Hot spring Hotels in Pattaya

Pattaya is like a vibrant dance-party queen. You can stay here very long never worrying about running out of fun things to do. The Pattaya Beach offers water sports, beachside cafes, and a lively atmosphere. Jomtien Beach, just a short distance away, provides a more relaxed setting for sunbathing and swimming. The Sanctuary of Truth, a stunning wooden structure, showcases intricate carvings and traditional Thai architecture.

And lucky for you guys! American tourists can visit Pattaya without a visa for up to 30 days with a valid passport and proof of onward travel.

Getting to and around Pattaya

Most American travelers visiting Pattaya prefer flying into Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in Bangkok rather than U-Tapao Rayong Pattaya International Airport (UTP). BKK handles a significantly higher volume of international flights, including many from the U.S.. From BKK, Pattaya is about a 1.5-2 hour drive, making it an accessible option with frequent shuttle buses, taxis, and private transfers available.

On the other hand, UTP is much closer to Pattaya (about 19 miles), but it caters primarily to regional and domestic flights, making it less popular among American travelers unless you’re already in Southeast Asia.

Hotels near BKK offering airport shuttle service

For American travelers heading to Pattaya from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), here are four popular transportation options:

Private Transfer: For a comfortable and hassle-free journey, you can book a private transfer through Trip.com, with prices starting at around $58.90.

Airport Bus: The Bell Travel Service offers an affordable and efficient bus ride from BKK to Pattaya. Buses depart from the airport every hour, and the trip takes about 2 hours. The ticket price is typically around 130-200 THB ($4-6).

Ride-Sharing Apps: For more flexibility, you can use ride-sharing apps like Grab and Bolt. Both apps are widely used in Thailand and allow you to book rides directly from the airport to Pattaya.

Car Rentals: For ultimate freedom, rent a car and get around Thai at your own pace. Cruise along scenic coastal roads and discover hidden gems off the beaten path. The lowest price of BKK Car Rental on Trip.com is from $23.83.

Top Things to Do in Pattaya

Too many options for fun in Pattaya. For a relaxed experience, visit the Pattaya Beach for water sports and scenic views, or explore the vibrant nightlife on Walking Street, known for its entertainment and restaurants. Don't miss Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, a beautifully landscaped park featuring cultural performances and diverse flora.

The Sanctuary of Truth

The Sanctuary of Truth is a unique wooden structure built entirely without nails, showcasing intricate carvings and sculptures representing philosophical ideas and ancient stories. Guided tours provide in-depth explanations of Thai culture. Visitors can also experience activities like elephant and horse riding, and explore the small zoo.

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The Sanctuary of Truth

Nong Nooch Tropical Garden

Nong Nooch Tropical Garden is a vast botanical garden featuring themed gardens such as a French garden, cactus garden, and orchid nursery. The garden also hosts cultural shows, including traditional Thai dances and elephant shows. It's an ideal place to enjoy beautiful landscapes and learn about Thai flora and culture.

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Pattaya Elephant Village

Pattaya Elephant Village is a sanctuary for retired working elephants. Visitors can ride elephants, interact with them, and watch performances showcasing their skills. The village also offers trekking tours, cultural shows, and a chance to learn about the elephants' care and conservation.

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Ko Samet

Ko Samet is a small island in the Gulf of Thailand, known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters. Popular activities include windsurfing, snorkeling, and water skiing. The island's main beach, Sai Kaew Beach, is known for its white sand and vibrant nightlife. Ko Samet is a perfect getaway for relaxing and enjoying water sports.

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Which part of Pattaya is best to stay?

Here are three neighborhoods in Pattaya that are perfect for American visitors:

Pattaya Beach Road

Ideal for those who want to be in the heart of the action, Pattaya Beach Road offers a vibrant atmosphere with easy access to the beach, restaurants, bars, and entertainment. The lively street is perfect for visitors who enjoy nightlife, shopping, and a bustling vibe.

Jomtien Beach

A more relaxed area compared to central Pattaya, Jomtien Beach is great for those who prefer a quieter stay but still want easy access to the city's attractions. The area is home to beautiful beaches, local seafood restaurants, and a more laid-back ambiance, making it perfect for families or anyone looking to unwind.

Pratumnak Hill

For those seeking a more peaceful and upscale experience, Pratumnak Hill offers stunning views, luxury hotels, and a more residential feel. It’s a fantastic choice for visitors who want to enjoy a mix of tranquility and proximity to the lively areas of Pattaya. Plus, it’s close to some of the best beaches and attractions in the area.

Pattaya Transportation

Apart from some main transportation options talked about above, here are some other ways to travel easily around Pattaya.

Songthaew (Baht Bus)

Songthaews, also known as baht buses, are one of the most popular and affordable ways to get around Pattaya. They run along major routes such as Beach Road, Second Road, and Sukhumvit Road, operating 24 hours a day. The fare ranges from ฿10 to ฿30 ($0.30 - $0.90) depending on the distance. They are frequent, with buses arriving every 5-10 minutes.

Picture of Songthaews, Source from Wikipedia

Motorbike Taxi

Motorbike taxis are available throughout Pattaya, providing a quick and convenient way to travel short distances. Operating 24 hours a day, fares range from ฿20 to ฿100 ($0.60 - $3.00) based on distance. They are ideal for avoiding traffic and are readily available. However, safety can be a concern, and costs can add up for longer trips.

Baht Bus

Baht buses, similar to songthaews, run on fixed routes along major roads and operate 24 hours a day. The fare ranges from ฿10 to ฿30 ($0.30 - $0.90). They are affordable, frequent, and convenient for short distances but can be crowded and have no fixed schedule.

Better to know before visiting Pattaya

Must-try Foods in Pattaya

For American visitors chilling out in Pattaya, here are three must-try dishes:

Pad Thai

This iconic Thai street food is a favorite among many. Made with stir-fried rice noodles, eggs, tofu or shrimp, and topped with peanuts, lime, and bean sprouts, Pad Thai is a flavorful and satisfying dish that offers a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and sour flavors.

Som Tum (Papaya Salad)

Som Tum is a refreshing and spicy salad made with shredded green papaya, chili, lime, fish sauce, and peanuts. It’s the perfect dish for those who love bold flavors and want to experience authentic Thai cuisine with a bit of heat.

Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup)

This iconic Thai soup features shrimp in a fragrant and spicy broth, flavored with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chili, and galangal. The tangy, spicy, and aromatic flavors make it a must-try for anyone visiting Pattaya.

Weather in Pattaya

Pattaya enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. The temperature typically ranges from 77°F (25°C) to 95°F (35°C), with March to May being the hottest months. During this period, it's important to stay hydrated and wear light clothing to beat the heat.

The rainy season lasts from May to October, bringing afternoon showers and occasional storms. However, these showers are often brief, leaving plenty of sunshine to enjoy the city's attractions. The best time to visit Pattaya is from November to February, when the weather is cooler and drier, perfect for beach outings and exploring the city’s outdoor sites.