Attractions in Pattaya

Ko Lan

Ko Lan situated to the west of Pattaya Strait, about 7.7 kilometers from the shore, covering an area of about 4 square kilometers. There are beautiful beaches, clear water, and an abundance of coral, Visitors can view the coral either from a glass-bottom boat or by diving down directly. A well-known beach is at Ta Waen Beach in the northern part of the island, a 750 meters stretch of white sand with many stalls and shops. Sightseeing boats mostly dock in this area. There are also Laem Thian Beach and Samae Beach on the south-western side, each beach spanning a length of 700 and 100 meters respectively.

Both are regarded as beautiful and interesting spots, especially Laem Thian Beach which has remained exceptionally clean and tranquil. There are now a few stores servicing visitors. TaPan Beach on the western part of the island is 500 meters in length with make-shift lodging available. On Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, sightseeing boats usually dock along this beach all the way to Laem Thian where there is coral. On the southern part is Nuan Beach 450 meters in length. On this beach is a hotel which accommodates a large number of tourists. This is another good place for viewing coral.

Apart from these beaches, there are also Laem Hua Khon Beach on the back and front sides, Laem Lamrae, etc., which are also interesting tourist spots. Popular activities on Ko Lan include swimming, coral viewing, Para-sailing, water-skiing, water scooter riding, etc.

Ko Krok

a small island covering an area of 0.05 square kilometers, approximately 8 kilometers from the shore. The island comprises mostly rocks. Only one sandy-beach on the east of the island is Ko Krok beach which is only 100 meters in lenght. This is an ideal place tor coral viewing.

Ko Sak

some 10 kilometers west of Pattaya Strait or 600 meters away from Ko Lan. Ko Sak is another small island shaped like a horse shoe with an area of 0.05 square kilometers. It has two beaches, one on the northern cover 250 meters in length, an area in which boats usually stop for tourists to swim and another one on the southern part of the island opposite the first island, with a pathway linking the two beaches, a small beach 80 meters in length. A coral reef is found at the area in front of the beach. Skin-diving is also possible in this vicinity.

Ko Phai Group of Islands

Ko Phai are comprised of Ko Phai, Ko Manwichai, Ko Luam, Ko Klung Badan, and etc., Ko Phai being the largest. The islands are presently under the supervision of the Royal Navy. The Ko Phai group of islands are situated at a distance about 13 kilometers from Pattaya and takes 2 hours to reach by boat. There is a light house on top of a hill at Ko Phai. Visitors can enjoy relaxing-moments, swimming, fishing and diving down to view the coral.

Tourists interested in visiting all the island mentioned here can arrange to hire boats from the promenade or pier at South Pattaya. Large boats can carry between 20-80 passengers, speed boats carry 10-15 passengers. Rental fees cost between 1,000-5,000 Baht, depending on the spot one intends to visit as well as the size and type of boat.

Pattaya Beach

Some 4 kilometers long, this beach faces Pattaya Bay, the major venue from where boats visit Pattaya's offshore islands. The beach curves from the north to south and is largely paralleled by a tree-lined promenade and beach road which is lined, in the northern and central parts, by hotels and restaurants.

The northern section of the beach is largely tranquil, while the central and southern parts become increasingly lively, thanks to a juxtaposition of shops, department stores, boutiques. beauty salons, supermarkets, bars, discotheques, restaurants and nightclubs. The central area of the beach is a major shopping area, while the southern end is one of Pattaya's major nightlife areas


Jomtien Beach

This 6-kilometres long, largely straight beach, some 4 kilometers south of Pattaya, is the most notable of several beaches south of the resort. The beach is popular with windsurfers and water sports enthusiasts, largely because the area enjoys brisk and fresh breezes sweeping inland from the Thai Gulf, and because the seas are less congested with boats than is Pattaya Bay. Jomtien is also a major residential area with beachside hotels, bungalow complexes, condominiums and restaurants.

Wong Phrachan Beach is on the northern side of Pattaya Bay. The 1 kilometer beach shares the same entrance as the Central Wong Amat Hotel. A quiet spot, the beach is ideal for swimming and relaxation.

Khao Pattaya (Khao Phra Bat)

A small hill with an asphalt road leading to the top. From its peak, one has a panoramic view of Pattaya City and Pattaya Bay. Currently, Khao Pattaya has been developed and is now the site of the Naval Sor Tor Ror radio station. A sacred Buddha image is also enshrined on the hilltop.

