People travel from around the world to experience Thailand’s beaches and nightlife. While there are many places around the country that off both amazing clubs and stunning ocean views, not one seaside town quite has the notoriety as Pattaya.
Easily labeled Thailand’s own sin city, Pattaya offers so much more than just the risque clubs and neon light bars. Culture runs deep in this city in the form of the many temples and shrines which adorn each street corner.
Regardless if you are here to party, pray, or just soak up some rays, you will need to find a neighborhood in Pattaya that fits what you want to do!
We made finding the perfect hotel and area to stay in Pattaya a sinch with this one-stop guide! Now you can book with confidence knowing you will be staying in the Pattaya you want to experience!
Quick Tips – Where to Stay in Pattaya
- Where to stay in Pattaya for your first time? Pattaya Beach
- Where to stay in Pattaya close to everything? Pattaya Central
- Where to stay in Pattaya for nightlife? South Pattaya
- Best neighborhood in Pattaya for families? Jomtien Beach
- Where to stay in Pattaya on a budget? Soi Buakhao & Soi LK
- Where to stay in Pattaya for couples? Naklua & Wong Amat Beach
- Best island in Pattaya? Ko Lan
Where to Stay in Pattaya
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations in our places to stay in Pattaya guide.
For a super budget-friendly yet feature-packed beach stay in the beautiful Pattaya Beach neighborhood, look no further than Scandia Beach Hotel. This charming hotel offers a delightful restaurant serving delicious meals, air-conditioned rooms, and an inviting outdoor swimming pool, making it our top pick for the best budget hotel in Pattaya.
This beautiful hotel has a fantastic location on Jomtien Beach and offers an abundance of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. This includes multiple outdoor pools, bubbling hot tubs, and a rejuvenating spa.
Indulge in the epitome of luxury at Centara Grand Mirage! At this lavish hotel, you will find rooms with breathtaking ocean views, an array of dining options, outdoor tennis courts, and a plethora of other luxurious amenities.
7 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Pattaya
Here are your best neighborhoods in Pattaya! With each district of the city different from the next, be sure to look for the one that fits how you like to travel!
Neighborhood #1 – The Pattaya Beach
Best neighbourhood in Pattaya for your first time!
(Photo Credit: https://www.tripadvisor.ie/)
- COOLEST thing to do in the Pattaya Beach – Layout on the beach and soak in some rays!
- BEST place to visit in the Pattaya Beach – Check out one of the Cabaret Shows at Tiffany’s!
When staying at Pattaya Beach, not only will you be in one of the most centrally located parts of the town, but you will have all the best bars, shops, and restaurants just minutes away from your door!
The obvious attraction to Pattaya is, of course, the beach. Pattaya Beach is made up of 4km of pristine golden sand bordering some of the most breathtaking seas in the world. You may not even want to go back to your hotel after spending the day lounging around on the coast!
Other than the turquoise waters of Pattaya, you will also find loads of bars, restaurants, and shops along the street.No matter if you are looking to hit the beach, drink, or shop, Pattaya Beach has something for you!
- Head out to the high seas and take a boat from Bali Hai Pier!
- Get a great view of the city from the Horizon Bar!
- Add a little culture to your trip and visit Wat Chaimongkol
- Shop for brand names at Central Festival!
- Grab a bite to eat and see a show at Ruen Thai Restaurant!
Best Budget Hotel in Pattaya Beach
Scandia Beach Hotel
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly hotel in Pattaya Beach with all the facilities, you would want for an epic beach stay in Thailand, then Scandia Beach Hotel is the place for you. Home to a tasty restaurant, air-conditioned rooms, an outdoor swimming pool along with a terrace and a bar, you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable stay.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Pattaya Beach
LK The Empress
Incorporating European architecture as well as Thai hospitality and cuisine, this 4-star hotel will give you the best of both worlds! Other than the obvious comfort of your room, guests will also be pampered with the hotels very own spa, pool, sauna, garden, fitness center, restaurant, and so much more!
Best Luxury Hotel in Pattaya Beach
Hilton Pattaya
With a restaurant and a rooftop bar just topping the list of all the dining options at the Hilton, you are sure to never go hungry or thirsty when staying at this luxurious hotel. Needing to relax after a day of exploring? The Hilton has you covered with an infinity pool, spa, and fitness center. From great food, cozy rooms, amazing bars, and inviting pools, staying at The Hilton is sure to be the highlight of your stay in Pattaya!
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Neighborhood #2 – Pattaya Central
Where to stay in Pattaya close to everything!
(Photon Credit: https://www.thailandpropertyexperts.com/)
- COOLEST thing to do in Pattaya Central – Feel at peace at Wat Nong Ao
- BEST place to visit in Pattaya Central – Wander the night market, just a few streets away!
