Pattaya Travel Guide 2026

Top 10 Beaches in Pattaya You Must Visit

Updated January 2026 • 5 min read

Pattaya is famous for its stunning beaches, and visiting during Tomorrowland Thailand 2026 gives you the perfect opportunity to explore them. Here are the best beaches to relax before or after the festival.

Jomtien Beach

Located just south of Pattaya, Jomtien Beach offers a more relaxed atmosphere with cleaner waters. Perfect for swimming, jet skiing, and beachside dining. The 6km stretch is less crowded than the main beach and ideal for families.

Koh Larn (Coral Island)

Take a 45-minute ferry from Pattaya pier to this paradise island. Crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, and excellent snorkeling. Tawaen Beach and Samae Beach are the most popular spots. Ferries run daily from 7 AM.

Wong Amat Beach

North Pattaya's hidden gem, Wong Amat offers upscale resorts and pristine sand. Less touristy with calm waters perfect for swimming. Many 5-star hotels line this beach, making it ideal for luxury seekers.

• Best for swimming: Jomtien Beach
• Best for day trips: Koh Larn
• Best for luxury: Wong Amat Beach
• Best for water sports: Pattaya Beach

Where to Eat in Pattaya: Best Restaurants & Street Food

Updated January 2026 • 6 min read

Pattaya's food scene is incredible, from authentic Thai street food to international fine dining. Here's where to eat during your Tomorrowland Thailand trip.

Street Food Markets

Thepprasit Night Market – Every Friday-Sunday evening, this massive market offers the best street food experience. Try pad thai (50 THB), mango sticky rice (60 THB), and fresh seafood. Arrive around 6 PM for the best selection.

Thai Restaurants

Mum Aroi is legendary for seafood. Try the steamed fish with lime and the famous crab curry. Located in Naklua, expect to pay 300-500 THB per person for a feast. Rim Talay offers oceanfront dining with stunning sunset views.

International Cuisine

Walking Street and Central Festival have everything from Japanese to Italian. Hop Brewery serves craft beers and Western food. Bruno's is the best fine dining for European cuisine.

Budget Tips

• 7-Eleven and Family Mart have surprisingly good meals for 30-60 THB
• Food courts in malls offer clean, air-conditioned dining at street food prices
• Local restaurants away from Beach Road are 50% cheaper

Getting Around Pattaya: Transportation Guide

Updated January 2026 • 4 min read

Understanding transportation in Pattaya will save you time and money during Tomorrowland Thailand 2026. Here's everything you need to know.

Songthaew (Baht Bus)

The iconic blue trucks run fixed routes along Beach Road and Second Road. Just hop on and press the bell when you want to stop. Fixed price: 10 THB for short trips within the route. For destinations off-route, negotiate before boarding (typically 50-100 THB).

Grab (Thai Uber)

Download the Grab app before arriving. It's the easiest way to get around with fixed prices. Average costs: Airport to Pattaya 800-1200 THB, within Pattaya 80-150 THB. Payment via cash or card.

Motorbike Taxis

Fastest option for short distances. Drivers wear orange vests and wait at designated spots. Negotiate price first – typically 20-50 THB for short trips. Not recommended for longer distances or if you're uncomfortable on motorcycles.

Scooter Rental

Rent for 200-300 THB/day. International driving permit technically required but rarely checked. Wear a helmet (it's the law). Be extra careful – Thai traffic can be chaotic. Petrol is cheap at about 35 THB per liter.

Best Temples & Cultural Sites in Pattaya

Updated January 2026 • 5 min read

Take a break from the festival to explore Pattaya's rich cultural heritage. These temples and sites offer peaceful retreats and stunning architecture.

Sanctuary of Truth

This magnificent all-wood temple is Pattaya's most impressive attraction. The intricate carvings depicting Buddhist and Hindu mythology are breathtaking. Entry: 500 THB. Visit in the morning for fewer crowds and better photos. Guided tours available.

Big Buddha Hill (Wat Phra Yai)

The 18-meter golden Buddha statue overlooks the entire city. Free entry. Visit at sunset for incredible views of Pattaya Bay. The surrounding temple complex has beautiful shrines and is an active place of worship.

