For anyone seeking a laid-back beach experience close to Bangkok, Jomtien stands out as the preferred choice in the Pattaya area. Just a 20-minute drive further south of Pattaya, and about two hours from Bangkok, Jomtien is a good weekend getaway for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle without venturing too far. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Jomtien offers a more tranquil and relaxed vibe compared to Pattaya, which is famous for its adult-oriented nightlife and busier beach.
Having lived in Jomtien for nearly two years, I have a personal connection to this coastal town—it’s even where I met my wife. She had just returned from years of living in Australia and started working in a real estate company in Pattaya, where I was freelancing as a web developer. Though Jomtien may not be the most picturesque beach destination in Thailand if you compare it to islands such as Koh Lipe or Koh Tao, it has other charms that make it worth considering.
Affordable and Convenient
One of Jomtien’s biggest advantages is affordability. Compared to the islands, living here is incredibly cost-effective. It’s continental and close to Bangkok, and popular, prices are half those of famous island destinations in the South. Accommodation is of all standards and usually cheaper, the street food is as affordable as it gets, and even seafood can be enjoyed at very reasonable prices. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, local transportation is almost laughably cheap—just 10 THB for most trips if you’re willing to hop on a songthaew (the open-air pickup trucks with benches in the back). While songthaews might not win any safety awards, they’re a staple of local travel, and they offer an authentic taste of Thai transport.
Another major perk is Jomtien’s proximity to Pattaya and Bangkok. A quick songthaew ride can get you to Pattaya’s infamous Walking Street, or the shopping malls of Beach Road, and if you’re craving more of the city life, there are hourly buses to Bangkok. Taxis are always an option too and you’re in Bangkok with a private car for 1200 to 1500 THB. Unlike remote island paradises, Jomtien offers modern conveniences—malls, movie theaters, and international cuisine are all easily accessible, not to mention the massages, bars, and entertainment venues that cater to every taste.
It’s this blend of affordability, accessibility, and comfort that makes Jomtien such an attractive destination. You get the advantages of Pattaya without actually living there.
We usually go to hotels when visiting Jomtien, such as Avalon, a simple beachfront restaurant with a nice swimming pool. Sometimes we chose to rent a AirBnB, some owners with seaview condos do rent occasionnaly, it can be nice if you are several couple of friends with kids.
A beachfront hotel in Jomtien, south of Pattaya. Thai ancient style overall, average rooms, a bit oldish but the swimming pool is great, and then you have the beach directly on the other side of the road. It’s also conveniently located, not far from a 7/11, restaurants and the main songthaew route from Bangkok, pick up trucks that stop wherever you ring (10 THB!).
The Beach Experience
Now, let’s talk about the beach. Jomtien Beach isn’t exactly the turquoise, crystal-clear waters you might find on Thailand’s islands, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t enjoyable. The water may not always be ideal for swimming, especially since we’re only a short distance from Laem Chabang, Thailand’s largest port, which is responsible for the majority of the country’s containerized cargo. But on weekends, you’ll still see plenty of Thai families and children enjoying the water.
Most foreigners and tourists opt for their hotel or residence swimming pools, but in reality, the sea water isn’t as bad as you might think—certainly no worse than what you’d find in the Mediterranean. In general, beaches on the mainland tend to get more waves, which can stir up sand, especially during the rainy season. The islands, by contrast, offer those postcard-perfect blue lagoon waters, but they’re much harder to reach and come at a higher price.
That said, Jomtien’s 7-kilometer stretch of beach is wide and spacious, filled with trees and coconut trees bringing shade, with plenty of sunbeds for rent under umbrellas at reasonable prices. It may not be the epitome of tropical paradise, but it’s easy and comfortable. The promenade, lined with palm trees, has been upgraded in recent years, making it a pleasant place to take a stroll, and there are plenty of beach front dining options to suit every palate (mostly seafood though of course).
A nice classic restaurant in Jomtien is Surf Kitchen, nothing exceptional, just a reasonably priced tourist restaurant.
Hidden Gems and Nearby Attractions
If you venture just south of Jomtien, you’ll find Na Jomtien Beach, a quieter and more natural stretch of sand. This area has become home to some trendy beach clubs, like Cave Beach Club, where you can dine on the sand, listen to lounge-style electronic music, and enjoy fantastic food in a stylish setting. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed day by the sea. There’s also a lot of water sports available there, it’s a windsurf and kite surf spot particularly as it gets wind.
A popular beachfront club in Pattaya, Thailand, renowned for its stylish ambiance, delectable Thai cuisine, and breathtaking ocean views. It’s actually not in Pattaya but on the Na Jomtien beach even more south of Jomtien. With its Bali-inspired decor and comfortable seating directly on the sand, it offers a serene and inviting atmosphere perfect for unwinding and enjoying the coastal lifestyle.
Further south, you’ll find the hidden gem of Sai Kaew Beach—a beautifully preserved beach nestled within a military base. The journey to get there can be a bit tricky, but the reward is worth it. This beach remains untouched by mass tourism, and for a small entrance fee, you can enjoy one of the nicest beaches in the region. Its seclusion and pristine environment make it feel worlds away from the busier stretches of sand.
For those with a love for the sea, Jomtien also boasts Ocean Marina, home to a variety of yachts, including charters that can take you to explore nearby islands. Many of these islands are part of protected national parks, offering an even more secluded and natural beach experience.
One of the top attractions in the area is the Nong Nooch Botanical Garden. Spanning over 500 acres, this vast garden is home to a collection of themed landscapes, with everything from manicured European gardens to lush tropical displays. The garden also features cultural performances and elephant shows. During the pandemic, Nong Nooch added hundreds of life-sized concrete dinosaurs to its already impressive collection, creating a surreal experience that delights children and adults alike.
Conclusion
Jomtien may not have the same draw as Thailand’s more famous island destinations, but its mix of affordability, proximity to modern amenities, and relaxed atmosphere makes it an easy choice for a weekend getaway from Bangkok.
Sure, you might not get the postcard-perfect tropical beaches here, but Jomtien’s charm lies in its simplicity and accessibility. For those who appreciate the convenience of being close to a major city while still enjoying a laid-back beach vibe, Jomtien remains a solid contender.
