Pattaya holidays

Why Pattaya

Pattaya is known now as a world-class holiday destination, and the hotels in Pattaya have come ahead in leaps and bounds from its origins as a sleepy fishing village. Offering fantastic watersports facilities, Pattaya has loads to keep you busy, from snorkeling or scuba diving, to a boat trip to the nearby islands. Come nightfall, the nightlife is legendary, with a whole host of electrifying beach bars and clubs. With sumptuous Thai cuisine served up in the local restaurants, lively markets and pristinely clean beaches, Pattaya holidays are the perfect introduction to Thailand.

This Thai seaside resort also has plenty family-friendly activities, however there is also a seedy side to Pattaya. Great value and high-quality Thai food can be found all over town, along with plenty of international dining options. The sparkling malls and wealth of amenities will ensure you never get bored on holidays to Pattaya, but this is not the destination to come for secluded, peaceful beaches. This has been a popular destination since American soldiers first came here for some R and R in the 1960s.

When to go

Temperature: The climate in Pattaya is hot year-round. The average high temperature is 29 degrees Celsius. Located near the top of the Gulf of Thailand, it is subject to annual monsoons and has three seasons.

Best time for holidays to Pattaya: November to February offers the perfect weather combination: little rain and hot but bearable temperatures with average highs of 31 degrees Celsius through to lows of about 21 to 22 degrees Celsius. However this is also the high season in Pattaya, so expect higher prices.

Located near to the top of the Gulf of Thailand, Pattaya is prone to annual monsoons and has only three seasons.

Where to go/stay

The bay of Ao Pattaya in home to the main beach and the city is built around it. There are plenty of things to do, and a whole host of watersport to keep you amused if you get tired of sunbathing. One of the more popular day trips is the 7 kilometre boat ride across to Ko Lan island. The clear waters and spotless beaches are perfect for swimming or snorkelling, and the island’s jungle interior is great fun to explore.

If you want a quieter beach experience away from the masses on your Pattaya holidays, travel outside of the main resort to Ko Samae San island or visit the beaches of Hat Nang Ram.

Things to do

Pattaya possesses two distinct regions. The north part of the city is more upmarket and is family-friendlier, while south Pattaya is the nightlife and entertainment hub. To the south of the city there is a small, forest-covered hill topped by a massive golden statue of Buddha. Make the climb at either sunrise or sunset on your holidays to Pattaya; the views are amazing and you will beat the heat.

For a truly unique Pattaya experience, visit what is known as the Sanctuary of Truth during Pattaya holidays. This structure is part religious monument and part art installation and it utilizes both its architecture and its carvings to bring both Buddhist and mythology together. Also unique, but much wilder is the Tiffany’s Cabaret Show – Southeast Asia’s first transvestite cabaret and an interesting spectacle.

For arguably the best Thai food in Pattaya, check out the legenday Mum Aroi, a Pattayan institution with divine seafood dishes. Pattaya has no shortage of watering holes and most are situated in the southern part of the city. The beer flows freely every night and live music is always on offer.