Top 10 Beaches in Pattaya and Nearby Islands 2025
Pattaya’s coastline and its nearby islands offer a diverse range of beach experiences – from bustling city shores to tranquil island coves. Below is a detailed list of the top 10 beaches in Pattaya and the surrounding islands (such as Koh Larn and Koh Phai), each with its own charm, activities, dining spot, and unique features.
1. Pattaya Beach
Highlights: The 3-kilometer Pattaya Beach is the crown jewel of the city – a lively, crescent-shaped bay set against a backdrop of high-rise hotels and bustling beach road. The sand is golden, and while the water is not the clearest, it’s acceptable for a quick dip. This beach’s energy is exciting, always buzzing with visitors, beach chairs, and colorful parasails in the sky.
Activities: Pattaya Beach is known for action-packed activities. You can indulge in thrilling water sports here – jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, windsurfing, you name it. The beach has volleyball nets and areas for beach football, and plenty of sun loungers for those who prefer relaxing. Evening strolls along the paved promenade (lined with palm trees) are also popular.
Dining: For a casual meal with a view, head to Pattaya Beer Garden near Bali Hai Pier. It’s an open-air seaside restaurant where you can enjoy Thai and Western dishes right over the water, with panoramic views of the bay and sunset. (It’s a laid-back spot – flip-flops welcome – but with surprisingly good food and ambiance.) Many other eateries, from street-food stalls to fast-food and cafes, line Beach Road just across from the sand.
Unique: Pattaya Beach’s unique appeal is its urban beach vibe. It offers a mix of city and sea – you can sunbathe and swim by day, then step directly into shopping malls, street markets, and attractions along the shore in the evening. It’s also a 24/7 beach; even at night the area stays active with vendors and lights (though beach swimming is daytime only). The combination of a vibrant cityscape and beachfront energy makes Pattaya Beach special.
2. Jomtien Beach
Highlights: Just south of the city, Jomtien Beach offers a more laid-back alternative to Pattaya’s main strip. This long 6-kilometer stretch of sandy shoreline is calmer and less crowded, making it great for families and travelers seeking a relaxed vibe. The sand is clean and the water here is clearer than at Pattaya Beach, suitable for swimming and wading. It’s an ideal spot for peaceful walks, especially in the mornings or at sunset.
Activities: Jomtien is popular for water sports and recreation in a more relaxed setting. You can go parasailing, jet skiing, kiteboarding, or windsurfing, as well as enjoy beachside massages or simple sunbathing . Thanks to its gentler waves, it’s also a favorite for swimmers and families with kids. In the late afternoon, many people fly kites or play beach volleyball. There’s a long promenade perfect for jogging or cycling with sea views.
Dining: Jomtien has numerous beachside eateries and cafes. A recommended spot is The Glass House (at the south end of Jomtien/Najomtien) – a beautiful beachfront restaurant where you can dine on fresh seafood and Thai cuisine literally on the sand under pine trees. For something more casual, Sandbar By The Sea on the north end of Jomtien (Dongtan Beach area) offers a relaxed setting with both Thai and Western dishes by the water. Don’t forget to try local seafood BBQ stands along the beach in the evenings.
Unique: Jomtien’s unique feature is its versatility. It manages to be quiet and family-friendly (especially compared to Pattaya Beach) while still providing plenty to do. Parts of Jomtien (especially the Dongtan Beach section) are designated tranquil zones – known for being clean, peaceful, and even LGBTQ-friendly in certain sections. Jomtien was once a farming area and still retains a more local charm; it’s also home to a nightly beachfront market and occasionally hosts festivals or kitesurfing events on its wide sands.
3. Wong Amat Beach (Naklua Beach)
Highlights: Wong Amat Beach is a clean and upscale beach in North Pattaya (Naklua area), known for its soft sand and serene atmosphere. It’s a family-friendly spot with well-kept shores and a more tranquil environment than the central Pattaya beaches. The water is usually calm and cleaner here, great for a refreshing swim. The beach is bordered by a few luxury hotels and private condos, which means it’s generally well-maintained and quieter, especially on weekdays.
Activities: This beach is best for relaxation and gentle recreation. Activities include swimming, stand-up paddleboarding on calm days, and beachcombing for shells. There are no noisy water sports directly off Wong Amat (jet skis and banana boats are very limited here, which keeps the atmosphere peaceful). It’s a lovely spot to watch the sunset or even take an early morning yoga session on the sand. For sightseeing, the impressive wooden Sanctuary of Truth temple is located at the northern end of this beach – you can see its ornate roof from the shore.
