These best things to do in Pattaya, will keep you and your family busy, no matter how long you are in the beach city for.
Just a few hours from Bangkok, Pattaya has grown in popularity over the past few years. There are interesting things to do in Pattaya whether you are looking for culture, history or just some fun attractions, you will find something for you.
Historic sightseeing in Pattaya
Wat Phra Khao Yai – Also known as the Big Buddha hill, climb the staircase to visiting this giant Buddha which overlooks the city of Pattaya. You also get a great view and can see the smaller Buddha’s and shrines scattered along the route.
The Sanctuary of Truth – For me, this is the most impressive thing to see in Pattaya. This temple is made completely of wood and is still in process of being built and has been since 1981.
Pattaya Floating Market – I include this market in the historic sightseeing section very loosely. Yes, this market offers an insight into the Thailand tradition of floating markets; even though these are really only visited by tourists these days. The ‘Four Regions Floating Market’ is split into different sections, selling items from the four regions of Thailand.
Pattaya Attractions
Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden – For those that love beautiful, bright botanic gardens, this is the place for you. Covering 2.4 square kilometers, this garden has won several international worlds and has arguably some of the most beautiful flowers in the world.
The Buddha Engraving at Khao Chi Chan – As the biggest engraved Buddha in the world, this engraving on a mountain on the outskirts of Pattaya does seem to get a lot of attention. If you are renting a car in the area, take a trip over and see the engraving whilst taking a stroll around the greenery.
Anek Kusala Sala – This Chinese temple was originally built to build a friendship between Thailand and China and is not a museum showing over 300 pieces of Chinese artwork over two floors.
Three Kingdom Theme Park (Sam Kok) – Visit Chinese pagodas and temples in this park which celebrates Buddhism and the Thai and Chinese heritage.
Pratumnak Hill – Hike up to see a breathtaking view of Pattaya City and the sea. Visit at sunset to appreciate the views during the afternoon and once it gets dark and the city lights all turn on.
Baan Sukhawadee – Also known as Eden House, this mansion is impressive and stunning. Take a walk around the grounds and feel like royalty, even if it is just for a few hours.
Mini Siam and Mini Europe – This is a quirkier thing to do in Pattaya but we love it. Head to the outskirts of the city to visit the Mini Siam and Mini Europe attraction. Here, you’ll find mini replicas of famous landmarks from Thailand and Europe.
Central Festival – This shopping mall is a popular spot for locals and expats, with lots of western stores standing alongside some popular Thailand food chains. There is also a massive cinema and bowling alley within this mall.
Ang Sila Oyster Farm – Learn how oysters and mussels are bred in this unique farm experience.
Sri Racha Tiger Zoo – This tiger zoo focuses on breeding and conserving wildlife such as the Bengal tiger. It also has a crocodile farm and animal shows.
Silver Lake Vineyard – The New Latitude Wines are produced in the Silver Lake Vineyard along with other Thai wineries. Some vineyards offer the option to stay on the vineyard itself and many offer great wine tasting sessions.
Relaxing things to do in Pattaya
Koh Larn – Spend a day relaxing on a beach on the island of Koh Larn. Boats leave Pattaya throughout the day and there are even a handful of resorts on this tiny island too.
Ban Amphur Beach – The fishing village of Ban Amphur is also home to a quiet and peaceful beach. It is a lot less crowded than other beaches in and around Pattaya and there are also some great seafood restaurants along the waterfront.
Koh Samet – Not too far from Pattaya is the island of Koh Samet which offers beautiful white beaches and crystal clear waters.
Jomtien Beach – Although busier than the beaches above, Jomtien beach is still a great place to visit when you want to escape the crowds of Pattaya. You can find a number of watersports and activities along the beachfront as well as some great Thai restaurants.
Things to do in Pattaya with kids
Art in Paradise – Become part of the artwork in this 3D, special effect gallery. Children LOVE this and even adults find the fun in posing with gigantic crocodiles or balancing over an endless cliff.
Ripley’s Believe it or Not – Not too dissimilar from the other Ripley’s around the world, this museum is full of weird and wonderful facts from around the world in interactive, playful exhibits. I love visiting a Ripley’s Museum and this is perfect for both adults and children.
Pattaya Park – As part of a beach resort, this is the only water park in Pattaya. It is perfect for families and offers a lot of slides that adults can enjoy too. Plus, the Pattaya Park Tower is a great place to head for dinner and enjoy of the city.
