Pattaya Leisure

Pattaya has an abundance of activities available, with an emphasis on participation as opposed to spectating. Active holidaymakers will find no end of opportunities to get physical, both at the beach and at various centres in and around the city.

Spectator sports

Spectator sports are somewhat limited in Pattaya, and aside from catching the locals playing after-work friendlies of the national game takraw (similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball, which can only be kicked), you’re only choice is to head for one of the Muay Thai matches that are staged regularly around the city.

Participant sports

At the beach, you’ll find endless opportunities to get active, with a list of water sports that include: parasailing, jet-skiing, scuba diving, snorkelling, sea fishing and kayaking. Away from the beach, there are activities such as bungee-jumping, shooting, archery, mountain biking, go-karting and rock climbing.

Those looking for more traditional sports and keep fit activities will find tennis and badminton courts, gyms, fitness centres and swimming pools. Many of the big hotels offer their own fitness facilities, which are generally free to residents or available on a pay-as-you-go basis to the general public.