For most first-time visitors to Pattaya, the entertainment area of interest is the area starting at Walking Street in the south and extending about 3km north to Soi 2 and to the east to Soi Buakhoa. The area occupies a strip extending approximately 400m back from the beach. This is not the whole bar scene in Pattaya, but it is the majority of it as far as visitors are concerned. Most visitors will not even think of venturing further in the early days of exploring Pattaya. Some people don’t even venture beyond Walking Street on their first trip.

What follows is a brief description of the various bar areas found in Pattaya. It is by no means comprehensive. Bars can be found anywhere in the area. Still, these areas contain a high concentration of bars, and many visitors group them based on their character.

If you want to get an idea of how the look of different areas of Pattaya, check out the Pattaya Photos section of the website. Under each section below, I have provided a link to the section containing photos of that particular area on that website.

We’ll start in the north and progress south. Click on the map for a larger image.

Soi 2 and 3 Area

There was a time when this area had many bars. Many are now gone. The notable exception is Atlantic Bar, which has/had the record for the largest bar bill in Pattaya. Most of the remaining bars are on Second Road.

However, will find most of the well-known soapy massage parlors in the area. You will want to visit the area for that reason.

Photos of the soi 2 and 3 area

Soi 6

If Pattaya is unique, then Soi 6 is a unique soi in a unique place. This place is infamous for its short-time bars and debauched behaviour. A trip to Soi 6 is a must on any visit to Pattaya.

The area now contains mostly open bars similar to those in other areas of Pattaya. Some of the more traditional closed air-conditioned bars still remain. The change to open bars has transformed the nature of the soi. Some bars have some go-go elements to them. Added to the mix are some ordinary pubs similar to those at home. Many bars have rooms upstairs for short time engagements which is very convenient.

Beware that visiting this soi for the first time is intimidating for many guys. You are unlikely to experience anything else like it. A good idea is to meet someone to show you around.

Sois 7 and 8

Crossing to the south side of Central Road are Sois 7 and 8.

Like the Soi 2 and 3 area, this area is dominated by open beer bars. There are several go-go bars and some larger bars. The bars are concentrated towards the beach end of both sois. Bars also extend onto both Beach Road. There are also bars on Second Road.

This area has many options to keep most people happy for a long time. Unfortunately, conflicting music from bars is a problem like in other similar areas.

Over the years, the number of bars in Soi 8 has declined somewhat due to development.

The Soi 13s

This area comprises Sois 13, 13/1 and 13/2. Soi 13/1 is commonly known as Soi Yamato, and 13/2 is Soi Post Office.

This area contains a mixture of open-air, closed air-conditioned, and small go-go bars. Some bars are short-time bars with rooms available should the need arise. There are many massage palours in the area.

Pattayaland Sois

Sois 13/3 and 13/4 are known as Pattayaland 1 and 2. This area is dominated by go-go bars with small open-air beers.

This area caters for gay visitors. For obvious reasons, the small L-shaped soi between Pattayaland 2 and Second Road is known as Boyz Town.

Walking Street

If Pattaya has a heart, then Walking Street is it. For many people, this area is Pattaya. You will see all sorts of people in this area, from mum and dad with the two kids to hard-core mongers. They all come for one reason, and that is the sex trade. For the family visitor, it is to look at it from the outside and for the single guy, the reasons are apparent. You may, at times, feel like you are a zoo exhibit.

The main entertainment area on Walking Street extends for about 500m. You will find many go-go’s, open-air bars, pubs and discos. Some bars have live music, while others, like those in the Soi 7 and 8 area. Prices are generally a bit higher here to compensate for higher rents.

Off Walking Street, there are many sois to explore. Some of Pattaya best go-go bars are located on these sois, so make sure you explore. The bars make it easy for you as you will find people promoting the establishments at the corner of their soi and Walking Street.

No matter what your preferences Walking Street is a must-do on a first trip. However, don’t get stuck there as it may be the heart of Pattaya, but there is more soul elsewhere.

Photos of the Walking Street area.

Soi Buakhao and Soi Diana Inn

A little bit out of the way is the area along Soi Diana Inn and onto Soi Baukhao. The area contains many open-air bars and go-go bars. The L-shaped soi between these two sois (Soi LK Metro) shouldn’t be missed.

The area is laid back and has somewhat of a different feel to it. A few good hotels in the area make it a great place to stay if you want to be a little off the beaten track. This area is being discovered more and more by people.

Soi LK Metro used to be a little sleepy. However, now it is full of go-go bars forming a mini-Walking Street. It is well worth the trip to check it out. I wouldn’t recommend booking accommodation in the soi due to the noise.

Many bars and beer bar complexes exist along the length of Soi Buakhao. One such complex is Tree Town. Despite its odd name, there are many bars in the area.

Photos of the Soi Buakhao and Soi Diana Inn area.

Other Areas

There are areas outside of central Pattaya worth exploring at some stage. These include Naklua to the north, East Pattaya and Jomtien. There is more than enough for a first visit to keep you occupied in Central Pattaya. It is best to leave these areas for later trips. There will be other trips!!