A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pattaya vs. Surfers Paradise for Nightlife, Resorts, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Pattaya or Surfers Paradise?

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 Surfers Paradise 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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is a high energy, thrilling, and active city. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Pattaya and Surfers Paradise: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pattaya or Surfers Paradise?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Surfers Paradise. Although Pattaya and Surfers Paradise are both popular with visitors, Surfers Paradise has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Pattaya is popular for its beautiful beaches, plethora of amusement parks, and its party town reputation. Surfers Paradise is popular for its long sandy beaches, glamourous party scene, colorful amusement parks, and active water sports. It is also home to the SkyPoint Observation Deck.

How is Pattaya different from Surfers Paradise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise?

Surfers Paradise is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Surfers Paradise. For the best views of the coastline head to the SkyPoint Observation Deck at the Q1 Resort and Spa. It's in Australia's tallest residential tower. You can also visit the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, or the Sea World Marine Park, as well as countless other amusement parks or entertainment centers.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pattaya. There are several cultural attractions near town such as the Sanctuary of Truth, Wat Yansangwararam, and Wat Phra Yai (the Big Buddha).

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

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

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 Surfers Paradise is an experience not to be missed. There's a trendy food scene with a number of award winning restaurants in the area. There are high end seafood restaurants, modern international eateries, and niche food bars that all cater to the tourist crowd.

Is Pattaya or Surfers Paradise Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find first-rate options in both Pattaya and Surfers Paradise.

Pattaya is a must-see 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.

Surfers Paradise is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. This high energy area is filled with glitzy nightclubs and trendy cocktail bars. There are parties that last until the early morning hours and you'll find the most active nightlife scene along the famous Surfers Paradise glitter strip.

Is Pattaya or Surfers Paradise Better for Resorts?

Surfers Paradise is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for its resorts.

Surfers Paradise is a world class resort vacation destination. The high-rise skyline is filled with luxury resorts and trendy hotels. Fancy pools and rooftop views make this is a glitzy and lively place to stay.

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.

Is Pattaya or Surfers Paradise Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Surfers Paradise is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There's no shortage of scuba diving and snorkeling excursions that leave from the area. You'll see a diversity of marine life and interesting undersea reefs.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Beaches?

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

Surfers Paradise is considered to be a world-class beach destination. It's at the heart of the Gold Coast, and you'll enjoy two kilometers of golden sand and beautiful surf. The beaches are lined with high rise buildings and there's plenty of energy and amenities for visitors. This is a popular tourist destination and there is no shortage of water sports and other activities along the beaches.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Hiking?

Surfers Paradise is a city with good options for hiking. However, Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Surfers Paradise. Outside of town you'll find many coastal hikes and inland trails. You can see waterfalls or breathtaking views of the water.

Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pattaya or Surfers Paradise?

Surfers Paradise is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Surfers Paradise draws large crowds to its stores. Beachside markets sell local items. There are also large shopping malls that are filled with international fashion brands and boutique shops that sell unique items.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Pattaya. 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.

Is Pattaya or Surfers Paradise Better for Families?

Surfers Paradise 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.

Surfers Paradise is an extremely popular city to visit for families. It's filled with activities that kids and adults will enjoy. There's everything from sandy beaches to amusement park rides and entertainment centers. Check out Infinity, Ripley's Believe It Or Not, or the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There's also countless minigolf places, kayaking, and other water sports.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Couples?

Surfers Paradise is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for couples.

Surfers Paradise is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Walk along the beach or take in the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There are also many fun-filled adventure activities as well as restaurants and a lively party scene.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Surfers Paradise is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Surfers Paradise is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers who want fun entertainment, a lively beach scene, and water sports will find their place here. There are also hostels with reasonable rates and plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Pattaya and Surfers Paradise both offer good 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.

Surfers Paradise has a few public transit options. Without a car, you can use the shuttle buses, public buses, and light rail to get around.

Is Pattaya or Surfers Paradise a more walkable city?

Surfers Paradise is a city with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Pattaya is not known for its ease of walking around.

Surfers Paradise is a somewhat walkable place. There are walking and bike paths around town.

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 Surfers Paradise Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Surfers Paradise or Pattaya?

How long in Pattaya or Surfers Paradise?

Both Pattaya and Surfers Paradise have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Surfers Paradise than in Pattaya. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Pattaya, and 3-7 days is enough time in Surfers Paradise.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise.

One day in Pattaya or Surfers Paradise?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the colorful destination of Pattaya. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This resort city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Surfers Paradise, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city 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 Surfers Paradise?

You'll find shopping and museums around the vibrant resort city of Pattaya. If you have a weekend, this resort city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Surfers Paradise, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come 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 Surfers Paradise?

Pattaya is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Surfers Paradise is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Surfers Paradise has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Pattaya or Surfers Paradise?

Pattaya is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. 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 Surfers Paradise. In Surfers Paradise, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Australia, and The Best Contiki Tours to Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Pattaya and Surfers Paradise, we can see that Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Pattaya or Surfers Paradise?

Pattaya has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Surfers Paradise. When comparing the sizes of Pattaya and Surfers Paradise, 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.

When is the best time to visit Pattaya or Surfers Paradise?

Surfers Paradise has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Pattaya experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Pattaya or Surfers Paradise in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Pattaya and Surfers Paradise. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Pattaya year-round. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Surfers Paradise because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Pattaya is a little warmer than Surfers Paradise. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pattaya in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Surfers Paradise averages at about 25°C (77°F)in January.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Surfers Paradise this time of the year. Pattaya usually receives less sunshine than Surfers Paradise during summer. Pattaya gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 256 hours of full sun in the summer.

Surfers Paradise receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Surfers Paradisein January. Pattaya gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Pattaya or Surfers Paradise in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Pattaya as well as Surfers Paradise. Pattaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Surfers Paradise this time of year.

In October, Pattaya is generally a little warmer than Surfers Paradisein April. Daily temperatures in Pattaya average around 28°C (82°F), and Surfers Paradise fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pattaya this time of the year. In the autumn, Pattaya often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Surfers Paradisein April. Pattaya gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 214 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Surfers Paradise. Pattaya receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Pattaya usually gets more rain in October than Surfers Paradisein April. Pattaya gets 258 mm (10.2 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to April in Pattaya is the dry season. June to October in Pattaya is the rainy season.

Should I visit Pattaya or Surfers Paradise in the Winter?

Both Surfers Paradise and Pattaya are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Pattaya throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Surfers Paradise for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Pattaya is much warmer than Surfers Paradise in the winter. The daily temperature in Pattaya averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Surfers Paradise fluctuates around 15°C (59°F)in July.

It's quite sunny in Surfers Paradise. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pattaya. Pattaya usually receives more sunshine than Surfers Paradise during winter. Pattaya gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 226 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Surfers Paradisein July. Pattaya gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Pattaya or Surfers Paradise in the Spring?

Both Surfers Paradise and Pattaya during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Pattaya because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Surfers Paradise in the spring for the beaches.

In the spring, Pattaya is a little warmer than Surfers Paradise. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pattaya in April average around 30°C (86°F), and Surfers Paradise averages at about 21°C (69°F)in October.

In Surfers Paradise, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Pattaya. In the spring, Pattaya often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Surfers Paradisein October. Pattaya gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 259 hours of full sun.

Surfers Paradise gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Pattaya usually gets less rain in April than Surfers Paradisein October. Pattaya gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year. December to April is the dry season in Pattaya. June to October is the rainy season in Pattaya.

Typical Weather for Surfers Paradise and Pattaya