the streets.
The Walking Street Party is an event held on the famous Walking Street in Pattaya. It is held on the last Saturday of each month and features live music, DJs, food and drink stalls, and other activities. The party attracts thousands of visitors each month and has become a popular attraction for both locals and tourists. It is one of the most popular nights out in Pattaya and is a great way to experience the vibrant nightlife of the city.
Take Some Time To Think Of The Truth Sanctuary
The Sanctuary of Truth is an all-wood temple in Pattaya. It was constructed in 1981 and is built entirely out of wood, stands 105 meters tall, with intricate designs and sculptures depicting religious and philosophical themes – A truly spectacular sight like nothing seen before.
The temple is dedicated to the celebration of art, philosophy, and religion. It also serves as a museum, showcasing works from various periods of Thai art and architecture. Visitors can explore the temple, view its intricate carvings, and participate in spiritual ceremonies.
As you might guess, that’s not a Buddhist temple; instead, it was created by a company owner as a place to reflect on oneself.
The facility itself is still under construction, according to many who believe it will never be completed, with extraordinarily detailed carvings on every surface, both internally and outside.
There are many stunning structures in Thailand, and this one should be at the top of your list – It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Pattaya.
Because ecotourism has not yet fully developed in this area, costs are still modest and the area is nice and quiet.
Visit Koh Larn Island
Koh Larn is a small island located approximately seven kilometers off the coast of Pattaya. It is a popular destination for tourists looking for a day trip from Pattaya with boats departing multiple times a day, and is home to several stunning beaches and plenty of activities.
Visitors to the island can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, diving, and sunbathing on its white-sand beaches. There are also plenty of restaurants, hotels, and bars located around the island. For those looking for a more active experience, there are plenty of water sports available, such as jet skiing and parasailing. Koh Larn is also known for its coral reefs and fish, making it a great spot for scuba diving and fishing.
Even though the island is just 4 kilometers long and 2 kilometers wide, there seem to be 6 major beaches to visit, each with its individuality.
Although there are several restaurants and hotels on that island if you want to stay for a few nights, however, due to the island’s size, they fill up quickly.
Koh Larn is easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in Pattaya.
Ripley’s, Believe It Or Not
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Pattaya is located at Royal Garden Plaza in Pattaya, Thailand and is home to hundreds of odd and unusual artifacts from around the world. The attraction features interactive games and activities, as well as a 4-D theatre and a mirror maze.
The museum also has a “World of the Weird” section, featuring the most bizarre and amazing curiosities from around the globe. Some of the most popular exhibits include a mummified Viking warrior, a shrunken head, a vampire killing kit, and a two-headed calf.
Over 300 objects are housed at this Pattaya museum, which is divided into ten main subject areas. There’s a 1937 Jaguar that transforms into a speedboat, as well as a Titanic replica constructed out of a million matches.
There is always something to do that it’ll take a whole day, particularly unless you get lost inside the infinity maze for hours. After the museum and maze, are the Tussauds Wax WaxWorks and the 4D Moving Theater to see.
The Ripley’s Museum is located inside the royal shopping center (Royal Park) on Pattaya Beach Road.
Climb Wat Phra Khao Yai’s Hill (“Big Buddha Temple”)
Wat Phra Khao Yai is recognized as Big Buddha Hill because it is the region’s largest Buddha, standing 18 meters tall and around 100 meters high.
If you climb to the top of a hill and stick up next to the Buddha, you can see Pattaya and Jomtien Beach.
Along with the Buddha, there’s also a temple complex with charcoal burning all day and numerous bells.
Expect to witness monks and residents worshipping at the temple.
Visit Khao Phra Tamnak (Amazing View Over Pattaya)
Khao Phra Tamnak is a hill overlooking Pattaya Bay in the Chonburi Province of Thailand. It is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, offering spectacular views of the city, beach, and ocean. The hill is home to a large number of restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as a number of temples and shrines. There is also a popular walking street at the base of the hill, where visitors can find food, souvenirs, and other wares.
The giant Buddha statue widely recognized as Wat Phra Yai sits atop a deciduous forest hill between South Pattaya and Jomtien. The statue dates back to a time when Pattaya was mostly a small fishing village, a long way from the modern world.
You can enjoy spectacular views over Pattaya and snap a few sunset pictures while you’re there!
