In spite of its huge potential in terms of location, Pattaya in Thailand has developed something of a bad rap over the years. Much of it is connected to some of the ‘entertainment’ and such like available in Thailand’s ‘sin city’–although this in itself has always been a major draw for other types of tourists enticed by the seedier side of the culture and country.

Many find it hard to believe that Pattaya was once a quiet and sleepy fishing village in the Chonburi province that has gradually developed into the city it is today since the 1960s.  Chonburi is a large coastal region on Thailand’s eastern Gulf, and as it turns out it has much more to offer than a strip or two of dodgy go-go bars. Pattaya has long been one of the prime attractions of the Chonburi area, with the city located less than 200 kilometres from Bangkok (just 2 hours away).

Modern-day Pattaya is a beach resort city lined with hotels, condos, shopping malls, bars, pubs, and clubs. The area also features several designer golf courses clearly aimed at upping the level of clientele in the area, many with sweeping views of Pattaya Bay.

The local government has been making efforts for a while now to improve the appearance, amenities, and the image of Pattaya. It’s certainly a convenient place for tourists–whether Bangkokians, expats, or holidaymakers from far and wide alike–to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand without having to travel for days to get there.

The raucous nightlife seems to be downscaling gradually but is only in a small concentrated area around the vicinity of Walking Street, the main entertainment hub in town—which can be avoided fairly easily.

The city also has much more to offer in the form of all kinds of other activities, and those travelling with families might want to head for the Jomtien Beach or Naklua segments of the city. These areas are obviously still touristy, but are much more subdued than the bustling ‘entertainment’ parts of town.

In recent years, the government has made obvious efforts to make Pattaya more family-friendly, and this can be seen from the growing host of children’s attractions such as water parks and aquariums. There also seems to be a more modern, innovative vibe creeping into the scheme of things…so let’s see what’s going on in Pattaya.  

1. Ramayana Water Park

Ramayana Water Park offers a fun-filled and exhilarating day out for water-lovers of all ages. The press release claims the park to be the ‘biggest and best water park in Thailand,’ and it has a total of 21 different water-themed rides on offer.

The various colourful water slides that weave and spiral around the park include a pretty severe freefall, along with somewhat less extreme slides for the smaller children.

There is a fantastic double wave pool, an aqua-splash park containing fountains, and even a green maze. A more subdued river ride weaves through caves and bubbling geysers, and there are other fun activities like water polo, fish feeding, Zumba, and volleyball. Different levels for all-comers are catered to here.

The park is located next to Khao Chi Chan and Silverlake Vineyard, and there is no public transportation as such to the area. The water park can arrange transfers and transportation for you whether you are in Pattaya or Bangkok.

2. The Sanctuary of Truth

Billed as “the magnificence of heaven recreated on Earth,” this massive ornate wooden temple is a study in Thai architectural styles and a unique marvel to behold.

The structure was built for various reasons, one being to display historic building techniques, and another with the purpose of representing aspects of the Buddhist philosophy of impermanence. Taking a tour of the place allows one to learn about the historic and religious importance of the intriguing wood carvings inherent in the structure, along with some of the observations and wisdom of Buddhism.

The Sanctuary of Truth Museum is apparently the largest wood carving structure in the world. Visitors to the museum will see intricately-decorated wooden carvings and be able to soak up the vibe of the structure which was built in homage to ancient religions and philosophies.

Some of the themes reflected in the artwork and architecture include references to the cycle of life, and humanity’s relationship to the universe explained from Buddhist perspectives. Inside The Sanctuary of Truth visitors will see a 4-faced Brahma figure which symbolises the rulers’ great morals which form Hindu and Buddhist ideology. At the centre is a throne, and each section represents a different moral meaning for humanity.

The Eastern rooftop features a beauty queen carrying the scriptures, while the Northern rooftop features a Hindu deity carrying a lotus. On the Western rooftop there is a beauty queen carrying ears of paddy, along with a pigeon, and on the Southern rooftop is a fairy holding the arm of a child and an old man. The central apex depicts another deity on horseback – and all of this is explained in terms of its symbolism.

From an architectural perspective, visitors can also expect to learn how many ancient wooden structures were built using joining techniques unique to the region. There is also the option to participate in the construction of this miraculous national & world heritage structure.

Optional extra activities such as horse riding, sightseeing by speedboat, or sightseeing by ancient boat are also arranged from here if required as part of a tour. There are also Thai cultural shows as well as Thai boxing.

–Tour Available – From Bangkok: Day Trip to Pattaya City & Sanctuary of Truth

3. Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden

The expansive, park-like sanctuary of Nong Nooch Village is a destination that has stretched further across the local land over the years. It now offers various activities ideal for visitors of all ages, and it is especially appealing to those with families.

