Where to Stay in Pattaya, Thailand: 5 Best Areas & Hotels

Planning a trip to Pattaya and not sure where to stay? You’ve come to the right place!

Pattaya is a gorgeous coastal city, and after visiting a few times, we’ve learned that picking the right area can make a big difference to your trip. Do you stay in Central Pattaya for easy access to the beach and the food, or head to Jomtien for lazy beach days? Wong Amat might be more your style if you want somewhere quieter and more upscale, or Pratumnak Hill if you want a bit of both.

So, to help you find the right base, we’ve put together this guide to the best areas to stay in Pattaya, along with hotels we’d actually stay in ourselves. Let’s go!

Where to Stay in Pattaya Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Pattaya

Pattaya is a pretty spread-out coastal city with several different beach and resort areas, but getting around is easier than you might think. Songthaews pass every few minutes and are the cheapest way to get around Central Pattaya, North Pattaya, and Jomtien, so you’ll probably use them quite a bit.

Taxis and ride-hailing services are more convenient for Pratumnak Hill and resorts tucked away from the main roads. That said, you don’t need to stick to an area where you can walk everywhere. We’d choose your area based on what you want to get out of your trip, then make sure your hotel is close to a songthaew route.

If you’re heading to Koh Larn, just catch a ferry or speedboat from Bali Hai Pier, then use local songthaews or motorbike taxis once you’re there. Traffic and parking can be a nightmare, so skip the rental car altogether. 

Our advice? Pick one of these five areas, and you’re good to go!

• Central Pattaya – Best for first-time visitors – If you’re a first-timer, you really can’t go wrong with this area, as it’s packed with restaurants, malls, entertainment, and nightlife, and you can walk pretty much everywhere. Arden Hotel and Residence is our top pick here, thanks to its spacious apartments, fully equipped kitchens, and great location right next to the beach, all at a great value. 

• North Pattaya – Best for shopping & family-friendly hotels – This is a quieter, more upscale area with great shopping, family-friendly hotels, and easy access to the city’s best beaches and attractions. We recommend Dusit Thani Pattaya because there’s a bit of everything here, from several restaurants and two pools to tennis courts and a pretty cool lobby that looks like a mini tropical jungle, with a huge waterfall right in the middle. 

• Pratumnak Hill – Best for a quiet but central stay – Up on a hill, this is Pattaya’s quieter side, with gorgeous views, trendy restaurants, and unique places to stay. Our favorite here is Cosy Beach Hotel mainly because it’s close to the beach, has homemade sourdough pizzas, and there’s plenty to do nearby, all without spending a fortune.  

• Jomtien Beach – Best for beach relaxation – This is where you go for long sandy beaches, cheap local food, fun markets, and a definitely more laid-back vibe than Central Pattaya. Fifth Pattaya Jomtien is a great choice here, with spacious modern studios and live music at night, just steps from Jomtien Beach and the lively Jomtien Night Market.

• Koh Larn – Best for an island escape – If you need a break from busy Pattaya, Koh Larn is just the place to switch off for a while. Arthit House Resort is an adults-only stay with just four rooms, so it’s about as small and private as it gets, and it’s just a short walk from Na Baan Pier. 

Where to Stay in Pattaya 

Central Pattaya 

BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS

Pros 

• Pattaya Beach is right on your doorstep
• Close to Central Pattaya Mall and other shopping  
• Easy to get around by songthaew 
• Lots of hotels for every budget

Cons 

• It can get pretty busy and crowded 
• The beach isn’t the best for swimming and can feel quite touristy 
• Not ideal if you’re after a peaceful stay

If it’s your first time in Pattaya and you want absolute convenience, Central Pattaya is exactly where you’ll want to stay. This is the city’s liveliest area, with hotels for every budget, restaurants, massive shopping malls, entertainment, and non-stop nightlife concentrated around Beach Road and Second Road.

It’s also super easy to get around, with the main roads running basically alongside the beach. And thanks to the incredibly frequent songthaews, you can easily explore further for just a few bucks. 

Most of the biggest attractions are right here, including Central Pattaya Mall, Terminal 21 Pattaya, Pattaya Beach, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum, and Central Marina. You’ve also got heaps of clubs, cabaret shows, and open-air entertainment spots, so yeah, it can get pretty busy and crowded. But on the bright side, there’s always something going on!

