A Quick Guide to Transportation in Pattaya
Pattaya remains a major player when it comes to the Thai tourism sector as its renowned lifestyle and sights mark it as a must-visit on many travel bucket lists. With the establishment of U-Tapao airport as a new arrival port for tourists, the hotel occupancy rates in Pattaya hit an astounding 77.9% in the middle of 2018.
Moreover, the city has various factors that make it a tourist-friendly destination, with easy public transportation options, great attractions for the kids, endless sunny stretches of beachfront and of course, its nightlife scene.
However, to explore Pattaya equals somewhat knowing your way around. So, to ensure you make you stay worthwhile, here is a quick guide to you transportation options (when walking isn’t an option)!
Hop on a bus
Baht Buses, also known as songthaews, cost between THB10 and THB50 per ride, and are great for travelling to the beach, as well as city areas. These buses resemble a pickup truck with benches in the back and although baht buses travel on a predetermined route, you will often notice these vehicles passing through Beach Road, Jomtien and to Naklua.
You can hail a baht bus, simply by extending your arm or signalling your intention to hop on.If the bus is not travelling to your desired destination, just press the buzzer and the driver will pull over. You can even negotiate for a private ride when you notice an empty baht bus.
As for local buses, they generally travel through Pattaya, Jomtien and Naklua. However, these buses are less reliable as although the routes are set, often times they are changed or cancelled.
Catch a taxi
There are plenty of taxis and motorbike taxis available to get around with. However, in Pattaya there are more private taxis than metered taxis - it is advisable to negotiate a price before you hop on a taxi to avoid any misunderstandings.
Meanwhile, motorbike taxis, which are easily spotted as the driver don bright vests, are aplenty in Pattaya and are seemingly cheaper. These not only are able to cut through traffic easier and have lesser travel time compared to normal taxis.
Nevertheless, you can also opt to use the Grab Taxi app to book a ride around Pattaya.
Rent a motorbike or car
If you would like to explore Pattaya without having to check bus routes or hail a taxi, there are various 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.
If you would like to adventure to the Gulf of Thailand, there are ferries from Balu Hai Pier that head to Khao Takiab Pier in Hua Hin.
Where to head to?
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. Also 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, gymnastics and break dancing.
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 up and coming prospects battle it out!
Stay with us!
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.