Flight Of The Gibbon Ziplining
Flight of the Gibbon Ziplining Pattaya is an award-winning zipline tour that takes you soaring through the treetops of the beautiful Khao Kheow Open Zoo. Strap on a full-body harness and experience the thrill of a lifetime as you zip through the jungle canopy on a series of 11 ziplines, 2 sky bridges, and 2 rappels.
After your adventure, relax and enjoy a delicious Thai buffet lunch surrounded by stunning views of the jungle. Flight of the Gibbon Ziplining Pattaya is the perfect way to experience the beauty and thrill of the Thai jungle.
Flight of the Gibbon is a comprehensive family adventure located midway between Pattaya and Bangkok, near the borders of Chompoo Wildlife reserve. It takes approximately 1.5 hours to get to from both Bangkok or Pattaya, and transfers are often included when booking via Flight Of The Gibbon.
With a spotless safety record, that’s the one area in Thailand where you can feel secure doing something you wouldn’t do at home.
You can also experience Flight of the Gibbon in Chiang Mai if you’re heading North! Check out the Flight Of The Gibbon website for more info.
Khao Chi Chan Buddha Engraving (“Buddha Mountain”)
Khao Chi Chan is a mountain in Pattaya, known for its giant Buddha engraving which is visible from the ground standing a whopping 70 metres high and 140 metres wide! The engraving, which was commissioned by the King of Thailand in 1996 as part of a commemoration of his Majesty of Thailand’s 50th year on the throne.
It depicts the seated Buddha in a meditative posture and is illuminated at night by LED lights. The site is open to the public, and visitors can take a cable car to the top of the mountain for a better view of the engraving. There is also a temple at the foot of the mountain which houses a large seated Buddha statue and several smaller statues.
The spectacle of Buddha Mountain is, without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Pattaya – Add it to your list!
Anek Kusala Sala (Viharn Sien)
Anek Kusala Sala Pattaya is a modern Buddhist temple, built in 1995 and is considered one of the most important religious sites in the city. The temple is known for its large Buddha statue and its ornate Thai architecture. The temple is also home to a variety of activities and services, such as meditation classes, chanting and spiritual retreats. Visitors to the temple can also explore the grounds, visit the onsite gift shop and participate in various religious ceremonies.
Created to foster Chinese-Thai ties, Khao Chi Chan is a museum in Pattaya that houses approximately 300 items of Chinese art, most of which are brass and marble statues of key characters from many gods, especially Buddhists and Taoists.
The second floor, which is divided into two levels, contains some significantly larger statues, the most notable of which are the Shaolin monks, who have been constructed to show various martial art positions.
Tourists frequently deposit one baht coins on statues of fashionistas, fortune tellers, and booze vendors.
Lunch At Mum Aroi Restaurant
Mum Aroi, a wonderful restaurant located in the fishing village of Naklua, dishes up a fantastic range of seafood.
You may watch the antique fishing boats bounce up and down on the waves while eating your dinner in this bustling restaurant.
The restaurant is popular with both ex-pats and locals, and it is always packed in the evenings.
Few places can compare to Mum Aroi for a peaceful evening with a glass of wine and lovely sea air.
Mum Aroi has over 6,900 Google Reviews (4.1/5 Star) and also comes highly rated on Trip Advisor (See HERE).
Pattaya Orphanage Volunteer
Pattaya Orphanage is a charity organization formed over fifty years ago by Father Ray, providing shelter, education, and medical care to abandoned and orphaned children in Pattaya, Thailand. The organization serves over 500 children, ranging in age from newborns to 18-year-olds, and also provides assistance to families in need.
The organization is mostly funded by donations, and volunteers provide assistance in the form of teaching, mentoring, and tutoring. The organization also works with local businesses to provide job training and placement for the children.
Art In Paradise
Art In Paradise is a 3D interactive art museum located in Pattaya. The museum features over 150 artworks in 7 themed zones, including optical illusions, 3D paintings, and interactive activities. Enjoy creative experiments and become a piece of artwork for your vacation pictures!
Visitors can take pictures with the artworks and enjoy the 3D effects that make the artworks come to life. Art In Paradise Pattaya is a great place to visit for both adults and children, and it provides an exciting, unique experience that cannot be found anywhere else.
That’s not your typical art gallery, but It’s fantastic fun for both kids and adults, and it should be on everyone’s bucket list – Check out the Art In Paradise website for more info.
Tiffany’s Cabaret Will Mesmerize
Tiffany’s Cabaret Pattaya is a popular cabaret show located in Pattaya, Thailand. The show is known for its spectacular stage performances featuring extravagant costumes, glittering lights, and talented performers. The cabaret has been entertaining over 2,000 people each evening for over 30 years!
