Pattaya & the East Coast

Stretching 500 kilometers along the Gulf of Siam and only a few hours drive from Bangkok, the East Coast of Thailand has long been the favorite getaway destination for both residents and visitors to Thailand. Attracting more than 3 million tourists from all over the world annually, Pattaya offers the highest standard of hotels, restaurants, sports, entertainment and shopping facilities. In recent years, Pattaya has become home to an ever expanding number of businesses and business-related service institutions, underlining its evolution from a tiny fishing village to a pivotal player in Thailand’s social, cultural and economic scene.

LOCATION AND DISTANCES
Pattaya is located southeast of Bangkok along the East Coast of Thailand. The Royal Cliff Beach Resort and PEACH are situated in the south of Pattaya, on a secluded headland overlooking Royal Cliff Bay and the Gulf of Siam.

• Bangkok to Pattaya: 147 km (approx. 2 hours by car)
• Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok) to Pattaya: 135 km (approx 75 minutes by car)
• South Pattaya to Royal Cliff Beach Resort and PEACH: 1 km (approx. 3 minutes by car)
• Bus terminal and railway station within 10 minutes drive of the Royal Cliff Beach Resort
• U-Tapao Airport within 40 kms (for private and charter flights)
• The Royal Cliff Beach Resort offers deluxe limousine transportation in and around Pattaya. Fares depend on the distance to the destination. It is also convenient to travel within Pattaya on mini-buses that continually ply Beach Road and Pattaya’s 2nd Road. Fares on these mini-buses are negotiable.

Scenic Attractions
Pattaya has a wealth of scenic, cultural and entertainment attractions and venues, with new ones coming into being all the time. Below are a selection of some of the popular favourites.

• Alangkarn

The newest tourist attraction and a new landmark in Pattaya featuring a complete shopping area with traditional Thai products from local craftsmen throughout the country and many exciting traditional Thai games. Visitors will also find our restaurant, which offers sumptuous food from all four regions of Thailand and international favors.

• The Institute of Marine Science Burapha University Thailand

Was originally from the Zoological Museum and Marine Aquarium of the former Srinakharinwirot Universitty Bangsaen (Burapha University at present). In 1980 the University proposed a cooperative project to the Japanese Government for a construction of new facility to replace the Zoological Museum and Marine Aquarium. Working days open from 8.30 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. Holidays open from 8.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.

• Underwater World Pattaya

Visitors are taken on a “voyage to the bottom of the sea by not get wet” which 100 meter-long tunnels with acrylic window. Open everyday 09.00 a.m. – 6.00 p.m.

• Chong Samaesarn Village

Is a tiny fishing village along the Sattahip-Ta Rua Phanich Sattahip route, turning left just before one reaches the Sattahip commercial pier. There is a small beach with crystal clear waters. Accommodation is available. Chong Sarmaesarn is anther ideal place for diving and fishing. Several islands dot the area such as Koh Samaesarn, Koh Raed. Koh Chuang, Koh Charn which all come under the supervision of the Royal Thai Navy. Daytime sightseeing is permitted but overnight lodging is prohibited.

• Nong Mon Market

It situated about 1 kilometer from the junction leading to Bang Saen. It is a market famous for Chonburi’s local handicraft and souvenirs, such as food, hor mok, kao lam (gluttonous rice baked in bamboo), sweetened banana and taro chips, sweetened-fruit preserves as well as tattan, and bamboo basket ware from Panatnikom.

• Pattaya Festival

Usually held at the middle of April to promote tourism and Pattaya’s reputation. Floral floats are paraded along the streets, The Miss Pattaya Beauty contest is held as well as traditional an aquatic sports competitions and construction of sand castles. A spectacular fireworks display takes place on the beach and fire crackers are also set off. Simultaneously, there are arts and cultural performances, exhibitions and souvenirs for sale.

• Bang Saen Beach

Is a famous beach that has enjoyed lasting popularity. Approximately 13 kilometers from the city of Chonburi, it branches off to the right-hand side from Sukhumvit Highway, at kilometers 104, for a distance of 3 kilometers. Stretching along the beachfront is a 2.5 kilometer road. Along the beach, one finds vendors offering drinks and seafood snacks such as squid, mussels and spicy steamed-fish-cakes for sale. One can rent deck chairs and rubber rings for swimming. Fresh water bathing facilities are also available. The many restaurants that line the beach have recently been improved to become more neat and orderly. Bang Saen is ideal for visitors with limited time who wish to relax with their family and friends. It also offers several hotels and bungalows for overnight lodging.

