Chonburi Travel Guide: Thailands Coastal Playground and Cultural Heartbeat

September 5, 2024

Chonburi is Thailand’s premier seaside province, offering a perfect blend of sun, sea, and tradition. Located just a short drive from Bangkok, Chonburi is best known for its bustling beach town of Pattaya, but there’s far more to discover beyond its famous shorelines. From tranquil fishing villages to vibrant markets, world-class nightlife, and exciting water sports, Chonburi caters to every traveller. Let’s explore what makes Chonburi a top destination in this comprehensive 2025 guide!

A Glimpse into Chonburi’s History

Chonburi, which translates to “City of Water,” has a rich cultural and maritime heritage. Historically, the province was a small fishing and farming community until it developed into a major trading and tourism hub. The strategic coastal location made Chonburi a centre for trade, connecting routes from Bangkok to other provinces along the Gulf of Thailand.

Fun Fact: Chonburi is home to one of Thailand’s most famous festivals, the Buffalo Racing Festival, which has been celebrated for over 140 years.

Top Tourist Destinations in Chonburi

1. Pattaya Beach and Walking Street

Pattaya Beach is the heart of Chonburi’s tourism, attracting visitors with its sandy shores, water sports, and vibrant nightlife. Walking Street, Pattaya’s nightlife hub, comes alive every evening with bars, clubs, street performances, and a mix of music genres. It’s an experience not to be missed for party lovers and night owls.

2. Koh Larn (Coral Island)

Just a short boat ride from Pattaya, Koh Larn offers crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and pristine beaches. The island is perfect for day trips, with activities such as snorkelling, parasailing, and beachside dining. Popular beaches include Tawaen Beach, known for its lively vibe, and Nual Beach, a quieter spot for relaxation.

3. Nong Nooch Tropical Garden

Nong Nooch Tropical Garden is a sprawling botanical garden and cultural park showcasing beautifully landscaped gardens, cultural shows, and Thai architecture. Visitors can stroll through themed gardens, including the French Garden, Butterfly Hill, and a Cactus Garden, or enjoy traditional Thai dance and martial arts performances.

Fun Fact: Nong Nooch Tropical Garden holds the Guinness World Record for the largest collection of palm species in a botanical garden.

Watching Muay Thai in Chonburi

Pattaya, Chonburi’s most popular city, is home to several Muay Thai gyms and stadiums. One of the most famous venues is Max Muay Thai Stadium Pattaya, where you can watch thrilling matches with both local and international fighters. The stadium offers daily events, making it easy to experience the excitement of Muay Thai at any time.

Fun Fact: Pattaya’s Muay Thai events are known for their high-energy atmosphere, with traditional music and enthusiastic fans adding to the thrill.

Accommodation Options for Every Budget

Low Budget: Jomtien Hostel

Located near Jomtien Beach, Jomtien Hostel offers budget-friendly dorms and private rooms at around AUD 15 per night. It’s an ideal option for backpackers seeking a relaxed vibe and beach access.

Medium Budget: Mercure Pattaya Ocean Resort

Mercure Pattaya Ocean Resort provides mid-range comfort with ocean-view rooms and family-friendly facilities, including a water park and pool. Rooms average around AUD 80 per night, making it a great choice for those wanting comfort without splurging.

High Budget: InterContinental Pattaya Resort

For a luxurious experience, the InterContinental Pattaya Resort offers elegant beachfront villas with private pools and premium amenities. Rooms start at AUD 300 per night, and the resort’s private beach, infinity pool, and fine dining options make it a top choice for travellers seeking indulgence.

Local Nightlife: Sports Bars, Nightclubs, and Lady Bars

Local Sports Bars

Pattaya is famous for its lively sports bars, where you can catch live football matches, UFC fights, and more. The Sportsman Pub on Soi 13 is a popular spot for expats and visitors, offering a variety of beers on tap, hearty pub food, and big screens showing international sports.

