Pattaya is a lovely resort city on the East Coast of the Gulf of Thailand.
The beauty of the area is impressive, with plenty of postcard perfect beaches.
As well as beautiful coastal islands there are plenty of cultural activities too such as Noong Noch tropical Gardens and ladyboy caberet shows.
Activities include water sports, sightseeing, spa treatments, relaxing at the beach and other free things to do.
There are plenty of excursions, from island discovery cruises to family filled fun at Dolphin World and Cartoon Network.
Therefore Pattaya is a fantastic destination to relax, have plenty of fun, and learn about Thai culture.
Below are 18 of the best things to do in Pattaya.
1. Coral Island
Coral Island, also known as Koh Larn is a stunning Thai Island to visit.
White sand beaches coupled with lush forest and a relaxing island vibe all make for a brilliant day out.
Visit some of the best beaches in Pattaya area and go snorkeling.
Alternatively you could cruise the coast, explore inland, or try some watersports.
Perhaps you will try parasailing or jet skiing.
As well as the natural beauty, experience Thai culture and cuisine.
2. Pattaya Beach
Pattay Beach is 4km of crescent shaped sand looking out onto crystal blue sea.
There is plenty do along the stretch of beach.
During the day, try water sports including windsurfing and banana boating.
Head offshore to a diving or snorkeling excursion.
Or simply find a sun lounger, lie back and relax with a good book and tasty cocktail from a beach bar.
There are plenty of restaurants too.
At night the southern zone is a lively scene with exciting bars and shows including cabaret and cultural shows.
3. Mini Siam
A visit to Mini Siam is a unique experience.
Mini Siam is home to intricate miniatures of famous buildings worldwide.
Infamous monuments such as the Eiffel Tower in Paris have been replicated, along with beautifully landscaped waterways which represent the worlds oceans.
Thai culture throughout the ages is also shown with monumental buildings from different times on display.
Expect to learn a lot during your visit, of both impressive buildings worldwide alongside Thailand’s cultural heritage.
4. Underwater World Pattaya
Underwater World Pattaya really is like stepping into another world.
With over 2,500 sea animals living here there is plenty to see.
Also, it’s a great way to spend a few hours out of the hot sun while still sightseeing.
Visitors walk through the aquarium thanks to a glass tunnel.
You will get magnificent views of sea life close up.
As well as Ocean fish there are rock pool dwellers and coral reef wildlife to see.
Include a stop at feeding time during your visit for a memorable experience.
5. Nong Nooch Tropical Garden
Nong Nooch Tropical Garden is a serene haven of palm trees and colorful orchids.
As well as being beautiful to explore, many cultural events are held here, including Thai dancing and Thai boxing.
However you will need to check when these are being held.
Why not choose a guided tour to learn about the history of the gardens and Thai Culture.
Alternatively visit by yourself and explore as much as you wish before having refreshments at one of the restaurants there.
6. Ramayana Water Park
Cool off with a splash at Ramayana Water park.
Included in your day here are 21 fantastic rides, a lazy river with caves and bubbles.
There are 2 kids areas which is perfect for families, as well as a huge wave pool.
Alternatively, escape from the delighted noise and fun and head to the relaxation section.
Following a morning of playing discover remnants of ancient buildings from a long ago city located here.
Also you can visit the floating market, see real elephants and enjoy the lush natural setting of the park.
7. Pattaya Dolphin World
Pattaya Dolphin World has become one of the most popular tourist attractions since it opened in 2011.
As well as dolphin shows and swimming with dolphins there are plenty of other activities.
Try a rope course, rock climbing, or visit the water park and stables.
Also on site are several cafes for refreshments.
8. Cartoon Network
Kids big and small will have a great day out at Cartoon Network.
Did you know cartoon Network Amazone is one of Thailand’s biggest water parks?
As well as thrilling rides, wave pool, and zone for small children, there are plenty of characters from your favorite cartoons.
Characters include Ben 10, Johnny Bravo and the Powerpuff Girls.
After exploring Cartoon Network Amazone head to one of the on site restaurants for a break and refreshments.
9. Dream World
Dream World is located in pretty gardens near Bangkok.
It has four themed islands and over 30 rides and shows.
Therefore you are guaranteed a busy fun filled day, great for families, couples, friends and solo travelers.
Begin at Dream World plaza, a colorful and quaint European style village.
Next explore the Dream Garden, with sights from all over the world, including the Taj Mahal and Great Wall of China.
Continue on to Fantasy land, where fairy tales come true.
Inspired from popular tales including sleeping beauty and Cinderella, this island is fantastic for children.
Finally, head to Adventure Land for thrills and excitement on rides such as the Sky Coaster and Space Mountain.
10. Pattaya Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum
Discover strange sights at Ripleys Believe It or Not! Museum.
Visit during the middle of the day to escape the worst of the heat and discover plenty of bizarre and wacky exhibits.
Included in the 7 zones are a 12D moving theater and Ripleys Haunted Adventure which has live actors.
Alternatively navigate the Infinity Maze or try the Laser Maze Challenge.
Visit Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks® and pose with a mix of international and Thai Celebrities.
