Pattaya
Beachside fun, vibrant nightlife and easy city access — perfect for travellers seeking entertainment & relaxation.
Overview
Things To Do
Deals
Travel Guide
Pattaya is one of Thailand’s most famous beach destinations, located on the Gulf of Thailand just two hours from Bangkok and around 90 minutes from Suvarnabhumi Airport. Known for its long coastline, vibrant atmosphere and wide range of attractions, it combines tropical beaches, family-friendly entertainment and lively nightlife in one of Southeast Asia’s most popular holiday resorts. Pattaya Beach and Jomtien Beach offer water sports, island excursions and beachfront dining, while nearby Coral Island (Koh Larn) provides crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches perfect for day trips. Visitors can explore floating markets, tropical gardens, cultural landmarks and world-class golf courses, or combine their stay with Bangkok, Phuket and Koh Samui for a multi-centre Thailand holiday. With year-round warmth, luxury resorts and activities for every type of traveller, Pattaya is ideal for family holidays, couples holidays, beach holidays, luxury holidays and all-inclusive Thailand holidays. Johnson Holidays offers ATOL-protected Pattaya holidays, Thailand holidays, twin-centre escapes and last-minute deals from over 20 UK airports.
✨ Why Visit Pattaya
- Easy access from Bangkok — just a short transfer from the capital.
- Vibrant nightlife — one of Thailand’s most famous entertainment hubs.
- Affordable holidays — great value for accommodation and activities.
- Beach and island access — nearby islands like Koh Larn offer clear waters.
- Wide range of attractions — markets, gardens and cultural sites.
- Great for short breaks — ideal extension to a Bangkok itinerary.
🌴 What Makes It Special
Unlike quieter beach destinations such as Koh Samui or Krabi, Pattaya is known for its lively atmosphere and entertainment. While Phuket offers a mix of everything, Pattaya stands out for its accessibility from Bangkok and its vibrant nightlife scene. It combines city energy with beachside relaxation, making Pattaya holidays suitable for travellers looking for variety and convenience.
📍 Key Areas to Explore
- Central Pattaya — main hub with nightlife, shopping and beach access.
- Jomtien — quieter area with relaxed beaches and family-friendly vibe.
- Naklua — more traditional and peaceful with cultural attractions.
- Pratumnak Hill — scenic viewpoints and upscale resorts.
- Koh Larn — nearby island with clear waters and sandy beaches.
Explore beyond the beach with a mix of activities and experiences.
🏞️ Nature & Outdoor Activities
- Koh Larn island trips — snorkelling, swimming and water sports.
- Nong Nooch Gardens — landscaped gardens and cultural shows.
- Boat tours — explore nearby islands and coastline.
- Viewpoints at Pratumnak Hill — panoramic city and sea views.
🏖️ Beaches
- Pattaya Beach — central beach with activities and nightlife nearby.
- Jomtien Beach — quieter and more relaxed atmosphere.
- Koh Larn beaches — clear water and white sand beaches.
- Dongtan Beach — peaceful beach with fewer crowds.
🍽️ Food & Drink
- Pad Thai — Thailand’s iconic noodle dish.
- Tom Yum Soup — spicy and flavourful Thai dish.
- Fresh seafood — widely available along the coast.
- Street food markets — authentic and affordable dining.
🎉 Nightlife & Entertainment
- Walking Street — bars, clubs and live performances.
- Beach clubs — music, drinks and ocean views.
- Night markets — food, shopping and entertainment.
- Cabaret shows — popular evening performances.
Best Value Deals
🌴 All-Inclusive Holidays
All-inclusive holidays are not very common in Pattaya, as the destination is best enjoyed by exploring local restaurants, markets and nightlife. Most hotels offer room-only or breakfast options, giving flexibility to experience the city.
👨👩👧👦 Family Holidays
Pattaya can be suitable for families, especially in quieter areas like Jomtien. Attractions such as Nong Nooch Gardens, water parks and nearby islands provide entertainment for all ages.
💎 Luxury Holidays
Luxury options include beachfront resorts, private villas and upscale hotels with sea views. Areas like Pratumnak Hill and Naklua offer more premium and peaceful stays.
⚡ Last-Minute Deals
Pattaya often has good last-minute availability due to its proximity to Bangkok and wide range of hotels. Travellers can find competitive prices throughout the year, especially outside peak travel seasons.
Why book with us:
💷 Low deposits from £49pp
🔄 Flexible booking & payment options
🛡️ ATOL Protected holidays
📞 UK-based support team (8am–11pm daily)
✅ Competitive Pattaya package deals
📅 Best Time to Visit Pattaya
The best time to visit Pattaya is between November and April, when the weather is dry and warm with temperatures around 25–32°C. The rainy season (May–October) brings occasional showers but fewer crowds and lower prices.
🏨 Where to Stay
- Families: Jomtien
- Couples: Pratumnak Hill, Naklua
- Luxury seekers: beachfront resorts and upscale hotels
- First-timers & nightlife: Central Pattaya
- Relaxation seekers: Jomtien, Naklua
🚗 Getting Around
Transport includes taxis, tuk-tuks (songthaews) and ride-hailing apps. Pattaya is relatively compact, making it easy to get around. Boat transfers are available for island trips.
💡 Travel Tips
- Cash usage — carry cash for markets and local vendors.
- Nightlife awareness — plan safely when exploring nightlife areas.
- Temple etiquette — dress modestly when visiting cultural sites.
- Island trips — visit Koh Larn for clearer water and better beaches.
- Travel planning — combine Pattaya with Bangkok for a complete trip.
Map Of Pattaya
Top Experiences
Walking Street Nightlife
Experience one of Thailand’s most famous nightlife areas with bars, clubs and live
Coral Island (Koh Larn) Day Trip
Short boat ride to clear waters, sandy beaches and water sports activit
Sanctuary of Truth Visit
Explore a unique wooden temple carved entirely by hand with intricate details.
Nong Nooch Tropical Garden
Discover landscaped gardens, cultural shows and botanical displays.
Pattaya Floating Market
Experience traditional Thai market culture with shops and food on water.
Jomtien Beach Relaxation
Enjoy a quieter alternative to central Pattaya with a more relaxed atmosphere.
Travel Information
Everything You Need To Know Before You Jet Off To Pattaya.