A travel guide to Pattaya

Pattaya is a fascinating place that's also perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Thanks to targeted efforts by the city administration over the last decade, Pattaya has transformed into a family-friendly destination, increasingly moving away from the coast and becoming more and more suitable for families with children. Whether as part of a package holiday or exploring independently by taxi, discover these wonderful, family-friendly highlights of Pattaya with your partner and children.

Arrival

By plane: The closest airport to Phang Nga province is Phuket International Airport. Local airlines offer daily flights between Bangkok and Phuket. From the airport, you can rent a car or book a private transfer to your beach destination in Phang Nga. Natai Beach is just a 30-minute drive north of the airport, while the northernmost beach, Bang Sak, is about a 90-minute drive away.

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Things to do in Pattaya

Thailand certainly doesn't lack opportunities to experience animals. The Khao Kheow Open Zoo (Google Maps), spanning over 800 hectares, is an ethically sound place where visitors can walk or drive through separate enclosures that simulate the natural habitats of the respective animals.

As you move from one enclosure to the next, you'll always be in close proximity to the animals. Some animals can be fed; food is available at the entrance. Highlights include a night safari, an enclosure with Asian elephants including a swimming demonstration, and Asia's second-largest aviary.

The Open Zoo is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) and was the first zoo in Thailand to receive this honor. Its grounds cover 1,400 hectares dedicated to research for the conservation of endangered Southeast Asian animal species.

This incredible botanical garden covers an area of ​​2.4 square kilometers. At its heart lies a meticulously maintained French-style garden that looks as if it were transplanted directly from Versailles.

Besides its magnificent display of plants, Nong Nooch Tropical Garden (Google Maps) also hosts serious botanical research. The orchid nursery alone boasts over 600 native species, and the in-house botanists are pioneering the cultivation of cycads, cacti, and lotus flowers.

Within the gardens are themed areas such as Dinosaur Valley and the Animal Kingdom – both of which are sure to delight your little ones. The themed gardens, temple replicas, animal enclosures, and show auditoriums make Nong Nooch more than just a botanical garden; it's an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

The best time to visit us is early in the morning to avoid the midday heat. We are about an hour's drive from Pattaya. Alternatively, instead of a day trip, you can stay overnight or for a few days, as there are restaurants and villas on site.

Visiting the Silver Lake winery (Google Maps), one could easily swear one was in a Mediterranean villa. The estate demonstrates the Thai talent for absorbing foreign influences and giving them a local touch – in this case, with its delicious Shiraz, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay wines.

Silver Lake, like other Thai wineries, is achieving what was previously considered impossible: producing wine from grapes grown in the "New Latitudes"—closer to the equator than in the traditional wine-growing regions between the 30th and 50th parallels. The winery itself produces over 10,000 bottles annually.

While the wine tasting is reserved for adults, guests of all ages can participate in a guided tour that illuminates the local winemaking process from start to finish. The tour concludes in the winery's restaurant, where each guest can enjoy a complimentary glass of wine for tasting.

Silver Lake's Italian-style architecture blends perfectly with the breathtaking landscape surrounding the winery: the Khao Chi Chan reservoir shimmers in the distance as you drive an electric golf cart across the gently rolling, 480-hectare estate and enjoy the view.

The only question at Ramayana Water Park is how brave you feel. With around 50 attractions and rides of varying difficulty levels, Ramayana Water Park (ramayanawaterpark.com) offers something suitable for every member of the family.

Ramayana Water Park is considered the largest water park in Thailand, and you'll agree once you see what awaits you: The park covers 184 square kilometers in the Silver Lake area south of Pattaya. Clean well water and a state-of-the-art filtration system guarantee carefree swimming fun amidst the beautiful natural scenery of Silver Lake.

The four-lane Mat Racer, the high-speed AquaLoop and the Dueling Master Blasters are aimed at more daring guests, while the calmer Lazy River ride is suitable for visitors seeking a more relaxing dip in the water.

If you get hungry, simply visit one of the three restaurants and snack bars on site. Other facilities include lockers and ample changing rooms.

The proud Thai cultural traditions – which so often have to take a back seat to Pattaya's main attractions – are the focus at the Thai Thani Arts & Culture Village.

The buildings and pavilions surrounding this park evoke an idealized Thailand of centuries past. The various houses within the park illustrate the diversity of architectural styles found throughout the country, including Isaan-style residences and those of ethnic minorities such as the Lahu and Karen.

Art enthusiasts can participate in the park's interactive demonstrations, such as painting on mulberry paper, musical performances, and pottery classes. In the evenings, a "Khan Tok" dinner invites guests to enjoy authentic northern Thai cuisine.

For those who want a crash course in Thailand's culture and history, there's hardly anything better than an up-close experience at Thai Thani!

The most beautiful tropical beaches in Pattaya

Pattaya

Pattaya Beach is the most famous beach on the island. Stretching for approximately four kilometers, its fine sand and sparkling water make it a popular tourist destination. Numerous activities are available on Pattaya Beach, including banana boat rides and parasailing. Vendors and food stalls line the beach, making it ideal for families looking to spend a sunny and fun-filled day.

Jomtien

Jomtien Beach is another popular destination for families. Quieter than Pattaya Beach, the beautiful Jomtien Beach still offers food stalls for hungry beachgoers, but is far enough away from the hustle and bustle to be ideal for those seeking some peace and quiet.

Bang Saray

Bang Saray is another, somewhat more secluded beach in Pattaya, offering a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere amidst crystal-clear waters. A popular fishing beach, Bang Saray's local restaurants are renowned for their delicious, fresh seafood.

Wong Amat

Wong Amat Beach is one of Pattaya's quietest beaches and is especially popular with families with children who enjoy splashing in the calm water and building sandcastles. Since the beach is accessible without steps, the nearby fishing boats offer a charming sight.

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