Pattaya is one of the most popular resort towns in Thailand, located just 2 hours south of Bangkok. There is no shortage of things to do in Pattaya or beautiful places to visit in the surrounding area.
This city used to be a small fishing village until the 1960s, and the first tourists to arrive were American servicemen during the Vietnam War, who came here on rest and relaxation trips.
Today, tourism accounts for most of the local economy with more than 14 million visitors in 2018. Pattaya has also gained a notorious reputation for its walking street that is lined up with bars and nightclubs.
Ramayana Water Park
The Ramayana Water Park is Thailand’s biggest and is a real attraction for visitors of all ages. The park features many exciting thrill rides that will satisfy adrenaline-seeker but also offers more relaxed rides suitable for children.
Some of Ramayana Water Park’s highlights are the many atmospheric water playgrounds that are a dream come true for children. The park is located in scenic nature surrounded by green hills and lush vegetation but at the same time is only 20 minutes away from Pattaya.
Sanctuary of Truth
Sanctuary of Truth is one of the most interesting temples in the region. It is built right at the sea and is made entirely out of wood. It serves as both a Hindu and a Buddhist temple and was built in the Ayutthaya style of architecture.
Despite being under construction for more than 20 years the Sanctuary of Truth is still unfinished. Guests can visit the site for a fee and experience the beauty and craftsmanship of the temple.
Pattaya Floating Market
Pattaya’s floating market is similar to its more famous counterpart in Bangkok and offers a fantastic glimpse into Thailand’s interesting market culture. Every day farmers of the surrounding countryside come here to sell fresh produce on their small boats.
There are also riverside shops and restaurants that can be accessed from both the land and the water. Due to its relatively touristic atmosphere, the market also offers traditional Thai handicrafts and souvenirs.
Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Khao Yai)
The Big Budha Temple is characterized by its 91 meters tall Buddha statue, overlooking not just the city but also the beautiful Gulf of Thailand. It’s a sacred place to followers of Buddhism.
It’s located on top of a hill and to get here, one must climb the many stairs to the top. The best time to come here is in the morning. The effort is very much worth it not just for the scenic panorama but also for the many interesting statues found on this sacred hill.
Talad Tote Night Market
The Talad Tote Night Market is located just south of Pattaya in Jomtien Beach. The market features everything you would expect from a typical Thai night market. There is great Thai food on offer here that is both inexpensive and delicious.
Exploring the wide array of dishes on offer here is a real culinary adventure. Make sure not to miss the fantastic fresh Thai fruits and juices offered here. They are so much more delicious than in Europe or America.
Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden
Beautiful tropical vegetation situated on 500 acres of well-maintained Botanical Gardens awaits you at Nong Nooch. But there is more than the breathtaking beauty of the gardens, there are also martial arts demonstrations, and ceremonies found here.
Despite its name, there are also some sections dedicated to European gardens. The institution is known for being a leading site for the collection and conservation of Cycads, an ancient plant group that is highly endangered today.
This tropical botanical garden has been listed as one of the most impressive places to visit in Thailand.
Teddy Bear Museum
Teddy Bear Museum is a unique museum in Pattaya that is especially fun for kids and collectors of teddy bears. The museum is very creative and impresses with a fantastic collection of Teddy Bears from all over the world.
Children will love the museum as all the Teddy bears are presented in thematic ways, each telling a different story. Visiting the Teddy bear museum is definitely one of the best things to do in Pattaya with kids.
Cartoon Network Amazone
Cartoon Network Amazone is the world’s first water park licensed by the well-known Cartoon Network. It offers hours of fun for all ages and features 25 modern rides, thematic pools, and playgrounds.
Additionally, there are also world-class live shows performed here that usually include characters featured in TV shows and movies on the Cartoon Network.
Khao Chi Chan
There are many statues and images of Buddha that can be found around Thailand but the Khao Chi Chan, alternatively often called Buddha mountain, is one of the most unique and stands out from the other ones you will see during your trip to Thailand.
The image was carved into an impressive limestone cliff and served as a gift for the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the reign of King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
Another impressive aspect of the site is that the carving depicting the Buddha was filled with 24K gold, giving the image a golden hue that is just breathtaking.
Anek Kusala Sala
Anek Kusala Sala is one of the religious highlights of Pattaya. The temple was built to underline the friendship between Thailand and China and the shared heritage of both countries.
This Chinese temple is considered one of the cultural centers of Chinese culture and offers a great collection of Chinese art and antiquities including a collection of bronze statues, jade carvings, and paintings.
Koh Larn
Koh Larn is Pattaya’s biggest and best-known off-shore island and feels like a real tropical paradise despite being only a short boat ride away from the busy streets of Pattaya.
The island is known for its great beaches and the beautiful hills of its interior. All the infrastructure you might need can be found here. There are hotels for every budget available as well as many restaurants, shops, and even water sports options like Jet-Skis.
Ban Amphur Beach
Ban Amphur beach is a great spot for everyone that wants some relaxation next to the beautiful waters of the Gulf of Thailand. This beach can be found next to Jomtien Beach south of Pattaya and offers a wide stretch of sand that is ideal for kids and sun-lovers.
The water here is calm and adjacent to the beach are numerous bars, restaurants, hotels, and shops allowing the beach to offer a great combination of infrastructure and natural beauty.
Mini Siam And Mini Europe
This site offers a collection of Thai and European landmarks in miniature form. It’s a great place for all ages to come for an interesting experience where you can take a closer look at famous buildings and monuments.
For kids, a visit to the Mini Siam and Mini Europe is like a real-life geography lesson that allows visiting many corners of the world by simply walking a few meters.
Eat Mango Sticky Rice at Mae Sai Thong
Mae Sai Thong is a small shop in Pattaya that is famous for offering the best Mango Sticky Rice in the region.
This inexpensive traditional Thai dish shouldn’t be missed when coming to the Kingdom. It consists of rice, coconut milk, and fresh mango and can be eaten as a snack at any time of the day.
Pattaya Walking Street
The walking street in Pattaya has become infamous around the world for its party scene and sex tourism. Every night the street and its surroundings turn into a roaring party and a variety of bars, nightclubs and restaurants are open until late in the morning.
But there is more to the street than strip clubs and ping pong shows. In recent years Pattaya’s Walking Street has become a party destination suitable for all kinds of visitors.
Many younger tourists and locals are coming here to party and socialize now. At some clubs, there are famous artists from all over the world performing every now and then.
More reading from Thailand
Want more recommendations on places to visit in Pattaya? Leave a comment below!