And if you’re into local food, you’re seriously spoiled for choice here. You can either head down to the lower ground floor of Central Pattaya Mall or the covered Pattaya Night Bazaar on Second Road. Both have lots of street-food stalls, and I’m pretty sure you’ll have a hard time deciding. Moo Ping, Som Tum, mango sticky rice… you really can’t go wrong! 

The only real downside is that it can get pretty noisy, and Pattaya Beach isn’t exactly the best spot for swimming. But if it’s your first time in Pattaya, we’d still pick Central for the convenience. 

Hilton Pattaya – $$$ 

If you’re looking to splash out, Hilton Pattaya is our top luxury choice here. We absolutely love that every room and suite has a balcony, so your morning coffee comes with 180-degree panoramic views of Pattaya Bay. Not a bad way to start or end the day! 

This place is also home to one of the highest restaurants in town, so yes, you’ll be heading up to the 35th floor for dinner. There’s also an infinity pool, a fully equipped gym, and a spa, all with gorgeous views of the bay.

For anyone who loves being within walking distance of everything, this hotel is a pretty great choice. It sits directly above the Central Pattaya Beach shopping complex, the city’s largest mall, so you don’t even need to leave the building to eat or shop. Price-wise, expect to pay anywhere between $200 USD and $400+ USD per night. 

Alternatively, Grande Centre Point Pattaya has the same convenient access to stores and restaurants, as it sits right above the massive Terminal 21 Pattaya shopping mall. The best part, though, is the fun rooftop sky water park, which is an absolute hit with families. 

Arden Hotel and Residence – $$ 

For a little more space without the high price tag, Arden Hotel and Residence is a great pick. It offers the comfort of a home with all the usual hotel amenities, which we appreciated even more. This was also where we based ourselves, and we’d book it again without thinking twice.

You’ll find full kitchens in each apartment, and the courtyard pool was such a nice bonus. We always make use of the perks wherever we stay, and the pool area was such a lovely spot to unwind during the day and at night. 

We didn’t even have to leave for food, since there’s all-day dining with American, Thai, and Chinese buffets. Yum! We also thought the location couldn’t be more convenient, just a short walk from Hard Rock Cafe and Central Festival Pattaya Beach, so getting around was easy peasy. Prices start at just $130 USD per night. 

We also recommend Avani Pattaya Resort, especially for the massive outdoor pool and tennis courts. It’s just a short walk from Royal Garden Plaza and Central Festival Pattaya Beach, so shopping and food are right nearby. 

Another favorite in the area is Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya, just steps from Pattaya Beach, so you’ve got easy access to water sports. With family foam parties, a kids’ club, and nightly live rock music, it works for pretty much everyone, from ages 0 to 90! 

The Bayview Hotel Pattaya – $ 

A stay at The Bayview Hotel Pattaya means you can save on your room and spend more on having fun! This 4-star budget hotel has pretty much everything you need, from two outdoor pools and a kids’ play zone to a tennis court and spacious rooms with modern Thai touches.

We love the food here too, especially since it’s available 24/7 and you can get everything from Thai to Indian. And when evening rolls around, head to the Exotica Bar and Lounge for a yummy craft cocktail and some lively atmosphere.

The location is another big plus, with dual street access, so you can get to busy Beach Road from the front or Second Road from the back. Pattaya Beach and Central Festival Pattaya Beach are also just a short walk away. With prices starting at just $110 USD per night, we’d call that a pretty good bargain!

We also recommend Flipper Lodge Hotel, a no-frills stay in a great location, just steps from Central Festival Pattaya Beach mall, the beach, and right among the lively bars and beer gardens. We love the lobby art gallery here, which showcases fine art exhibitions, as that’s not something you see every day in a budget hotel, so pretty neat! 

Areca Lodge is another affordable backup, especially if you love having bars and the beach right at your doorstep (well, we do!). With two outdoor pools, traditional Thai massages, and private balconies in each room, it sounds like anything but a budget stay, and we’re not complaining! 

