I have been to Pattaya several times previously. However, there are many new places coming up. In case you have a limited time (like me), or you never been to these places (below) before, maybe you could include them in your itinerary.
Here are a few ideas of places to go in Pattaya for a day trip:
1. Upside Down Pattaya
A red upside down house is its signature. Inside, you can play around (in the upside down mode) and take many pictures in this two-storage house. A small size puzzel park is also in the same area. Note that entrance fee is required for this place. If i am not wrong 180 THB for foreigners, price may change. Visit their page
here for more info.
2. Khao Chee Chan Buddha
This temple is near to the Upside Down Pattaya. Khao Chee Chan is a must visit place where you can see very huge buddha, shown on the rock cliff. It is a huge area to walk around. But it is quite hot during the day time. Free entry.
3. Pattaya Beaches
Because Pattaya connects to the sea, there are many beaches along the road that you can stop over to relax, sun bath or even having a sea food lunch/dinner. I read from the news that the beaches is much cleaner and the place is well organised compared to the past which is true. One thing to note is the parking lot is very limited, it is easier to use local transport or rent a bike to get around the area.
4. The Sky Gallery
This restaurant is located up on the hill where you can see a very nice sea view. Western food and Thai fushion menus are very nice. The price range is reasonable for tourist are, between 100-200 per dish. Click
here to see the full review.
5. Kway Teaw Tom Yum Nai Pum
This is a great stall if you are a fan of tom yum noodle. It is cheap, variety and nice. This stall is a road side stall opens in the evening until late night, except Wednesday. They have a facebook page that you can see more info, rating and location (but it is in Thai:
here). Warning: 5/5 spicy level.
6. The Coffee Break, Pattaya
This small cafe is in the same area with Wat Khao Pra Bat on the hill. The space is limited but cozy and well decorated. Here, you can see the scenery of Pattaya bay and its city. The price is very reasonable. Check out my full review
here. More info for the shop page
here.
I hope this listing can briefly provide some ideas of where to go in Pattaya if you have a limited time :)