Chon Buri · 26 Places · Best November to February
Chon Buri is a coastal province on Thailand's Eastern Seaboard, best known for the resort city of Pattaya and its string of sun-drenched beaches along the Gulf of Thailand. The province blends vibrant beach tourism with industrial heritage, traditional fishing villages, and lush tropical landscapes just 80 km from Bangkok.
Chon Buri Province stretches along the western shore of the Gulf of Thailand, encompassing the cosmopolitan beach city of Pattaya, the quieter family resort of Jomtien, the port hub of Si Racha, and the historic island of Ko Si Chang. The province offers a spectrum from budget backpacker hostels to ultra-luxury resorts, with world-class seafood, raucous nightlife, and serene temples all within easy reach. Industrial Laem Chabang hosts one of Southeast Asia's busiest ports, while Bang Saen remains a beloved weekend escape for Bangkok families.
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The 26 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
An awe-inspiring all-wood temple complex jutting into the sea at Naklua, built entirely without nails using traditional Thai craftsmanship. Every surface is covered in intricate carvings depicting Hindu and Buddhist cosmology, and construction has continued since 1981 as a living tribute to ancient craftsmanship.
A world-renowned 500-acre botanical garden featuring themed gardens, rare orchid collections, and multiple daily Thai cultural shows including elephant performances and traditional dance. The manicured grounds include a French garden, a cactus valley, a car museum and a stunning stonehenge replica.
A beautiful island 7.5 km from Pattaya's Bali Hai Pier, offering six white-sand beaches with crystal-clear turquoise water ideal for swimming, snorkeling and water sports. The island is easily reached by ferry and offers a welcome escape from Pattaya's bustle.
One of Thailand's largest open-concept zoos, sprawling over 2,400 acres of forested hills in Si Racha, home to over 8,000 animals across 300 species in natural-style enclosures. The zoo also offers a popular night safari allowing visitors to observe nocturnal animals after dark.
A family-oriented wildlife park in Si Racha featuring resident Bengal tigers, elephants, crocodiles, and pigs, with multiple daily shows including tiger performances and a unique tiger-and-piglet co-habitation exhibit. Guests can feed baby tigers and take photos with handlers.
Thailand's first movie-themed water park, opened in 2022 near Pattaya, featuring thrilling water slides, a wave pool, lazy river and character zones themed around Ghostbusters, Hotel Transylvania and Jumanji. The park spans 72 rai with world-class facilities.
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
A soaring 34-floor beachfront tower on Pattaya Beach Road with the acclaimed Horizon Rooftop Bar offering 360° views of the Gulf. Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, and the property has multiple pools, a spa and three restaurants.
Check rates on Booking.comAn iconic 5-star resort on the shores of Na Kluea Bay in North Pattaya, set in lush tropical gardens with multiple pools and direct beach access. Known for impeccable Thai hospitality, world-class dining and a full-service spa.
Check rates on Booking.comA MICHELIN-selected boutique resort next to Jomtien Beach with stylish contemporary décor, generous room sizes and impeccable beach-resort ambiance. The rooftop pool bar is one of Pattaya's most beautiful sunset spots.
Check rates on Booking.comA secluded private beach resort in Na Jomtien south of Pattaya with 148 rooms and suites, all with sea views. The resort has its own boat pier, multiple pools, a full spa and is deliberately removed from Pattaya's crowds.
Check rates on Booking.comCafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
One of Pattaya's most iconic seafood institutions, open since 1986, serving exceptional fresh catches in an open-air setting by the sea at South Pattaya. Beloved by locals and visitors for consistently excellent grilled fish, crab and shell dishes.
A beloved seafood restaurant on the North Pattaya seafront near Na Kluea market, celebrated for outstanding fresh crab curry and whole grilled fish at reasonable prices. A favorite with Thai visitors seeking authentic local-style seafood.
Pattaya's most ambitious fine-dining venue, housed in a dramatic open-air space on the Amari Hotel beachfront, divided into nine food stations covering Indian tandoor, Japanese sushi, Italian pasta, Chinese dim sum and more under one theatrical roof.
An upscale open-air restaurant perched over the sea at Jomtien Beach, renowned for romantic sunset dining, fresh seafood platters and Thai contemporary dishes with stunning Gulf views.
A lively open-air restaurant on stilts over the water at Jomtien, popular for generous portions of grilled seafood, somtam (papaya salad) and iced seafood trays at local-friendly prices.
A longstanding Pattaya institution run by Swiss owner Bruno, serving refined European cuisine with an extensive wine cellar. Known for consistent quality, a cozy atmosphere and outstanding fondue and raclette dishes.
Book a food tour in Chon Buri We may earn a commission from bookings made through this link.
Chon Buri is well connected to Bangkok by bus, minivan and (soon) high-speed rail. Within the province, Pattaya is served by songthaews (shared pickup trucks), baht buses, Grab, taxis and motorcycle taxis. Ferries connect the mainland to Ko Lan and Ko Si Chang islands.
Daily spend by tier in THB, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $10 | $45 | $180 |
| Food (per day) | $8 | $20 | $80 |
| Transportation | $4 | $10 | $30 |
| Activities | $8 | $10 | $30 |
| Daily total | $30 | $85 | $320 |
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Chon Buri.
Always agree on taxi fares before boarding or use Grab app to avoid overcharging
Photograph jet skis and beach loungers before renting to document pre-existing damage — scam claims are common
Keep valuables secured in hotel safes; pickpockets operate in crowded Walking Street and night markets
Use only licensed songthaews (blue shared trucks) on established routes rather than private charters at tourist spots
Avoid buying gems or jewelry from strangers who approach you with 'special promotions' — a classic Thai scam
Do not accept rides or tours from unsolicited street touts outside attractions
Swim only at patrolled beaches; red flags mean dangerous currents — respect them strictly
Apply sun protection factor 50+ sunscreen — the equatorial sun causes severe burns within 30 minutes
Carry a photocopy of your passport rather than the original when out sightseeing
Stay hydrated — heat exhaustion is a real risk, especially May–October; drink 2–3 liters daily
Be cautious on rented motorcycles — Thailand has one of the world's highest road accident rates; wear a helmet
Do not purchase or use drugs — penalties in Thailand are severe and include the death penalty for trafficking
Respect temple rules: cover shoulders and knees, remove shoes, and do not point feet toward Buddha images
Tourist Police are helpful and English-speaking — call 1155 if in any difficulty
Walking Street is safe but alcohol-fueled incidents occur; stay in groups and keep mobile phones charged
Chon Buri province, including Pattaya, is generally safe for tourists, with an active Tourist Police presence and ongoing anti-scam campaigns. Exercise normal caution regarding common tourist scams, road safety and personal belongings, particularly in crowded entertainment areas at night. Emergency services: police at 191, medical at 1669 (Emergency Medical Services).
The best time to visit Chon Buri is November to February. Chon Buri has a tropical monsoon climate with three distinct seasons: cool-dry (November–February), hot-dry (March–May) and wet (June–October). The province lies on the western shore of the Gulf of Th
Entry requirements follow Thailand national rules. Citizens of 57+ countries receive a 30-day visa exemption on arrival. Others may apply for a tourist visa (TR) at a Thai consulate. The Thailand e-Visa system allows online application. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
The currency in Chon Buri is the Thai Baht (THB). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
The main language(s) spoken in Chon Buri: Thai, English (widely spoken in tourist areas). In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
The top attractions in Chon Buri include Sanctuary of Truth (Prasat Sajja Tham), Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, Ko Lan (Coral Island), Khao Kheow Open Zoo, and Sriracha Tiger Zoo. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.