North Pattaya  

BEST FOR SHOPPING & FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOTELS

Pros 

• Excellent shopping and family-friendly stays 
• Quieter than Central Pattaya without feeling too far out  
• Close to Wong Amat Beach 

Cons 

• Not much nightlife compared to Central Pattaya  
• Some beaches are better for relaxing than swimming  

If you want something a bit quieter and fancier, North Pattaya could be just the place. It stretches from the upper curve of Pattaya Bay toward Naklua and Wong Amat Beach, with lots of 5-star resorts and a much calmer night vibe. Because of that, it’s pretty popular with families and anyone who wants to escape the crowds.

For shopping and entertainment, Terminal 21 is the main spot here. You can catch a movie, grab cheap food at the multi-cuisine food hall, shop for international brands, and a lot more. Getting around is pretty easy too, especially if you’re coming from Bangkok, as the Pattaya Air-Conditioned Bus Terminal is right here on North Pattaya Road.

There’s lots to see in this area too. We’d definitely put the Sanctuary of Truth on your list; this incredible example of Thai carpentry is amazing to see. Later, try to catch the sunset at Skybar Summer Club & Pool at Siam@Siam Design Hotel, one of the highest rooftops in Pattaya.

If you need some beach time, North Pattaya Beach is nearby and is a little less crowded than Central Pattaya. Wong Amat Beach is also easy to reach and is one of Pattaya’s cleanest beaches for swimming, so don’t miss it! If you are a pop culture fan, you can also pop into the official, beach-themed POP MART store inside the nearby Central Pattaya mall.

Overall, North Pattaya is a good shout if you want somewhere quieter but still close to everything.

Grande Centre Point Space Pattaya – $$$ 

The Grande Centre Point Space Pattaya is the king of luxury in this neighborhood, and we love it for many obvious reasons. For starters, it’s space-themed! You don’t see that in hotels every day, so naturally, expect things to look pretty futuristic.

It’s also very popular with families with kids, and we don’t blame them. There’s a massive water park with a lazy river, water slides, a wave pool, and whatnot, and that equals happy kids. Adults also have lots to keep them entertained or help them relax, including an onsen, rooftop pool, spa, and live cooking breakfast station.

And when you go to sleep, you’ll have the Northern Lights projected onto your ceiling. How cool is that? Prices start at $215 USD per night, depending on the room and travel dates.

If themed resorts are high on your list, Centara Grand Mirage is another fantastic choice; only this one is all about jungle adventures. It sits on peaceful Wong Amat Beach and is just a 10-minute taxi ride from the action, including Terminal 21 Pattaya and Central Festival Mall. 

Cape Dara Resort is also a great alternative, with two spectacular infinity pools, guaranteed sea views, and a VIP lounge with complimentary evening cocktails. It sits at the absolute tip of Na Kluea Soi 20, and to make things easier, they provide a free shuttle service straight to the nearby Terminal 21 Pattaya mall. 

Dusit Thani Pattaya – $$ 

Dusit Thani Pattaya is one of the coolest places here because you can walk straight out to two different beaches, Pattaya Beach and a much quieter stretch toward Wong Amat. There are no roads between the resort and the water either, so getting to the beach is easy peasy.

With two gorgeous outdoor pools, it’s easy to skip the sand and hang out at the swim-up pool bars instead. If you have the energy, there are also three tennis courts and a gym, while the spa has ice bath rituals and massages for when you’re ready to unwind (I prefer the latter!).

The lobby feels like you’ve walked into a hidden tropical jungle, and the massive waterfall in the middle is pretty awesome. Rooms have a classic Thai style and feel like a peaceful little retreat, so what more could you need? Expect to pay anywhere between $80 USD and $400+ USD per night.

If Dusit Thani Pattaya is fully booked, Woodlands Hotel and Resort is a great backup for a quieter stay with lush gardens and multiple dining options, including a French bakery. It’s also just a 3-minute walk from Terminal 21 Pattaya and Pattaya Beach, so you’re close to everything. 

We also recommend Thai Garden Resort, especially for its massive lagoon-style saltwater pool and traditional Thai massages, which you can enjoy in your room or the property’s lush gardens. Better yet, Terminal 21 Pattaya is right at your doorstep; you can pop over for some shopping or food anytime you feel like it. 

Mayaana Beach Resort Pattaya – $

Mayaana Beach Resort Pattaya is one of those places where you look at the price and think, “Wait, this is 5-star?” Then you realize Wong Amat Beach is literally right outside, and you’re like, okay, this is a pretty sweet deal. But it gets better! 

