Jomtien Beach

A six-kilometre beach south of central Pattaya, set off by Phra Tamnak hill. The sand strip is wide, a line of seafood cafes and lounger rentals runs along the road, and the water hosts jet skis, parasailing and windsurfing. Jomtien is calmer than the city beach, so families and long-stay winterers settle here. It is a public beach: entry is free, loungers cost extra, and swimming is best skipped in a storm.