In this sometimes welcome haven from the bustling Pattaya crowds you can find colourful themed gardens, including a topiary garden with winding walkways, and a period-inspired 17th-century French garden along with a similar European Renaissance garden. And for budding botanists, there is a species-specific garden that includes plants like tropical varieties such as palms and bonsai. There is also a wonderful orchid garden showcasing the tropical flower native to Thailand.

The Botanical Garden Sanctuary has a Thai Cultural Hall which features performances related to local cultures such as traditional Thai dancing, sword-fighting, Thai boxing, and a show with elephants.

Renting a bicycle is possible in order to explore the park, which is not a bad option, and there is also a nearby resort of the same name which offers all types of accommodation surrounded by green gardens and the Pattaya hills.

4. Wat Yansangwararam

For those with an interest in Thai Buddhism and the architectural design typical of most temples in the region, Wat Yansangvararam (also known locally as Wat Yan) offers impressive insights into traditions and values inherent in the culture.

Expansive palm-studded gardens surround the temple, which was dedicated to King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 1988 to commemorate his 42nd year on the throne.

Like in many famous temples in Thailand, a variety of Buddhist relics considered most precious are housed in the main chedi of the complex, which also has a lake, with impressive Chinese pavilions housing various antiques and artefacts.

The main shrine of Wat Yansangwararam stands atop a hill which is reached after negotiating a flight of 299 steps lined with the Thai ‘Naga’ snakes. A great way to spend half a day is wandering up to this quiet and magnificent temple while you gather your thoughts.

5. Tarzan Zip Lining Adventure

For those feeling a little more adventurous than simply lounging on beaches or strolling around gardens, there are a variety of outdoor-type pursuits that are available in and around the Pattaya main centre.

The Tarzan Trail is a great way to take in the surrounding lush tropical forests of Pattaya. You’ll find there are various platforms for different levels. Each allows participants to move from tree to tree by negotiating an assortment of passages such as rope bridges, Tarzan swings, flying skateboards, and of course, giant zip lines.

This adventure is usually available through many of the local tour operators, or you can make your own way there if you fancy it. There is a mandatory briefing outlining the correct use of the slings, carabiners, pulleys, and harnesses involved in the adventure in a safe manner.

Regardless of age, the course is for all participants. This is maximum tropical outdoor fun and excitement, and an unforgettable experience. Apparently, from a safety aspect all of the equipment is guaranteed to French Standards.

Participants are recommended to have at least moderate physical fitness levels, and it might also be an idea to book in advance.

6. XBungy—Pattaya Bungy Jumping

If the zip lining is not extreme enough for you then there is always the option of bungy jumping. Welcome to Thailand’s highest jump by way of XBungy, which tops out at 60 metres.

This outfit was the first Bungy Jump in SE Asia let alone Pattaya and has been in operation since 1989 the jump is located in a huge park with Go-carts, PaintBall, Off Road Buggies, and ATV. The operation works according to New Zealand ZANZ safety levels.

This is another activity that may benefit from booking in advance, and again can be arranged either through a local tour operator or independently. If you do this as part of a tour you will benefit from a pick-up at your Pattaya hotel.

7. Koh Larn

Koh Larn (Larn Island) is a small, reasonably peaceful, and highly scenic small island just 30-minutes away by speed boat or 45-minutes by ferry from the main stretch of Pattaya.

Koh Larn (also known as ‘Koh Lan’) has a few white-sand beaches stretching across the shores of the island. As an island it is distinctly more laid back than on the mainland beaches, although there are still the usual food stalls along with plenty of water sports activities.

Some of the most popular options include banana boat rides, parasailing, and underwater Sea Walking, to name a few. One of the nicest beaches is Tien Beach, and on Nual Beach you will commonly find monkeys roaming around.

It is actually possible to stay overnight on the island and at Samae and Tawaen beaches there are a variety of resorts that are popular with all, including families. The government and tourism authority has been making specific efforts over recent years to ‘upgrade’ this popular little island by building more exclusive, expensive resorts and other accommodations.

8. Art in Paradise

Art in Paradise is an illusion art museum concept that also has branches in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. This is an interesting place for fun photo opportunities and it is ideal for families and couples alike.

The scenarios presented through the slightly surreal artwork offers life-like imagery that allows a variety of slightly weird photo options, such as tickling the belly of a whale, touching a rhino, or tackling a huge marlin. The 2-D paintings utilise impressive tricks of depth to give a 3-D scene from certain angles.

There are different zones within the facility, all with their own themes. The displays feature 10 unique galleries of illusion art related to Egypt, classic art, an underwater world, a safari, prehistoric dinosaurs, and various other types of fantasy. Each gallery and the vibrant and realistic details of the paintings make for amazing experiences and some lasting photo memories to show off.  