Dining: For a treat, visit The Glass House Silver at Wong Amat – a stylish beachfront restaurant set under pine trees, offering Thai and international cuisine with ocean views. (It’s actually a branch of the famous Glass House, conveniently directly on Wong Amat Beach.) Another great option is Surf & Turf Beach Club & Restaurant, a chic seaside restaurant known for fresh seafood and cocktails right by the water, with comfortable outdoor seating on the sand. Both venues provide that perfect mix of quality food and beachside ambiance, ideal after a day of sun.
Unique: Wong Amat’s noteworthy feature is its peaceful, exclusive feel right next to the city. It’s tucked away from Pattaya’s hustle, giving an almost private beach impression. The beach is also adjacent to Naklua’s fishing community – if you stroll north, you might see traditional fishing boats and get a glimpse of local life. Additionally, thanks to the Sanctuary of Truth nearby, you have a unique cultural landmark on the horizon, adding to the scenic backdrop while you relax on the sand.
4. Bang Saray Beach
Highlights: Bang Saray Beach (also spelled Bang Sare) is a charming former fishing village beach about 20 km south of Pattaya. It features a peaceful crescent of powdery, white sand and calm, shallow waters. The atmosphere here is distinctly local and laid-back – far removed from Pattaya’s city buzz. You’ll often find the beach nearly empty on weekdays, with only a few fishermen or families picnicking, which makes it perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape. The backdrop includes views of fishing boats and a long pier at one end, adding to its rustic appeal.
Activities: Bang Saray is great for simple pleasures. Swimming is enjoyable as the water is usually clear and gentle (no jet-ski traffic to churn it up). You can rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the shoreline. On land, many people just take leisurely walks or bike rides along the beachfront road. Because it’s a real village, you might see locals mending nets or launching boats – even joining a fishing trip is possible if you arrange with local boatmen. There’s also a grassy park area and playground by the beach, making it nice for kids to play when they’ve had enough of the sea.
Dining: Seafood is the star here. One popular spot is Preecha Seafood (near the Bang Saray area), a long-running restaurant known for its ultra-fresh catch and casual seaside dining. In Bang Saray town itself, you can try The Beach Restaurant, located at the north end of the beach – it offers Thai and Western dishes just a few meters from the sea, with beautiful sunset views over the Gulf. Don’t expect fancy decor, but the ambiance – with the ocean breeze and sound of gentle waves – is hard to beat.
Unique: Bang Saray’s unique feature is its authentic local vibe. It’s a well-kept secret compared to Pattaya’s main beaches, giving visitors a glimpse of a traditional Thai coastal community. The beach is well-maintained and notably uncrowded, providing a sense of serenity. In the late afternoon, you might see local children playing football on the sand and fishermen bringing in their daily catch – a scene that’s increasingly rare in tourist areas. If you’re looking to experience a Thai beach “like a local” and enjoy peaceful natural scenery, Bang Saray delivers that in spades.
5. Sai Kaew Beach (Navy Beach)
Highlights: Sai Kaew Beach (Hat Sai Kaew), located ~30 km south of Pattaya in Sattahip, is often called the “Navy Beach” because it’s on Royal Thai Navy grounds. This beach is absolutely gorgeous – a long stretch of soft white sand in a tranquil, tree-lined bay with a backdrop of lush green hills . The water here is crystal clear and turquoise, arguably some of the clearest on the eastern seaboard. The navy keeps the beach immaculately clean and natural (no high-rises or jetski chaos), so it feels like a little slice of paradise.
Activities: Sai Kaew is ideal for relaxation and low-key activities. Swimming is excellent due to the clear, calm water – you can often see fish around your feet. Snorkeling can be done around the rocky edges of the bay (though coral is limited, you might spot some small marine life). The beach offers plenty of shade under large trees, so it’s perfect for picnicking or reading a book in a beach chair. You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards on site for a gentle paddle in the bay. On the shore, the Navy sometimes provides beach volleyballs or soccer balls for visitors to borrow. Overall, the vibe is laid-back: think sunbathing, splashing in the water, and enjoying nature.
Dining: There is a Navy-run beachfront restaurant tucked under the trees at Sai Kaew. It serves mostly Thai dishes (grilled seafood, som tam, fried rice, etc.) at reasonable prices. The setting is simple – wooden tables in the sand – but the food is tasty and the ocean view is fantastic. In addition to the main restaurant, a few small kiosks sell cold drinks, ice cream, and snacks, so you won’t go hungry. (Do note that outside food is allowed too, so many visitors bring a picnic mat and enjoy snacks on the beach.)