Looking to still be in the beating heart of Pattaya but want to keep all the bars and tourist traps at an arm lengths distance? Pattaya Central is located just a couple streets over from the most lively areas in town but has its very own unique quiet atmosphere.
Still being close to all the best bars, restaurants, and beaches but having substantially cheaper hotels is another perk of staying in Pattaya Central. Not only will you be getting a great deal on hotels and hostels, but you will also get a view of the sea unspoiled by massive highrises.
No matter what way you look at it, staying in Pattaya Central is perfect for those wanting to be close to everything!
- Take a dip and grab a drip at Legends Pool and Bar
- Learn how to cook Thai cuisine at the Happy Chef Cooking School!
- Hit the lanes and go bowling at PS Bowling Alley!
- Grab a drink and party at one of the bars nearby!
Best Budget Hotel in Pattaya Central
Selina Place
Selina Place has an incredible location in Pattaya Central, just a 10-minute walk from Pattaya Walking Street, and is surrounded by amazing shops, cafes, and restaurants. It also has deluxe rooms at budget-friendly prices and we can assure you, you’ll find it difficult to find somewhere to stay in such a good location near Pattaya Central at such reasonable prices.
Best Mid-range Hotel in Pattaya Central
At Mind Exclusive
The whole city is your oyster when staying at At Mind Exclusive! For a luxury stay at a cheap price, this 4-star hotel is sure to make your jaw drop with the sheer amount of perks which can be found within its walls! With a sauna, an outdoor pool, a business center, and a rooftop restaurant are just the tip of the iceberg!
Best Luxury Hotel in Pattaya Central
Hard Rock Hotel
Being a tourist attraction in itself, you are sure to have the time of your life while staying at the Hard Rock Hotel! With its very own pool, tennis courts, restaurant, spa, and rock and roll decor, for many staying at the Hard Rock Hotel is on par with spending a week in heaven. What will truly win you over are the daily social events and games taking place at the hotel, at the Hard Rock, the fun will never stop!
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Neighborhood #3 – South Pattaya
Where to stay in Pattaya for nightlife!
(Photo Credit: https://www.traveloka.com/)
- COOLEST thing to do in the South Pattaya – Hit the dance floor and party all night long at Club Insomnia!
- BEST place to visit in South Pattaya – Check out all the characters and people watch on Walking Street!
South Pattaya, a neighborhood usually called Walking Street, is the area which has spread the name of this city across the globe. The nightlife can be called nothing short of legendary. In this town which never sleeps, you will find bars blasting dance music, clubs which run till the break of dawn, and an energy which can be incomparable to anything you have ever experienced.
To put it simply, you should be staying in South Pattaya for one reason and one reason only: to party like you never have partied before. From the red-light district to the beachside, every inch of the Walking Street is teeming with life and offers each night a new adventure to be had!
- Rock out at the Hot Tuna Bar!
- Put up your dukes and watch a Muay Thai demonstration!
- Cool off with a beer at Ice Bar V20
- Take a break and get in touch with your spiritual side at Wat Chai Mongkon
- Down a beer and catch a show at Castro Bar!
Best Budget Hotel in South Pattaya
7 Days Premium Hotel Pattaya
7 Days Premium Hotel Pattaya offers all the facilities you would want from a modern, clean, and budget-friendly stay in South Pattaya. At the hotel, you can expect a 24-hour reception, deluxe double beds, an outdoor terrace, and incredible city views.
Best Mid-range Hotel in South Pattaya
The Classroom Hotel
Class is in session at the Classroom Hotel, the only thing they will be teaching, however, is how to experience Pattaya to the fullest! With its very own bar and nightly entertainment, you are having all of the bars and music of the famous walking street coming right to your door!
Best Luxury Hotel in the South Pattaya
Siam Bayshore Resort
Luxury is the name of the game when you check yourself into Siam Bayshore Resort. While any hotel can slap the name “resort” at the end of their name, Siam Bayshore is one of the few 5-star hotels that live up to the title. With 8 restaurants, 2 pools, a garden, 4 bars, a spa, and a fitness center, you will need to catch your breath after trying to mention all of the luxurious which are included in this hotel!
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Neighborhood #4 – Jomtien Beach
Best neighbourhood in Pattaya for families!
(Photo Credit: https://blog.airpaz.com/)
- COOLEST thing to do in Jomtien Beach – Beat the crowds and lounge about on Jomtien Beach!
- BEST place to visit in Jomtien Beach – Shop for souvenirs at Jomtien’s very own night market!
