Pattaya is a fun and vibrant city that offers so much more than sex, drugs and rock’n’roll. Actually, it attracts travellers of all kinds with its beauty and chilled out life.
But there are a lot of accommodation options – and knowing where to stay is super important. You probably don’t want to get stuck in central Pattaya nightlife with your family. You can have a different kind of experience in Pattaya simply by choosing a different area to stay in.
Which is exactly why we put together this guide for where to stay in Pattaya. This article was written for travellers, by travellers. So no matter what you’re looking to do, you’ll be able to find the best place to stay to make your travel dreams come true.
It lists the five best neighbourhoods to stay in Pattaya and organizes them by interest. So whether you’re looking for a fierce party, a little relaxation, or a vacay the whole family will remember – you’ve come to the right place!
Here’s the full guide for where to stay in Pattaya, Thailand.
- Where to Stay in Pattaya
- Pattaya Neighborhood Guide
- Pattaya’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- #1 Pattaya Beach – Where to Stay in Pattaya First Time
- #2 Jomtien Beach – Where to Stay in Pattaya on a Budget
- #3 Walking Street – Best Area to Stay in Pattaya for Nightlife
- #4 Ko Lan – Coolest Place to Stay in Pattaya
- #5 Naklua – Best Neighbourhood in Pattaya for Families
- FAQs about Finding a Place to Stay in Pattaya
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Pattaya
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Pattaya.
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Best Airbnb in Pattaya: The Base Seaview
This stunning Airbnb in central Pattaya has got everything you could wish for. Enjoy the fine life in a comfortable apartment with a private balcony and free wifi. It’s close to everything including the beach just 300m away. With laundry available and even a rooftop infinity pool, it’s the overall best place to stay in Pattaya beach.
Best Hostel in Pattaya: Happy Hostel
This attractive Pattaya hostel is ideally located on Pattaya Beach. It is within walking distance of the city’s best bars, clubs and restaurants. It comes complete with a relaxing outdoor area and a cosy lounge. Enjoy a modern, clean hostel, internet, a pool, and 24-hour security.
Best Hotel in Pattaya Beach: LK The Empress
Straight away you see why this is the best hotel to stay in Pattaya. You’re right on the beah. You can’t miss it. Plus, this hotel pulls out all the stops to make sure you have the best stay. You’ll enjoy free wifi, a coffee bar, air-conditioned rooms, and an outdoor swimming pool. Wash your clothes? Shuttle service for guests? All round good times.
Pattaya Beach
Pattaya Beach is the ideal place to make your base if you’re visiting Pattaya for the first time. Not only is this neighbourhood centrally located, but it’s packed with awesome attractions and activities, delicious restaurants and fabulous shops that will keep you entertained both day and night.
Jomtien Beach
Jomtien Beach is a small town located immediately south of Pattaya. Although it isn’t technically part of Pattaya, the two are so closely connected that they practically form one municipality.
Walking Street
Walking Street is the most infamous neighbourhood in Pattaya. It is the main tourist area for nightlife and many of the offerings are centred around Pattaya’s sex industry.
Ko Lan
Travel nearly eight kilometres across the Gulf of Thailand and you’ll arrive at the island of Ko Lan. Also known as Coral Island, Ko Lan is a stunning piece of paradise renowned for its pristine beaches, adventure activities and its fresh and delicious seafood.
Naklua
Naklua is a neighbourhood set north of Pattaya Beach. It is home to one of the nicest beaches in the region as well as some of the most iconic attractions in Pattaya.
Pattaya is a resort town on the Eastern Gulf Coast of Thailand and popular with those backpacking Thailand.
It is infamous for its lively and vibrant party scene and is home to a whole host of gogo and beer bars, massage parlours and cabarets. While it’s undergone a recent revitalization, the party and nightlife scenes are still thriving in Pattaya.
There are plenty of fantastic things to see in Pattaya for travellers of all styles and budgets. To help you plan your travels, this guide will explore the five best neighbourhoods in detail.
Naklua is located at the northern end on Pattaya. It is a quiet district where you’ll find beautiful beaches, historic monuments, calm seas and a range of all-ages activities and attractions.