Suan Chaloemphrakiat (Fitness Park) is at foot of Pattaya hill on Phratani'uk Road. This small park, covering a large area, was dedicated to commemorate His Majesty the King's sixtieth birthday on December 5, 1988. The gardens of the park boast a wide variety of flowering plants. There are also multipurpose grounds and winding trails for walking or jogging and standard exercise facilities. On any given day, a large number of people will relax, jog, exercise or simple enjoy the scenery of Pattaya in this park.

Ripley's Believe It Or Not MuseumRipley's Believe It Or Not Museum

Situated on the third floor of the Royal Garden Plaza, Beach Road. A display of Mr. Ripley's collection of curious objects from every comer of the world. Some of them being the actual item, others are replicas. These extraordinary objects are divided into over 250 categories, such as optical illusions, peculiar lifestyle of unusual people and devices of human torture from ancient time, etc.
Open daily from 10a.rn.-12 midnight. Further inquiries may be made by calling (038) 710294-8.

Bamrung Sailing and Paramotor Centre

Bamrung Sailing and Paramotor Centrelocated at Huai Sak Nok Reservoir at Kilometer 150 on Sukhumvit Highway, turn left into the lane next to the green Way Golf Driving Range, for about 4 kilometers, Look for a sign indicating the entrance. Different types of aquatic sports are available and instructions are also offered for windsurfing, sailing, paramotors, para-gliders by course or by the hour. Certificates are conferred upon completion of the course by the Royal Yacht Association (RYC), a renowned British Institution. Restaurant facilities are offered and boats such as canoes, catamarans and kayaks are available for rent The atmosphere of the reservoir is relaxing and cool. Between the months of November and February thousands of teals, swallows, and herons migrate to this area.

Those interested in these aquatic sports should call Khun Burnmng Ruamsap at 01-354-4986 or 946-7859, for additional information,

Amphoe Sattahip

Wat Yan Sangwararam is a Royal Temple, 15 kilometers south of Pattaya City, turning left from Sukhumvit Highway at kilometer 160. The temple was dedicated to Somdej Phra Yanasangworn, the present Supreme Patriarch in 1976 and was later graciously admitted under the patronage of His Majesty the King. The temple ground comprises a mondop (religious building with rectangular roof) which enshrine a replica of the Buddha's footprints, a large Pagoda where the relics of the Lord Buddha and those of the Lord Buddha's disciple are enshrined. There are international pavilions representing several countries that dot the grounds, such Switzerland. There is also the Vihan Sian, a grand and exquisite showcase of Chinese architecture. Nongnooch Tropical Garden is a tourist attraction amidst natural surroundings. Nongnooch Village orchids and gardens with flowering plants, mangoes, orchids, and other types of flora. Thai style teak wood houses are available for rent. There is also a zoo and Thai Cultural Center showcasing the art of Thai performing art, martial arts, folk sports and performances by elephants. Performances are held triple daily at 10.15 a.m., 3 p.m. and 3.5 kilometers before reaching the destination. Additional information may be obtained from the office in Pattaya City on Central Pattaya Road, Tel: (038) 429321, 422958 or Bangkok Office, Tel: 252-1768 Bang Saray is a fishing village about 16 kilometers away from Pattaya City, turning left off Sukhumvit Highway at kilometer 165 for about 2 kilometers. A deep-water bay lies on the southern part of Bang Saray, and ideal place for fishing especially for Pakarang fish. Towards the north, is a park with a beautiful beach ideal for swimming. Boats may be rented for fishing or diving for coral viewing. Bang Saray offers a number of excellent restaurants. It has become a popular place for relaxation and for renting boats for excursions around the vicinity. Chong Samaesan Village is a tiny fishing village along the Sattahip-Tha Rua Phanit Sattahip route, turning left just before one reaches the Sattahip commercial pier. There is a small beach with crystal clear waters. Accommodation is available. Chong Samaesan is another ideal place for diving and fishing. Several islands dot the area, such as Ko Samaesan, Ko Raet, Ko Chuang, and Ko Chan which all come under the supervision of the Royal Thai Navy. Daytime sightseeing is permitted but overnight lodging is prohibited.