The hotel also has a trendy beach club and a tuk-tuk drink station right on the sand. It’s also one of the few pet-friendly spots around here, so you can easily bring your furry friend along. Food isn’t an issue either, and the breakfast gets great reviews with both Asian and European options.

The only downside is that it’s a little tucked away, but they offer a complimentary golf cart and van shuttle to Terminal 21 Pattaya and the main beaches, so getting around is easy. Prices start at just $80 USD per night, which honestly feels like a steal for what you get.

The Green Park Resort is another budget-friendly option if you want somewhere a little quieter, with tropical gardens, pools, bridges, and even water slides for the kids. It’s also just a 3-minute walk from Terminal 21 Pattaya and the local markets, so you’re still close to everything. 

Sunshine Garden Resort is one we’d happily pick if you want a gorgeous pool and a lively cocktail bar without spending a fortune. It’s a 10-minute walk from Pattaya Beach and just a 3-minute walk from Terminal 21 Pattaya, so you’re close to both. 

Pratumnak Hill 

BEST FOR A QUIET BUT CENTRAL STAY

Pros 

• Quieter than Central Pattaya but still close to everything 
• Home to Big Buddha Temple 
• Lots of nice hotels and resorts

Cons 

• You’ll probably need a taxi or songthaew to get around  
• Not the best choice if nightlife is high on your list  
• Walking up the hill can be tiring

Pratumnak Hill is an even more peaceful neighborhood if a relaxing vacation is what you’re after. It’s a residential area between Central Pattaya and Jomtien, known for its leafy streets, coastal viewpoints, quiet beaches, and resort-style hotels. No wonder it’s also known as the “Beverly Hills of Pattaya.”

There are some pretty cool things to see here too. Phra Tamnak Royal Residence is a palace compound used by the Thai Royal Family, which is also one reason the area is so quiet. You can’t actually visit or enter the residence, but you can still explore the public attractions around it. 

You can visit Big Buddha Temple and climb the grand staircase to the 59-foot-tall (18 meters) golden Buddha statue, then stop for some incredible views over Pattaya Bay. Another popular spot is the Pattaya City Sign & Viewpoint, which you’ve probably seen in just about every photo of Pattaya.

Pratumnak Hill is also known for its trendy restaurants, boutique hotels, and luxury villas. For a nice meal with a view, The Sky Gallery or 3 Mermaids are pretty hard to beat.

The catch is the hill itself, and with no regular public songthaews running up or down, you’ll need Grab, Bolt, or a motorbike to get around. But if you need a nice place to escape the crowds, Pratumnak Hill is definitely worth a look.

Royal Cliff Beach Hotel Pattaya – $$$ 

If you want to treat yourself, Royal Cliff Beach Hotel is our top luxury pick. It’s just a 10-minute taxi ride down the hill to Walking Street, Central Festival mall, and Bali Hai Pier, and while you’re not exactly walking to the action, getting there is easy enough.

We love the classic Thai interiors, and the huge lobby with really high ceilings and massive pillars is pretty impressive. Then you’ve got not one, but eight pools spread around the property, 11 restaurants, tennis and squash courts, a gym, and daily fitness classes, so you definitely won’t get bored here. 

There’s even an elevator that takes you straight down to a private sandy beach cove, which is pretty cool. Despite being massive, the resort still feels peaceful, making it a great pick for families or anyone ready to splurge. Prices start at around $210 USD per night.

We also love the look of InterContinental Pattaya Resort, with its traditional Asian decor and all the modern extras, including private butler service. It’s a 5-minute drive from the city center, but the shuttle makes it easy to get to Terminal 21 Pattaya and Central Festival. 

Royal Cliff Grand Hotel is a good pick if you want something a little more upscale, especially if you’re heading to an event at the Pattaya Exhibition and Convention Hall right next door. The two-tier infinity pool is a big plus, but we’d probably be most excited about the Cliffside Beach Elevator, which takes you straight down to a secluded private beach cove.  

Cosy Beach Hotel – $$

True to its name, Cosy Beach Hotel offers a comfortable and affordable stay just a 5-minute taxi ride down the hill from central Pattaya and Walking Street. So you get a bit of peace and quiet while still being close to all the action. There’s also a 7-Eleven right nearby, along with laundromats and massage parlors for when things get a bit too much.

