Where to Stay in Pattaya

During a visit to Pattaya, you can stay in various areas, which will be dictated by your needs and expectations. This page summarizes some areas and provides recommendations on where to stay.

While you are reading this, think about what you think you want to do while in Pattaya. It is best to select a hotel in an area where you will spend most of your time. Many may think of Walking Street, but this area is expensive and busy. Is this really what you are after?

My personal recommendation is to select somewhere central. Obviously, this would be the Central Pattaya section below. However, also consider the Soi Buakhao/Soi LK Metro area. It is a bit further from Walking Street, but the entertainment options are more varied, and there are many go-go bars in Soi LK Metro.

Areas in Pattaya

Central Pattaya

Central Pattaya is the heart of the action. It is known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping centres, and diverse dining options. This area is perfect for those who want to be amid the city’s energy but don’t mind the hustle and bustle.

Walking Street and the Soi Buakhao and Soi LK Metro areas are easy to access from this area. It should be your first option for your first visit to Pattaya.

Advantages:

Close to major attractions and entertainment venues
Wide variety of restaurants and street food
Excellent shopping options, including Central Festival Pattaya Beach Mall
Easy access to transportation

Disadvantages:

Can be noisy, especially at night
More crowded than other areas
Not ideal for those seeking a quiet, relaxing vacation

Recommended stays:

Budget: Travelodge Pattaya (⭐⭐⭐)
Mid-range: Hilton Pattaya (⭐⭐⭐⭐)
Luxury: The Sanctuary Resort Pattaya (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Soi Buakhao / Soi LK Metro

The Soi Buakhao/Soi LK Metro area has become popular for both nightlife and accommodation. It is known for its vibrant nightlife, diverse dining options, and more affordable accommodation.

I first stayed in this area in 2007. It was a quiet place then, but it has certainly changed!

This is a great area in which to stay on a first (and subsequent) trip to Pattaya.

Advantages:

More affordable accommodation and dining options compared to beachfront areas
Lively atmosphere with numerous bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues
Popular among expats, creating a unique multicultural vibe
Close to local markets and street food options

Disadvantages:

Further from the beach (about 15-20 minutes walk)
Can be noisy, especially at night (particularly on Soi LK Metro)
Some areas might feel less polished compared to more touristy parts of Pattaya

Recommended stays:

Budget: Adelphi Pattaya (⭐⭐⭐)
Mid-range: Areca Lodge (⭐⭐⭐⭐)
Upscale: LK Metropole (⭐⭐⭐⭐)

North Pattaya

North Pattaya offers a more relaxed atmosphere than the central areas while still providing easy access to the city’s attractions. It’s a good choice for those who prefer a bit more tranquility.

Advantages:

Quieter than Central Pattaya
Beautiful beaches with water sports activities
Family-friendly atmosphere (to escape the mayhem)
Home to the Sanctuary of Truth, which is a major cultural attraction

Disadvantages:

Slightly farther from the main nightlife areas
Fewer budget accommodation options

Recommended stays:

Budget: Mercure Pattaya Ocean Resort (⭐⭐⭐)
Mid-range: Amari Pattaya (⭐⭐⭐⭐)
Luxury: Dusit Thani Pattaya (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

South Pattaya

South Pattaya strikes a balance between the lively atmosphere of Central Pattaya and the more laid-back vibe of other areas. It’s known for its popular Walking Street and is a favourite among party-goers and nightlife enthusiasts.

Advantages:

Home to the famous Walking Street
Vibrant nightlife and entertainment options
Diverse range of accommodations
Close to Bali Hai Pier for island trips

Disadvantages:

Can be very busy and noisy, especially at night
Not ideal for those seeking peace and quiet

Recommended stays:

Budget: FX Hotel Pattaya (⭐⭐⭐)
Mid-range: Siam@Siam Design Hotel Pattaya (⭐⭐⭐⭐)
Luxury: Royal Cliff Beach Hotel (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Jomtien Beach

Jomtien Beach is located just south of Pattaya City It offers a more relaxed environment. It’s known for its long stretch of beautiful beach and water sports activities.

Keep in mind that if you stay in this area you will need to travel to Central Pattaya. Central Pattaya can be accessed using the baht bus system.

Advantages:

Quieter and more laid-back than Pattaya Beach
Popular for windsurfing and other water sports
Wide range of accommodation options
Less crowded beaches

Disadvantages:

Further from Pattaya’s main attractions and nightlife
Fewer shopping options compared to central areas

Recommended stays:

Budget: Jomtien Palm Beach Hotel & Resort (⭐⭐⭐)
Mid-range: Veranda Resort Pattaya (⭐⭐⭐⭐)
Luxury: InterContinental Pattaya Resort (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Naklua and Wong Amat Beach

Naklua and Wong Amat Beach, located north of Pattaya, are known for their upscale resorts and peaceful atmosphere. These areas are perfect for those seeking a luxurious and tranquil getaway.

Advantages:

Quiet and relaxed atmosphere
Beautiful, less crowded beaches
Upscale dining options
Ideal for couples and luxury seekers

Disadvantages:

Limited budget accommodation options
Further from Pattaya’s main attractions and nightlife
Fewer public transportation options

Recommended stays:

Mid-range: Long Beach Garden Hotel & Spa (⭐⭐⭐⭐)
Luxury: The Riviera Wongamat Beach (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)
Ultra-luxury: Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Accommodation Options by Budget

In case budget is your primary consideration here are some recommendation categorised.