Amphoe Muang Chon Buri

Ang Sila is a fishing village about 5 kilometers away from Chonburi. Ang Sila was formerly one of the oldest seaside resorts. The village is famous for its cottage industry, producing stone mortars and animal sculptures, like elephants, horses and tigers. Ang Sila also boasts a number of seafood restaurants. On the beach, one can find villagers shelling fresh oysters, A wide array of local handicraft are also available for sale to tourists. Bang Saen Beach is a famous beach that has enjoyed lasting popularity. Approximately 13 kilometers from the city ofChon Buri, it branches off to the right-hand side from Sukhumvit Highway, at kilometers 104, for a distance of 3 kilometers. Stretching along the beachfront, is a 2.5 kilometer Road. Along the beach, one finds vendors offering drinks and seafood snacks such as squid, mussels and spicy steamed-fish-cakes for sale. One can rent deck chairs and rubber rings for swimming. Fresh water bathing facilities are also available. The many restaurants that line the beach have recently been improved to become more neat and orderly. Bang Saen is ideal for visitors with limited time who wish to relax with their family and friends. It also offers several hotels and bungalows for overnight lodging. Khao Sam Muk is a small hill in between Ang Sila village and Bang Saen Beach, along the beachside road from Ang Sila that winds up Sam Muk Hill. At the foot of the hill, Chao Mae Khao Sam Muk) who is widely venerated by the public. The cliff overlooking the sea has become a tourist spot where legend has it that a couple tragically ended their lives together after having vowed their eternal love for each other. The Sam Muk Hill area is inhabited by a larger number of wild monkeys and beautiful cactuses garden, The Institute of Marine Science situated on the campus of Burapha University. The institute evolved from the Aquarium and Museum of Salt Water Animals through the financial assistance received from the Government of Japan. This institute aims to be the center of studies on Marine Science, consisting of three parts: the Marine Science Museum, Marine Animal Rearing Center and Marine Ocean Research Laboratory. The public will be admitted on the following days and times; Weekdays 8.30 a.m.-4 p.m. Government holidays 8.30 a.m.-5 p.m. (Closed on Mondays). Call (038)391671-3 for more information. Nong Mon Market a market famous for Chonburi's local handicraft and souvenirs about 1 kilometer from the junction leading to Bang Saen. Among its well-known buys are different types of dried seafood, Khao Lam or gluttonous rice baked in bamboo, hor-mok (spicy steamed fish cakes), hoi-jor (deep fried shrimp cakes), sweetened-banana and taro chips, and sweetened-fruit preserves.

Amphoe Phanat Nikhom

Basketware Village situated at Mu 1-11, Tambon Railakthong but mostly a Mu 10 in the vicinity of Wat Ko Kaeo Khiong Luang, about 4 kilometers from the district along the Phanat Nikhum-Chachoengsao Road and continuing right for a distance of another 4 kilometers. Bamboo is woven into such objects as ladies handbags, baskets, betel nut sets, and etc. in various colors and design. They can be purchased at stalls situated behind the Municipal Daily Market (Talat Kao).

