Pattaya has lured tourists for almost four decades, and it’s showing no sign of slowing down. The gorgeous half-moon of Pattaya Bay swoops around the headland to (slightly) more refined Hat Jomtien, and delicate sea-breezes whip up a heady cocktail of suntan lotion, fast food, and motorcycle and jet-ski fumes. Pattaya offers so much to so many people, from the beautiful beaches to the fantastic shopping. While you are recovering from your surgery or dental, you can relax and enjoy what Pattaya has to offer.
Catering to the lifestyles of the hip and young, the lineup of shops here resembles those found at Bangkok’s J Avenue (Thonglor) and La Villa (Phaholyothin). Think Starbucks, iBerry, Au Bon Pain, Wine Connection and a host of branded sportswear and lifestyle stores like iStudio, Adidas, Geox and Puma. There’s also an eight-screen cineplex and Blu-O, space-age bowling and karaoke club.
Open: 10:00-23:00 Location: Pattaya Second Road, next to Dusit D2 Hotel


One of Pattaya’s modern lifestyle shopping complexes, Central Festival Pattaya Beach features more than 200 leading brand shops (including Zara, Guess, DKNY Jeans, Diesel, MNG, Loft and more), a supermarket, bookstores, cinemas, an ice-skating rink and a host of entertainment venues and dining options. Facing the beach, you can also enjoy a lovely view of the ocean from the sixth floor.
Open: 11:00-23:00 Location: Beach Road (between Sois 9 and 10)
South Pattaya - Closed off to car traffic after sunset, the Walking Street sees business as usual during the day. The two street sides are sprinkled with shops selling mostly ‘antiques’, jewellery, paintings and souvenirs. But the main highlight is a handful of tailor shops where you can get bespoke clothes custom-made at affordable prices. Don’t go for the cheapest deals or fastest delivery times, though, as quality tailoring takes time.
Open every evening until late.
With more than 110 shops selling all kinds of regional crafts and souvenirs, shopping at Pattaya Floating Market can be more exciting than browsing row after row of street stalls. Stroll along the wooden boardwalk and make your way from one regional market to the next, enjoy an afternoon show, or sample local snacks from the boat vendors. The floating market is a delightful alternative.
Open: 10:00 - 23:00 Location: Sukhumvit Road, pass Tesco-Lotus in Jomtien Beach area