Established in 2013, the Art in Paradise Museum prides itself as the largest interactive art museum in the world, and looks destined to continue its successful progressive approach towards making art more accessible and entertaining.

9. Four Regions Floating Market

The Four Regions is the only floating market in Pattaya. It is a busy little area of bustling commerce divided off into different sections.

The vendors at the market ply merchandise from all over Thailand, such as arts and crafts, clothing, and other types of souvenirs. The floating market is a great place to discover and indulge in some exotic local cuisine, and if you are up for it you are likely to find such delights as scorpions, crickets, and even crocodile meat.

It is possible to rent a boat to explore the markets, however, unlike the more authentic and less touristy floating markets in other regions, you do have to pay admission fees.

10. Mini Siam

Mini Siam is a fun and interesting way to see some of the most famous sites of Thailand and of others from around the globe – miniature style.

This is another family-friendly Pattaya attraction, where you can see to-scale versions of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the Bridge on the River Kwai. Also on display is the Victory Monument and Wat Arun (also known as the Temple of the Dawn) from Bangkok.

Most international visitors might consider the Thai side more interesting, though a Mini Europe section contains the Eiffel Tower, and also on display via a network of paths, bridges, and water features are international landmarks such as New York’s Statue of Liberty, the Sydney Opera House, Italy’s Leaning Tower of Pisa, London’s Tower Bridge, and the Arc de Triumphe in Paris.

Again it might be worth booking in advance for this particular Pattaya attraction, and tickets are available online to save time waiting on line on the day. Mini Siam is largely uncovered, so just bear in mind, especially with children, that in the open-air the sun can be intense. The park contains a few food stalls and other options are available at the front.

Mini Siam sits on Sukhumvit Highway (Route 3)—the main road from Bangkok to Pattaya, relatively close to Pattaya Hospital. It is probably easiest to book tickets that include round-trip transfers, or maybe even hire a driver for the day. Mini Siam is open 7 days a week from morning until late evening, and early evening is a great time to visit when the models are floodlit and temperatures are a little lower.

11. Wat Phra Yai — Big Buddha

No decent tourist spot in Thailand is complete without its own huge, golden Buddha sitting or overlooking somewhere prominent. There are quite a few large golden Buddha images in and around Pattaya as it turns out, but this particular 18-metres-tall statue of the Buddha–looking peaceful and relaxed as ever—sits atop Pratumnak Hill, towards the southern end of the town. If you can climb the rather steep stairway up to the top—the one adorned on either side with golden Naga snakes-you’ll get to see the impressive-looking statue up close, surrounded by several smaller Buddha figures.

This is a popular spot for locals to come and pray and make merit for good health, happiness, and prosperity. The fantastic views from the temple over the bay are impressive to say the least, and if you’re not entirely up for the long walk up the hill, you can get a taxi up there.

— Big Buddha Temple in Pattaya (Wat Phra Yai) – Is it Worth Visiting?

12. Underwater World Pattaya

Underwater World might not exactly be in the same league as Underwater World in Bangkok, but it does nevertheless hold an impressive enough array of sea creatures from diverse underwater environments to keep the kiddies enthralled for an hour or two. Visitors get to feed koi fish from bottles, see sharks and rays at close distance, and witness Thailand’s largest collection of jellyfish.

Special events are regularly held for kids like the Sleepover with Sharks & Rays Camp, where kids can actually spend a night in the underwater glass tunnel learning about marine animals.

13. Pattaya Off-Road Safari

This is the main ATV-related activity in Pattaya offering guided off-road experiences. Whether you choose an ATV or some other type of buggy you’ll love the route which is located on Pattaya’s Soi Siam Country Club Road. All tours are completely off-road and all levels from beginner to experienced are catered for.

The really good thing about this off-roading experience is that passengers get to ride for free. Visitors can book online, or pay by either cash or credit card on arrival.

– Related Tour: 2-Hour Beginner ATV/Buggy Offroad Tour with Meal

Related:

• Pattaya Travel Guides
• Things to do – Pattaya Attractions
• Which Pattaya Beaches Are Best? A Beach Guide to Pattaya
• Best 10 Jomtien Hotels Near the Beach & Centre
• Getting from Bangkok to Pattaya – Cheapest to Easiest and Most Comfortable
• Jomtien Beach in Pattaya – Reasons to Visit or Stay
• DongTan Beach in Pattaya – Reasons To Visit and Guide
• Jomtien Beach Night Market (Pattaya) – Cheap, Cheerful and Lively
• Big Buddha Temple in Pattaya (Wat Phra Yai) – Is it Worth Visiting?
• The Top 7 Night Markets in Pattaya You Might Like To Check Out
• Buddha Mountain (Khao Chi Chan)—A Worthy Stop-Off Point in Pattaya
• Soi Buakhao Pattaya – A Brief Guide & What to Expect