Where to Stay in Pattaya: The Best Areas for Your Holiday

I've written about the best area to live in Pattaya. This is about where to stay on holiday, and it depends on why you're coming.

First visit or family holiday: Naklua and Wongamat

This is where I'd send most first-timers. There are some fantastic hotels in Naklua, such as Grande Centre Point Space, the Centara Grand Mirage and the Pullman, and the beach at Wongamat is much cleaner and nicer than Pattaya Beach.

For nightlife: central Pattaya

If you're coming for the nightlife, stay in central Pattaya. It's easier to get around, and the atmosphere is better if that's what you're here for. For ideas, read a night out in Pattaya and Walking Street Pattaya.

Second choice: Jomtien

For a one- or two-week holiday with the family, or if you want to experience Thailand rather than the nightlife, Jomtien is my second choice after Naklua and Wongamat.

Hotel or condo?

If you're staying a month or longer, renting a condo is a good option. By law, condos can't be let for less than a month, though unfortunately it does still happen.

A lot of condos, especially the newer ones, have facilities as good as many hotels, some arguably better. They won't be kept quite as spotless, because a hotel has staff on hand all day. But you normally get a much bigger room, and a kitchenette, so you can shop at Makro or Big C and have a few nights in. For more, read renting a condo in Pattaya.

How to book

Book early. In high season prices go up a lot, and some of the best hotels sell out completely, so the earlier you book, the better the price and the more choice you have.

I always book through Booking.com or Agoda. I like how easy and transparent they are, and the reviews. Read the reviews and comments, and make sure everything you expect is there.

For more, read the best time to visit Pattaya, the best beaches around Pattaya and things to do in Pattaya.