Stretching about for kilometres in a crescent shape along the north-western border of Pattaya, this sandy beach has been welcoming tourists in droves since the 1960s. Neighbouring beaches in the region have grown to become popular destinations on their own, but Pattaya Beach is where this area first found its feet.
Nowadays this is among the most popular beaches you will find anywhere across Asia, with visitors flocking here from around the world. The jet skis, water scooters and windsurfers dotted on the water show you how popular it is by day, whilst the music from the restaurants, bars and clubs is a sign of the transformation that takes place here every night. This is the place to enjoy the lively, good-natured atmosphere along with the friendly locals.
When you arrive, make sure to rent a deckchair, then find a spot to sit back in the shade of a palm tree and enjoy a drink whilst the world goes by. Vendors will periodically drift past, offering massages. lottery tickets and everything else in between. For a more adventurous visit, try parasailing above the ocean, board a banana boat or head out to the nearby coral island of Kho Lam, where you can go diving, snorkelling or fishing.
There are plenty of shops you can visit in this area too, with boutique stores offering fashion, jewellery, souvenirs and so much more down Beach Road. Here you’ll also find bars and restaurants perfect for a spot of people-watching. When night falls, the bars and clubs come alive, drawing the revellers from across Pattaya. The south end of the beach is a little wilder, whilst the northern patch is renowned for being rather more laidback and family-friendly.
It may be a city beach itself, but Pattaya Beach is a great place to head for clean, safe water where you can enjoy great swimming. Crowds flock here especially at weekends, but there is always a quieter spot only a short walk away.