Budget-friendly Options

Pattaya offers numerous affordable accommodation options for budget-conscious travellers. These range from hostels and guesthouses to budget hotels.

Sawasdee Sea View (⭐⭐⭐) – Central Pattaya

- Pros: Modern design, rooftop pool, central location
- Cons: Smaller rooms, some noise from nearby bars

Green Hotel Pattaya (⭐⭐⭐) – North Pattaya

- Pros: Modern design, rooftop pool, central location
- Cons: Smaller rooms, some noise from nearby bars

Sutus Court 1 (⭐⭐⭐) – Soi Buakhao

- Pros: Modern design, rooftop pool, central location
- Cons: Smaller rooms, some noise from nearby bars

Eastiny Place Hotel (⭐⭐⭐) – Central Pattaya

- Pros: Modern design, rooftop pool, central location
- Cons: Smaller rooms, some noise from nearby bars

Mid-range Accommodation

For those with a bit more to spend, Pattaya offers excellent mid-range options that balance comfort and value.

Page 10 Hotel (⭐⭐⭐⭐) – Central Pattaya
- Pros: Modern design, rooftop pool, central location
- Cons: Smaller rooms, some noise from nearby bars
Sea Me Spring Hotel (⭐⭐⭐⭐) – Naklua
- Pros: Beachfront location, spacious rooms, quiet area
- Cons: Farther from city center, limited dining options nearby
Zing Resort & Spa (⭐⭐⭐⭐) – Jomtien Beach
- Pros: Large pool, spa facilities, close to the beach
- Cons: Dated decor in some rooms, limited dining options on-site
Areca Lodge (⭐⭐⭐⭐) – Soi Buakhao
- Pros: Excellent location, two swimming pools, spacious rooms, good value for money
- Cons: Some rooms may need updating, can be busy during peak seasons
LK Metropole (⭐⭐⭐⭐) – Soi Buakhao / LK Metro
- Pros: Central location, large rooms, multiple swimming pools, on-site restaurant and bar
- Some rooms may need updating, can be noisy due to its central location

Luxury Stays

Pattaya boasts several world-class luxury resorts for those seeking the ultimate in comfort and amenities.

The Pattaya Modus Beachfront Resort (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐) – North Pattaya
- Pros: Beachfront location, multiple pools, excellent dining options
- Cons: Expensive, can be crowded during peak seasons
Royal Wing Suites & Spa (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐) – South Pattaya
- Pros: All-suite accommodation, private beach, top-notch service
- Cons: High prices, some areas of the resort need updating
InterContinental Pattaya Resort (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐) – South Pattaya
- Pros: Stunning ocean views, luxurious spa, excellent restaurants
- Cons: Steep hill to climb, not within walking distance to main attractions

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the best area to stay in Pattaya for first-time visitors? A.Central Pattaya (including is the Soi Buakhao / Soi LK Metro area) often recommended for first-time visitors as it provides easy access to major attractions, beaches, and nightlife. However, consider Jomtien Beach or North Pattaya if you prefer a quieter atmosphere. For those looking for a more local experience with affordable options, the Soi Buakhao area could be a good choice.
Q: What’s the average cost of a hotel room in Pattaya? A: Prices vary widely depending on the season and hotel category. Budget rooms can start from as low as 500 THB per night, mid-range rooms from 1,500 THB, and luxury accommodations from 5,000 THB and up.
Q: Are there any all-inclusive resorts in Pattaya? A: While all-inclusive resorts are not as common in Pattaya as in some other destinations, some hotels do offer all-inclusive packages. The Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya and Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort are two examples that occasionally offer such deals.
Q: Is it safe to book budget accommodations in Pattaya? A: Generally, yes. However, always read recent reviews and check the hotel’s location before booking. Stick to reputable booking sites and be aware of your surroundings, especially in budget areas. Areas like Soi Buakhao offer many budget options but can be lively at night, so consider your preferences for atmosphere and location.
Q: What amenities should I expect in Pattaya hotels? A: Most hotels in Pattaya offer air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a private bathroom. Mid-range and luxury hotels typically include a pool, restaurant, and sometimes a fitness center or spa. Always check the hotel’s amenities list before booking.
Q: How far in advance should I book my accommodation in Pattaya? A: It’s advisable to book at least a month in advance, especially during peak season (November to April). Consider booking 2-3 months ahead for the best deals and availability.
Q: Are there any eco-friendly or sustainable accommodation options in Pattaya? A: While Pattaya is not particularly known for eco-friendly accommodations, some hotels are making efforts towards sustainability. The Sunset Park Resort & Spa and some larger chain hotels have implemented green initiatives.
Q: Can I find long-term accommodation in Pattaya? A: Yes, Pattaya offers many options for long-term stays, including serviced apartments and monthly hotel rates. Areas like Jomtien and Naklua are popular for extended stays.
Q: Is it better to stay near Walking Street or away from it? A: This depends on your preferences. If you’re interested in nightlife and don’t mind noise, staying near Walking Street can be convenient. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, staying in North Pattaya, Jomtien, or Naklua is better. Consider areas like Soi Buakhao/Soi LK Metro to balance nightlife and more affordable options.
Q: What’s the Soi Buakhao/Soi LK Metro area like, and is it a good place to stay? A: Soi Buakhao is a lively area in Central Pattaya known for its vibrant nightlife, diverse dining options, and more affordable accommodations. It’s popular among ex-pats and budget-conscious travellers. While it offers great value and a unique atmosphere, it’s further from the beach and can be noisy. It’s a good choice if you want to experience local life and don’t mind being away from the beachfront.