Unique: What’s special about Sai Kaew is that it’s military-controlled and pristine. There is a small entrance fee and an ID check at the gate, which limits crowds and commercial development, keeping the beach unspoiled. You’ll find no jet skis or loud bars here – instead, you get serenity, natural beauty, and a safe environment (there are even navy personnel ensuring everyone’s safety). The combination of a mountain backdrop, dense foliage providing shade, and the absence of city clutter makes Sai Kaew feel almost like a private island beach, even though it’s on the mainland. It’s truly the Navy’s hidden paradise, often surprising first-time visitors with how spotless and picturesque a beach so close to Pattaya can be.
6. Tawaen Beach (Koh Larn)
Highlights: Tawaen Beach is the largest and most popular beach on Koh Larn (Coral Island), which lies just a short ferry ride from Pattaya. This 700-meter-long beach is bustling with activity and often welcomes thousands of day-trippers, especially on weekends. The sand is powdery white and the shoreline is very wide, providing plenty of space (though it does fill up with beach chairs). The water at Tawaen is crystal clear and shallow, boasting beautiful turquoise hues – great for paddling and safe for children. Palm trees and beach umbrellas dot the sands, giving it a classic tropical look.
Activities: As the island’s main beach, Tawaen offers a full range of water sports and beach fun. You can go jet skiing, banana boat riding, parasailing off a boat, and even sea walking (with dive helmets) from platforms offshore. Snorkeling is possible at the far ends near rocks (though many folks snorkel at other quieter Koh Larn beaches instead). On the beach itself, you’ll find vendors organizing games, offering massages, and renting out tubes or kayaks. There’s also a pier right at Tawaen, so many boat tours start here. Despite the crowds, you can still just sunbathe or swim – designated swimming zones keep boats away. Tawaen truly has “something for everyone”in terms of activities.
Dining: Tawaen Beach is lined with numerous beachfront restaurants and food stalls, so you won’t have to stray far for a meal. Along the middle section, you’ll find open-air eateries serving everything from spicy papaya salad and grilled chicken to fresh seafood and even pizza. Many have seaside seating where you can dine with your feet in the sand. One recommended stop is a simple place called Tawaen Seafood (look for the bilingual sign) known for tasty fried rice with crab and Tom Yum soup. Also, don’t miss grabbing a fruit smoothie or a coconut from one of the stands – perfect for cooling off. Convenience stores (7-Eleven) and souvenir shops are also just behind the restaurants, making it very convenient for visitors.
Unique: Tawaen’s defining feature is its lively, festive atmosphere on a gorgeous island setting. It’s the go-to beach for first-time Koh Larn visitors and thus has a cosmopolitan mix of tourists (you’ll hear many languages spoken under those umbrellas). Uniquely, because it’s so popular, it has well-developed facilities: public showers, toilets, and even small hotels right by the beach. Yet, if you venture to the edges of Tawaen, you can walk to a cute little adjacent cove (Sangwan Beach) via a white wooden bridge viewpoint – an easy escape from the crowds for a different view. In the evenings, once the day-trippers leave, Tawaen becomes far quieter – giving you a rare chance to enjoy a beautiful sunset on a now peaceful beach that was full of life just hours earlier.
7. Samae Beach (Koh Larn)
Highlights: Samae Beach is Koh Larn’s second-largest beach, stretching just over 500 meters on the island’s western side. It’s a scenic sweep of white sand with clear blue water and an open view of the horizon (great for sunsets). Samae has a lively vibe but is a bit more relaxed than Tawaen, attracting those who want a balance of facilities and tranquility. The beach is quite wide, with hundreds of lounge chairs lined up neatly, and notably no big rocks in the sand – just smooth, fine grains perfect for barefoot walks. There is little natural shade directly on Samae (few trees on the beach itself), so bright beach umbrellas paint the scene.
Activities: Samae Beach offers plenty of water-based fun. You’ll see people snorkeling, riding banana boats, jet skiing, and swimming in the designated zones. The water here is usually very clean and calm, excellent for a refreshing swim or for kids to splash around. One special activity is to hike or ride up to the Khao Nom Viewpoint, a hill at one end of Samae that has a pavilion – from there you get a panoramic view of the entire beach and ocean, which is spectacular at sunset. Back on the sand, you can rent stand-up paddleboards, or simply get a Thai massage from one of the licensed masseuses under a tent. In the late afternoon, Samae often has beach volleyball games spontaneously starting up among friendly travelers and locals.
