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Pattaya is a vibrant city perched on the shimmering Thai Gulf coast. Known for its pristine white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, tourists flock here to enjoy restful beach vacations at the city’s many five-star resorts.
If you prefer to immerse yourself in your destination during a visit, you’re in luck. There are endless things to see and do here in Pattaya — from spectacular temples and exotic islands in and around the city to day trips and epic adventures waiting to be discovered further afield.
Whether it’s your first time visiting Thailand or you’re looking for new attractions for a return visit, keep reading for our top 19 best things to do in Pattaya.
1. Spend Your Baht at Pattaya Floating Market
Photo Credit: Santi.m
Pattaya Floating Market was established in 2008 and has become one of the city’s most popular things to do. Here, you can experience authentic Thai riverside living while shopping for produce from many parts of Thailand.
2. Relax on Pattaya’s Beautiful Beaches
Most people who visit Pattaya do so to experience the powdery white sand and clear waters of the Gulf of Thailand. If you’re looking to make the most of Pattaya’s sunny weather, here are a few of the best beaches to check out during your stay:
- Pattaya Beach – this is the city’s main beach. Come for the watersports, including parasailing, jet-skiing, banana boats, and snorkeling. There are plenty of restaurants and shops here, too, making it a convenient option for a beach day.
- Jomtien Beach – a quieter beach where visitors go to relax and unwind on an unspoiled strip of sand. Windsurfing and kiteboarding are also offered here, and there are a few restaurants serving authentic Thai cuisine.
- Naklua Beach – this local fishing spot will give you a glimpse into the daily lives of locals working in the area’s thriving fishing industry. It’s a great spot to truly relax away from the busy city center.
3. See Dinosaurs in Nong Nooch Tropical Garden
Photo Credit: Panwasin seemala
Nong Nooch is the biggest botanical garden in Southeast Asia and a must-see attraction. There’s more to this Pattaya park than initially meets the eye, though. Here, you can also see life-sized sculptures of the dinosaurs that roamed Thailand during prehistoric times.
4. Hang out with Thailand’s Gentle Giants
The Elephant Jungle Sanctuary was the first of its kind to open in the province of Chonburi, where Pattaya is located. It’s an ethical operation that prioritizes elephant welfare, and there are several fun programs to choose from.
The “Feed Me” experience is one of the most popular picks because it gives you the opportunity to safely feed and spend time with these gentle giants.
5. Escape the Heat at Frost Magical Ice of Siam
It’s no secret that Thailand can get incredibly hot. So, if you’re searching for a fun way to cool down, check out Frost Magical Ice of Siam. This enchanted world features snow, ice sculptures, caves, domes, and slides.
The park is kept at a chilly 14 degrees Fahrenheit but don’t worry if you haven’t packed your thermals — cold weather gear is available at the attraction.
6. Take a Day Trip to Bangkok
Bangkok is Thailand’s capital and is a city like no other. The journey from Pattaya only takes two hours if the roads are clear, making it the perfect choice for a day trip. Here’s what to see while you’re there:
- Visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha – said to be the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. The Emerald Buddha is made from a single piece of solid green jade and is an important religious icon for Thai people.
- Cruise the Chao Phraya River – see the city’s top sights from the comfort of a boat when you book a Chao Phraya River cruise. There are many options to choose from, including romantic sunset dinner cruises.
- Shop at Chatuchak Market – this is Bangkok’s biggest and most famous night market. Here, you’ll find an incredible 15,000 stalls selling souvenirs, street food, and anything else you can imagine.
7. See Pattaya’s Beautiful Ladyboys Perform a Cabaret Show
Tiffany’s Show was the first transgender cabaret show in Southeast Asia and is still one of the most popular in Pattaya City and beyond. Three shows take place nightly and feature glamorous ladyboys singing, dancing, and acting in glittering costumes.
Tip: Some say that Alcazar Cabaret is now the best in the city, so why not see both and decide for yourself?
8. Make a Splash at Ramayana Water Park
Photo Credit: sarayuth3390
This is Thailand’s biggest water-based theme park and makes a high-octane alternative to a day by the ocean. This Pattaya water park is divided into four themed zones with 21 exhilarating slides plus lots of family-friendly things to do.
9. Be Transported to Another World
Pattaya is a pretty incredible place to spend time, but if you’d like to be transported to another world during your stay, you’re in luck! Here are some of the most mind-bending things to do in Pattaya:
- Art In Paradise – come to the largest 3D art museum in the world to experience optical illusions and jaw-dropping photo opportunities.
- Ripley’s Believe It Or Not – this world-famous tourist attraction’s Pattaya branch is home to over 300 oddities that will shock and delight visitors of all ages.
- Mini Siam – take a tour around the globe without ever leaving Pattaya. Check out Europe’s most iconic landmarks and ancient African wonders alongside mini replicas of some of Thailand’s most majestic temples.
