If you’re planning to go beach-hopping, explore local culture, or have a fun night out, getting around Pattaya is easier than you might expect. Apart from taxis and ride-hailing services, among the most convenient and affordable options are the Baht buses, also known as songthaews, which are one of the daily modes of transportation for locals and visitors.
To easily explore Pattaya, you need to familiarise yourself with the different modes of transportation.
Hop on a Bus
Baht Buses, also known as songthaews, cost between 10 THB and 50 THB per ride, and are great for travelling to the beach, as well as city areas. These buses are modified pickup trucks with two rows of benches in the back. You’ll often notice these vehicles passing through Beach Road and Jomtien to Naklua as Baht buses travel a predetermined route in Pattaya. You can hail a Baht bus simply by extending your arm, signalling your intention to hop on. To get off at your destination, just press the buzzer and the driver will pull over.
As for local buses, they generally travel through Pattaya, Jomtien, and Naklua. However, these buses are less reliable, as although the routes are set, they may be changed or cancelled.
Common Baht Bus Routes in Pattaya
You can easily spot Baht buses circulating along key tourist and city routes in Pattaya. Here are some of the most popular:
Beach Road – Second Road Loop: The main loop runs in a one-way direction—Beach Road southbound toward Walking Street and Second Road northbound back toward the Dolphin Roundabout. This is the most common and frequent loop.
Jomtien Route: Buses go between central Pattaya and Jomtien Beach, ideal if you’re heading south to relax by quieter sands.
Naklua Route: Heading north? Look for Baht buses that go from the Dolphin Roundabout up into the Naklua area, a more local and residential part of Pattaya.
Sukhumvit Road Route: For longer trips or access to attractions like Underwater World or Floating Market, Baht buses often run along Sukhumvit Road.
Catch a Taxi or Motorbike Taxi
There are plenty of taxis and motorbike taxis available. However, in Pattaya, metered taxis are rare, so it’s advisable to negotiate a price before you hop on a taxi to avoid any misunderstandings. Meanwhile, motorbike taxis, which are easily spotted as drivers wear bright vests, are plentiful in Pattaya and are generally cheaper and faster as they can cut through traffic more easily compared to normal taxis.
Use a Ride-Hailing App
You can also opt to use the Grab ride-hailing app to book a ride around Pattaya, providing transparent pricing and door-to-door convenience.
Rent a Motorbike or Car
If you would like to explore Pattaya without having to check bus routes or hail a taxi, there are establishments offering scooters and motorbikes for rent in Pattaya. You can also find various car rental companies that allow you to rent a car. However, bear in mind that you may need a valid Thai license or an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Ride a Ferry or Speedboat
For those opting for an island excursion to the beautiful nearby island of Koh Larn, there are regular ferries and speedboats from Bali Hai Pier that can take you there. The journey via ferry is roughly around 45 minutes, while you can cut your travel time with a 15-minute speedboat ride.
Where to Go in Pattaya
There are plenty of activities suited for solo travellers, couples, and families alike. For those with children, check out Underwater World, a kid-friendly aquarium on Sukhumvit Road that features educational exhibits and interactive displays. Meanwhile, Khao Kheow Open Zoo, which is just outside of Pattaya, is home to 800 animals from 300 species, while Ramayana Water Park is a 20-minute drive from central Pattaya and offers an entire day of fun with over 50 rides!
For adults, the fun starts as the sun sets over the Gulf of Thailand. Prepare to witness Pattaya’s renowned vibrant nightlife with a line of restaurants, bars, discos, and nightspots. Not-to-be-missed is Tiffany’s Cabaret, a well-rehearsed, professional production that features beautiful and talented transgender performers. Alternatively, Pattaya’s Walking Street is filled with happening nightlife as well as street performers, including magicians, gymnasts, and breakdancers.
If you would like to catch Thailand’s well-known Muay Thai scene, head over to the city’s Muay Thai Boxing stadium, where you can witness skilled fighters battle it out!
Why Baht Buses are Perfect When Staying at Holiday Inn Pattaya
Of course, a visit to Pattaya would not be complete without a place to unwind and relax, such as the Holiday Inn Pattaya. We’re perfectly located on Beach Road and provide guestrooms with private balconies for gorgeous Pattaya coastline views, while our family suite ensures a memorable stay for everyone.
With our prime location on Pattaya Road, you get quick access to Pattaya Baht bus routes for easy trips to Walking Street, Terminal 21, Central Festival, Jomtien, or Naklua—without needing to call a cab. When you ride a Baht bus, you don’t have to worry about parking if you're heading to an island ferry or a night out. Plan your Pattaya trip today.
FAQs About Pattaya Transportation
Are Pattaya Baht buses safe for tourists?
Yes. They’re regularly used by visitors and locals alike. Make sure to check the Pattaya songthaew route map, stick to daytime or well-lit evening rides, and carry small change.
Do Baht buses run all night in Pattaya?
Some Pattaya Baht bus routes do run late into the night, especially along Beach Road and Walking Street, though service slows after midnight.
Can I get to Koh Larn using a Pattaya Baht bus?
Yes, take a Baht bus to Bali Hai Pier, which is part of the Pattaya Baht bus route, then catch a ferry or speedboat to the island.
What is the standard fare for a Baht bus ride in Pattaya?
The fare is 10 THB on most central routes in Pattaya. Longer Baht bus routes (like Jomtien or Naklua) may cost around 20 THB.
Do I need to tell the driver where I want to go?
No, just press the buzzer to signal where you want to get off. You don’t need to speak with the driver.
How can I tell which Pattaya Baht bus is going to Jomtien?
Look for a bus with a white band along the bottom. These typically wait at the corner of Second Road and South Pattaya Road.
Is there a specific Baht bus route for Beach Road in Pattaya?
Yes, it’s a one-way loop: southbound on Beach Road, turning at South Pattaya Road, and heading back north via Second Road.
What’s the best way to pay the driver?
Have small change (10 THB or 20 THB notes or coins). Pay after you hop off at the front window.
Can I hire a Baht bus for private use?
Yes, if the bus is empty and parked. Negotiate a price first. This is useful for groups or special stops not on a fixed route.