Khao Kheow Open Zoo – This zoo is incredible; animals can roam around the grounds of the wildlife reserve and you can choose to walk or drive through the observation areas to see the animals up close. They even have a night safari to take via tram.
Frost Magical Ice of Siam – On the outskirts of Pattaya, you will find this frozen attraction. Walk around ice sculptures in -10 degrees, enjoy the ice slide and finish of your experience with a visit to the ice bar.
Underwater World – Here, you can walk through a long, see-through tunnel, looking at over 500 different types of fish and sea creatures. You can feed Koi fish here or even swim with sharks and rays.
Cartoon Network Amazone Pattaya – This popular theme park is the perfect place to visit with family. With rides based on childhood characters and plenty of attractions, you’ll find something for everyone here.
Baa Baa Black Sheep – This sheep farm allows you to cuddle baby sheep in a fun, colourful park. You can also visit ponies, piglets and birds here too.
Harbor Land Pattaya – Similar to the Bangkok Harbor Land, this is a massive indoor playground area, complete with climbing walls and gigantic slides.
Horseshoe Point – This horse riding school offers lessons to families within the grounds of the resort. You can also visit the activities park and go swimming whilst you’re here too.
Teddy Bear Museum – If you are travelling with little children (or if you want a few great selfies), the Teddy Bear Museum is a great way to spend an afternoon. The museum is actually one of the largest in Thailand and is adorned with every type, colour and size of teddy bear you can imagine.
Best restaurants in Pattaya
Mum Aroi – Sitting in the fishing village of Naklua, this seafood restaurant is popular with expats and locals and offers a unique dining experience.
Leng Kee – This Chinese and Seafood restaurant is popular with locals and expats and can be found open 24 hours a day.
Mai Sai Thong – This street vendor, next to the day market, is known as the best place in Thailand to get some Mango Sticky Rice.
Pizza Plaza Pattaya – If you’re travelling with children, make sure you head to this All-You-Can-Eat pizza place where you make your own mini pizzas and cook them in ovens on your table.
Caprice Restaurant and Bar – This 5-star dining is arguably the best restaurant in Pattaya. With a terrace overlooking the Ocean and an elegant, stunning interior, the 4-course menu starts at 850 baht and offers delights such
The Glass House – Located on the beach, this That seafood restaurant is a great place to dine for a special occasion. Book in advanced for the best seats and enjoy!
Lungsawai Seafood – Running for over 30 years, this restaurant is popular with locals because of it’s unmissable seafood dishes. Try the sea crabs and Rieow Sieow fish eggs – both amazing and super affordable.
Things to do in Pattaya at Night
Walking Street – The infamous walking street is the place to be once the sun goes down. With bars and clubs aligning the street, head here for decent happy hours and a busy atmosphere.
Tiffany’s Cabaret – Running for 30 years, this hour performance is a popular show in Pattaya. Performed by ladyboys in stunning costumes, this show represents scenes from all over the world.
Thepprasit Market – This weekend night market offers some local Thai snacks and smoothies among many, many clothing stalls.
Alangkarn Cultural show – This cultural show features Thai history, traditions and culture within a 2-hour performance of song, dance and colourful costumes.
Mixx Discotheque Pattaya – For those that are looking to dance the night away, this is arguably the best club in the city. You can listen to house music in the Crystal Palace room or listen to R&B and hip hop in the Rouge Club room.
These are our favourite things to do in Pattaya, what are yours? Let us know where you like to stay and where you like to explore in Pattaya? Tell us in the comments below!
-
[…] THINGS TO DO IN PATTAYA […]
Leave a Comment
Whenever people think of Pattaya they immediately think of ladyboys, risque shows and drunk tourists. This does not even begin to touch upon the many things that this city in Thailand has to offer. Pattaya is a place that has beautiful temples and beaches but it also has so many activities to get involved in that it is impossible to get bored. There are a large number of expats living in Pattaya which has led to the city changing over the years, but this has only led to an increase in wealth being brought into the city, with the increased wealth business men have seen an opportunity to create attractions that appeal to holiday makers which is why Pattaya is one of the enjoyable places to stop at for a few days.
Sitting at the top of a forested hill between South Pattaya and Jomtien is a giant Buddha statue known as Wat Phra Yai, The statue has its origins at a time when Pattaya was just a small fishing village, and a long way away from the world Pattaya finds itself in now. From the top of the hill you have panoramic views over Pattaya City and Bay.