Pattaya is one of Thailand’s most popular beach resort destinations, known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and wide range of accommodation options. Whether you’re seeking a lively party atmosphere, a relaxing family getaway, or a romantic escape, Pattaya has something to offer every type of traveler.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best areas to stay in Pattaya, highlighting the top hotels, attractions, and amenities in each neighborhood. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you find the perfect base for your Pattaya adventure, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable stay in this vibrant coastal city.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Pattaya 💎 :
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Potter Land Luxury
- ✨ 5-Star: InterContinental Pattaya
- 🏨 4-Star: Baan Souy Resort
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Baywalk Residence
- 💸 Cheap: Golden Jomtien Beach
- 🏡 Villa: Woodlands and Resort
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Elysium Residences
- 🏩 For Couples: MYTT Beach
Quick Guide to the Best Places to Stay in the Pattaya 📋
- 👀 For the First Time: Central Pattaya
- 👪 For Families: Pratumnak Hill
- 🛍️For Shopping: Central Pattaya
- 🏖️ For Beaches: Jomtien
- 🏯 For Culture: Naklua Bay
1. Central Pattaya Beach – Best Area to Stay in Pattaya for the First Time 👀
🌊 Stunning Beaches: Central Pattaya Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Thailand, known for its golden sands and clear waters. It’s a great place to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy various water sports. The beach is also lined with palm trees and beach chairs, providing a picturesque setting for your beach holiday.
🍹 Lively Nightlife: Central Pattaya Beach is renowned for its bustling nightlife. The area is home to numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues, making it the perfect place to stay in Pattaya for nightlife. Walking Street, located nearby, is the epicenter of Pattaya’s nightlife, offering an unforgettable nightlife experience with its vibrant atmosphere and neon lights.
🛍️ Shopping and Dining: The area around Central Pattaya Beach is packed with shopping malls, markets, and a variety of restaurants and cafes. Central Festival Pattaya Beach, one of the largest shopping malls in the city, offers a wide range of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities, making it a great place to shop and dine.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Attractions: Despite its lively nightlife, Central Pattaya Beach is also a family-friendly destination. The area offers a range of attractions suitable for families, including Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum, Art in Paradise, and the Pattaya Floating Market. These attractions provide fun and educational experiences for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the highlights:
- Walking Street: Walking Street is the heart of Pattaya’s nightlife, offering a vibrant atmosphere with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Pattaya’s lively nightlife.
- Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum: This fascinating museum offers a range of oddities and curiosities, making it a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. It’s a great place to visit with family.
- Art in Paradise: Art in Paradise is an interactive 3D art museum where visitors can take photos with various optical illusions. It’s a fun and unique attraction that’s perfect for families and art enthusiasts.
- Pattaya Floating Market: Experience the traditional Thai way of life at the Pattaya Floating Market. This market offers a range of local products, street food, and cultural performances, providing a unique and authentic experience.
🗺️ Convenient Location: Central Pattaya Beach is conveniently located near other popular areas in Pattaya, such as North Pattaya and Jomtien Beach. With excellent transportation options, you can easily explore the city’s top attractions, including the Sanctuary of Truth and the Pattaya Floating Market.
Where to stay in Central Pattaya?
⭐ Best Luxury Hotels
- Potter Land Luxury Pool Villa Pattaya Walking Street – Potter Land Luxury Pool Villa Pattaya Walking Street is a luxurious 6-bedroom villa located near the famous Walking Street, one of the best nightlife areas in Pattaya. This villa offers a private pool, a fully equipped kitchen, and spacious living areas, making it an ideal choice for families or groups seeking a luxurious stay in the heart of Pattaya’s bustling city.
- Wave Hotel Pattaya – Wave Hotel Pattaya is a 5-star beach hotel located on Beach Road, offering stunning views of Pattaya Beach. This hotel is one of the top hotels in Pattaya, featuring an outdoor pool, a spa, and multiple dining options. It’s an excellent choice for couples or families seeking a luxurious beach vacation in Pattaya.
- LK The Empress – LK The Empress is a 4-star hotel located on Beach Road, within walking distance of Central Festival Shopping Mall and the beach. This hotel offers spacious rooms with kitchenettes, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a comfortable and convenient stay in Pattaya.
🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels
- The Edge Central Pattaya – The Edge Central Pattaya is a budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Pattaya, near Walking Street and other popular attractions. This hotel offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an affordable stay in the city center.
- VT6 by Honey – VT6 by Honey is a moderately priced hotel located in South of Pattaya, offering a range of amenities, including an outdoor pool and a restaurant. This hotel is an excellent choice for those seeking a comfortable stay while exploring the attractions in the southern part of Pattaya.
- Avani Pattaya Resort & Spa – Avani Pattaya Resort & Spa is a 4-star resort located on Pattaya Beach, offering direct access to the beach and a range of amenities, including an outdoor pool, a spa, and multiple dining options. This resort is an ideal choice for those seeking a moderately priced beach vacation in Pattaya.
🛏️ Best Budget Hotels
- The Base by A.A. – The Base by A.A. is a budget-friendly hostel located in Pattaya, offering dormitory-style accommodations with shared facilities. This hostel is an excellent choice for backpackers or those traveling on a budget, as it provides an affordable stay while exploring the city’s attractions.
- Baywalk Residence Pattaya – Baywalk Residence Pattaya is a budget-friendly aparthotel located in Pattaya, offering self-catering apartments with fully equipped kitchens. This property is an ideal choice for those seeking an affordable vacation experience while still enjoying the convenience of a fully equipped apartment.
2. Pratumnak Hill – Perfect Area to Stay in Pattaya with Family 👨👩👧👦
🌳 Tranquil Atmosphere: Pratumnak Hill is a residential area known for its tranquil atmosphere, providing a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of Pattaya’s more lively neighborhoods. This peaceful setting allows families to relax and enjoy quality time together without the distractions of the city’s nightlife.
🎢 Family-Friendly Attractions in Pratumnak Hill: While Pratumnak Hill is known for its peaceful atmosphere, it also offers several family-friendly attractions that are sure to keep everyone entertained. Here are some of the highlights:
- Pattaya Dolphin World: Pattaya Dolphin World is a popular attraction for families, offering the opportunity to interact with dolphins and learn about these fascinating marine mammals. The park also features a variety of shows and exhibits, making it a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
- Pattaya Kart Speedway: For families with a need for speed, the Pattaya Kart Speedway is a must-visit attraction. This go-kart racing track offers thrilling experiences for both children and adults, providing a unique and exciting way to spend quality time together.
🏖️ Proximity to Beaches: While Pratumnak Hill itself is not directly on the beach, it is conveniently located near some of Pattaya’s best beaches, including Jomtien Beach and Wong Amat Beach. These beautiful stretches of sand offer ample opportunities for families to enjoy beach activities, water sports, and stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand.
🛍️Dining and Shopping Options: Pratumnak Hill offers a variety of dining and shopping options, catering to families with diverse tastes and preferences. From international restaurants to local street food stalls, and from upscale shopping malls to local markets, this area has something for everyone.
🗺️ Easy Access to Attractions: Despite its peaceful setting, Pratumnak Hill is conveniently located near many of Pattaya’s top attractions, such as the Pattaya Floating Market, Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, and the Sanctuary of Truth. With excellent transportation options, families can easily explore these attractions and create lasting memories together.
Where to stay in Pratumnak Hill?
⭐ Best Luxury Hotels
- InterContinental Pattaya Resort – InterContinental Pattaya Resort is a 5-star luxury beachfront resort located on Phra Tamnak Road in South Pattaya. This resort offers direct access to the beach and features an outdoor pool, a spa, and multiple dining options, making it one of the best resorts in Pattaya for couples or families seeking a luxurious beach vacation.
- The Monttra Pattaya – The Monttra Pattaya is a 5-star luxury resort situated in South Pattaya, offering stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand. This resort features an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a private beach area, providing a serene and upscale experience for those visiting Pattaya.
- Royal Cliff Beach Terrace – Royal Cliff Beach Terrace is a 5-star luxury resort located in South Pattaya, offering an infinity outdoor pool overlooking the sea and a private beach area. This resort is just a short distance from popular attractions like Walking Street and Bali Hai Pier, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a luxurious stay while exploring Pattaya’s attractions.
🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels
- Baan Souy Resort – Baan Souy Resort is a 4-star resort located in Pattaya, offering a range of amenities, including an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a bar. This resort is an excellent choice for those seeking a comfortable and affordable stay while exploring the attractions in Pattaya.
- Elysium Residences – Elysium Residences is a 4-star aparthotel located in Pattaya, offering self-catering apartments with fully equipped kitchens. This property is an ideal choice for families or groups seeking a more independent vacation experience while still enjoying the convenience of hotel amenities like an outdoor pool and a fitness center.
- Saim Bayshore Resort & Spa – Saim Bayshore Resort & Spa is a 4-star resort located in Pattaya, offering a beachfront location and a range of amenities, including an outdoor pool, a spa, and multiple dining options. This resort is an excellent choice for those seeking a comfortable and affordable beach vacation in Pattaya.
🛏️ Best Budget Hotels
- Sirin Exclusive Pattaya – Sirin Exclusive Pattaya is a budget-friendly hotel located in Pattaya, offering simple yet comfortable accommodations with basic amenities. This hotel is an excellent choice for those visiting Pattaya on a budget and seeking a convenient base to explore the city’s attractions.
- G Residence – G Residence is a budget-friendly aparthotel located in Pattaya, offering self-catering apartments with fully equipped kitchens. This property is an ideal choice for those seeking an affordable vacation experience while still enjoying the convenience of a fully equipped apartment.
- Zing Resort – Zing Resort is a budget-friendly resort located in Pattaya, offering a range of accommodations, including rooms and bungalows. This resort is an excellent choice for those seeking an affordable stay while enjoying the convenience of on-site amenities like an outdoor pool and a restaurant.
3. Jomtien Beach – Best Area to Stay for Quiet Beaches 🏝️
🌊 Serene Beaches: Jomtien is renowned for its quiet and serene beaches, which are significantly less crowded than the beaches in central Pattaya. The long stretch of Jomtien Beach is perfect for leisurely strolls, sunbathing, and enjoying the gentle waves of the Gulf of Thailand. Here is a list of serene beaches of Jomtien:
- Jomtien Beach: Jomtien Beach is one of the quieter and more relaxed beaches in Pattaya. This long 6km stretch of sand offers a tranquil atmosphere away from the crowds and parties of central Pattaya Beach. It’s a great option for those seeking a serene beach experience.
- Wong Amat Beach: Located in North Pattaya, Wong Amat Beach is considered one of the cleanest and most family-friendly beaches in the area. With its soft sand and clear waters, it provides a peaceful setting to unwind and enjoy the beach without the hustle and bustle.
- Bang Saray Beach: Bang Saray is a bit further away from Pattaya city center, about 18km south. This former fishing village has a very laid-back vibe with a long, quiet beach lined with casual seafood restaurants and few crowds.
- Naklua Beach: Naklua is a narrow but serene beach strip located north of Pattaya. It connects to Wong Amat Beach and offers a more secluded atmosphere with few amenities beyond some casual beachside restaurants.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Environment: Jomtien is a family-friendly area, offering a peaceful and safe environment for those traveling with children. The beaches are well-maintained, and the neighborhood has a laid-back vibe, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a relaxing beach vacation.
🍽️ Dining and Entertainment: While Jomtien is known for its tranquil atmosphere, it still offers a variety of dining and entertainment options. You’ll find a mix of local and international restaurants, as well as bars, cafes, and family-friendly attractions like water parks and mini-golf courses.
🗺️ Proximity to Attractions: Despite its peaceful setting, Jomtien is conveniently located near many of Pattaya’s top attractions, such as Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, and the Sanctuary of Truth. With easy access to these attractions, you can enjoy the best of both worlds – a quiet beach retreat and exciting day trips.
🚗 Easy Access to Central Pattaya: While Jomtien offers a peaceful escape, it is still within a short drive or taxi ride from central Pattaya. This means that if you’re looking for a taste of the city’s vibrant nightlife or shopping experiences, you can easily access them without sacrificing the tranquility of your beach retreat.
Where to stay in Jomtien?
🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels
- Veranda Resort Pattaya - MGallery by Sofitel – Veranda Resort Pattaya – MGallery by Sofitel is a 4-star beachfront resort located in Jomtien Beach, one of the best neighborhoods in Pattaya. This resort is perfect for couples or families seeking a comfortable stay in Pattaya, offering an outdoor pool, spa facilities, and a fitness center. It’s one of the popular hotels in Pattaya and a great place to stay for those looking to enjoy the beach and resort amenities.
- Marine Beach Pattaya – Marine Beach Pattaya is a 4-star hotel located in Pattaya Beach, offering a convenient location for those looking to stay in the heart of the city. This hotel features an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a bar, making it an excellent choice for couples or families seeking a comfortable stay with easy access to Pattaya’s attractions.
- Copacabana Beach Jomtien – Copacabana Beach Jomtien is a 4-star aparthotel located in Jomtien Beach, offering self-catering apartments with sea views. This property is perfect for families or groups looking for a comfortable and affordable stay in Pattaya, with amenities like an outdoor pool and a convenient location near the beach.
- Mermaid Beach Resort – Mermaid Beach Resort is a 4-star resort located in Jomtien Beach, offering a beachfront location and a range of amenities, including an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a bar. This resort is an excellent choice for couples or families seeking a comfortable beach vacation in Pattaya.
🛏️ Best Budget Hotels
- Jomtien Boat House – Jomtien Boat House is a budget-friendly hotel located in Jomtien Beach, offering simple yet comfortable accommodations with basic amenities. This hotel is an excellent choice for those visiting Pattaya on a budget and seeking a convenient base to explore the area’s attractions and beaches.
- Vikings Guesthouse – Vikings Guesthouse is a budget-friendly guesthouse located in Pattaya, offering simple yet comfortable accommodations with basic amenities. This guesthouse is an excellent choice for backpackers or those best traveling on a budget and seeking an affordable stay in Pattaya.
- Veranda Residence Pattaya by Pattaya Holiday – Veranda Residence Pattaya by Pattaya Holiday is a budget-friendly aparthotel located in Pattaya, offering self-catering apartments with fully equipped kitchens. This property is an ideal choice for those seeking an affordable vacation experience while still enjoying the convenience of a fully equipped apartment.
- Golden Jomtien Beach – Golden Jomtien Beach is a budget-friendly hotel located in Jomtien Beach, offering simple yet comfortable accommodations with basic amenities. This hotel is an excellent choice for those visiting Pattaya on a budget and seeking a convenient base to explore the area’s attractions and beaches.
4. Naklua Bay – Amazing Area with Traditional Thai Culture ⛩️
🏘️ Traditional Thai Atmosphere: Naklua Bay is a well-preserved area that has managed to retain its traditional Thai charm. As you stroll through the narrow streets, you’ll be greeted by colorful shophouses, quaint temples, and friendly locals going about their daily routines, providing a glimpse into the authentic Thai way of life. Here is some of bay amentities:
- Naklua Walking Street: Naklua Walking Street is a lively market that comes alive in the evenings, offering a vibrant atmosphere and a wide range of street food, souvenirs, and local handicrafts. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and sample delicious Thai cuisine.
- Local Fishing Village: Naklua Bay is home to a traditional fishing village, where you can witness the daily routines of local fishermen and experience the authentic way of life that has been preserved for generations.
- Traditional Thai Massage: Naklua Bay is home to several traditional Thai massage parlors, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the ancient art of Thai massage. Indulge in a rejuvenating massage and immerse yourself in the traditional Thai wellness practices.
🛒 Local Markets and Street Food: One of the highlights of Naklua Bay is its vibrant local markets and street food scene. The area is home to several markets where you can find fresh produce, locally made handicrafts, and a wide variety of delicious street food options, allowing you to indulge in the flavors of authentic Thai cuisine.
🏯 Cultural Attractions: Naklua Bay is home to several cultural attractions that offer a deeper understanding of Thai culture and history. Visit the Naklua Seafood Market to witness the lively atmosphere of a traditional Thai market, or explore the nearby Wat Chaimongkol, a beautiful temple that showcases intricate Thai architecture and Buddhist traditions.
🏖️ Peaceful Beaches: While Naklua Bay may not be as well-known as some of Pattaya’s other beaches, it offers a peaceful and serene beach experience. The area boasts a long stretch of sandy beach, perfect for relaxing, swimming, or simply enjoying the stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand.
