Top Beaches in Pattaya

Located 91 miles (147 kilometers) southeast of Bangkok, the city of Pattaya has emerged as one of Thailand’s most popular beach resorts, and for good reason. Here are some of the area’s top beaches to check out while you’re there.

Pattaya Beach

This 2.5-mile (4-kilometer), crescent-shaped stretch of sandy beach is Pattaya’s most popular and liveliest. Divided into three areas, the beach tends to be busy day and night, thanks in part to the restaurants, bars, and hotels lining Pattaya Beach Road. Besides sunbathing, visitors often come for the parasailing, jet skiing, and other water sports.

Coral Island (Koh Larn)

If you find yourself in need of an escape from the crowds and noise of Pattaya, hop on a speedboat for the 45-minute trip to nearby Koh Larn, also known as Coral Island. Clean, white sand and tranquil waters are the stars here. Relax on the beach, snorkel the reefs, take a glass-bottom boat tour, or try your hand at parasailing or windsurfing.

Jomtien Beach

Situated just 4 miles (6 kilometers) from Pattaya city, Jomtien Beach is close enough to all the action to feel lively but far enough away to gain a sense of peace, making it a popular choice among locals and water sports enthusiasts. If you want to take a windsurfing or kiteboarding lesson, this is the place to do it.

Naklua Beach

Located in north Pattaya, Naklua Beach shares its sand with both visitors and local fishermen who work from the dock and set their traps on the horizon. Water sports aren’t as popular here, making it a good choice for swimming or laying out on the golden sand.

Wong Amat Beach

While not far from Pattaya Beach, Wong Amat Beach is much quieter and cleaner, free of the parties and water sports that keep Pattaya Beach buzzing day and night. Popular among families, it’s common to see kids playing in the sand and swimming in the turquoise waters.