The most popular things to do in Pattaya include nightlife, sunbathing and beach bars. And yes, you can absolutely enjoy those:)
But you can also easily discover that Pattaya has numerous interesting attractions too. Temples overlooking the sea, tropical gardens, islands with amazingly clear water, golf courses, viewpoints, local markets, and much, much more!
Pattaya is also very easy it is to visit. Located just a couple of hours from Bangkok, it can be a convenient stop during a longer Thailand itinerary.
Here are the best things to do in Pattaya – 10 popular spots and 5 lesser-known places worth adding to your plans.
10 Best Things To Do In Pattaya – Popular Places
1. The Sanctuary of Truth
The Sanctuary of Truth is a very interesting Thai temple. It’s been built entirely from wood without using nails. It rises directly above the sea and all its walls, columns and roof are covered with intricate carvings inspired by Buddhist and Hindu philosophy.
You can spend an hour here or half a day and still keep discovering new details. Highly recommended!
2. Koh Larn Island
Many people complain that Pattaya beaches are not the most beautiful in Thailand. And they’re right.
Fortunately, Koh Larn is only a short ferry ride away. The island offers white sand, clear water, and a relaxed atmosphere. Spending a day here is a perfect idea for chilling time.
3. The Big Buddha
The Wat Phra Yai is one of Pattaya’s most recognizable landmarks. You can see the giant golden Buddha from far away, but the real reward is the view from the top of Pratumnak Hill.
Make sure to take enough water for the journey and enjoy!
4. Pattaya Viewpoint
Pratumnak Hill offers not only the Big Buddha but also a stunning panoramic view of Pattaya Bay, the skyline, and the coastline.
For the best experience, come here shortly before sunset and watch the city slowly light up.
5. Nong Nooch Tropical Garden
The Nong Nooch Tropical Garden is one of the largest botanical gardens in Southeast Asia.
You’ll find:
- tropical plants
- orchid collections
- themed gardens
- viewpoints
- and even a large dinosaur section, perfect for children
6. The Floating Market
The Pattaya Floating Market was built to showcase Thai culture and food traditions. It is touristy, but it’s also colorful, lively, and a good place to try local snacks.
If you’ve never visited a floating market before, it’s worth seeing at least once.
7. Jomtien Beach
Central Pattaya can feel hectic; If you’d like to experience a calmer area, visit Jomtien Beach. It offers a wide beach promenade, popular among locals and expats, especially in the evening when temperatures become more pleasant.
My favourite thing to do there was to grab a coconut and enjoy a slow walk by the sea 🙂
8. Golf Courses
Pattaya is one of Asia’s most popular golf destinations. The region offers dozens of excellent courses designed by internationally known architects, often at prices much lower than comparable courses in Europe or North America.
Many courses are surrounded by tropical vegetation, hills and limestone formations. Even non-golfers may appreciate the views.
If you’re interested in planning a golf trip, check this guide to the best golf courses Pattaya.
9. Khao Chi Chan (Buddha Mountain)
One of the most unusual landmarks near Pattaya is a giant Buddha image that was laser-engraved into a limestone mountain and later filled with gold color.
That’s simply impressive, isn’t it? 🙂
10. Pattaya Night Market
Like in any place in Thailand, also in Pattaya, the night market is one of the best places to taste local food such as:
- grilled seafood
- mango sticky rice
- Thai pancakes
- fresh fruit smoothies
Even if you don’t buy anything, wandering between food stalls is part of the experience.
5 Best Things To Do In Pattaya Off The Beaten Path
1. The Chinese Temple Complex of Viharn Sien
Viharn Sien is a temple and a museum – very different from traditional Thai temples. It’s been built to host an art collection gifted to the Chakri dynasty.
Inside you’ll find:
- Chinese sculptures
- historical artifacts
- warrior figures
- beautiful gardens
It’s peaceful and uncrowded.
2. Bang Saray Fishing Village
A short drive from Pattaya brings you to Bang Saray, a peaceful fishing village where life moves more slowly. You will see more fishing boats than speedboats, local restaurants outnumber tourist bars, and the atmosphere feels peaceful.
It’s a good reminder of what this coastline looked like before so many tourists arrived to Thailand.
3. Mangrove Ecosystems
Few visitors realize there are mangrove ecosystems near Pattaya. The most popular spot is Thung Prong Thong (Golden Mangrove Field) – about 2 hours drive from Pattaya. This mangrove field is the largest in Rayong province and is the main supporter of the local livelihoods of fishers.
You can hike or joining a kayaking trip through the waterways.
4. Thai Vineyard
Yes, Thailand has vineyards, did you know? 🙂 The nearby Silverlake Vineyard area became known for its unusual landscape of vineyards surrounded by tropical scenery.
Even if you’re not a wine enthusiast, it’s an unexpected stop and a pleasant change from beaches and temples.
5. Thousands of Bats
If you are lucky, you may experience something truly incredible. Sometimes, near sunset, enormous groups of bats leave caves in the surrounding hills and form long black ribbons across the sky.
If you happen to see it, don’t get scared – enjoy 🙂
Practical Information
How To Get To Pattaya
The easiest way is from Bangkok. The journey takes around 2–3 hours depending on traffic.
You can travel by:
- bus
- private transfer
- taxi
- rental car
The nearest airport is U-Tapao International Airport, though most international visitors still arrive through Bangkok.
How Many Days Do You Need?
I would recommend:
- 2 days if you only want to see the highlights
- 3–4 days for a more relaxed visit
- longer if you plan golf, diving or beach time
Is Pattaya Worth Visiting?
Will Pattaya replace the beaches of Krabi or the islands of southern Thailand? Probably not.
But it is an excellent destination to relax on the beach or party – especially if you don’t have time to travel south. And if you get tired with beaches and nightlife, you will have numerous places to visit too. 🙂
Check also:
15 Top Things To Do In Bangkok.