• Khao Kiew Open Zoo

Located at Tambon Bang Phra, Covering a vast area of around 3,000 rai, The zoo can be reached by either one of two ways : first from Sukhumvit, one can follow the Bang Phra Reservoir route passing the Bang Phra golf course for another 19 kilometers or, second, one may follow the new State Highway 36 (Chonburi-Pattaya-Rayong) following direction signs. The open zoo, operated by the Dusit Zoo Authority (Khao Din Wana) in Bangkok, has a large number of animals such as deer, bulls, monkies, gibbons, hippopotami, bears, kangaroos, elephants and peacocks etc. Visitors can stroll around the grounds and observe the animals closely. There is also a large aviary with hundreds of varieties of birds covering an area of around 5 rai that visitors can also enter for close viewing. The zoo is open daily from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

• Koh Krok

A small island covering an area of 0.05 square kilometers, approximately 8 kilometers from the shore. The island comprises mostly rocks. The one sandy-beach on the east of the island is Koh Krok Beach which is only 100 meters in length. This is an ideal place for coral viewing.

• Pattaya Beach

Pattaya Beach is 4 kilometers long, and faces Pattaya Bay, the major venue from where boats visit Pattaya’s offshore islands. The beach curves from north to south and is largely paralleled by a tree-lined promenade and Beach Road which is lined, in the northern and central parts by hotels and restaurants. The northern section of the beach is largely tranquil, while the central and southern parts become increasingly active, thanks to a juxtaposition of shops, department stores, boutiques, beauty salons, supermarkets, bars, discotheques, restaurants and night clubs. The central area of the beach is a major shopping area, while the southern end is one of Pattaya’s major nightlife areas and walking street.

• Koh Sak

About 10 kilometers west of Pattaya Strait or 600 meters away from Koh Larn, Koh Sak is another small island, shaped like a horse shoe, with an area of 0.05 square kilometers. It has two beaches, one on the northern east 250 meters in length, an area in which boats usually stop for tourists to swim and another one in the southern part of the island, with a pathway linking the two beaches, has a small beach 80 meters in length. A coral reef is found in the area in front of the beach. Skin-diving is also possible in this vicinity.

• Jomtien Beach

This 6 kilometers long, largely straight beach, some 4 kilometers south of Pattaya, is the most notable of several south of the resort. The beach is popular with windsurfers and water sports enthusiasts, largely because the area enjoys brisk and fresh breezes sweeping inland from the Gulf of Thailand, and because the seas are less congested with boats than is Pattaya Bay. Jomtien is also a major residential area with beachside hotels, bungalows, condominiums and restaurants.

• Wong Prachan Beach

Wong Prachan Beach is on the northern side of Pattaya Bay. This 1 kilometer beach shares the same entrance as the Central Wong Amat Hotel. A quiet spot, the beach is ideal for swimming and relaxation.

• The Sanctuary of Truth

The Sanctuary of Truth is located at Ratchawet Cape, Tambon Naklua of Pattaya City in the area of 24 acres, It was first built in 1981 by Mr. Lek Wiriyaphan, the owner of Muang Boran (the Acient City) in Samut Prakan province. The Sanctuary of Truth is wholly made of wood. It is considered one of the distinguished architectures in Thailand. This wooden castle is built in a Chaturamuk style. The top of the stupa (prang) is 105 meter high. The four sides of the face roof are built in Ayutthaya style decorated with Chofa, Bai Raka and Thepphachao (gods). There are also wonderings presenting the story of Ramayana and Mahapharata. The Sanctuary of Truth or the highly carved wooden castle will stand in Pattaya as a memorial to reflect the religious belief, especially in Buddhism, of mankind. Open daily from 08.00 p.m.

• Khao Pattaya (Khao Phra Baht)

A small hill with an asphalt road leading to the top. From its peak, one has a panoramic view of Pattaya City and Pattaya Bay. Currently, Khao Pattaya has been developed and is now the site of the Naval Sor Tor Ror Radio station.
A sacred Buddha image is also enshrined on the hilltop.

