Pattaya (and vicinity)

Pattaya is a vibrant coastal city that shot to fame in the early 1980s and has remained one of Thailand’s most popular holiday destinations ever since. From sunrise to sunset, its beaches are constantly brimming with watersports lovers and sun-worshippers enjoying the surrounding waters. It’s considered one of Thailand’s better scuba diving destinations, having consistently calm waters throughout the year and the most interesting shipwrecks to discover.

After dark, the action shifts to the streets, where you can experience an electrified nightlife scene that lasts until dawn and is significantly more budget-friendly than Phuket’s or Bangkok’s. While the city has a reputation as an adults-only party place, Pattaya is a great destination for just about everyone, from couples and families to solo and business travellers. The city is 147 km from Bangkok, making it one of the closest beach resorts to Thailand's capital city and a popular weekend getaway for the capital’s residents.