🗺️ Convenient Location: Despite its tranquil atmosphere, Naklua Bay is conveniently located near many of Pattaya’s top attractions, such as the Pattaya Floating Market, Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, and the Sanctuary of Truth. With easy access to these attractions, you can enjoy the best of both worlds – a cultural immersion and exciting day trips.
Where to stay in Naklua Bay?
⭐ Best Luxury Hotels
- Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya – Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya is a 5-star luxury beachfront resort located in North Pattaya, one of the best neighborhoods in Pattaya. This resort is perfect for couples or families seeking a luxurious beach vacation, offering direct access to the beach, multiple outdoor pools, a water park, and a variety of dining options. It’s one of the top resorts in Pattaya and a great place to stay for those looking to experience the best Pattaya has to offer.
- Grande Centre Point Pattaya – Grande Centre Point Pattaya is a 5-star luxury hotel located in central Pattaya, connected to the Terminal 21 shopping mall. This hotel is an excellent choice for families or couples looking for a luxurious stay with easy access to shopping and attractions. It offers an outdoor pool, a fitness center, a kids’ club, and a variety of dining options, making it one of the great hotels in Pattaya.
- MYTT Beach Pattaya North – MYTT Beach Pattaya North is a 5-star luxury resort located on Naklua Beach in North Pattaya. This beachfront resort is perfect for couples or families seeking a serene and upscale experience, offering an outdoor pool, a spa, and multiple dining options. It’s one of the best resorts in Pattaya for those looking to stay in a quieter area while still being close to the city’s attractions.
🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels
- Holiday Inn Pattaya – Holiday Inn Pattaya is a 4-star hotel located in central Pattaya, within walking distance of the beach and popular attractions. This hotel is an excellent choice for those seeking a comfortable and convenient stay in Pattaya, offering an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a range of dining options.
- Woodlands and Resort – Woodlands and Resort is a 4-star resort located in Pattaya, offering a range of accommodations, including villas and bungalows. This resort is perfect for families or groups looking for a comfortable and affordable stay, featuring an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a bar.
- OZO North Pattaya – OZO North Pattaya is a 4-star hotel located in North Pattaya, offering modern and stylish accommodations. This hotel is an excellent choice for those seeking a comfortable and affordable stay in a quieter area of Pattaya, featuring an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant.
🛏️ Best Budget Hotels
- SN Plus – SN Plus is a budget-friendly hotel located in central Pattaya, offering simple yet comfortable accommodations with basic amenities. This hotel is an excellent choice for those visiting Pattaya on a budget and seeking a convenient base to explore the city’s attractions.
- LHC and Resort – LHC and Resort is a budget-friendly resort located in Pattaya, offering a range of accommodations, including rooms and bungalows. This resort is perfect for those seeking an affordable stay while still enjoying amenities like an outdoor pool and a restaurant.
- Let's Hide Pattaya – Let’s Hide Pattaya is a budget-friendly hotel located in Pattaya, offering simple yet comfortable accommodations with basic amenities. This hotel is an excellent choice for those visiting Pattaya on a budget and seeking a convenient base to explore the city’s attractions.
FAQs about Trip to Pattaya ❔
What the best area in Pattaya for nightlife?
Walking Street in central Pattaya is considered the best area for nightlife, with its lively bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
What the best area in Pattaya for families?
The best area in Pattaya for families is Jomtien Beach. It offers a more laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere compared to the busier central Pattaya areas. Jomtien has a nice long beach, plenty of family resorts with kid-friendly amenities, and is generally quieter and safer than areas like Walking Street.
Which part of Pattaya is Walking Street?
Walking Street is located in the central part of Pattaya, near Pattaya Beach Road and the famous Pattaya Beach.
Which is the most beautiful beach in Pattaya?
Jomtien Beach is often considered the most beautiful and cleanest beach in the Pattaya area, with its long stretch of soft sand and clear waters.
What is the safest part of Pattaya?
Pratumnak Hill and the areas around Jomtien Beach are generally regarded as the safest parts of Pattaya, being more residential and family-friendly compared to the busier central areas.