• Mini Siam

Mini Siam is located at kilometer 143 on Sukhumvit Highway. This miniature city offers replicas of 80 sacred places and important historical sites around Thailand at a scale of 1 to 25. Some examples are the temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Phra Srisanpetch, Anantasamakom Throne Hill, Phra Puttha-yodfah Bridge, the Bridge over the River Khwae, the Golden Stupa and Phimai Khmer Sanctuary. Replicas of world significance are also displayed in the, Miniworld area, such as the Eiffel Tower, the statue of liberty, Tower Bridge and Trevi Fountain. Open daily from 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. There is also a Mini Race Course (Go-Karts) for visitors wishing to try their hand at racing fast cars.

• Phanaraks Park

Situated of Pornprapanimitr Road turning left on Sukhumvit Road at kilometer 145 for about 5 kilometers. A Privately-owned resort, the garden has maintained a natural atmosphere with fish ponds and fishing equipment available for rent. A swimming pool and accommodation in the form of tens and bungalows are on hand to serve visitors.

• Pattaya Water Park

Is on Thappraya Road, at the top of Jomtien Beach, Covering an area of around 80 rai. Pattaya Park offers an amusement park, a Jacuzzi and a gigantic slide, It is an ideal outlet for family relaxation.

• Elephant Village

Situated on Pornprapanimitr Road on the same directions as Phanaraks Park and Siam Country Club Golf Course. The elephant Village is a popular tourist spot for Thai and foreign guests alike. Daily performances by elephants and wild elephant round-up shows are held at 2.30 p.m. shows last about 1 hour. Elephant jungle rides are also available.

• Pattaya Park Tower

The first highest seaside tower and revolving restaurant. About 240 meters height that you can see Pattaya View, hotel and bungalow accommodation are also available.

• The Million Years Stone Park and Pattaya Crocodile Farm

This not-to-be-missed attraction is at No. 22/2 Moo 1, Tambon Nong Pla Lai, Banglamung. From Sukhumvit, turn left at Km. 140 close to the pedestrian bridge in front of Wat Sawangfah along Chaiyaporn Withi Road (State Highway 3024) in the same direction as Mab Prachun Reservoir for another 5 kilometers. Covering an area of close to 100 rai, the compound comprises rock gardens and a botanical garden of rare plants and beautifully landscaped grounds. Interesting sights include, fossils of plants over a million years in age, 200 years old Thai style bonsai, crocodile farm and a collection of rare animals such as albino bears, elephants and horses. Crocodile round-ups, magic and animal performances are also a major attraction. Daily admission from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

• The Bottle Art

Contains an extensive collection of replicas in glass bottles of more than 300 well-known tourist attractions, churches, temples, palaces and ships, both Thai and foreign. These creations resulted from the tireless effort of Dutch sculptor, Mr. Peter Bedelais, who crafted the various intricate parts and assembled them in glass bottles of different shapes. Open daily from 09 a.m. – 8 p.m.

• Siriporn Orchid Farm

Located at 235/14 Mu 5, Tambon Nong Prue, turn left Sukhumvit adjacent to the traffic light intersection at Central Pattaya for 800 meters on to Norn-Plub-Wan Road, the farm is on right hand side. The farm offers a wide array of orchids such as catteleyas, vandas, daedrovium, escosanda, pompadours, Visitors can also purchase cut flowers or plants. Open daily from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• Ripley’s “Believe it or not” Museum

Situated on the third floor of the Royal Garden Plaza, Beach Road. A display of Mr. Ripley’s collection of curious objects from every corner of the world. Some of them being the actual item, others are replicas. These extraordinary objects are divided into over 250 categories, such as optical illusions, peculiar lifestyles of unusual people and devices of human torture from ancient time, etc.
Open daily from 10 a.m. – 12 midnight.

