Those in the know skip Pattaya City and head just a stone’s throw south to its tamer neighbour, Jomtien. Located in Chonburi Province, around 1.5 hours’ drive south of Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and 40 minutes north of U-Tapao International Airport (UTP), the Na Jomtien subdistrict is a hub of five-star resorts and welcoming beach bars. 

 

?Unlike Pattaya and Jomtien Beach, this three-kilometre stretch does not see the sea and town separated by Beach Road, meaning its hotels and restaurants enjoy direct access to the sand. As a result, Na Jomtien attracts no shortage of big-name hotels, from the towering Mövenpick Siam to the traditional Thai-style Dor-Shada and the contemporary Renaissance Pattaya. Numerous beach villas and apartments can also be found for rent in the area. 

 

 

 

Away from the resorts, it's easy to find a peaceful spot to lounge on the beach – mats and deckchairs are readily available for hire and masseuses are on standby offering pocket-friendly Thai and oil massage to the tune of the lapping waves. For those who prefer a more action-packed getaway, there are plenty of things to do in Na Jomtien. Holidaymakers can take to the waves by kiteboard or windsurf or yacht to explore nearby islands and snorkelling spots. Other attractions include water parks, botanical gardens, theme parks, wineries, a floating market, and Ocean Marina, home to the annual Pattaya Boat Show.

Despite being so close to Pattaya, Na Jomtien retains its tranquil fishing village vibe. Visitors can sample the fresh daily catch at the handful of exceptional seafood restaurants dotted along the beach. These are interspersed with international restaurants and glamorous beach clubs including the famed Cafe del Mar – a draw for wealthy locals, Instagrammers and tourists alike.

 

Come evening, a handful of local beach bars are open until 11pm or midnight, while the chilled-out restaurants of Jomtien Beach are just 10 minutes’ drive away. Those seeking a wilder night can head 25 minutes north to immerse themselves in the frenetic nightlife of Pattaya.

 

Read on to discover the best resorts, restaurants and activities in the Na Jomtien region.

 

 

 

 

 

Travel Daily Media