Pattaya

Who says places filled with tourists can’t still be beautiful? While Pattaya has a reputation for its nightlife, including sex workers, streets lined with bars and clubs, and many ladyboys, there is much more to discover if you look beyond Walking Street.

One lesser-known gem is Sai Kaew Beach, which you can access by passing through the Thai Naval Training Centre. Once you arrive, you’ll find a charming beach that, although it can get busy, often has space for you to sunbathe or relax in the shade. Just be cautious of the monkeys, as they tend to rummage through your bags when you’re not looking to check if your food is appealing!

Away from the nightlife scene, further down Jomtien Beach, there are some hidden treasures. One beach bar comes alive at sunset when the beach becomes deserted. It attracts mostly Thai locals, but you’ll always feel welcome, and the food is absolutely delicious.

Perhaps it’s because you’re seated at tables right on the beach, gazing out at the sea; maybe it’s the vibrant music from the bar, the beautiful surroundings, the company you share, or the refreshing cocktails they serve that make the experience so enjoyable. It’s truly a treat, especially since this bar is the only one along an expansive stretch of beach that goes on for miles.

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Sai Kaew Beach is about 20 km south of Pattaya and if you have a car it is well worth the trip out there.

Be aware though go early as foreigners are not allowed on the beach after 6pm as its reserved for locals

Beware of the monkeys, though, as they have a tendency to go through your bags when you’re not looking to find whether your food tastes acceptable 🙂

Away from the bars and clubs,  further down Jomtien beach has a few golden nuggets

There is a bar on the beach that becomes alive (literally) as the sun sets and the beach becomes deserted

Mainly Thai people go there, but you will always be made to feel welcome, and the food is mouthwatering

Maybe because you are sat on tables on the beach looking into the sea.

Or the vibrant sounds of the music coming from the bar,

Or maybe it’s just the surroundings, the company you’re with or the cocktails they serve, but it is a real treat as it is the only one along a beach stretching for miles.