Things to Do Around Jomtien

Begin the morning on the sand and by lunch you could be wandering a floating market, sailing to an island or standing before a hillside carved with a golden Buddha. Jomtien rewards curious travellers. Beyond the shoreline lies a surprising mix of temples, gardens, markets and islands, all within easy reach. Here is where to go, and how to fill your days.

Start with the beach

Jomtien Beach runs for about 6 km south of central Pattaya. It is quieter and more spacious than Pattaya Beach, with a promenade, shaded spots and seafood restaurants along the way. Water sports usually start from around 9:30 in the morning. For a more peaceful spot, walk or drive to Dongtan Beach at the southern end.

Take a trip to the islands

Koh Larn sits about 7 km offshore. A ferry from Bali Hai Pier takes around 45 minutes, and a speedboat takes about 15. Spend the day swimming, snorkelling or hopping between beaches by songthaew or scooter. Book a tour if you would like to see the more distant islets.

Float, wander and marvel

•    Pattaya Floating Market: More than 100 shops and food stalls, with boat rides and a daily cultural show. It is a good place for lunch and gifts.
•    Nong Nooch Tropical Garden: Themed gardens and an orchid collection. Allow half a day.
•    Khao Chi Chan: A hillside carved with a large golden Buddha, with a park and lake nearby. A peaceful place for a picnic.
•    Columbia Pictures Aquaverse is the world’s first movie-themed water park, featuring highlights such as Ghostbusters Water Dome, Jumanji Adventure, Hotel Transylvania Kids Zone, and Zombieland Beast Slide, plus extra fun with mini golf and go-karts.
•    Ramayana Water Park is the largest and best water park in Thailand, designed with a creative theme inspired by Thai literature. Here, you can enjoy thrilling adventures across more than 20 slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and kids’ zones — all while discovering happiness and excitement in one of the country’s most imaginative water parks.
•    Winter Wonderland Pattaya, a virtual snow city with an ice-skating rink for family activities 

Rainy days and family days

When the weather turns, Underwater World Pattaya offers a walk-through aquarium with acrylic tunnels, and it suits all ages. Thrill-seekers can head to one of Pattaya’s large water parks for a full day of slides and lazy rivers. Many families also choose a resort with its own pool and activities, so children can play without leaving the grounds. Centara Life Maris Resort Jomtien offers a pool with a waterfall and waterslides, a kids’ club and a teen zone, which makes a good base between outings.

Evenings in the south

Thepprasit Night Market, south of central Pattaya, comes alive in the late afternoon with street food, clothing and souvenirs. It is busiest on weekend evenings. For a more relaxed night, enjoy fresh seafood by the water and watch the sun set over the bay.

Planning tips

•    Visit between November and April for mild, dry weather.
•    Allow extra time for traffic when travelling between Jomtien, central Pattaya and Naklua.
•    Use a ride-hailing app or a songthaew for short trips.
•    Book island tours and big attractions ahead in the high season.
•    Bring sunscreen, a hat and cash for market stalls.

From the beach and the islands to markets and gardens, Jomtien makes it easy to fill your days or do nothing at all.