Pattaya ThailandCruise Port Guide
Getting Around from the Port
Cruise ships anchor in the bay and tender passengers to Bali Hai Pier at the southern end of Pattaya Beach. From the pier, taxis (baht taxis — pick-up trucks with bench seats) and tuk-tuks serve the city for ฿20–฿100 per person depending on distance. Songthaew (shared baht taxi) routes run up and down Pattaya Beach Road for ฿10–฿20 per person. The Sanctuary of Truth is about 5 km north; taxi approximately ฿200–฿300 one way. Nong Nooch Tropical Garden is about 15 km south; organized excursion buses or private taxis (฿600–฿800 round trip). Koh Larn ferries depart from Bali Hai Pier (adjacent to where tenders dock): slow ferry ฿30 each way, speed boats available from ฿100 per person. Bangkok is approximately 2 hours by expressway; some cruise passengers arrange Bangkok day trips by private car (approximately $80–$120 USD for a car).
Attractions and Activities
Sanctuary of Truth admission is approximately ฿450–฿500; allow 2 hours for a thorough visit; traditional dance and martial arts shows are held daily on the grounds. Koh Larn Coral Island day trip by ferry (฿30 each way) with beach time, snorkelling (equipment rental ฿150–฿200), and seafood lunch on the beach is the quintessential Pattaya experience. Nong Nooch Tropical Garden (admission approximately ฿800 including cultural show) warrants a half-day. Alcazar or Tiffany's Cabaret Show tickets run approximately ฿600–฿800 and deliver spectacular Vegas-style performance art with Thai classical dance elements. The Pattaya Floating Market (admission ฿200) is entertaining for food and handicraft browsing. Big Buddha Hill viewpoint is free and offers sweeping bay views. Combined ship-organized excursions typically bundle Sanctuary of Truth + Koh Larn, or Sanctuary + Nong Nooch, at approximately $60–$90 per person.
Dining & Shopping
Pattaya's food scene ranges from simple beach-shack grilled seafood to elegant Thai fine dining. Mum Aroi restaurant, set on stilts over the water at the northern end of Naklua district, is one of the city's most celebrated Thai seafood restaurants — try the crab curry and deep-fried sea bass. Walking Street's restaurant row offers Thai, Chinese, and international options in an intense sensory environment. Beach Road is lined with casual seafood grills where fresh prawns, squid, and fish are priced by weight. Koh Larn island has several open-air seafood restaurants on Tawaen Beach where whole fish, giant prawns, and som tum (papaya salad) can be enjoyed with Gulf views. For shopping, Central Festival Pattaya Beach mall carries international and Thai brands, while the local night markets along Thepprasit Road (weekends) offer street food, clothing, and handicrafts at very low prices.
Weather
Pattaya has a tropical monsoon climate with the dry season from November to February offering the most pleasant cruising conditions, with temperatures between 77°F and 88°F (25–31°C) and lower humidity. The hot season from March to May can be intensely warm, and the monsoon from May to October brings regular afternoon downpours. Pack lightweight breathable clothing, sun protection, and a compact umbrella or rain jacket.
Safety
Pattaya has improved significantly in safety for mainstream tourists but retains a reputation for petty scams targeting visitors. Agree taxi prices before boarding or ensure meters are used. Walking Street after dark is busy and boisterous; exercise judgment and keep to well-lit areas. Avoid unlicensed tour operators and verify boat safety standards before embarking. Water quality at Pattaya Beach itself is variable — Koh Larn has significantly cleaner water. The sun is extremely intense year-round; sunscreen, hydration, and loose clothing are essential. Petty theft occurs at crowded attractions — secure valuables.
Currency and Language
Thai Baht (THB). ATMs are widespread throughout Pattaya and charge a foreign transaction fee of approximately ฿220 per withdrawal. Credit cards accepted at major hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls. Many markets and small vendors are cash-only. USD is not generally accepted. Tipping of ฿20–฿50 at restaurants or 10% at upscale venues is appreciated.