Pattaya for families: a parent's guide
I've brought up my own children in Pattaya. When I arrived, I'd have had real reservations. Today I think it's a great place to raise a family, and this is what I'd want to know if I were starting out.
By Shane Ruddle11 articles · 4 chaptersShort answers
The questions I'm asked most, answered in a sentence or two.
Is Pattaya good for families?
Yes. In 2026 Pattaya is a great place to raise a family. There's far more for children to do than 20 years ago, and many more schools.
Full answerIs Pattaya safe for children?
Very safe, in my experience. In over 20 years I've never felt my kids were at risk from crime. The real danger is the roads, so drive them in a car, or make sure everyone wears a helmet on a motorbike.
Full answerWhat's the best area in Pattaya for families?
East Pattaya. Most of the international schools are there, it's mainly houses and villas so you get space, and much of what kids do is on that side of town.
Full answerHow much do international schools in Pattaya cost?
Budget anything from around ฿30,000 to ฿100,000 a month per child, spread over the year.
Full answerDoesn't the nightlife affect family life?
Not really, because families don't live near it. The nightlife is in the city centre, and most families live in East Pattaya, where it's barely noticeable.
Full answerWhich hospital do families use in Pattaya?
We've always used Bangkok Hospital Pattaya, and go to Bumrungrad in Bangkok only for specialists such as a children's dentist. Get health insurance for the whole family.
Full answerIs it safe, and is it right for us?
My honest answer as a parent, including the downsides.
Is Pattaya Good for Families, and Is It Safe?
I've raised my kids in Pattaya. Here's my honest take on safety, the best area for families, international schools and fees, and the downsides in 2026.
5 min readIs Pattaya Safe? A Local Business Owner's Honest Answer
Is Pattaya safe? A Pattaya business owner raising a family here on crime, scams, nightlife and the real danger: the roads.
2 min readSchools
How I chose my children's school, the main options and the fees.
Weekends and holidays
Where we take the kids.
Things to Do in Pattaya: Where I Take Friends and Family
A Pattaya local's picks of things to do: Walking Street, Nong Nooch, Koh Lan, the best water parks and zoo for families, what to skip, and a hidden gem.
2 min readThe Best Beaches In and Around Pattaya
A Pattaya local's pick of the best beaches nearby: Dongtan Beach in town, the Navy Beach, Koh Lan, and quiet Koh Si Chang.
1 min readThe Best Day Trips From Pattaya
A Pattaya local of 20 years on the best day trips from the city: Bang Saray, Koh Samet, Koh Si Chang, Khao Chamao waterfall and the Buddha mountain, what to skip, what to bring and why a rental car makes it easier.
3 min readAlso worth reading
Homes, budgets and healthcare for a family move.
The Best Area to Live in Pattaya Depends on Who You Are
Central Pattaya, Pratumnak, Jomtien, Wongamat or East Pattaya? Where I'd live at each stage of life, and what ฿20,000 a month rents in 2026.
5 min readBuying a House in Pattaya as a Foreigner: Why I'd Rent Instead
Can a foreigner buy a house in Pattaya? The land rules, 30-year leases, company structures and Thai-spouse purchases explained, and why I'd rent a house instead.
4 min readIs Pattaya Expensive? What It Really Costs to Live Here
Is Pattaya expensive? Real monthly costs for a single person and a family, from rent and eating out to school fees, and what's cheaper or dearer than people expect.
3 min readHealthcare in Pattaya: Hospitals, Costs and Why You Need Insurance
A Pattaya resident of 20 years on the hospitals his family uses, what a visit costs, and why health insurance is essential, even for short stays.
2 min readDriving in Pattaya: What a Car Rental Owner Tells Every Customer
Driving and renting a car in Pattaya: how the roads differ from the West, which licence you need, the real risks, and what to do if you have an accident.
3 min readAsk Shane
Thinking of bringing your family to Pattaya?
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