7 Best Sights in The Gulf Coast Beaches, Thailand

Pattaya Beach's quieter neighbor to the south, Jomtien Beach is less gaudy, less crowded, and a bit less expensive. The white sand, cleaner water, and cordoned-off swimming areas are also draws. Shaded areas with deck chairs cover large sections of the beach, and vendors sell food and drink at inflated prices. Water sports play a dominant role here; you can rent Jet Skis, paragliders, and speedboats up and down the beach. Jomtien is home to a few windsurfing schools. Amenities: food and drink. Best for: swimming; windsurfing.

From Pattaya Bay, shared speedboats take just 15 minutes to reach the island of Koh Lan. The beaches have white sand, and the water is cleaner than at Pattaya Beach. Koh Lan gets busy by midday, so arrive early if you want peace and quiet. The waters are crowded with speedboats and other motorized craft—and some speedboat operators are reckless, so be cautious when swimming. Food and drink vendors wander among the shaded deck chairs, although the prices are steep. Ferries leave South Pattaya Pier daily from 10 am to 6:30 pm. Private speedboats can be hired as well. Amenities: food and drink. Best for: swimming; nature lovers.

The city's namesake beach fronts slightly murky waters, but its sand is golden and fine, and safe swimming areas have been added in recent years. You can rent shaded deck chairs by the hour, and food vendors and trinket merchants wander up and down the beach. The bay is usually crowded with small boats, Jet Skis, and other diversions. Parallel to the shore, Pattaya Beach Road has a landscaped walkway that separates the beach from the restaurants, shopping malls, and resorts on the opposite side. Amenities: food and drink. Best for: walking.

This elephant sanctuary's few dozen pachyderms display their skills in a two-hour show. Demonstrations include bathing, the elephants' roles in ceremonial rites, and their usefulness in construction. Everything is staged, but it's amusing to see the animals at work and play. Unlike other places with elephant shows, this one has a reputation for treating its animals with respect. Tickets are available from most hotels and travel agents in town. Between 8 and 5, you can take a one-hour elephant ride for an extra B1,200.

Curiosities from all over are on display at this centrally located attraction that's a worldwide tourist-area staple. The authentic items and novelties run the gamut from shrunken heads to optical illusions.

Wealthy businessman Lek Viriyaphant started building this massive teak structure in 1981, and it's still not finished. The aim of the sanctuary, whose intricate carvings blend modern and traditional styles, is to make a statement about the balance of different cultures. The waterfront setting north of Pattaya is pleasant.