10. Meet Thailand’s Marine Life
Get to know Thailand’s diverse marine life during a visit to this popular indoor aquarium. Take a stroll through Underwater World Pattaya’s 100-meter underwater tunnel to see some of nature’s most impressive aquatic animals, including sharks and stingrays, swimming around you. You can even watch as experts hand-feed them!
11. Soak up the Nightlife of Pattaya’s Walking Street
Photo Credit: ponsulak
This beach road is the most popular place in the city to drink, dance, dine, and party the night away. In fact, Walking Street is perhaps the best-known street and nightlife spot in all of Thailand. Whether you’re looking for a seafood dinner, live music, cocktails, or go-go bars, you’ll find them all here.
Tip: It’s worth noting that Walking Street is also Pattaya’s red light district, so it isn’t suitable for families after dark.
12. Take a Boat Ride to Coral Island
Koh Larn, otherwise known as Coral Island, is a small island that makes an easy day trip from Pattaya. It’s possible to reach the island in just 40 minutes by the many ferries and speedboats that depart from Bali Hai pier. Here’s what to do on your island adventure:
- Watersports – scuba diving is a popular pursuit for day trippers, and there are several dive sites that are suitable for divers of all ability levels. Snorkeling and jet skiing are also available.
- Kuan Yin Viewpoint & Big Buddha Temple – this is one of the most famous Pattaya viewpoints, and it can be easily reached on a scooter tour. Don’t miss the giant Buddha statue on your way up!
- Wat Mai Samraan – this Buddhist temple is just a short walk from Koh Larn pier and is worth paying a visit to experience the bright decorations and calming atmosphere.
13. Experience an Adrenalin Rush at EasyKart
If driving on Thailand’s hectic streets is a little too crazy-sounding, get your adrenaline fix at EasyKart instead. This state-of-the-art go-karting facility offers two large tracks where you can put your driving skills to the test, plus a restaurant, bar, and pool to chill out at once the race is over.
14. Spend a Weekend in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a breathtaking city in Thailand’s mountainous north. As an important cultural and religious center, you’ll discover hundreds of temples to explore here, plus lush nature and a thriving food scene. It’s just 1.5 hours by plane from Pattaya, and the main sights can be seen over the course of a weekend:
- Check out Wat Chedi Luang temple – dating back to the 14th century, this temple is home to Chiang Mai’s largest Buddhist chedi (a tower-like structure) measuring an impressive 98 meters tall.
- Somphet Market – pick up souvenirs and sample tasty street food at this vibrant Thai market. Although bustling, the market has a friendly atmosphere where you can test out your haggling skills.
- Spend a day at Doi Suthep-Pui National Park – this lush forested area is known for its hilltop temple. Take a hike up the hill for panoramic views of Chiang Mai and the surrounding area.
15. Visit The Sanctuary of Truth
Photo Credit: noina
The Sanctuary of Truth is located in North Pattaya and is home to some of the most impressive wood sculptures and carvings in the country. An unmissable demonstration of ancient Thai craftsmanship, this wooden castle and museum aims to guide visitors to discover the true meaning of life.
16. See the Spectacular Gold Buddha at Khao Chi Chan
The Buddha Mountain, otherwise known as Khao Chi Chan, is a limestone hill with a 70-meter-tall golden Buddha engraved on its side. The engraving was completed in 1996 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the king’s coronation, and it’s the largest of its kind in the world.
17. Visit Wat Phra Khao Yai
Photo Credit: terimma
While we’re on the subject of spectacular gold Buddhas, Wat Phra Yai shouldn’t be missed. Also known as Big Buddha Hill, this ancient temple has been recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Site and is a spiritual pilgrimage destination for Buddhists. While you’re here, ring the bell to bring good luck and prosperity.
18. Feast in Pattaya’s Chinatown
Bangkok is famous for having one of the best Chinatowns in the world, but Pattaya’s offering is also pretty impressive. Here, you’ll find authentic Chinese restaurants alongside stores selling natural healthcare and stalls offering fresh smoothies and juices.
Come with an appetite and plenty of baht to spend in this mini replica of China!
19. Go Back in Time at the Million Years Stone Park
Just 15 minutes from Pattaya is the Million Years Stone Park and Crocodile Farm. This unique living museum is like no other attraction in the country, and it makes a great day out for tourists with a curiosity for the natural world. Don’t miss these three areas during your visit:
- Stone Park – walk among stone sculptures made from rocks weighing up to 90 tons and petrified trees that are more than one million years old.
- Crocodile farm – home to the largest population of saltwater crocodiles in the country. Watch them being fed and learn about the breeding program during your visit.
- Zoo – meet majestic creatures, including white tigers, elephants, bears, camels, and giraffes.
Fall in Love with the Many Things to Do in Pattaya
So there you have it — our top 19 best things to do in Pattaya. Whether you’re looking for family attractions, lazy beach days, or wild nights out, you’ll find all that and more right here in pretty Pattaya.