Dining: Samae has a handful of casual beachfront restaurants and bars. A popular one is Sea Space – a cafe/restaurant near the middle of the beach, known for its laid-back beach bar feel and a mix of Thai and Western food (plus good coffee and smoothies). Many people enjoy lunch at the Xanadu Beach Resort’s restaurant, which serves guests and day visitors right by the sand – it’s one of the only resorts on Samae, so its restaurant is a convenient landmark for good seafood and Thai dishes. Prices on Samae are a bit higher than on the mainland, but the portion sizes and the view justify it. In the afternoon, grab a fresh coconut or a beer from a beach vendor and enjoy it in your lounger – bliss!
Unique: Samae Beach is especially known for its sunset views. Being on the west coast of Koh Larn, it’s perfectly positioned for watching the sun dip into the Gulf of Thailand – many consider it the best sunset spot on the island. Another unique feature is the solar-powered plant (a set of distinctive solar panel arrays and a futuristic-looking building at the northern end of the beach) which supplies electricity to Koh Larn. It’s not exactly a tourist attraction, but it’s an interesting quirk of Samae’s landscape. Samae’s blend of natural beauty and just the right amount of development (like that single resort and eco-friendly power source) gives it a special, balanced charm.
8. Tien Beach (Koh Larn)
Highlights: Tien Beach (Hat Tien) is often considered the most beautiful beach on Koh Larn by repeat visitors, due to its serene ambiance. It’s a medium-sized bay (~400m long) with blue-green water, powdery white sand, and palm trees and sea almond trees fringing the shore for natural shade. What makes Tien extra special is that it’s a bit removed from the main pier – you reach it via a picturesque wooden boardwalk from the road, since cars can’t drive right up to the beach. This keeps it quieter and less crowded than Tawaen or Samae. Tien’s scenery is postcard-worthy and the atmosphere is very relaxed.
Activities: The vibe at Tien is chilled and nature-focused. Most people are here for swimming and snorkeling. The water is crystal clear and usually calm, with coral reef patches at both ends of the beach where you can snorkel and see colorful fish. You can rent a mask and snorkel easily on the beach. Kayaks are also available if you want to paddle around the rocky edges. Onshore, Tien has the usual sunbeds for rent, but also some open sandy areas if you prefer your own mat under a tree. It’s a great beach for sunbathing (with the option of shade when you need it) and for taking a stroll down the whole cove. Occasionally, you might find locals offering banana boat rides here too, but motorized sports are limited to preserve the calm. Tien Beach is perfect for those who want to unwind, listen to the gentle waves, and maybe read a book by the sea.
Dining: Tien Beach has a handful of small eateries and beach bars, all fairly low-key and friendly. You won’t find big restaurants here, but that’s part of the charm. One recommended spot is the Tien Nara Beach Bar, connected to a tiny hotel at the far end of the beach – they make a great coconut smoothie and other refreshing drinks, and you can grab simple Thai dishes (curries, fried rice) to enjoy on their deck or delivered to your beach chair. Prices on Tien tend to be a bit lower than on the busier beaches (a bonus for budget travelers). Don’t miss the som tam (papaya salad) from the lady at the makeshift stall under the tree – spicy but delicious! Overall, dining is casual: think fresh grilled seafood, cold beer, and maybe some fruit from a wandering vendor, all enjoyed with your toes in the sand.
Unique: Tien Beach’s standout quality is its peaceful, tucked-away nature. Because of the boardwalk access and being a bit farther from the ferry pier, it stays less crowded and maintains a very relaxed, uncrowded feel – you can almost always find a quiet spot to yourself. The presence of coral reefs right off the beach is another unique feature, making it one of the best Koh Larn spots for snorkeling (bring water shoes, as near the rocks you might encounter sea urchins or sharp coral). Lastly, keep an eye out for some friendly wildlife – aside from colorful fish in the water, Tien sometimes has small flocks of waterbirds and even a few resident geese that wander around (a quirky sight mentioned by some visitors!). Tien Beach truly feels like a tropical oasis and is often rated a 10/10 by those seeking tranquility.
9. Nual Beach (Monkey Beach, Koh Larn)
Highlights: Nual Beach lies at the far south of Koh Larn and is a secluded, tranquil bay often less busy than other beaches on the island. It’s a shorter stretch of sand (under 300 meters) framed by rocky hills and plenty of greenery. The sand here is powder-fine and almost golden-white, and the water is extremely clear – perfect for spotting fish. One side of the bay has lush coconut palms and sea pine trees, giving it a very tropical feel. From Nual, you can gaze out and even see Pattaya’s skyline faintly in the distance across the water. It’s peaceful and picturesque, making it ideal for those looking to get away from the crowds.