Wat Yanasangwararam

A stunning royal temple with a large lake, Chinese pagoda, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Free entry. Less touristy than other temples, offering authentic spiritual atmosphere.

Temple Etiquette

• Cover shoulders and knees
• Remove shoes before entering buildings
• Never point feet at Buddha images
• Women should not touch monks

Pattaya Nightlife: Beyond Tomorrowland

Updated January 2026 • 5 min read

While Tomorrowland Thailand will be the highlight, Pattaya's nightlife offers plenty of after-party options and pre-festival entertainment.

Walking Street

Pattaya's famous entertainment strip comes alive after dark. Clubs, bars, live music venues, and restaurants line this pedestrian-only road. Notable venues include Insomnia for EDM and Tony's Entertainment Complex. Entry is usually free, drinks 150-300 THB.

Rooftop Bars

Horizon Bar at Hilton offers stunning 360° views. Sky Gallery on the 28th floor of Central Festival is perfect for sunset cocktails. Dress code applies at upscale venues.

Beach Clubs

KUDO Beach Club offers pool parties and international DJs. Café del Mar brings Ibiza vibes to Pattaya. Expect entry fees of 300-500 THB including a drink on special event nights.

Safety Tips

• Keep valuables secure
• Use Grab for safe late-night transport
• Drink responsibly – stay hydrated in Thailand's heat
• Avoid buying drinks from strangers

Day Trips from Pattaya: Explore Beyond the Festival

Updated January 2026 • 6 min read

Extend your Tomorrowland Thailand trip with these amazing day trips within easy reach of Pattaya.

Koh Samet Island

2 hours from Pattaya, this island offers pristine beaches and national park beauty. Stay overnight or do a day trip. Ferries from Ban Phe pier run regularly. Entry fee: 200 THB for foreigners.

Nong Nooch Tropical Garden

Just 15 minutes from Pattaya, this 600-acre botanical garden features Thai cultural shows, elephant rides, and stunning landscaped gardens. Entry: 500 THB. Plan 3-4 hours minimum.

Sriracha Tiger Zoo

30 minutes north of Pattaya, see tigers, crocodiles, and elephants. Famous for tiger shows and photo opportunities. Entry: 450 THB. Ethical concerns have been raised – research before visiting.

Khao Kheow Open Zoo

Thailand's best open zoo with 300+ species in natural habitats. Night safari available. Entry: 150 THB. Perfect for families, about 45 minutes from Pattaya.

Rayong Province

Famous for fruit orchards and quieter beaches. Visit a durian farm (Thailand's famous stinky fruit) or relax at Mae Ram Phueng Beach. 1 hour from Pattaya.

Essential Pattaya Travel Tips for Tomorrowland Visitors

Updated January 2026 • 7 min read

Make the most of your Tomorrowland Thailand 2026 trip with these insider tips covering money, health, safety, and local customs.

Money Matters

Thai Baht (THB) is the currency. Current rate: approximately 35 THB = 1 USD. ATMs are everywhere but charge 220 THB foreign transaction fee. Best rates at SuperRich exchange booths. Credit cards accepted at malls and upscale venues, but carry cash for markets and small shops.

Stay Connected

Buy a Thai SIM card at the airport – AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove offer tourist packages from 299 THB for 8 days unlimited data. 7-Eleven also sells SIM cards. WiFi is widely available at hotels and cafes.

Health & Safety

• Drink only bottled water (7 THB at 7-Eleven)
• Use mosquito repellent, especially at dawn/dusk
• International hospitals: Bangkok Hospital Pattaya, Pattaya Memorial
• Emergency number: 1669 (medical) or 191 (police)

Cultural Tips

• Wai (bow with hands pressed together) is the traditional greeting
• The Royal Family is highly respected – never make negative comments
• Tipping is not expected but appreciated (10-20 THB for small services)
• Remove shoes when entering homes or temples

Weather Preparation

November is ideal – dry season beginning with pleasant temperatures (25-32°C). Pack light clothing, sunscreen SPF50+, sunglasses, and a light rain jacket just in case. Stay hydrated at the festival!