Head south from here and you’ll arrive in Pattaya Beach. The centre of the city, Pattaya Beach is packed with action and adventure. From museums and shops to restaurants and bars, this is the ideal place to stay if you’re keen to take in all that Pattaya has to offer.
Walking Street is the most infamous area of Pattaya. The city’s bustling nightlife and red light district, this is where you’ll find a myriad of bars and nightclubs, as well as pubs and dancefloors.
Continue travelling south and you’ll pass through Jomtien. A popular and relaxed neighbourhood, Jomtien is home to a great beach, tasty restaurants and a good selection of budget Pattaya hostels.
And, finally, hop across the water to the island of Ko Lan. Set nearly eight kilometres off the shores of Pattaya, Ko Lan is an island bursting with beautiful beaches, adventure activities, and fresh and delicious seafood.
Still not sure where to stay in Pattaya? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
Pattaya’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Pattaya is one of those places to stay in Thailand that’s good for all different types of travellers. So, let’s take a look, in more detail, at the five best neighbourhoods to stay in Pattaya. Each is a little different from the last, so be sure to pick the one that’s right for you!
Pattaya Beach is the ideal place to make your base if you’re visiting Pattaya for the first time. Not only is this neighbourhood centrally located, but it’s packed with awesome attractions and activities, delicious restaurants and fabulous shops that will keep you busy with things to do in Pattaya, day and night.
By day, Pattaya Beach is a popular destination thanks to the massive CentralFestival Pattaya Beach shopping and entertainment complex. Asia’s largest beachfront shopping mall has more than 350 shops for you to explore, so if you’re looking to add a few items to your closet, this is the place to do it!
By night, Pattaya Beach is a thriving district with bars and bistros, restaurants and nightclubs packed with tourists and locals all looking for a good time.
Things to See and Do in Pattaya Beach
- Browse exhibits dedicated to everyone’s favourite childhood friend at the Teddy Bear Museum.
- Catch a show at the Alcazar Cabaret.
- Indulge in the food at Craft Cottage.
- See incredible 3D art at ART IN PARADISE.
- Soak up some rays at Pattaya Beach.
Best Airbnb in Pattaya Beach: The Base Seaview
This stunning Airbnb in central Pattaya has got everything you could wish for. Enjoy the fine life in a comfortable apartment with a private balcony and free wifi. It’s close to everything including the beach just 300m away. With laundry available and even a rooftop infinity pool, it’s the overall best place to stay in Pattaya beach.
Best Hostel in Pattaya Beach: Happy Hostel
This attractive Pattaya hostel is ideally located on Pattaya Beach. It is within walking distance of the city’s best bars, clubs and restaurants. It comes complete with a relaxing outdoor area and a cosy lounge. Enjoy a modern, clean hostel, internet, a pool, and 24-hour security.
Best Hotel in Pattaya Beach: LK The Empress
Straight away you see why this is the best hotel to stay in Pattaya. You’re right on the beah. You can’t miss it. Plus, this hotel pulls out all the stops to make sure you have the best stay. You’ll enjoy free wifi, a coffee bar, air-conditioned rooms, and an outdoor swimming pool. Wash your clothes? Shuttle service for guests? All round good times.
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Learn More Now!Jomtien Beach is a small town located immediately south of Pattaya. Although it isn’t technically part of Pattaya, the two are so closely connected that they practically form one municipality.
It is a popular tourist destination that attracts travellers from all over the world thanks to its beautiful beach and its relaxed atmosphere. Here you can enjoy sunshine and sea life with a more laid-back vibe than you’d get at Pattaya Beach.
The area of Pattaya is also home to a high concentration of cracking backpacker hostels in Thailand and top-value hotels. This is why it’s our pick for where to stay in Pattaya if you’re travelling on a budget.
Things to See and Do in Jomtien Beach
- Dine on fresh Thai food at Cabbages & Condoms.
- Enjoy the spice at Indian by Nature.
- Hike up to see the stunning giant Buddha statue.
- Snack your way through the Jomtien Beach Night Market.
- Spend a day lounging at Jomtien Beach.
- Take a boat ride around the Floating Market.