Or venture through Ripleys Scream in the dark and score points with your screaming and shooting skills.
11. Teddy Bear Museum
You don’t need to have kids to enjoy a visit to the teddy bear Museum.
Wander through 12 unique zones, each of which features teddy bears in unique scenes.
Included themes are Dinosaurs, Africa, under the Sea, Thailand and Santa town.
Every Zone has a ‘picture’ concept which you can join and lots of teddies to cuddle.
In addition, the large fairy tale zone features a slide and a tree house.
Afterwards visit the gift shop and choose your very own teddy bear souvenir to take home.
12. Alcazar International Cabaret Show
Thailand is famous for it’s lady boys.
At Alcazar International Cabaret Show you will see them perform a fantastic singing and dancing show.
The show has been running for 20 years and now features 400 talented entertainers.
As well as singing and dancing watch comedic impersonations and dramatic performances.
13. Tiffany Show Pattaya
The original transvestite show in Pattaya, Tiffany’s Cabaret Show is now in its 40th year.
A spectacular worldwide acclaimed show, which is also family friendly.
Performances include talented dancers and singers wearing dazzling glamorous outfits.
Choose between a 6 pm or 9 pm show.
A VIP seat upgrade is also available.
14. Kaan Show
Kaan Show D’Luck cinematic theater show is a show unlike any other.
Coupling amazing live performances with fantastic cinematic technology, its a unique experience.
Ingeniously designed and built to create a ‘levitating theater’ there is a projection area of 1,500sq meters.
Combine state of the art technology and comfy, well planned seating for an amazing performance.
Included in your experience are live action, cinematic and stage performance in a family friendly show.
The story is inspired by a Thai Classic, so you will learn about their culture also during this dazzling show.
15. Pattaya City Experience Tour
An excellent way to discover all of Pattaya’s cultural highlights.
Begin at the iconic Sanctuary Of Truth, a one of a kind monument built as an appreciation for philosophy, art, culture and faith.
Continue to Pattaya’s floating market where you will have an hour to watch vendors paddle between customers in their traditional boats and rice hats.
You will have the opportunity to purchase souvenirs and local street food, and see all kinds of produce for sale.
Next you will visit Buddha Mountain, a giant Buddha sculpted into a cliff.
Then visit Jomtien Beach which is another tourist resort and beach just south of Pattaya.
At Big Buddha temple you will see some of the largest Buddha images in the world, before stopping at Pattaya city sign viewpoint.
Continue to Bali Hai Pier, a central feature of Pattaya, and Walking Street which is the biggest party hotspot.
Then head to Beach Road, which looks out on the Gulf of Thailand and has the best shopping to offer.
Finally the tour heads to Art in paradise, an interesting art gallery with 10 themed areas, and interesting art painted directly onto the walls.
16. Flight of the Gibbon Chonburi
Adventurers will love the thrill of experiencing the flight of the gibbon Chonburi.
With a 5 hour zip lining adventure course you will see spectacular canopy and feel like a bird or Gibbon!
Included in the eco-tourism adventure are 24 platforms and 2 rappel descents.
In addition, the small group (max 9 people) means you will have a fantastic personal experience.
After your flight of the gibbon experience you can enjoy a delicious Thai lunch to replenish your energy.
17. Floating Markets in Pattaya
Engage with locals in an authentic Thai experience by visiting the Floating markets of Pattaya.
There is over 10,0000 square meters of floating market and see the hustle and bustle of locals.
Vendors sell everything from food to clothes, and technology to pets.
Watch vendors in traditional boats and wearing rice hats paddle their way along the water, and haggle for some unique souvenirs from Thailand.
In addition, try some local Thai food and get a taste of authentic Thailand.
18. Cruises, Boats & Water Activities
The beautiful coastline of Pattaya is the perfect setting for water activities and cruises.
Treat yourselves to a luxury yacht tour and enjoy beautiful views of Pattaya and nearby islands, some of which you can visit.
Also enjoy snorkeling to see pretty fish flitting among coral on some trips.
Alternatively choose a catamaran and go exploring some of the nearby islands, including Coral island.
Otherwise opt for a banana boat, parasailing, or jet boating for more of a thrill.
You can also go fishing and perhaps bring home your dinner.
Pattaya is certainly one of the best tourist destinations in Thailand.
Not only does it offer a wide variety of tours and free activities, there are plenty of cultural places to visit and performances to enjoy.
Begin your trip with a day of relaxation exploring Pattaya’s long beach.
Next choose some adventure activities such as zip lining and snorkeling to fill your days.
Book some excursions and discover nearby paradise islands of lush tropical forest, soft white sand and brilliant blue sea.
Or spend your time discovering Thailand’s cultural heritage at Pattaya’s floating market and Noong Nooch tropical garden.
Families will love cartoon Network and Dream World.
Learn about local marine life at the aquarium.
After a day of exploring spend an evening or two enjoying one of the excellent cultural shows, such as a ladyboy cabaret or dazzling cinematic and theater combo.
You will leave Pattaya having had a great time, and wishing you could stay longer so you could do more.
