Two hours south of Bangkok, Pattaya sits on the Gulf of Thailand and makes no apologies for what it is. It’s loud, it’s busy, and it’s been pulling in visitors since American soldiers discovered it during the Vietnam War and told everyone they knew. The nightlife is real, the beaches are decent in places, and tucked in between the bars and the tourist traps are a handful of genuinely worthwhile things to see.
The Sanctuary of Truth
The Sanctuary of Truth is the standout attraction in Pattaya by a considerable margin — a vast structure built entirely of wood and filled with thousands of hand-carved statues. Construction began in 1981 and is still ongoing, with craftspeople on site carving and placing new sculptures as you walk through.
Seeking out Culture
A short trip out of town opens up some of Pattaya’s more interesting cultural corners. Wat Phra Yai — the Big Buddha Temple — sits on a hill between Pattaya Beach and Jomtien, surrounded by trees, with a long staircase leading up to the golden Buddha and sweeping views across the city. Further south, Anek Kusala Sala houses an impressive collection of Chinese art including bronze statues.
The Koh Larn Excursion
Koh Larn sits about seven kilometres offshore and is where you’ll find the clearest water and the nicest sand in the area. Regular boats make the 40-minute crossing for just 30 baht each way, and the island has half a dozen beaches ranging from lively to genuinely quiet — Ta Yai Beach on the far side being the pick for anyone after some peace.
Walking on Walking Street
Walking Street is Pattaya’s famous 700-metre nightlife strip — and while it has a well-earned reputation for seediness, it’s also just a busy stretch of restaurants, sports bars, and clubs that comes alive after dark. It’s worth a wander early in the evening for a drink and a look around before heading back to your stay at luxury villas in Pattaya of the likes of La Miniera Pool Villas Pattaya.