Best Hotel in Jomtien Beach: Jomtien Palm Beach Hotel and Resort
Staying at Jomtien Palm Beach Hotel is one of our favourite hotels in Pattaya. It’s really well located to all the top attractions, as well as lively bars and delicious restaurants. Plus you have a great onsite restaurant and bar if you don’t fancy leaving this little paradise. With free breakfast in the morning too, so you might not need to.
Best Airbnb in Jomtien Beach: Functional room in condominium
This extremely affordable Airbnb has got it all. A rooftop with 360° view, a restaurant and bar, shops and a spa – and you have access to everything. Your room in the condominium is simple but got all the amenities you need, from kitchen to workspace, fridge and even a microwave. With mostly great reviews, this place is a great choice when travelling on a budget.
Functional room in condominium is one of our favourites in Pattaya but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hostel in Jomtien Beach: D.D. Inn
This is our favourite hostel in Jomtien Beach thanks to its comfortable beds andfun, social atmosphere. Play pool, get top tips for Pattaya, and chill out. A short walk from the beach, this hostel is ideally located in Jomtien Beach. Plus, it’s LGBT traveller friendly!
D.D. Inn is one of our favourites in Pattaya but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Walking Street is the most infamous neighbourhood in Pattaya. It is the main tourist area to stay in Pattaya for nightlife and many of the offerings are centred around Pattaya’s sex industry. Efforts have been made to clean the neighbourhood up in recent years, but it is well worth mentioning that it’s still home to Pattaya’s red light district.
But, there’s more to Walking Street than gogo bars and massage parlours. This lively and vibrant neighbourhood is packed with bars, pubs and nightclubs that come alive after dark and thrive until the early hours of the morning. So whether you’re looking for a glass of wine or a night of dancing, you’ll find it in Walking Street. A visit to walking street should feature on any Pattaya itinerary.
Things to See and Do in Walking Street
- Catch a show at legendary Castro Bar.
- Cool down with cocktails at ICE BAR V20.
- Dance the night away at Disco Mixx.
- Party at Club Insomnia.
- Drink and dance all night long at Discotheque Endorphin.
- Eat, drink and watch sports at Gulliver’s Walking Street.
- Boogie on down at The Pier Disco Club Pattaya.
- Appreciate the best at R&B at 808 Club.
- Hit up live music at Hot Tuna Bar.
- See the dawn come in at Lucifer Disco.
- Visit the famous and intricate temple, Wat Chai Mongkon.
Best Airbnb in Walking Street: Private room in tower
This home is located in the best area if you want to experience the nightlife of Pattaya. Your room in the condominium provides a kitchen, fridge and even a washing machine. There are also other facilities like a gym, pool, sauna and a rooftop in the same tower. “Walking Street” is a short walk from this Airbnb, so you can still enjoy a good nights sleep.
Best Hotel in Walking Street: Nonze Hostel
The Classroom Hotel is a fantastic option if you’re looking for budget accommodations near Walking Street. It is located at the heart of the district and is a fantastic place to walk back to after a night of drinking, dancing and partying. Rooms come with free breakfast, towels and 24-hour reception.
Best Hotel in Walking Street: W14 Pattaya
W14 Pattaya is a modern and colourful three-star hotel – and it’s our pick for where to stay in Walking Street. It is within walking distance of Pattaya Beach as well as great shopping, tasty restaurants and lively clubs. The rooms are spacious and have a safety deposit box. The hotel café and rooftop swimming pool make this a great choice for staying in Pattaya.
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Buy an eSIM!Travel nearly eight kilometres across the Gulf of Thailand and you’ll arrive at the island of Ko Lan. Also known as Coral Island, Ko Lan is a stunning piece of paradise renowned for its pristine beaches, adventure activities and its fresh and delicious seafood.
Occupying just 5.6 square kilometres, Ko Lan is the perfect place to make your base if you’re looking to enjoy the beaches and seashores of Pattaya without the throngs of tourists. Here you can sit back, relax and bask in the sun, and indulge in fresh and delicious seafood, which is why it’s our pick for the coolest neighbourhood in Pattaya.
Things to See and Do in Ko Lan
- Bask in incredible views from beautiful Tawaen Beach.
- Check out the Windmill Viewpoint.
- Hop on a motorbike and explore the island on two wheels.
