7 Best Pattaya Beaches for Every Type of Traveler

If you’re looking for a quick beachy escape from Bangkok, then Pattaya is a great choice. After all, it’s known as Thailand’s resort city on the east coast! 🏝️

Travelling solo, with your mates, the whole fam, or that special someone? No worries! Pattaya beaches have something for every kind of traveller, and we’ve got you covered to figure out where you should go. Read further ‘cause Patta-ya gonna love this!

Pattaya is just 140–160 km from Bangkok, which means you can get there in roughly 2 to 2.5 hours by car. Don’t forget to book a transfer from Bangkok, especially if you’re coming straight from the airport!

Are you coming to Pattaya beaches for the adventure, nightlife, luxury getaway, or simply ✨ just for the vibes? ✨Yes, we know, different strokes for different folks!

If you’re in Pattaya for popular attractions, parties, and to meet other people, then Pattaya Beach might just be your scene. It’s the central beach where all the action takes place, so you’ll never run out of things to do here.

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For solo travellers or backpackers, staying in a hostel is a smart way to manage your budget while still being in a convenient location. We recommend The Bedrooms Hostel Pattaya, it’s just a minute’s walk from the beach and surprisingly comfy!

Another great option for couples or friends is the Serenotel Pattaya Beach Front. It’s got everything you need for your awesome Pattaya adventure, like easy access to tourist areas.

Another major beach in the area is Jomtien Beach. It’s close to Pattaya Beach but is known to be quieter, cleaner, and more wholesome. It still offers easy access to major attractions, but it’s especially ideal if you're travelling with kids, as the water is clearer and safer, totally safe for swimming! Overall, it’s an alternative if you’re after the beach experience with water sports and dining, minus the intense nightlife found elsewhere.

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We recommend staying at D Varee Jomtien Beach, as it has direct beach access and various room types that suit any group size. If you’re looking for a place to stay complete with dining options, a gym, a pool, and more, then don’t forget to book your room!

Don’t get confused between Pattaya Jomtien Beach and Na Jomtien Beach as they’re two separate areas. Na Jomtien is an extension on the southern end of Jomtien Beach and is known to be quieter and more laid back. It’s a lovely choice for families who want to relax or couples on a honeymoon, as it has more upscale resorts and a peaceful atmosphere. If you want a beach holiday where you can enjoy resort facilities and take it slow, Na Jomtien is the place to be.

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If you're staying in a luxury area, why not go all-in? If you’re up for the splurge, consider booking a stay at Andaz Pattaya by Hyatt for a touch of elegance and the perfect setting for a much-needed break.

Wong Amat has a well-maintained shoreline since it’s also known for lots of luxury resorts. The soft sand and clean waters make it especially fun for families with kids who can’t get enough of the water or couples looking for a more peaceful beach experience. You can also pay for massages and buy souvenirs on the beach if you’re looking for local hospitality!

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We highly recommend staying at Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya. With direct access to Wong Amat Beach and beautiful resort facilities, it’s ideal for families. You can unwind at the spa or club lounge, while the kids can enjoy the free water park!

Want to know a secret? Well, Sai Kaew Beach is one! It’s located on military territory (hence its nickname Military Beach), so it’s not the easiest to get to compared to other Pattaya beaches. Only a half-hour drive away from the central area, nothing can beat its blue waters + white sand combo!

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When visiting Sai Kaew Beach, we recommend joining a tour that also gives you a day pass. You’ll also be visiting other Pattaya icons such as the Pattaya View Point, Lala Lake, and the Sanctuary of Truth.

Also known as Coral Island, Koh Larn is one of the must-visit Pattaya beaches. It’s nice for groups looking for a fun day trip away from the city. You can try parasailing, jet skiing, banana boat rides, or just snorkel and explore the underwater life. Unlike the city beaches, Koh Larn has a more relaxed island vibe, ideal for adventure lovers and groups wanting a mix of fun and sun.

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Choose between a half-day or full-day tour at Koh Larn and book the water sports activities you’d like to experience in advance!

Otherwise, if you’re not planning on staying long in Pattaya and would like to just visit the island straight from Bangkok, you can always book a day tour that also stops by the Sanctuary of Truth and Pattaya View Point.

Just off the coast of Pattaya (close enough for a day tour), Samae San Island is best described as an “uninhabited paradise.” Because of this, the waters are clear, and the marine life is rich, the best place to snorkel and soak in the salty air.

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If you’re not checking in Pattaya and coming straight from Bangkok, you can always book a day tour to Samae San Island that comes with a kayaking and snorkelling experience. Young kids can also learn how to snorkel and enjoy Samae San’s underwater life.

For families, it’s recommended to stay at Jomtien Beach, Na Jomtien, or Wong Amat and visit Sai Kaew, Koh Larn, and Samae San Island for their wholesome vibe and kid-friendly activities. For couples, Pattaya beach is recommended for night outs, while Jomtien Beach, Na Jomtien, or Wong Amat are great for an escape. Solo travellers would enjoy Pattaya Beach and could join tours that visit Sai Kaew and Samae San Island.

Jomtien Beach, Na Jomtien, and Wong Amat are quieter alternatives to Pattaya Beach. They’re also cleaner and have a more laid-back vibe.

You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boating, snorkelling, and kayaking. Some resorts like Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya also have water parks, spa treatments, and beachside dining.

Pattaya beaches are about 140–160 km from Bangkok, roughly 2 to 2.5 hours by car.