Activities: The calm, glassy waters of Nual Beach are great for swimming and snorkeling. In fact, Nual has a coral reef just offshore, so snorkelers can discover colorful fish, starfish, and corals in the shallow water. You can rent snorkel gear on the beach. Kayaking is another popular activity – paddling from one rocky end of the bay to the other is both fun and scenic. Nual is also known for its monkey inhabitants: a small troop of wild monkeys lives in the wooded hillside by the beach. It’s not uncommon (especially in the cooler morning hours) to see a monkey or two venture down to the sand, which is a delightful surprise – just remember to keep a safe distance and secure your snacks! Other than that, activities are low-key: sunbathing, beachcombing for pretty shells, and perhaps enjoying a nap under a tree to the sound of gentle waves.
Dining: Despite being secluded, Nual Beach does have a little open-air restaurant and bar right on the sand. It’s a simple setup with thatched roof and plastic chairs, but they serve cold drinks, fruit shakes, and a variety of Thai dishes (grilled squid, green curry, and pad Thai are favorites). You can enjoy a fresh coconut or a cocktail from the bar while looking out at the sea. There are also a couple of street-food style stalls at the entrance of the beach (often selling fried chicken, som tam, or ice cream, depending on the day). Since Nual is quieter, the staff might even remember you and strike up a friendly chat. The combination of good, honest food and a barefoot casual vibe makes dining here feel like a true island experience.
Unique: Nual Beach’s most unique claim to fame is its monkeys. The beach is often called “Monkey Beach” for this reason. Seeing wild monkeys on a beach is pretty special – they usually hang around the rocky far-left end. As mentioned, just be cautious and don’t feed them, but it’s a fun element that kids and adults alike get excited about. Another noteworthy aspect is how secluded and quiet Nual feels; it’s off the typical tourist trail, with many visitors not making it here, so it can feel like your own private cove. If you walk to the far right end of the beach, you’ll often find yourself completely alone with just the sound of waves – a rare treat on a popular island. Add to that the excellent snorkeling and the backdrop of lush hills, and Nual becomes a truly special spot for nature lovers.
10. Koh Phai (Bamboo Island) Beach
Highlights: Koh Phai – also known as Bamboo Island – is a remote, uninhabited island about 23 km west of Pattaya, famed for its pristine sandy beaches and vibrant coral reefs. Since it’s protected by the Royal Thai Navy and has no permanent facilities, the natural beauty here is untouched. The beaches on Koh Phai have powdery white sand and extremely clear jade-colored waters, with lush vegetation and coconut palms just inland. It’s the kind of idyllic desert island scenery you might daydream about. Because it’s farther out, far fewer tourists visit Koh Phai compared to Koh Larn, making it feel like a secret tropical paradise when you set foot on its shores.
Activities: Koh Phai is all about nature and adventure. The island is surrounded by shallow reefs teeming with marine life, making it perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. Just a few feet from the beach, you can snorkel and spot corals, angelfish, parrotfish, and sometimes even turtles. For certified divers, Koh Phai offers access to the famous HTMS Khram shipwreck nearby – an artificial reef attracting diverse sea creatures. On the beach itself, typical activities include swimming in the crystal-clear water, beachcombing (you might find interesting shells and driftwood), and simply basking in the sun far away from civilization. Some tours to Koh Phai also bring stand-up paddleboards or kayaks for guests to enjoy. Since the island is undeveloped, hiking is an option too – you can walk along small trails to explore the interior, where you’ll find bamboo groves (hence the name) and get panoramic views from higher ground.
Dining: There are no restaurants or shops on Koh Phai – this is a true undeveloped island (no overnight stays are permitted either). If you visit with a tour, typically lunch is provided by the tour operator (often a packed picnic or barbecue on the beach). Independent travelers should bring their own food and plenty of water. Enjoying a picnic on Koh Phai’s beach can be a fantastic experience in itself – just you, your lunch, and the sound of waves. (Be sure to carry out all your trash to keep the island pristine.) If you’re eager for a special dining suggestion after your island trip, you could stop by a seafood restaurant back on Pattaya’s mainland or Koh Larn. But on Koh Phai, dining is essentially a picnic under the palm trees.
Unique: Koh Phai offers a castaway experience that’s quite unique in the Pattaya area. It’s largely untouched and serene – a world away from the city, accessible only by speedboat or tour. You’ll experience true tranquility here, with no infrastructure at all (no beach chairs, no jet skis – nothing but nature). The fact that the island is navy-owned and visitors must leave by late afternoon adds to its exclusivity and pristine condition. Another unique aspect is the rich marine life – snorkelers and divers consistently rave about the coral quality and sea creatures around Koh Phai. In short, Koh Phai is noteworthy for giving you that “deserted island” feeling, making it a must-visit for adventure seekers and those looking to experience one of Pattaya’s most beautiful natural environments.