Port Guide | Thailand | Worth a Wander
Pattaya
Isabella Moreno | Editor
Published on 2025-09-27
Ah, Pattaya-Thailand's premier seaside city where spiritual temples coexist cheek-by-jowl with neon-lit beer bars, and where "cultural exchange" occasionally means trying your luck at bargaining down a jet ski rental without handing over your passport as collateral. From its humble roots as a sleepy fishing village, Pattaya got thrust into fame (and, let's face it, infamy) in the late '60s when American GIs discovered its fine sands and finer beverages-and it hasn't exactly looked back since. As your floating condo docks for a few precious days, you'll discover a city both edgy and enchantingly chaotic; sure, you can sip cocktails in slick rooftop lounges or unleash your inner Indiana Jones at the Sanctuary of Truth-a towering, intricately carved wooden temple that somehow manages to be perpetually unfinished. Pro tip: Mind the wardrobe, folks-flip-flops and tank tops might rule the boardwalk, but they're frowned upon by temple guardians. So slip on something modest when you duck into spiritual retreats, and afterwards, let loose over sizzling street food, vibrant markets, and maybe even a splashy ladyboy cabaret, because here in Pattaya, life is too short-and wonderfully unpredictable-to play it safe.
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Notes from the Editor
Pattaya is a popular beach resort city known for its vibrant nightlife, water sports, and cultural attractions. Visitors should be aware of local customs and dress appropriately at temples.
Where do cruise ships dock in Pattaya?
Port Name Pattaya
Country Thailand
Region Southeast Asia
Ship Terminal Bali Hai Pier
Port Type Dedicated port
Accessibility Bali Hai Pier is located approximately 1.5 km from the city center, accessible by walking, taxis, or local tuk-tuks.
What's the weather like in Pattaya?
Best Season to Visit November to February
Climate Tropical wet and dry climate, characterized by a rainy season and a dry season.
Weather Notes November to February is the dry season with lower humidity and less rain, making it the most pleasant time to visit.
Temperature Range 68F to 86F (20C to 30C)
High Temp 95F
Low Temp 58F
Average Temp 76F
What do I need to know about Pattaya?
Language Thai
Currency Thai Baht (THB)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population about 120,000
Timezone ICT (UTC+7)
How do I get around Pattaya?
Taxis, tuk-tuks, and local buses are available for transit to and from the city. Rental scooters and cars can also be arranged.
What are The Best Things to do in Pattaya?
Discover what you should do while you're in Pattaya.
Historical and cultural landmarks
Sanctuary of Truth
206/2 Moo 5, Soi Naklua 12, Naklua, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand
A stunning wooden structure that showcases intricate carvings reflecting traditional Buddhist and Hindu motifs.
Distance from Terminal: 11.2 miles
Khao Chi Chan (Buddha Mountain)
N/A
A large Buddha image carved into a cliff face, surrounded by serene landscapes.
Distance from Terminal: 20 miles
Wat Yansangwararam
N/A
A stunning temple complex with intricate architecture and spiritual significance.
Distance from Terminal: 16.4 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary | Editor Highlight
Isabella Moreno | Editor
Published on 2025-09-27
Best Time to Go
Morning
Cost
$50-$150 USD
Activity Level
Easy
Where to Book
Online
Let's be honest: elephants could easily crush you like a peanut, yet here you are, fearlessly strolling beside a lumbering pachyderm in Na Chom Thian's Elephant Jungle Sanctuary. But these gentle giants-rescued from logging camps or the indignity of circus routines-are surprisingly good-tempered hosts, willing to humor your urge to scrub mud into their mighty wrinkles or stuff their trunks with bananas. Book this experience at least a few days ahead (otherwise you'll be stuck in line behind gap-year backpackers discovering their inner vegans); arrive early in the morning when the elephants are calm, cooperative, and not yet cranky from a full day's human interaction. Bring sunscreen, a change of clothes, and an extra thousand baht or so (about $30 USD)-a modest budget considering it includes priceless selfies, elephant-approved snacks, and the smug satisfaction of ethical tourism. Sure, your shoes will end up muddy beyond all reason, but trust me, it's worth it. Even if your storytelling credibility requires a bit of exaggeration ("It was standing RIGHT THERE, eyeball to eyeball!"), the sheer joy of bonding momentarily with these majestic, intelligent creatures beats any fabricated beachside anecdote.
Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden
34/1 Tambon Na Chom Thian, Sattahip District, Chon Buri 20250, Thailand
Explore beautifully landscaped gardens and cultural shows at this expansive tropical park.
Distance from Terminal: 15.5 miles
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary
54/1 Moo 2, Na Chom Thian, Sattahip, Chon Buri 20250, Thailand
Interact with elephants ethically in a sanctuary setting where you can feed, bathe, and walk with them.
Distance from Terminal: 20.1 miles
Flight of the Gibbon Chonburi
N/A
An exciting zipline eco-adventure through the rainforest canopy.
Distance from Terminal: 28 miles
Cartoon Network Amazone Waterpark
888 Moo 8, Na Chom Thian, Sattahip District, Chon Buri 20250, Thailand
A fun-filled waterpark themed around Cartoon Network characters.
Distance from Terminal: 19.5 miles
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Pattaya Floating Market
45 3 451/304 หมู่ที่ 12 Sukhumvit Road, Pattaya City, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand
Experience the unique vibe of a traditional floating market with shops, food stalls, and cultural performances.
Distance from Terminal: 8.7 miles
Mini Siam
387 Sukhumvit Rd, Pattaya City, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand
Explore miniature replicas of famous buildings from Thailand and around the world.
Distance from Terminal: 9.4 miles
Ripley's Believe It or Not!
Royal Garden Plaza, 218 Moo 10 Beach Road, Pattaya City, Banglamung, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand
A quirky museum filled with oddities and unique exhibits from around the world.
Distance from Terminal: 2.8 miles
Tiffany's Show Pattaya
464 M.9, Pattaya 2nd Road, Pattaya City, Banglamung District, Chon Buri 20260, Thailand
A world-famous transgender cabaret show featuring dazzling performances.
Distance from Terminal: 2.8 miles
Art in Paradise Pattaya
78/34 Pattaya Sai 2 Rd, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand
An interactive 3D art museum where you can be part of the artwork.
Distance from Terminal: 6.1 miles
A Little Extra
The Million Years Stone Park & Pattaya Crocodile Farm
22/1 Moo 1, Nong Pla Lai, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand
See petrified trees, exotic plants, and a large collection of crocodiles.
Distance from Terminal: 11.4 miles
Pattaya Sheep Farm
73/8 หมู่ที่ 3 Tambon Nong Pla Lai, Amphoe Bang Lamung, Chang Wat Chon Buri 20150, Thailand
A unique attraction where you can feed sheep and enjoy rural scenery and attractions.
Distance from Terminal: 14.9 miles
Underwater World Pattaya
22/22 Moo 11, Sukhumvit Rd, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20260, Thailand
A walk-through aquarium showcasing marine life and interactive exhibits.
Distance from Terminal: 5.9 miles
Pattaya Night Bazaar
Soi Buakhao, Pattaya City, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand
A bustling night market with local food, souvenirs, and a vibrant evening atmosphere.
Distance from Terminal: 2.9 miles
Overnight Trips
Koh Larn Day Trip
N/A
Take a ferry to this beautiful island known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life.
Distance from Terminal: 9 miles
Thailand Regional Tip
Certain medications including some painkillers and stimulants Travelers must carry prescriptions and doctor's notes for medication containing narcotic substances or risk confiscation.