Amphoe Si Racha

Ko Loi Si Racha is on Thesaban Road, north of Si Racha Market. Ko Loi is a tiny island close to Si Racha Beach, linked to the land by a bridge. On the island is a public park and a Sea Turtle Garden, on lush grounds covering an area of around 1 acre. On the southern side is a small hill with a temple on it. The island is a superb place for relaxation where one can enjoy the natural atmosphere and breathe the fresh sea air while appreciating the scenic view. There is also a pier from which one can board a boat to Ko Sichang as well. Khao Khieo Open Zoo is located at Tambon Bang Phra. The zoo can be reached by either one of two ways: first from Sukhumvit, one can follow the Bang Phra Reservoir route passing the Bang Phra Golf Course for another 19 kilometers or, second, one may follow the new State Highway 36 (Chon Buri - Pattaya - Rayong) following direction signs. The open zoo, operated by the Dusit Zoo Authority (Khao Din Wana) in Bangkok, has a large number of animals such as deer, bulls, monkeys, gibbons, hippopotami, bears, kangaroos, elephants and peacocks, and etc. Visitors can stroll around the grounds and observe the animals closely. There is also a large aviary with hundreds of varieties of birds. The zoo is open daily from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Call (038) 298187-8 for more information. Si Racha Tiger Zoo and Resort situated at 336 Mu 6, Tambon Surasak, Si Racha District. It is accessible either from Sukhumvit Highway, turning at Si Racha District and following the route passing Assurnplion Si Racha School for around 7.5 kilometers or one can take State Highway 36 at Kilometer 21, turn left and continue for another 1.5 kilometers. It boasts Thailand's largest number of Bengal tigers, bred successfully by the farm itself. There is also large number of other animals such as crocodiles, ostriches, single hump camels, kangaroos and an aviary of exotic birds. The farm is open daily from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Call (038) 296556-8 for additional information. Chantathen Waterfall One follows the-same route leading to Khao Khieo Open Zoo diverging left at the entrance to Wat Khao Mai Daeng. A sign indicates the way to the waterfall where on drives down an asphalt road for another 7 kilometers. A car park masks the entrance and there is a 2 kilometers pathway leading to the waterfall lined on both sides by refreshing greenery. Chantathen Waterfall has 5 levels in height with a distance totaling 1 kilometer. There are two pathways leading up and down: the first is on that follows along the waterfall itself or along the various levels of rocks, a route that is very popular with visitors who wish to view the waterfall very closely. The best time to visit is right after the end of the rainy season whereas in the dry season water may be less abundant hut visitors are able to track up and down the rock^. Chan Ta Then Waterfall is under the supervision of Kho Khieo - Khao Chomplui Wildlife Conservation District District and Khao Khieo Nature and Wildlife Study Station. The station offers camping activities for youth interested in learning more about nature and wildlife. Persons interested in the Youth Camp for Nature Conservation my write to the Station Chief, P.O. Box 10, Tambon Bang Phra, Amphoe Si Racha, Chonburi 20210 Ko Sichang is a large island in the middle of the sea about 12 kilometers from the Si Racha shore. What attract visitors to the island are its beautiful natural .surroundings, tranquil atmosphere and fresh air that have long made the island popular. Circling the island is a narrow road, only a little over 1 meter in width, wide enough only for a motorized tricycle. Chinese pavilion is an ancient pavilion with dragon and peacock motifs. The pavilion was used as a temporary place of lodging when his Majesty King Rama the fifth visited the island. Chakkraphong Cave is close to the Chinese Pavilion. A Buddha image is enshrined inside this cave. There is also a duct from which one can climb up to the hilltop to view the scenery of the island. Chong Khao Khat is on the southwestern side of the island. Villagers call this area the "rear end" of the island. A white sandy beach is found at Chong Khao Khat. Chao Pho Khao Yai Cave is on a hill close to Thewawong pier. The large structure is Chinese in design. Inside the cave are monuments devoted to Chinese deities such as Heng Jia, the Goddess Kuan Im's Shrine and the Sakajayana Temple. The Old Palace Grounds are in a verdant area by the sea. Built during the reign of King Rama the fifth, the palace was once a hospice of royal princes and princesses to recuperate after their illnesses. Several ponds, which are still in good condition, are found in the palace garden. These ponds were bestowed with beautiful names, such as Atsadang and Phirphlen ponds. There are also two temples built at the behest of King Rama the Fifth: Wat Atsadang Nimit with a European style ordinal 'on hall and pagoda, situated on the topmost part of the hill and Wat Chuthathip Rajathammasupha situated in the Bhanuransi Village area in the northern part of the island. The tourist attractions on Ko Sichang are quite distant from each other. It is more convenient to rent a motorized tricycle from the pier to visit those places. It takes a little over an hour to cover the entire island. The rental should coast around 250 Baht or whatever price you can negotiate. Travelling to Ko Sichang can be done by a ferry boat which operates daily from Si Racha. Crossing is made every two hours starting from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Ferries leave from piers at Ko Loi Si Racha or at Choem Chomphon pier (Tha Charin) with in town of Si Racha, fares cost 20 Baht each. Bangsaen Beach is a famous beach that has enjoyed lasting popularity. Approximately 13 kilometers from the city of Chon Buri, it branches off to the right-hand side from Sukhumvit Highway, at kilometers 104, for a distance of 3 kilometers. Stretching along the beachfront, is a 2.5 kilometer Road. Along the beach, one finds vendors offering drinks and seafood snacks such as squid, mussels and spicy steamed-fish-cakes for sale. One can rent deck chairs and rubber rings for swimming. Fresh water bathing facilities are also available. The many restaurants that line the beach have recently been improved to become more neat and orderly. Bang Saen is ideal for visitors with limited time who wish to relax with their family and friends. It also offers several hotels and bungalows for overnight lodging. Published At : http://pattaya.sawadee.com/