Best of Pattaya
The Best Things to Do in Pattaya
Beyond the beach and the bars, Pattaya has some genuinely great days out. These are the attractions we'd actually send a friend to, from a jaw-dropping wooden temple to an island escape.
How we chose: We prioritise places that reward the trip — distinctive, well-run and worth your limited holiday time — over tourist-trap filler. Each pick notes who it suits best and we verify practical details against official sources.
Pattaya surprises people. Look past the obvious and you’ll find a genuinely strong line-up of days out — a world-class wooden temple, an easy island escape, gardens, viewpoints and a glittering cabaret. Here’s where we’d actually send a friend.
- 1
Sanctuary of Truth
Most jaw-droppingAn astonishing all-teak, hand-carved temple-palace on the coast — Pattaya's single most impressive sight.
Read the full guide → - 2
Koh Larn (Coral Island)
Best half-day tripA short ferry to clearer water and quieter beaches — the easy island escape first-timers love.
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Nong Nooch Tropical Garden
Best for familiesA vast, beautifully landscaped botanical estate with shows and viewpoints, just south of the city.
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Tiffany's Show
Best evening showA glitzy, family-friendly cabaret institution — an easy, fun night that isn't a bar.
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Pattaya Viewpoint (Pratumnak)
Best free viewThe free, classic panorama over Pattaya Bay from Pratumnak Hill — best at sunset.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the number one thing to do in Pattaya?
If you do just one thing, make it the Sanctuary of Truth — a giant hand-carved wooden temple unlike anything else in Thailand. For a beach day, take the ferry to Koh Larn.
Is Pattaya good for families?
Yes — between Nong Nooch Garden, the beaches and islands, water parks and shows like Tiffany's, there's plenty to fill several family-friendly days.