Pattaya hotels

Thailand is filled with beautiful beach resorts, but Pattaya stands out because of its notoriously wild nightlife and close proximity to Bangkok. Walking Street, where much of the action takes place, is situated south of the main Hat Pattaya beach, which runs three kilometres along the city centre. The less crowded and more family friendly Jomtien Beach is situated south of Pattaya.

Pattaya's main attractions, partying and sunbathing, can both be easily found along the three-kilometre long main beach. Jomtien Beach to the south as well as the beaches of Wong Amat, Wong Phra Chan, and Naklua to the north provide more peaceful alternatives to the busy and crowded Pattaya Beach.

Pattaya's more tranquil side can also be found at one of its highest points, Buddha Hill, whose summit includes the city's largest Buddha statue and best coastline views. The Anek Kuson Sala art gallery includes an emperor's golden throne and renowned Chinese architecture.

One of Pattaya's more family friendly attractions, Mini Siam, features miniature replicas of Thai and worldwide landmarks. Pattaya also contains an elephant village and the small Underwater World aquarium. Cultural extravaganza shows take place at Nong Nooch Tropical Garden four times per day.

Much of Pattaya's legendary nightlife takes place on Walking Street. There are no fewer than 30 go-go bars and 100 beer bars on this thoroughfare alone, and countless more places to drink and party on its surrounding side streets. The Soi 7 and 8 streets contain 120 more beer bars. Pattaya also boasts no shortage of street vendors, restaurants, food carts, and other places to eat. Larb and som tam salads are two popular delicacies from northeast Thailand's Isaan region.

Pattaya boasts no shortage of places to shop, even though variety is sometimes lacking and electronics can be overpriced. A bowling alley and cinema complex occupy the top floor of Central Festival, one of Asia's biggest shopping centres. Mike Shopping Mall features a public swimming pool on its roof as well as souvenir and clothing stands on its ground floor. Pattaya's cheapest books are sold at the Thepprasit night market. Despite its name, the Made in Thailand Night Bazaar is also open in the morning. Pattaya Floating Market where you can find delicacies and handicrafts.