You’re also right above Cosy Beach, which is a bit of a hidden gem, although getting there means tackling two steep outdoor staircases. That’s probably not a big deal for most people, but if you have limited mobility or a stroller, the pool or another nearby beach might be easier.

Food-wise, you can pick from four different spots, including one serving homemade sourdough artisanal pizzas -yum! Prices start at just $90 USD per night, which is a pretty sweet deal if you ask us.

If you have something smaller in mind, Cross Pattaya is a fantastic choice with just 78 rooms and a cozy bakery serving French pastries, which is always nice to have nearby! You’re also right across the road from Cosy Beach and just steps from some of Pattaya’s most popular clifftop sunset restaurants. 

For something with more room to spread out, The Elysium Pratumnak is a good option. You’ll get spacious condos with views of the Gulf of Thailand, plus Cozy Beach is just a 5-minute walk away. 

Birds and Bees Resort – $

If you’re looking to save some money and also like a peaceful jungle-style stay, Birds and Bees Resort is it. This place feels so relaxing, with spacious gardens, rabbits roaming freely, stunning ocean views, and ponds filled with koi fish.

The restaurant is built right into the cliffside treetops, which is pretty cool. They also have their own farm where they grow some of the food they serve, plus a greenhouse cafe where you can grab Thai Arabica coffee and fresh pastries while looking out at the jungle. Sounds dreamy to me!

Location-wise, you’re right on pristine Paradise Beach with exclusive beach access, so it feels completely secluded. Better yet, central Pattaya is only a 10-minute taxi ride away if you want some city action. Prices start at just $50 USD per night, making it one of the most affordable stays in the area.

Marni Pattaya is another great budget-friendly stay if you prefer smaller resorts, and you can walk to Cozy Beach and Pattaya Viewpoint in about 7 minutes. We like that there’s something for everyone here, from water slides and a kids’ club to yoga, a fitness center, and a swim-up bar for the adults, so everyone can have a good time! 

Jomtien Beach 

BEST FOR BEACH RELAXATION

Pros 

• Ideal for lazy days on the beach  
• Lots of local food and night markets nearby 
• A selection of accommodation for different budgets

Cons 

• The beach can get busy on weekends 
• Some parts feel touristy 
• Farther from Central Pattaya 

If you’re after a relaxed family vacation without spending a fortune, Jomtien Beach is definitely worth checking out. You’ve got a long stretch of sand, plenty of hotels, restaurants, markets, and watersports, but it feels much calmer than Central Pattaya. It’s only about a 15-minute drive south over Pratumnak Hill, yet it feels like you’ve landed in a completely different town, which is actually a pretty nice change!

We love the beach here, especially the long 6 km (about 3.7 miles) stretch and the pedestrian boardwalk running alongside it. It’s perfect for a morning jog or a sunset stroll. For food, everyone heads to Jomtien Night Market on the beach road. You’ll find everything from fresh grilled seafood and Pad Thai to crispy wontons and spring rolls, usually with live music.

Rompho Market Area is another fun spot, especially if you want some nightlife without the full-on chaos of Central Pattaya. It’s lively, but not too crazy. Another big plus is that Jomtien is completely flat, unlike Pratumnak Hill. Songthaews cruise up and down Jomtien Beach Road all day and night, so getting around is super easy and cheap.

For us, Jomtien makes the most sense if you’re traveling with kids or planning to stay for a while. Just keep in mind that you’ll need a songthaew or taxi to get to the main shopping and nightlife areas in Central Pattaya.

Pattaya Marriott Resort and Spa – $$$

Pattaya Marriott Resort and Spa is our favorite luxury stay here, and for good reason. Jomtien Beach is right at your doorstep, with no roads to cross, and when you’ve had enough sand, you can chill by one of the three pools. The kids have slides and a splash zone too, plus family rooms with bunk beds and a fully supervised indoor playground, so they definitely won’t be bored here!

We love the sugar palm-tree decor here, and the rooftop izakaya is pretty special too—fresh sushi and 360-degree skyline views? Yes, please! Breakfast is served at another restaurant and is rated as one of the best buffets in Pattaya, so yeah, we’d definitely make room for that one!

