Who it suits
- Budget travelers and backpackers
- Long-stay expats watching their spend
- Visitors who want value over a sea view
Not every Pattaya base is about the beach. Soi Buakhao, the long inland road cutting through the middle of the city, is the budget heart of town — a dense, lively tangle of cheap rooms, street food, markets and bars that draws backpackers and value-minded expats in equal measure.
The vibe
Soi Buakhao is unpretentious and great value. You’re inland, so there’s no sea view, but you’re central, social and spending a fraction of beachfront prices. The food scene — street stalls, markets and cheap restaurants — is a real highlight.
Who should base here
Ideal for budget travelers, backpackers and long-stay expats who’d rather save their baht for experiences than views. If a beach base matters to you, Jomtien gives you sand for a bit more money; Central puts you closer to the shore too.
Pros
- Some of the best value rooms and food in Pattaya
- Central, inland location with everything nearby
- Lively, social expat-and-traveler scene
- Markets and street food on the doorstep
Cons
- No beach — it's inland
- Busy, dense and not scenic
- Traffic and noise on the main soi
Getting around
Soi Buakhao is central and walkable, with baht buses along the main roads to the beach for a small local fare of ⟨VERIFY: baht bus fare⟩. Many residents use a scooter.
Frequently asked questions
Is Soi Buakhao a good area to stay in Pattaya?
For budget travelers and long-stay expats, it's hard to beat on value — cheap rooms, great street food and a lively scene, all central. The catch is there's no beach; you ride or walk to the coast.
Is Soi Buakhao good for long-stay expats?
Yes, it's popular with budget-conscious long-stayers thanks to cheap monthly rooms, low-cost food and a social atmosphere, while staying close to the rest of the city.