- Dine on fresh seafood fruit and produce at Sea Space.
- Get some vitamin D at Nual Beach.
- Rent snorkels and explore what lies beneath the waves and off the shores of Samae Beach.
- Soar through the air on a tandem paraglider with Fly Koh Lan.
- Swim in crystal clear waters of Ta Yai Beach.
Best Airbnb in Ko Lan: Rim Tha Homestay
Nice breakfast in the morning, a relaxed afternoon at the beautiful beach and an even better evening at the close by restaurants. If this sounds good to you, then you can be sure that this Airbnb is perfect for you. Close to the beach, affordable and comfortable, the homestay offers a great place in one of the coolest areas on Ko Lan.
Best Resort in Ko Lan: Xanadu Beach Resort
Phikun Resort is one of our favourite places to stay in Ko Lan. Set in paradise, this hotel has seven recently refurbished room with modern décor, air conditioning and a variety of entertainment features. It is well located for exploring the island and offers free wifi and an on-site restaurant.
Best Hotel in Ko Lan: Samantha by the Sea
This three-star hotel is one of the best on the island thanks to its wonderful staff, comfortable rooms and its great location. It provides a relaxing oasis after a day of adventures with free shuttle service for guests. You’ll enjoy air con, bottled water, a balcony with a garden view, a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV, and bed linen and towels.
Naklua is a neighbourhood set north of Pattaya Beach. It is home to one of the nicest beaches in the region as well as some of the most iconic attractions in Pattaya. Here you can enjoy relaxing and calm days spent lounging in the sand or exploring the sights, which is why it’s our pick for where to stay in Pattaya for families.
This neighbourhood is extremely well-connected throughout the region, making it an ideal base for exploring. Head off in almost any direction and you’ll find a myriad of activities and attractions that will enchant and enthral all members of your family. From water parks and lively zoos, a fantastic family vacation is at your doorsteps in Naklua.
Things to See and Do in Naklua
- Visit the Sanctuary of Truth, a spectacular wooden construction that stands 105 meters high.
- Enjoy lunch with an insane ocean view at Radius @ Cape Dara Resort.
- Explore Mini Siam and Mini Europe, a fun and interesting park that is home to miniature versions of world landmarks.
- See masterpieces by Van Gogh and Monet presented on large screens at Hello Van Gogh.
- Munch your way through the lively Lanpho Nakluea Market.
- Spend a day in the sun at Wong Amat Beach.
Best Airbnb in Naklua for Families: Family apartment close to beach
If you’re planning on travelling to Pattaya with your family, but you’re worried about the safety and neighbourhood you should have a look at this Airbnb. Located very close to the beach but in a very calm and peaceful area, you can be sure that you and your kids will have a great holiday. The home is spacious and bright, with good amenities and an onsite restaurant.
Best Budget Hostel in Naklua for Families: The Bedrooms Hostel
The Bedrooms Hostel is a fantastic option for families on a budget. It is situated in quiet Naklua and is within walking distance of lively Pattaya Beach. They provide simple rooms with comfortable furnishings perfect for staying in Pattaya with family. You’ll also enjoy a cafe, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and a games room.
Best Hotel in Naklua for Families: Swiss Paradise
This three-star hotel wins our vote for where to stay in Naklua. It is conveniently located near Wong Amat Beach and is close to top tourist attractions, restaurants and cafes. Rooms are outfitted with private balconies, flat screen TVs and air conditioning. Breakfast is also available each morning.
FAQs about Finding a Place to Stay in Pattaya
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Pattaya and where to stay.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Pattaya
Pattaya is a city with so much to offer travellers. From lively nightlife and pristine beaches to excellent shopping and flavourful food, this vibrant seaside resort city has something for travellers of all ages, styles and budgets.
In this guide, we’ve looked at the five best neighbourhoods to stay in Pattaya. If you’re still not sure which is right for you, here is a quick recap of our favourites.
Nonze Hostel is our pick for the best hostel. It has a central location in Pattaya Beach and offers a relaxing outdoor space and delicious breakfast.
Another excellent option is E-outfitting Boutique Hotel Pattaya thanks to its fabulous features, excellent setting and comfortable rooms.
Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments below.
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