And when you want to head into town, get a Grab or local taxi, and you’ll be in central Pattaya in about 30 minutes. Prices usually range from $150 USD to $300+ USD per night.

If you want to treat yourself, Veranda Resort Pattaya has a gorgeous multi-level infinity pool, direct access to Na Jomtien Beach, and plenty of kids’ zones. It’s also a short drive from Columbia Pictures Aquaverse and around 20 minutes from central Pattaya, so you can easily head out for some shopping or water park fun. 

Fifth Pattaya Jomtien – $$ 

Fifth Pattaya Jomtien is one of our favorite luxury boutique stays here and won’t cost you a fortune either. You get spacious, modern studios and suites just a 5-minute walk from Jomtien Beach and the lively Jomtien Night Market, which is a great place to check out if you fancy live music at night. 

With two outdoor pools, kids’ splash zones, and even mini-golf, there’s plenty to keep everyone busy. Food-wise, you’re covered with Thai classics and European dishes from breakfast through dinner. But if you’d rather cook, look at suites with kitchens. Or skip the kitchen altogether and check out one of the popular restaurants just a short walk away.

Prices start at around $80 USD per night, depending on the room and travel dates, which isn’t bad at all for this location!

For something similar in size and price, U Jomtien Pattaya has the same intimate boutique feel and sits just across the street from Jomtien Beach. We love the all-day Thai dining here, but even better, you can have breakfast anywhere on the property and at any time until 10 pm, so no setting an alarm to make it to the buffet! 

THE TJ HOTEL – $ 

If you want to stay somewhere peaceful without spending very much at all, THE TJ HOTEL is worth checking out. It’s pretty new too, built in 2022, and it’s modern luxury throughout. 

The location couldn’t be more convenient for the beach and transport, too! You’re only a 4-minute walk from the main Jomtien Beach road and about 24 miles (39 km) from U-Tapao Rayong-Pattaya International Airport; plus, Baht Buses (Songthaews) are right nearby if you want to explore Pattaya further.

There’s a lovely outdoor pool, and some suites even have direct pool access. For food, the poolside restaurant serves everything from Thai to English dishes, plus there’s a pretty affordable buffet with quality espresso options- what more could you need? Rooms typically start from around $50 USD per night. In other words, it’s a steal!

If you want somewhere quieter but still close to the action, LawinTa Hotel Pattaya is a pretty good bargain, with family rooms and a rooftop pool overlooking the ocean. Rompho Market is right next door for cheap local street food and nightlife, and you’re not far from Jomtien Beach and Baht Bus stops either.

Koh Larn 

BEST FOR AN ISLAND ESCAPE

Pros 

• Great for swimming, snorkeling, and watersports  
• Easy to reach from Pattaya by ferry or speedboat  
• Lots of cute hotels and private pool villas 
• Much quieter than staying in Pattaya 

Cons 

• Fewer shops and nightlife options than Pattaya  
• Getting around can be tricky without a scooter or local taxi  
• Prices can be higher than on the mainland 

If you want to escape the crowds of Pattaya, Koh Larn is a fantastic little island getaway, with clearer water, gorgeous beaches, and a selection of small resorts, boutique hotels, guesthouses, and villas.

You won’t find the crazy nightlife or shopping malls of Central Pattaya here, but you do get some incredibly beautiful beaches where you can grab a bite to eat, shop for souvenirs, or try watersports like jet skiing and parasailing. You can also check out The Windmill Viewpoint for panoramic 360-degree views of the island, with Pattaya in the distance.

The best part is that it’s just a short ferry ride from Pattaya, and once the last ferry leaves with the crowds that come for a day at the beach, the island becomes such a peaceful little paradise. 

You’ve got two arrival points to choose from: Na Baan Pier, in the main village on the east side, or Tawaen Beach Pier, which drops you straight onto the island’s main tourist beach. We’d pick Na Baan if you’re staying overnight, since that is where you’ll find most restaurants, shops, and accommodation.

Once you’re on the island, getting around is part of the fun. You can rent automatic scooters, hop in a golf cart, or ride in a local songthaew pickup truck. It feels like a world away from busy Pattaya, but that’s exactly what we love about it. Overall, if you’re after some proper island downtime, Koh Larn is a pretty great place to start. 

