Powdery white sand. Crystal clear waters. Sunset. And pumping parties. That’s the beach in Pattaya.
Many travelers have long made the trip to Pattaya for a party getaway or for a haven to relax on the sand with the family. There are 5-star resorts for a luxury break, beach bungalows for backpackers and more. And the beaches are always worth writing home about.
The sands of Pattaya
Bring your towel, swimmers, and party attitude
Pattaya was a small fishing village not too long ago. Everything changed in the 1960s when American servicemen found it and kept coming back. By the 80s it was packed with resorts, apartment complexes, nightclubs, and bars. Today it continues to be one of the top places to party in Thailand. And with so many beaches to explore in the area, it’s no wonder us nomads keep on coming back to Pattaya for more. Visit from November to February when the temperatures aren’t too stifling and it’s outside the rainy season.
What to expect on the beach in Pattaya
Sublime sands, water sports and more
Whatever you want from your time on the beach, Pattaya has it all. There are party spots like Pattaya Beach where the action never stops. We’re talking bars, restaurants, and clubs that go on to the early hours. If you’re looking to kitesurf, windsurf, jet-ski, snorkel or join the other revellers on the back of a banana boat, you’ll find it on the likes of Pattaya Beach and Dongtan Beach.
But if you want to get away from the liveliness you can spend a day with Thai fishermen and locals at Naklua Beach or stretch out on the sugar-white and quiet sands of Wong Amat Beach. And if you fancy taking in one of the most breathtaking beaches in Pattaya, hop in your hire car or on your scooter and make the 30-minute trip down to Sai Kaew Beach. You won’t be disappointed with any of the beaches in Pattaya. Remember to do your bit to look after the environment too. Don’t leave any trace and say no to plastic straws, plastic bags, and plastic cups.
8 of the best beaches in Pattaya
These are eight of the beaches you should always check out during your time in Pattaya.
Pattaya Beach
Your first stop
Pattaya International Airport: Approximately 45km
Consider yourself a social butterfly? Get on down to the main bustling beach in Pattaya. Pattaya Beach is a 4km-long crescent beach with fantastic ocean views and water sports on offer – think parasailing, jet-skiing, and banana boats. It’s lined with restaurants, bars, and shops, and comes alive with a fun vibe as soon as the sun starts to set. If you’ve got the kids in tow, head to the northern end for a bit more peace and quiet.
Jomtien Beach
Quieter than its neighbour
Pattaya International Airport: Approximately 38km
Just 2km away from Pattaya Beach, Jomtien Beach attracts a quieter crowd than its more boisterous neighbour. Head here if you’re partied out and want to experience the more serene treasures of Thailand. How does golden sand and tropical water sound? There are spots to grab delicious Thai food, and you can windsurf or kiteboard if you have the energy.
Naklua Beach
Authentic experience
Pattaya International Airport: Approximately 45km
Meaning ‘salt field’ in Thai, head to the north of Pattaya and you’ll arrive on Naklua Beach. This local fishing spot is still key to the fishing industry in the area, so you’ll get a real taste of the true Thailand. You can rent a boat yourself or just lie back on the sand in front of a local beach shack and take it all in. This is what Thailand is all about.
Wong Amat Beach
Chilled-out energy
Pattaya International Airport: Approximately 46km
Close to Naklua and sharing its chilled-out energy, Wong Amat Beach is quiet, secluded and a slice of paradise away from the real vibrancy of Pattaya. It’s super clean too – you’ll never want to leave the golden and warm waters. If you want to get away from the parties, water sports, and find a little seclusion whether by yourself or with the kids, this is the place.
Cosy Beach
Time to yourself
Pattaya International Airport: Approximately 45km
Want time away to yourself? Cosy Beach is the one. This small beach between Pattaya Beach and Jomtien is close enough to the main action but feels a world away. You’ll find a couple of bars and eateries, but the vibe here is all about rest and relaxation. It’s a good spot for families too.
Dongtan Beach
Water sports
Pattaya International Airport: Approximately 45km
This 1.5km beach has enough space to find a quiet spot to rest and relax, especially if you come in the morning. The vibe picks up in the afternoon once the water sports start – it’s the ideal place for adrenaline action whether you want to jump on a jet-ski or a banana boat. You’ll find Thai massage parlours to help you unwind, and there are special LGBTQ+ sections too.
Bamboo Beach
Off-the-beaten-track
Pattaya International Airport: Approximately 46km
This lesser-known beach has an off-the-beaten-track feel due to its dramatic cliffs and calm waves as the beach stretches out into the Gulf of Thailand. It’s quiet, calm, and peaceful. The café and restaurant serve up arguably the best local Thai food in the area.
Sai Kaew Beach
Perfect Thai beach
Pattaya International Airport: Approximately 29km
Just 30km and half an hour’s drive from Pattaya, you’ll find one of the most perfect Thai beaches you could ever imagine. Sai Kaew, also known as The Navy Beach, has a tranquil tree-lined bay and a picturesque mountain backdrop. The beach is pristine, the water is clear and warm, and there’s everything you need for a day on the sand. Check out the military memorial too.
Insider tips:
Choose accommodation near the sand to make the best of the beaches in Pattaya.
Always stay safe when enjoying water sports.
Don’t miss authentic Thai cuisine and street food from beach shacks.
White sand. Tropical waters. Party HQ. Water sports. That’s the beach in Pattaya. So, when are you booking your next trip?
Thinking of traveling to Pattaya? Skyscanner can help you find the best flights, hotels and car rental deals for your next trip.
