Pattaya is changing. The beach is still a big part of the appeal, but sport, music, food and major events are giving travellers plenty of new reasons to visit.
1. Run beside the sea at the Pattaya Marathon
The 33rd Pattaya Marathon takes place on 26 and 27 September 2026. More than 40,000 runners, friends and family members are expected, with over 15 kilometres of the route following the coast as the sun rises over the Gulf of Thailand.
2. Time your trip around a big event
The city now hosts an impressive calendar including Rolling Loud Thailand, Wonderfruit, Pattaya International Fireworks Festival, Pattaya Music Festival and Honda LPGA Thailand. There is increasingly something worth travelling for throughout the year.
3. Stay a few days after the main event
Once the race, concert or festival is over, there are beaches, cafés, street food, restaurants, water sports and beach clubs to explore. Pattaya works particularly well for turning a weekend event into a longer break.
4. Families have more options than you might expect
Amari Pattaya has a large water park, kids’ club, spa and several restaurants, making it a useful base for families and groups where everyone wants something slightly different from the holiday.
5. You can keep things simple at OZO North Pattaya
For travellers who mainly want to get out and explore, OZO North Pattaya is close to the beach, restaurants, shopping and many of the city’s key events. It is also conveniently placed for the Pattaya Marathon.
Pattaya is no longer just somewhere to fly to for a few days on the beach. Pick the right weekend and you could combine a marathon, music festival or major event with a proper Thai seaside holiday.
Find out more: ONYX Hospitality Group