Arthit House Resort – $$ 

If privacy and quiet are high on your wish list, Arthit House Resort could be just the place. It’s an adults-only hotel with just four rooms, and all of them have either a private pool or a hot tub on the balcony. For something different, there’s both a library and gallery space with rotating pieces from local artists. But wait, it gets better! 

They bring breakfast straight to your room or terrace, so no elbowing your way through a busy buffet. The location is pretty handy too, especially if you’re planning beach days or ferry trips.

It’s just a 4-minute walk from Na Baan Pier, the main ferry arrival point on Koh Larn, and the resort tracks your ferry and sends a private golf cart to pick you up from the boat. How cool is that? Prices start at around $150 USD per night. 

SIRAVA is another fantastic stay for a quiet getaway, with private pool villas where you can step straight into your own pool and even order a floating breakfast – how about that? Na Baan Pier is just a 3-minute drive away, and you’re also just a short walk from popular restaurants and bars. 

We also recommend Rocco Villa, a quiet boutique stay with only 10 rooms and private plunge pools, making it ideal for couples and travelers who want a little bit of privacy. It’s less than 1 km (0.6 miles) from the pier, but you don’t have to walk, as they provide a free private golf cart shuttle. 

Xanadu Beach Resort – $

If you’re not ready to splurge just yet, Xanadu Beach Resort could be just the place. It’s the only resort sitting right on the sands of Samae Beach, so you practically have the beach to yourself. The rooms are nothing fancy, but they’re spacious, bright, clean, and well laid out.

We love the beach bar and restaurant here, serving fresh seafood and Thai dishes. And if you haven’t booked your tours yet, you can get everything sorted at the tour desk here. While there’s no gym or pool, there’s plenty to keep you busy around the beach, so you probably won’t even miss them.

Location is another big plus, just a 20-minute boat ride from Na Baan Pier, with a free shuttle to and from. Prices start at just $45 USD per night, depending on the room and season, which isn’t bad at all for this location!

We also like Koh Larn Riviera especially if you love a few free perks, as you can rent a scooter at no extra cost and zoom around the island, plus get a free ferry shuttle and breakfast. You’re also just an 8-minute walk from Ta Yai Beach, a quiet white-sand beach that’s a great spot for families and anyone looking for relaxed beach days. 

Top Activities in Pattaya 

Now that you’ve figured out where to stay, it’s time to squeeze in some fun activities. Pattaya is heaven for adventurers, and you’re in for a treat. Luckily, when it comes to choosing what to do, we’re the experts! After a few trips here, we’ve learned that one of the best ways to see more of Pattaya is by joining a tour, so here are some of our favorite picks. 

• Go island hopping – If you love spending time on the water, this full-day snorkeling cruise around three islands is so much fun! We snorkeled, kayaked, tried to fish, and had a delicious Thai buffet lunch on a large catamaran. The vibe and scenery are absolutely amazing, so we’d definitely recommend it if you’re after water sports and a great day out. 

• Spend time with elephants – For anyone who loves animals, you may not want to miss this half-day elephant sanctuary visit. It takes only three hours of your time and includes lunch, plus hotel pickup and drop-off, so you don’t have to worry about the planning part, and the elephants are super adorable! 

• Get off the beaten track – Maybe you’re feeling a little more adventurous, in which case this beginner-friendly ATV tour is just what you need to get the adrenaline pumping. We loved riding the off-road trails and getting to discover so much more of Pattaya than we would have if we’d just rented a car. Plus, you can choose between morning and evening departures, so it’s easy to fit into your schedule. 

Thanks for reading!

Whether you want to be right in the action in Central Pattaya, relax by the sand in Jomtien, or escape to the beaches of Koh Larn, there’s an area in Pattaya for every kind of trip. After visiting a few times, Central Pattaya is still our personal pick for the convenience! Just remember that the best hotels can fill up quickly, so once you know your dates, we recommend booking a few months ahead to get the place you really want.

While you’re planning the rest of your trip, be sure to check out our other Thailand travel guides too. We’ve traveled all over this incredible country and have tons of itineraries, activity guides, and helpful tips to make planning easier. Or check out some of our most popular blogs below for even more inspiration!

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Where to Stay in Krabi, Thailand: 4 Best Areas & Hotels