Pattaya Travel Guides

Pattaya lies 147km southeast of Bangkok on the northeast coast of the Gulf of Thailand. In 1950 there was little here other than a small fishing village. It was unspoiled and unsophisticated yet in 40 short years it has become a city in its own right.

More than 30 offshore islands stretch around Pattaya within a radius of some 48km, from around Si Racha in the north to Sattahip in the south. A few islands are off-limits as they are under the control of the Royal Thai Navy. Most others have fascinating dive sites. The waters are rich in various coral species and tropical fish.

Today, Pattaya is one of Thailand’s premier beach resorts and annually attracts thousands of pleasure-seeking tourists from all over the world. Despite the wide range of excellent facilities for tourists with legitimate interests, Pattaya in particular has, like Thailand in general, an image problem, caused by the so-called sex industry.

Reports in the international media have long overemphasized the sex-related negative sides of the city and these reports, fueled by the local media haven’t helped the situation. Prostitution is practiced and perverts coming to Pattaya has made sensational international coverage, enticing people to come with the sole purpose of bedding pre-teenagers of either sex.

True, there has been a problem, but things are improving here as well as other known ‘sex trade’ areas in Thailand. It is regularly raided by both the Thai and international police. The future for Pattaya is looking bright being encouraged and although the industry still exists, and already there are major changes to the area. Wholesome, family entertainment is on.

Not that Pattaya lacks in attractions. It has good beaches, though the actual Pattaya beach is not the cleanest anymore, others are pristine and the water crystal clear. Beach related activities are extensive and you are sure to find something to suit you.

Pattaya at nightBesonders Pattaya is located within easy reach from the Bangkok as well as Don Muang International Airport. It has an excellent accommodation infrastructure, which are of international standard and restaurants and entertainment for all tastes. Because of its good accessibility from Bangkok, Pattaya remains one of Thailand’s most important and popular dive centers.

Thailand has a tropical climate with three seasons: Hot (March-May), Rainy (June-October) and Cool (November-February). It is hot all year round, there is little difference between the hottest and coolest months, and average temperatures are around 27° c.

The months with the most rain are July, August and September. Pattaya’s coastal location means more breezes than say Bangkok and the rain tends to come in short and heavy bursts rather than prolonged over days, but no matter when you come, you'll have a good time. Lightweight casual clothing is recommended.