Nightclubs and Parties

For a night of dancing, The Pier Disco Club on Walking Street is a must-visit. This popular club features international DJs, a great sound system, and a lively crowd. Another top pick is 808 Club, known for its EDM and hip-hop nights.

Lady Bars

Pattaya’s lady bars are well-known worldwide, with Soi 6, Soi 7, and Soi LK Metro being the main areas. These bars cater to those looking for a lively atmosphere and socialising opportunities. Despite the party-centric nature, it’s a staple part of Pattaya’s nightlife that many visitors find intriguing to explore.

The History of Pattaya’s Walking Street

Pattaya’s Walking Street is famous for its neon lights, street performances, and diverse mix of entertainment. Historically, it was a quiet fishing village until the 1960s when Pattaya began transforming into a tourism hub. Today, Walking Street is a kilometre-long stretch that captures Pattaya’s vibrant spirit, offering everything from live music and street food to nightclubs and souvenir shops.

Fun Fact: Pattaya’s Walking Street is entirely closed to traffic in the evening, allowing visitors to roam freely and enjoy the buzzing atmosphere.

Popular Street Foods and Must-Visit Restaurants

Street Foods to Try

1. Pla Pao - Grilled whole fish coated in salt and stuffed with lemongrass, served with a spicy seafood dipping sauce. You’ll find vendors grilling this fragrant dish along Pattaya Beach Road.

2. Fried Insects - For the adventurous eater, fried crickets, grasshoppers, and silkworms are popular street snacks in Pattaya. They’re crispy, salty, and surprisingly tasty!

Must-Visit Restaurants

1. The Glass House Pattaya - A beautiful beachfront restaurant offering a mix of Thai and international dishes. Their signature dish, soft-shell crab curry, is a favourite among visitors. The restaurant’s setting amidst glass-walled rooms and beach views makes it a dining experience to remember.

2. Cabbages and Condoms - Part of a social initiative, this unique restaurant serves up delicious Thai dishes with a focus on sustainable tourism and community support. Don’t miss their massaman curry and mango sticky rice.

Transportation Options in Chonburi

Chonburi is easy to explore with a variety of transport options:

• Baht Buses (Songthaews): These are the most common mode of transport in Pattaya, offering cheap and convenient travel along set routes. Fares are usually around 10-20 Baht, making them a budget-friendly option.

• Motorbike Rentals: Renting a motorbike is popular among visitors looking to explore the beaches and nearby attractions independently.

• Taxis and Grab: For those preferring private transport, Grab and taxis are readily available, though prices can be higher than using public transport.

Final Tips for Travellers

• Weather: The best time to visit Chonburi is from November to February, during the cool season. This period offers pleasant weather for beach activities, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures.

• Local Customs: While Chonburi is a bustling and tourist-friendly province, it’s still essential to dress modestly when visiting temples or engaging with locals in traditional areas.

Fun Fact: Chonburi’s annual Buffalo Racing Festival is a major event held every October, featuring buffalo races, beauty contests, and traditional celebrations. It’s a unique way to experience local culture and rural life.

Conclusion: Share Your Experience

Chonburi is more than just Pattaya; it’s a province rich in history, culture, and coastal beauty. Whether you’re relaxing on Koh Larn’s beaches, exploring the lush gardens of Nong Nooch, or partying on Pattaya’s Walking Street, Chonburi offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveller. From its world-class nightlife to its cultural festivals, Chonburi invites you to discover the many sides of this coastal paradise.

We hope you enjoyed this guide to Chonburi! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and share this article on your social media. Like and subscribe to our YouTube channel for weekly videos on the most popular blogs. Stay tuned for more in our Provinces of Thailand: Complete Travel Guide series!

References

• Updates from the Chonburi Provincial Tourism Office, 2024-2025

• Insights from local residents and businesses

• Visitor reviews and feedback from travel communities