If you are not looking to indulge yourself with all of the wonders of downtown Pattaya, Jomtien Beach offers travelers the chance to get in touch to the whole reason they came to Thailand in the first place: The Beach! With breathtaking golden sand, a quiet atmosphere, and a very controlled tourist district. Jomtien will have you living the castaway life before you know it!
It is not only the unruly crowds and red-light districts that you will be escaping when heading down to Jomtien Beach, but you will also find some of the cheapest beds in town. Being away from the touristy hubs of central Pattaya means you can have the same amazing beaches for half the price!
- Take in a show at The Venue Cabaret!
- Smell the roses at Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden
- Grab a bite to eat with stunning sea views at The Glass House!
- Roll down the river at Pattaya’s own floating market!
- Feel the zen at Khao Chi Chan Buddha Mountain!
- Explore Thai and Chinese culture at Viharn Sien
Best Budget Hotel on Jomtien Beach
Viewtalay Beachfront
Viewtalay Beachfront will offer you all the comforts and amenities as the other guys but for half the price! Prepare to be pampered with an onsite restaurant, outdoor pool, sun terrace, garden, and a location which will have you minutes away from taking a dip in the ocean!
Best Mid-Range Hotel on Jomtien Beach
The Heritage Pattaya Beach
If you are not only looking for the best nights sleep on Jomtien Beach, but also the best experience then you should go ahead and book yourself into The Heritage Pattaya! With several outdoor pools, hot tubs, a spa, gym, restaurant, and bar, you are going to truly get the star treatment while staying at The Heritage Pattaya Beach!
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Best Luxury Hotel on Jomtien Beach
U Jomtien Pattaya
U Jomtien Pattaya is the definition of luxury. With an incredible infinity pool overlooking the most stunning sea views, and a rooftop bar area serving up a storm of hand-crafted cocktails, all with magnificently designed rooms.
Neighborhood #5 – Soi Buakhao & Soi LK
Where to stay in Pattaya on a budget!
(Photo Credit: http://www.bangkok.com/)
- COOLEST thing to do in Soi Buakhao & Soi LK – Wander through Soi LK Metro, a more concentrated version of Walking Street!
- BEST place to visit in Soi Buakhao & Soi LK – Grab a drink at Scooters Bar!
While still technically in the heart of all the action in Central Pattaya, these two streets have maintained its own charm and atmosphere separate from the surrounding areas. The obvious pool to this neighborhood is that it is an enclave of budget hotels and hostels, located right under the nose of some of the most touristy parts of Pattaya.
Other than getting a good bargain on a room, Soi Buakhao and Soi LK are well known as Pattaya’s expat hangout. This means you will have just as crazy bars and clubs as the walking street, but for half the price. Also, in this more quiet neighborhood, you can expect the locals to be a little bit less pushy when it comes to interacting with tourists.
- Grab a massage at Soi Honey
- Get a taste from south of the border at Taco Taco Tex-mex!
- Shop till you drop at the Central Shopping Arcade
- Drink, dance, and play pool at the Boom Bar!
- Bite into some pastries at the Continental Bakery!
Best Budget Hotel in Soi Buakhao & Soi LK
The Siam Guest House
Soi Buakhao & Soi LK is one of the friendliest places to stay in Pattaya with a super warming team of staff along with a bustling social atmosphere. This is the perfect place to stay if you’re not a fan of hostels but still want budget-friendly prices and a place to socialize.
Best Mid-range Hotel in Soi Buakhao & Soi LK
Travelodge
Putting you in the heart of the back alley enclave Soi Buakhao, but still within minutes of Pattaya beach, Travelodge will have you right on top of all the best places in town! Get ready to take a dip in their pool, dine in one of their restaurants, blow off some steam at their gym, or just lounge about in your spacious room!
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Best Luxury Hotel in Soi Buakhao & Soi LK
LK President
Hope you are packing your bags for a while because the second you see LK President you will never be wanting to leave the comfort of your hotel! Boasting its very own pool, spa, restaurant, bar, garden, and gym, LK President will provide you with everything you need to feel like you are right at home!
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Neighborhood #6 – Naklua & Wong Amat Beach
Best neighbourhood in Pattaya for couples!
(Photo Credit: http://www.bangkok.com/ )
- COOLEST thing to do in Naklua & Wong Amat Beach – Visit the Sanctuary of Truth, one of the most famous temples in all of Thailand!.
- BEST place to visit in Naklua & Wong Amat Beach – Experience Muay Thai at Pattaya Boxing World!
Naklua & Wong Amat Beach is a neighborhood located at the northernmost tip of Pattaya. Leaving all of the go-go bars and seedy clubs behind, Naklua & Wong Amat offer all of the comforts of staying in a touristy beach area without having to elbow your way through all the crowds.
