11 Top Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Pattaya
Even though Pattaya, the Wonderland, is renowned for its jazzy parties, it gladly invites everyone to take part in the fun. The city where the nightlife and street cuisine are famed is where Buddha preachers are from! Pattaya is also the hell of the traveller for all the devils out there. Beguiling Pattaya tourist attractions can be found throughout Thailand’s Eastern Seaboard. You can visit some of the country’s busiest party streets or be moved by serene religious treasures.
Over the years, Pattaya, a well-known beach resort city in Thailand, has acquired a colourful reputation. It’s a convenient location to take advantage of the sun, sand, and sea because Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is only about 200 kilometres away.
Since US Marines “discovered” the formerly peaceful vacation location during the Vietnam War, Pattaya has attracted tourists and expats from all over the world. Since then, Pattaya’s profile has progressively risen, and it is now one of Southeast Asia’s most well-liked beach vacation spots.
A number of family-friendly facilities, including water parks and an aquarium, can be found in Pattaya as a result of the government’s recent attempts to draw families there. Even yet, it continues to be more of an adult-oriented resort, particularly in the vicinity of Walking Street, the centre of the city’s entertainment.
Visit Jomtien Beach or Naklua if you’re going with the family or want a more sedate setting. Although less crowded than the town’s busy centre, these locations are still popular with tourists. Use this list of Pattaya’s top attractions to plan your trip.
1. Explore Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden
The expansive park at Nong Nooch Village, pronounced “nung nut,” provides a range of activities for the whole family. Walkways swirl through vibrantly themed gardens, including a topiary garden, a French garden from the 17th century, a garden inspired by the European Renaissance, and gardens dedicated to particular plant species, such as tropical palms, succulents, and bonsai.
Anyone’s inner gardener will be awakened by the stunning orchid garden. Live acts of traditional Thai dancing, sword fighting, Thai kickboxing, and an elephant display of questionable morality are added to the lineup at the Thai Cultural Hall.
The park’s various sections can be explored on a bicycle, and door-to-door transportation is also offered.
2. Work on Your Tan at Jomtien Beach
Jomtien Beach, which stretches for six kilometres, is the most popular attraction in Pattaya and a pleasant respite from the activity of the main city, which is located four kilometres away. Along its golden shores, you can sunbathe or seek refuge in the shade afforded by the trees at the beach’s edge. Water sports enthusiasts can engage in a variety of activities, such as windsurfing, parasailing, kitesurfing, and jet skiing.
There are many eateries and cafés along the beach where you may have some refreshments and eat fresh fish from the area.
In close proximity, there is the kid-friendly Cartoon Network Amazone, a water park featuring thrilling slides, big pools, splashing fountains, and cartoon-themed attractions.
3. Discover the Sanctuary of Truth
This enormous structure, which is made completely of wood and is described as “the splendour of heaven recreated on Earth,” is a study in Thai architectural traditions. The entire building was constructed to pay tribute to historical religions and philosophical systems, and every accessible space is intricately embellished with wooden carvings.
Some of the topics in the artwork here include the circle of life, Utopia, and humanity’s place in the cosmos. While at the refuge, you can watch Thai traditional performances and Thai boxing, go horseback riding or elephant trekking, or take a speedboat trip.
4. Wat Yansangwararam
Wat Yansangwararam, also known as Wat Yan, offers insight into Thai design and architectural traditions as well as the ideals of the community, just like all of Thailand’s remarkable wats (temples). The temple was dedicated to King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 1988 to mark the 42nd year of his reign and is surrounded by expansive palm-lined gardens.
The main complex houses priceless Buddhist relics, and on the right side of the walkway leading to the temple is a lake with spectacular Chinese pavilions that are crammed with antiquities and antiques. The shrine of Wat Yansangwararam is located on a hill and is accessible via 299 steps covered in Naga snakes.
5. Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai)
The wooded Pratamnak Hill, south of Pattaya, is home to this 18-meter-tall golden statue of the Buddha who is depicted as being at ease. To see the statue up close and take in the numerous smaller Buddhas around it, climb the steep stairs that are decorated on both sides with golden Naga snakes.
Many folks visit this location to offer prayers for success, happiness, and health. The summit of the hill offers stunning views of Pattaya and the bay as well. If you don’t feel like making the long journey up the hill, you can take a taxi and reserve your energy for the stair climb up to the statues.
6. Take a Day Trip to Koh Larn (Coral Island)
Koh Larn (also known as Koh Lan), which is accessible from Pattaya by ferry or speedboat in 45 minutes, offers a more tranquil setting away from the bustling tourist hub. The island’s coastline is lined with a number of white-sand beaches that offer food stands, restrooms, and a variety of water activities. Some of the most well-liked activities include parasailing, banana boat excursions, and underwater Sea Walking.
One of the most beautiful beaches is Tien, and Nual Beach is home to playful monkeys. You can hire a motorcycle to visit the island, and you can also spend the night at one of the many beachside resorts in Samae and Tawaen. Families frequently visit this location to spend the day away from the bustle of Pattaya.
7. Art in Paradise
Family-friendly The illusion art museum known as Art in Paradise is a great spot for entertaining photo opportunities. When you need a respite from the heat, it’s also a terrific location to go. Touch a rhino, a marlin, or a whale’s belly in lifelike artwork, then take a photo to share the experience with your loved ones afterwards.
Classical art, Egypt, the undersea world, the safari, dinosaurs, and fantasy are just a few of the themed areas. This is a pleasant spot to finish your holiday photo album and a fantastic activity for rainy days.
8. Escape the Heat at Ramayana Water Park
With 21 distinct water-themed rides, Ramayana Water Park—dubbed “the biggest and best water park in Thailand”—offers visitors of all ages an amazing day out. A riot of vibrant, serpentine slides, including a heart-stopping freefall and more kid-friendly slides, twist around the park.
The double wave pool, a children’s Aquasplash park with fountains, and even a green maze are additional activities offered here. The leisurely river ride winds its way past gushing geysers and fascinating tunnels. Volleyball, Zumba, water polo, and fish feeding are just a few of the daily activities that add to the pleasure.
9. Four Regions Floating Market
The first and only floating market in Pattaya, this hive of activity is separated into sections that sell goods from Thailand’s four main regions. There are a variety of goods available here, including clothing, arts and crafts, and souvenirs. It’s also a fantastic place to sample some strange cuisine, with options including scorpion, cricket, and crocodile meat.
Renting a boat is an excellent way to explore the markets. In contrast to more genuine floating markets, entry is fee-based here. However, your ticket includes more than simply a boat ride. Sea boxing, conventional Thai dances, and even a zipline across the water are among the entertainment options available here.
11. Mini Siam
Mini Siam showcases models of some of the most well-known foreign locations, providing a delightful way to experience the beauties of Thailand and the world. The Victory Monument and Wat Arun in Bangkok, the Sydney Opera House, the L’Arc de Triomphe in Paris, the Statue of Liberty in New York, the Tower Bridge in London, and the Victory Monument in Bangkok are just a few of the monuments on show.
Particularly young people will love seeing some of these well-known buildings gathered in one location. Arrive in the late afternoon to witness the sunset and the illumination of beautiful warm lights. At least one day should pass before making a reservation.
Where to Stay in Pattaya for Sightseeing
Most tourists head to Pattaya for the sun-drenched beaches and the hopping nightlife on Walking Street. Pattaya Hill, where many of the upscale hotels are located, is the perfect area to stay if you’re looking for beachside leisure away from the bustle of the busy downtown strip yet with easy access to it. Typically, families favour Jomtien Beach