Tiffany’s Cabaret Pattaya offers a variety of shows, from traditional Thai and Chinese dance numbers to modern pop and rock, as well as a range of comedy skits. The show is popular among both locals and tourists alike, and is an entertaining way to experience the vibrant nightlife of Pattaya.
Leng Kee Feast
Leng Kee is a Pattaya-based 24-hour Chinese restaurant that serves both seafood and Chinese cuisine.
Expats and Chinese citizens have frequented it for many years as it gets amazing reviews.
Except for Chinese New Year, the restaurants will be in the city’s bustling Chinatown neighborhood and will offer their regular menu throughout the year.
Its Golden Good Luck Noodles are a specialty when it goes vegetarian.
Leng Kee Pattaya Address: หมู่ที่ 9 341/5 Central Pattaya Rd, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand
Cartoon Network Amazone Waterpark
Swim in the world’s first Cartoon Network-themed water park and watch daily Cartoon Network shows featuring characters like Ben 10, The Powerpuff Girls, We Bare Bears, and Bravest Warriors.
The waterpark features over 30 thrilling slides, a wave pool, lazy river, and a variety of interactive attractions. The park is perfect for a family outing in Pattaya, or for a group of friends to have fun and relax.
It’s simply a drive away from Pattaya City and starts a day of exhilarating rides and slides… Definitely one of the best things to do in Pattaya with kids who love waterparks.
Ban Amphur Beach
Ban Amphur Beach is a popular beach destination located in the province of Chonburi. It is located along the Gulf of Thailand and is known for its beautiful white sand and clear blue waters. The beach is home to a variety of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, and fishing.
Visitors can also enjoy a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars along the beach, as well as shopping, accommodations, and nearby attractions, such as the Ban Amphur temple. The location benefits from the local fishing community and boasts delicious fresh seafood for all to enjoy!
At The International Music Festival, Relax For A Weekend
The annual Pattaya International Music Festival is held in Thailand every year, usually in late April or early May. The festival features some of Thailand’s best-known artists flying in from around the country, as well as international acts from around the world.
The festival also provides a platform for local and regional bands to perform across many stages. Aside from the music, the event also offers an array of activities, including food and beverage stalls, art exhibitions, and carnival rides.
The festival is held on Pattaya Beach Road, which is closed to traffic for the duration of the event. In the past, the occasion has been open to the public for free, and it is intended to remain that way in the future.
Tequila Reef’s Margaritas Are A Must-try
You could say Tequila Reef’s Margaritas are famous, made with top-shelf tequila, fresh lime juice, and agave syrup. The signature Margarita is served on the rocks and comes with your choice of salt or sugar rim. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of flavored margaritas, including Strawberry-Mint, Mango-Chili, and Pomegranate-Ginger.
All of the margaritas are made with top-shelf tequila, fresh-squeezed lime juice, and agave syrup, and they are all guaranteed to be delicious! Just what you need after a long day exploring the Pattaya sites.
Summary: 20 Best Things To Do In Pattaya, Thailand
Pattaya is one of many bustling coastline cities in Thailand, but regardless of the nightlife, you can still enjoy a relaxing tropical vacation here.
By now, you should have a good sense of the best things to do in Pattaya, Thailand…
From sunbathing on tropical beaches to capturing amazing photos and memories, there are many things to do in the city that you might find interesting.
Pattaya provides a diverse range of activities to suit the needs of all types of visitors.
Moreover, there are so many places of interest that are equally good, interesting, and worthwhile that you might even want to add a little time onto your trip to squeeze them all in!
Safety In Pattaya: Pattaya is similar to every other Thai resort. Tourists are targets for self-interested burglary, so keep a watch on your valuables and exercise caution.
Be sure to check out more of The Best Places To Visit In Thailand to help plan your trip!
When is the Best Time to Visit Pattaya?
The best time to visit Pattaya, Thailand is between October and April when temperatures are warm and the weather is generally dry. During this time, the monsoon season is avoided and there are fewer crowds. However, it can still be quite hot and humid at times during the dry season, so visitors should come prepared.
How to get to Pattaya?
The easiest way to get to Pattaya, Thailand is by plane. There are international airports in both Bangkok and Pattaya, with direct flights from many major cities around the world. From Bangkok, you can take a bus, train, or taxi to Pattaya. There are also direct flights from some other cities in Thailand to Pattaya.
Map of Pattaya, Thailand
Pattaya by Video
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