• Wat Yan Sangwararam

Is a Royal Temple of the first class, 15 kilometers south of Pattaya City, turning left from Sukhumvit Highway at kilometer 160. The temple was dedicated to Somdej Phra Yanasangworn, the present Supreme Patriach in 1976 and was later graciously admitted under the patronage or His Majesty the King. The temple grounds, a total of 366 rai comprises a mondop which enshrines a replica of the Buddha’s footprints, a large stupa where the relics of the Lord Buddha and those of the Lord Buddha’s disciples are enshrined. There are Phra Yanares Vihan and international pavilions representing several countries that dot the grounds, such Switzerland. There is also the Vihan Sien, a grand and requisite showcase of Chinese architecture.

• Khao Chee-Chan Sculptural Image

Erected for the private ninth reign and on the occasion of 50th anniversary of his enthronement. The image is of a sitting figure called “Pang Manwichai’ and copied from “Praputtawaratchaborpit” which combined both Sukhothai and Lanna Arts. The image is 109 meters high, 70 meters wide, the throne 21 meters high, total height 130 meters and named “Phraphut Mahava Chira Utamopatsadsada” tamahawa-that means “the Buddha who has brightness and sublimity” like “Mahawachira.” There are many kind of plants surrounding it and huts for the visitors.

• Wiharnsien (Anekgusonsala)

It an important place that collected Thai Chinese arts in Thailand. Mr. Sa-nga Kunkobkiat with his group and relatives got a royal permission from His Majesty to build it on the occasion of the King’s Birthday 5th anniversary in B.E. 2530 at the Yarnnasangwararam Development project area, according to His Majesty’s direction.

• The Horseshoe Point Club

Located in center of Pattaya left from Sukhumvit Road 10 Km. The Horseshoe Point, is a gathering place for people from all over the world. A place where Riders can simply relax with family and friends or join in the many activities offered at Resort in the peace and tranquility of nature and the great outdoor. At the Horseshoe Point, Riders have the opportunity to enjoy the fun and excitement of horse riding at all levels, starting from the basics to the challenges of the equestrian art. This includes riding in the ring, dressage, the race-track and the adrenaline rush of jumping through the cross country course. The horse shoe Point also offers an international standard polo field for new horse enthusiasts.

• Koh Larn (Coral Island)

The Koh Larn group of islands is comprised of Koh Larn, Koh Krok, Koh Sak the largest being Koh Larn. Koh Larn. Koh Larn situated to the west of Pattaya Strait, about 7.7 kilometers from the shore, covering an area of about 4 square kilometers. There are beautiful beaches, clear water and an abundance of coral. Visitors can view the coral either from a glass-bottom boat or by diving down directly. A well-know beach is at Ta Waen Beach in the northern part of the island, a 750 meters stretch of white sand with many stalls and shops. Sightseeing boats mostly dock in this area. There are also Laemtien Beach and Samae Beach on the south-western side, each beach spanning a length of 700 and 100 meters respectively. Both are regarded as beautiful and interesting sport, especially Laemtien Beach which has remained exceptionally clean and tranquil. There are now a few stores servicing visitors. Ta Pan beach on the western part of the island is 500 meters in length with make-shift holding available. On Saturday, Sunday and Holidays, sightseeing boats usually dock along this beach all the way to Laemtien where there is coral. On the southern part is Nual Beach 450 meters in length. On this beach is hotel which accommodates a large number of tourists. This is another good place for view coral. Popular activities on Koh Larn include swimming, coral viewing, para sailing, water scooter etc.

• Nong Nuch Park

• Ang Sila or Ang Hin
• Sriracha Tiger Zoo

The natural park covering the area approximately 1300 rai. There are varieties of flowers such as orchid, fern, and other parks. There are teakwood lodging designed in Thai and other styles. There is seminar room that can accommodate over 50-80 people. There are also zoo and cultural center performing tradition dance from different parts of Thailand, martial arts, traditional sports, and elephant show.

Is a fishing village about 5 kilometers away from Chonburi. Ang Sila was formerly one of the oldest seaside resorts. The village is famous for its cottage industry, producing stone mortars and animal sculptures, like elephants, horses and tigers Ang Sila also boasts a number of seafood restaurants. On the beach, one can find villagers shelling fresh oysters, A wide array of local handicraft are also available for sale to tourists.It the tourist attraction that has 33 largest Bengal tigers in the world. There are also large number crocodiles, ostriches, camels and birds. Restaurant and accommodation are also available.