Pattaya has changed its target demographic to a large extent in the last decade. Although the city has always had excellent hotels that have stood for decades such as the Royal Cliff in Pratamnak and the Dusit Thani in North Pattaya, it is only in the last few years that we have witnessed a significant increase. It is hard to limit the list so first, we will give honourable mentions to the Amari, Holiday Inn, Cape Dara, Siam @ Siam and Hilton that didn’t, on this occasion, get singled out.
1. Grande Centrepoint
The Grande Centrepoint is one of the more recent additions to the Pattaya landscape and is in the Terminal 21 shopping mall. It is a luxury 5-star hotel with rooms offering stunning panoramic views across the city. The Sky 32 restaurant is a popular venue for diners as well as those who enjoy a few evening cocktails watching the sunset over Koh Larn. The fitness, conference, and spa facilities are also first-rate, making it arguably the number one choice at the present time.
2. Intercontinental Pattaya (formerly The Sheraton)
The Intercontinental Pattaya is was of the well-established hotels in Pattaya and is perfectly situated in the headland between Bali Hai Pier and Pratamnak. Although slightly older, it has recently been refurbished and has a magnificent selection of restaurants and boutique shops. The facilities are excellent, and many rooms offer unobstructed views across the Gulf of Thailand. For those who prefer to be in a quieter location, this hotel is a perfect choice.
3. Centara Grand Mirage
As beachfront hotels go, the Centara Grand Mirage in Wongamat is probably as good as you are going to get in Pattaya. All the sizeable rooms have unspoiled views looking across to Koh Larn and are modern and spacious. The hotel has an array of excellent restaurants and a few boutique shops. The conferencing facilities, spa and massage and fitness centre are equally as good while the organised activities are also superb, especially for families.
4. Siam Bayshore
The Siam Bayshore overlooks Bali Hai Pier and is at the Southern End of Walking Street with entry gained from Pattaya 2nd Road. The hotel has recently reopened after the coronavirus pandemic during which time the hotel underwent a refurbishment. The attraction of this hotel, especially for lovers of nightlife, is the location. However, it also has excellent amenities, including a pool overlooking the harbour, restaurants, and spa facilities.
5. Movenpick Siam Hotel
The Movenpick Siam Hotel is located in the wonderful, more serene setting on Na Jomtien to the South of Pattaya. This modern hotel with spacious rooms, all offering panoramic views across the Gulf and Ocean Marina, is the perfect getaway hotel. Movenpick has golden sands on the doorstep, and excellent facilities including restaurants, shopping, fitness, and spa and massage. Central Pattaya is around a 20-minute drive away, so is within easy driving distance.
6. D Varee
The D Varee Hotel is situated midway along Jomtien Beach Road and is a tranquil setting, slightly way from the busier parts – which are still within walking distance. The rooms offer unobstructed sea views, and the facilities are excellent, including restaurants and a spa. The fitness centre within the hotel also employs a personal trainer, should you wish to intensify your workouts.