One of the other appeals of Naklua & Wong Amat Beach is that this neighborhood is the perfect place to see a more candid look at the daily lives of the Thai people. With many sleepy hamlets and fishing villages nearby, you will get to see a Thailand which most tourists can only dream of!
- Eat your way through Lanpho Nakluea Market!
- Take a beach day and soak up some rays!
- Check out some rocks and some crocs at the Million Years Stone Park and Crocodile Farm!
- Jam to some live music at Leo Blues Bar!
- Tour one of the most beautiful mansions in the country: Sukhawadee House!
Best Budget Hotel in Naklua & Wong Amat Beach
COSI Pattaya Wong Amat Beach
A funky and colorful hotel located in the heart of the neighborhood, this hotel is a great place to stay on a budget. On-site at the hotel you can expect an outdoor swimming pool, spacious shared lounge, air-conditioned rooms, and a fitness center.
Best Mid-range Hotel in Naklua & Wong Amat Beach
Brighton Grand Hotel
If you are wanting a hotel which will provide you with some of the best views of both the Pattaya skyline and the tranquil waters of the Gulf of Thailand, look no further than Brighton Grand Hotel! Other than the breathtaking view from the hotel, guests will be enjoying an outdoor pool, a spa with massages, an upscale restaurant, and so much more!
Best Luxury Hotel in Naklua & Wong Amat Beach
Centara Grand Mirage
Centara Grand Mirage is literally the definition of a luxury hotel! If you are looking to truly pamper yourself during your vacation to Pattaya, you should definitely treat yourself to a stay at this resort! Not only will you have stunning views of the ocean, but you will also have several pools to dive into, a slew of restaurants, a spa, tennis courts, and so much more!
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Neighborhood #7 – Ko Lan
Best overlooked neighbourhood in Pattaya!
(Photo Credit: https://mythailandtours.com/)
- COOLEST thing to do in Ko Lan – Layout and take a dip at the famous Tawaen Beach!
- BEST place to visit in Ko Lan – Sink your teeth into some fresh seafood at Samae Beach!
Take a few days to forget about all the noise and get back to the whole reason you are in Thailand in the first place: to get away from it all on your very own tropical island! Still providing you all the comforts of the mainland, Ko Lan will have you sitting on a remote beach with not a care in the world.
Of course, after a day exploring some of the most out of reach places on the island, you will want to spend the night in civilization! Ko Lan has you covered with some of the best hotels, restaurants, and bars in Pattaya. While you may not be able to find any hostels on the island, you are still sure to be living the castaway life at one of the budget guesthouses in the area!
- Take to the skies and go parasailing over the sea!
- Skim across the water on your very own banana boat!
- Grab a bite and a drink at the Pause Bar!
- Get the best view of the island from the Windmill Viewpoint!
- Hike and find peace at the Guanyin Temple!
Best Budget Hotel in Ko Lan
Bee Orchid Pool Villa
Just because you are living the island life, doesn’t mean you can’t have a splash of luxury! At Bee Orchid Pool Villa you will have spacious airy rooms for a reasonable price! Your quality stay doesn’t end with the rooms though! At this villa, you will also have access to their inviting pool, the perfect way to cool off before exploring the rest of the island!
Best Mid-range Hotel in Ko Lan
Xanadu Beach Resort
From the second you leave the ferry and step on to the pier of Ko Lan, Xanadu Beach Resort will be there to kick off the vacation of your life! With its very own restaurant serving dishes from around the world a bar mixing any kind of drink you could desire, and luxurious rooms, Xanadu will have you contemplating about moving to Ko Lan for good!
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Best Luxury Hotel in Ko Lan
Lareena Resort
Its not just the tropical vibes and cozy rooms that will make you fall in love with Lareena Resort, but this hotel has everything you need to make sure you have the time of your life while staying on Ko Lan! With hammocks strung throughout the grounds, an onsite restaurant, a bar, and staff that will make you feel right at home, relaxation is the name of the game at Lareena Resort!
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Pattaya?
Note – you can also book accommodation in Pattaya on House Sattahip.
Pattaya is a city of many different faces. While on one side of the town you have a neighborhood which never sleeps with its legendary parties and lively night clubs, you can also find lazy beaches and quiet shores just a few minutes away. This means for travelers visiting Pattaya, no two days will ever be the same!
Still undecided on where to stay while on holiday in Pattaya! No need to worry! Our top neighborhood for Pattaya has to be Pattaya Beach! From here you can experience all the sides of Pattaya!
Slip-on your flip-flops or put on your dancing shoes, your adventure to Pattaya is just a few clicks away!
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