Pattaya is perfectly positioned as a base for exploring eastern Thailand. From island hopping to jungle waterfalls, these day trips are all within 2.5 hours.
Nearest Island
Koh Larn (30 min)
Budget Trip
Bang Saen (Free)
Best for Kids
Khao Kheow Zoo
Most Scenic
Chanthaburi
The most popular day trip from Pattaya. Tawaen Beach is the busiest with food stalls and activities. Samae Beach is quieter and more beautiful. Rent a motorbike (300 THB/day) to explore all 6 beaches. Last ferry back at 6 PM.
Highlights: Crystal clear water, 6 beaches to choose from, snorkeling, parasailing, glass-bottom boats, fresh seafood restaurants on the beach
A proper island escape with powdery white sand beaches. Sai Kaew Beach is the main hub with bars and restaurants. Ao Phrao on the west coast is secluded and serene. National park entrance fee: 200 THB for foreigners. Possible as a long day trip or overnight.
Highlights: White sand beaches, bioluminescent plankton at night, fire shows, national park island, snorkeling and kayaking
One of the most beautiful tropical gardens in the world, spanning 600 acres. The Thai cultural show runs 3 times daily. Dinosaur Valley with life-size models is a hit with kids. Allow 3-4 hours minimum. Restaurant and cafe on-site.
Highlights: Massive botanical garden, cultural show, elephant show, dinosaur valley, butterfly garden, orchid garden
Home to over 200 Bengal tigers. Watch crocodile wrestling shows, tiger performances, and take photos with tiger cubs (500 THB). The crocodile farm has thousands of crocs. Allow 3-4 hours. Controversial for animal welfare -- research before visiting.
Highlights: Tigers, crocodiles, shows, photo with tiger cubs (extra charge), pig racing, elephant shows
Sprawling open zoo where animals roam in large natural enclosures. Drive or take the tram through different habitat zones. Night Safari (separate ticket, 300 THB) runs Friday-Sunday and holidays. Giraffe feeding is a highlight. Allow 3-5 hours. Bring your own car or rent one.
Highlights: Open safari concept, night safari available, over 300 species, giraffe feeding, penguin house, bird aviary
A local Thai beach town without the tourist markup. Seafood at the beachfront restaurants is half the price of Pattaya. Visit Ang Sila fishing village for fresh oysters. Khao Sam Muk viewpoint has wild monkeys and great sunset views. Very Thai experience with few foreign tourists.
Highlights: Local Thai beach town, cheap seafood restaurants, Ang Sila fishing village, Khao Sam Muk monkey hill, Institute of Marine Science aquarium
Famous for tropical fruit orchards. During fruit season (May-July), visit farms to eat unlimited fresh durian, mangosteen, and rambutan for a flat entry fee. Mae Ramphueng Beach is 12 km of quiet, undeveloped coastline. Perfect for those wanting to escape tourist crowds.
Highlights: Fruit orchards (durian, mangosteen, rambutan), quiet beaches at Mae Ramphueng, Rayong Aquarium, Khao Laem Ya National Park
Thailand's gem trading center with a weekend gem market where you can watch dealers trade sapphires and rubies. The old town has beautiful French-colonial and Vietnamese architecture around the riverside. Namtok Phlio is a stunning national park waterfall. Chanthaburi produces 70% of Thailand's durian. Long day trip but rewarding.
Highlights: Gem market (sapphires), Phlio Waterfall, old French-Vietnamese quarter, cathedral, durian capital of Thailand
Most hotels have a tour desk in the lobby. Convenient but slightly marked up (10-20%). Good for last-minute bookings and reliable operators.
Klook, GetYourGuide, and Viator offer competitive prices with instant confirmation. Read reviews, compare packages, and often get 5-15% off with promo codes. Free cancellation policies available on many tours.
Small tour shops on every major street. Cheapest option but quality varies. Negotiate the price, confirm exactly what is included, and check reviews on Google Maps. Pay a deposit, not full amount upfront.
Hire a private car with driver for 1,500-3,000 THB/day through your hotel or apps like Grab. Best for families and groups. You control the itinerary, timing, and stops. Driver waits while you explore.
| Factor | Rental Car | Tour Group |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Car rental 1,000-1,500 THB/day + gas | Package 1,000-3,000 THB per person |
| Flexibility | Complete freedom, stop anywhere, stay as long as you want | Fixed schedule, group pace, limited stops |
| Convenience | Need international driving permit, navigate Thai roads | Hotel pickup, everything arranged, guide included |
| Best For | Families, groups of 3+, experienced travelers, multiple stops | Solo travelers, couples, first-time visitors, language barrier concerns |
| Booking | Hertz, Avis, Thai Rent A Car, or local shops on Second Road | Hotel front desk, Klook, GetYourGuide, street tour agents |