Pattaya holidays - travel guide - activities & sights

Though it may seem unusual to come to Thailand simply to play golf, many people do just that, and Pattaya is a particular favourite. Home to over 20 international standard courses in the area, Pattaya offers fantastic facilities and standards, and the costs are much lower than you'd pay at home! Be prepared for an early start, as you may find that the best time to tee off is before the sun gets too hot.

Like many of Thailand's beach resorts, the range of watersports on offer in Pattaya is fantastic - helped greatly by the calm, warm seas in the bay. Choices range from para-sailing and jet-skiing to fishing, diving and sailing. An excellent way to enjoy the wonderful water and the sunshine as well as staying active.

Many of the hotels are located close to the main Pattaya Beach, which is a busy bustling beach popular for watersports. During the day there are many vendors plying their trade along the sand. Quieter beaches of the area include Jomtien Beach, popular with families for watersports, and Dongtan Beach.

At the southern end of the bay, this hill offers the best viewpoint out over the surrounding Pattaya area and the stunning coastline - and are both equally spectacular during the day and at night. At the top of the hill there is also a small Buddhist temple which features an impressive 18 metre golden Buddha statue.

Approximately 20 minutes by car from the centre of Pattaya lies this impressive sculpture in the side of a rock face. Constructed by the King's children to commemorate his golden jubilee in 1996, it was cut by lasers out of solid rock, and then inlaid with gold. This impressive sight can be seen for miles around.