A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pattaya vs. Paihia for Nightlife, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Pattaya or Paihia?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Pattaya and Paihia can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Pattaya

Pattaya is a active, vibrant, and high energy resort city. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Paihia

Paihia is a relaxing, fun-filled, and beautiful coastal town. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Pattaya and Paihia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pattaya or Paihia?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paihia than Pattaya, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paihia is better known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Pattaya is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, and shopping. Pattaya is well known for its beautiful beaches, plethora of amusement parks, and its party town reputation. Paihia is well known for its warm year round climate, impressive beaches, and world class snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Paihia is famous for the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

How is Pattaya different from Paihia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Paihia and Pattaya. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pattaya or Paihia?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Pattaya and Paihia.

Pattaya offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several cultural attractions near town such as the Sanctuary of Truth, Wat Yansangwararam, and Wat Phra Yai (the Big Buddha).

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Paihia. There are some interesting cultural sights in the area like the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and the Museum of Waitangi.

Is the Food Better in Pattaya or Paihia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Pattaya and Paihia.

Pattaya has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Street food is what this city is all about. You'll find streets lined with restaurants, but you'll also find snacks and other culinary treats at every corner. Khao Gaeng (curried rice with meat or vegetables), Kai Jeow (omelet over rice), and Moo Ping (grilled pork) are among the favorites.

Dining out in Paihia is an experience not to be missed. Local seafood, regional produce, and fresh ingredients make dining in the area a rewarding experience. You'll find fine dining restaurants, pizzerias, and local cafes to choose from.

Is Pattaya or Paihia Better for Nightlife?

Pattaya is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Paihia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Pattaya is a world class party destination. Despite a promotional campaign to promote family vacations, this city still holds tight to its party hard reputation. You'll find live bands, international DJs, and rooftop parties any night of the week.

Paihia has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. As a holiday spot, there are a number of clubs and bars that cater to tourists in the area.

Is Pattaya or Paihia Better for Resorts?

Pattaya is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Paihia is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Pattaya to choose from. If you're looking for built-up, all-the-frills, beach resorts, then this is your place. It's a touristy beach city with hotels are resorts that line the waterfront.

Paihia is not a resort destination.

Is Pattaya or Paihia Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paihia is a great coastal town for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Paihia is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are scuba diving and snorkel shops available around town where you can organize trips and excursions to experience the undersea world.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Pattaya. There are snorkeling and dive excursions that leave from town, or you could throw on a mask and snorkel and look for marine life right off the beach.

Is Pattaya or Paihia Better for Beaches?

Paihia is terrific for the beache. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for the beach.

Paihia is considered to be a world-class beach destination. There are stunning beaches both in Paihia and throughout the Bay of Islands. Paihia Beach is in town. It's small but nice and makes a great picnic spot. For a more secluded spot head to Matauri Bay Beach or Takou Bay.

Many people visit Pattaya for it's beautiful beaches. There are countless white sand beaches in the area that range from party-focused, to romantic, to family-friendly. The blue waters and silky sand have long made this one of the most popular beach areas in Thailand.

Is Pattaya or Paihia Better for Hiking?

Paihia is a great coastal town for hiking. However, Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Paihia for the hiking trails. The Bay of Islands is filled with coastal walks and peaceful hikes. This is a great way to soak up the area's atmosphere and take in some spectacular views.

Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pattaya or Paihia?

Pattaya is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Paihia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Pattaya is well-known for its shopping. The city is filled with markets, malls, bazaars, and street vendors that sells everything from clothes and bathing suits, to Thai crafts or local foods.

Many visitors go to Paihia to go shopping. There are plenty of retail stores around town where you can pick up clothes or enjoy some souvenir shopping.

Is Pattaya or Paihia Better for Families?

Paihia is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for its family-friendly activities.

Paihia is an extremely popular coastal town to visit for families. Beaches, dolphin spotting, ice cream, and chocolate factories make the Bay of Islands the perfect place for a family vacation. There are amazing walking trails like the Manginangina Kauri Walk and opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. There are also adventure spots and great beaches.

Pattaya is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the amusement parks, water parks, and cultural parks. Highlights for families include Columbia Pictures Aquaverse, Ramayana Water Park, and Mini Siam. For something totally unique, check out the ice sculptures at Frost Magical Ice of Siam and for something cultural and fun you can head to Legend Siam Pattaya. Despite local efforts to promote family-friendly activities, it's important to remember that the city does still has a party town reputation. There are areas that you should avoid with kids.

Is Pattaya or Paihia Better for Couples?

Paihia is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for couples.

Paihia is a great coastal town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. You can enjoy sunset boat cruises, sip wine with a waterfront view, or walk through pristine natural areas. For thrill seekers there are adrenaline filled activities like parasailing or scuba diving.

Pattaya is a good resort city for couples to visit. There are many beach-oriented activities around town like boat rides and water sports. You could also enjoy a spa day or simply lounge on the beach and soak up the sun for the day.

Is Pattaya or Paihia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paihia is a great coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Paihia. There are a handful of hostels around town as well as many great activities for backpackers like scuba diving or parasailing.

Plenty of backpackers visit Pattaya. While it used to be a party town, these days Pattaya is more of a family destination that's filled with amusement parks and family-friendly resorts. Backpackers will still find hostels and budget accommodation, but that backpacker atmosphere isn't what it used to be.

Is Pattaya or Paihia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Pattaya and Paihia both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Pattaya offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The baht bus (songthaew) is the cheapest way to get around town. These are colorful pickup trucks with seats in the back. There are also motorbike taxis as well as regular taxis.

Paihia has a few public transit options. There are ferries and some intercity buses through the Bay of Islands.

Is Pattaya or Paihia a more walkable city?

Paihia is a coastal town with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Pattaya is not known for its ease of walking around.

Paihia is a somewhat walkable place. It's possible to explore parts of the town on foot.

Pattaya is generally not very walkable. There's a walking street, as well as several walkable areas, but the city is relatively large and you'll likely want to catch a ride most places.

For even more information, also check out Is Pattaya Worth Visiting? and Is Paihia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Paihia or Pattaya?

How long in Pattaya or Paihia?

In either Pattaya or Paihia, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Paihia than Pattaya because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Pattaya, and 3-5 days is enough time in Paihia.

Families should spend more time in Paihia than Pattaya. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paihia, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Paihia than Pattaya. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Paihia that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paihia than Pattaya if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Paihia.

One day in Pattaya or Paihia?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Pattaya. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Paihia, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This coastal town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Pattaya or Paihia?

Pattaya is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Paihia, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Pattaya or Paihia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pattaya. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Paihia is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paihia has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Pattaya or Paihia?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the colorful destination of Pattaya. This resort city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paihia. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Paihia. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bangkok, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Phuket, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, and The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Pattaya and Paihia, we can see that Paihia is more expensive. And not only is Pattaya much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Pattaya is in Asia and Paihia is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Pattaya would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Pattaya and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Paihia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paihia than you might in Pattaya.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Pattaya Expensive? and Is Paihia Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Pattaya or Paihia?

Pattaya has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Paihia. When comparing the sizes of Pattaya and Paihia, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.