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Chon Buri

Chon Buri is a coastal province on Thailand's Eastern Seaboard, best known for the resort city of Pattaya and its string of sun-drenched beaches along the Gulf of Thailand. The province blends vibrant beach tourism with industrial heritage, traditional fishing villages, and lush tropical landscapes just 80 km from Bangkok.

Chon Buri 5 Places Best: Year-round

About Chon Buri

Chon Buri Province stretches along the western shore of the Gulf of Thailand, encompassing the cosmopolitan beach city of Pattaya, the quieter family resort of Jomtien, the port hub of Si Racha, and the historic island of Ko Si Chang. The province offers a spectrum from budget backpacker hostels to ultra-luxury resorts, with world-class seafood, raucous nightlife, and serene temples all within easy reach. Industrial Laem Chabang hosts one of Southeast Asia's busiest ports, while Bang Saen remains a beloved weekend escape for Bangkok families.

Quick Overview

Capital: Mueang Chon Buri

Largest City: Pattaya

Population: 1.6 million

Languages: Thai, English (widely spoken in tourist areas)

Currency: Thai Baht

Time Zone: UTC+7 (Indochina Time)

Explore Chon Buri by Topic

Best Places to Visit in Chon Buri

Discover the top 5 must-see destinations in Chon Buri, from iconic landmarks to off-the-beaten-path treasures.

Khao Kheow Open Zoo

Khao Kheow Open Zoo

Columbia Pictures Aquaverse

Columbia Pictures Aquaverse

Nong Nooch Garden

Nong Nooch Garden

Ko Lan Island

Ko Lan Island

Cartoon Network Amazone

Cartoon Network Amazone

Recommended Itineraries for Chon Buri

Plan your perfect Chon Buri trip with our expertly crafted itineraries for every travel style and duration.

5-Day Chon Buri Explorer

  • Day 1: Arrive in Chon Buri, explore city center
  • Day 2: Visit top attractions and museums
  • Day 3: Day trip to nearby highlights
  • Day 4: Local markets and hidden gems
  • Day 5: Final sightseeing, departure

7-Day Classic Chon Buri

  • Days 1-2: Chon Buri city highlights
  • Days 3-4: Regional exploration
  • Days 5-6: Cultural immersion and local experiences
  • Day 7: Return and departure

14-Day Ultimate Chon Buri

  • Days 1-3: Chon Buri comprehensive city tour
  • Days 4-6: Northern region exploration
  • Days 7-9: Eastern highlights
  • Days 10-12: Southern attractions
  • Days 13-14: Return to Chon Buri, departure

Where to Stay in Chon Buri

From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, Chon Buri offers accommodations for every traveler.

Budget Options ($30)

Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.

Mid-Range ($85)

Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.

Luxury ($320)

World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.

Hilton Pattaya

| $$$

Amari Pattaya

| $$

Flip Side Hostel

| $

Where to Eat in Chon Buri

Discover the culinary delights of Chon Buri, from local street food to fine dining experiences.

Moom Aroi

| Contact for pricing

Nang Nual

| Contact for pricing

Getting Around Chon Buri

Budget Breakdown for Chon Buri

Plan your spending with our comprehensive cost guide. Currency: THB.

Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation $10 $45 $180
Food (per day) $8 $20 $80
Transportation $4 $10 $30
Activities $8 $10 $30
Daily Total $30 $85 $320

Best Time to Visit Chon Buri

Best Season: Year-round

Essential Travel Tips for Chon Buri

  • Book hotels in advance during December-January peak season
  • Carry small baht bills for songthaews and street food
  • Dress modestly when visiting temples
  • Download Grab app for reliable, fare-upfront transport

Hidden Gems in Chon Buri

Discover off-the-beaten-path treasures that most tourists never find.

Ko Si Chang Island

Peaceful historic island with royal palace ruins โ€” almost zero tourists

Lan Pho Na Kluea Market

Ultra-fresh seafood at local prices in North Pattaya

Somsak Pu Ob

Famous claypot crab โ€” a 1970s Pattaya institution

Safety Information

Travel Advisory

Thailand is rated Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) by the US State Department for most regions including Chon Buri. Standard tourist precautions apply โ€” Pattaya's entertainment district warrants extra alertness at night. No specific security incidents affect Chon Buri province.

INFO

Apply reef-safe SPF 50+ sunscreen every 2 hours on children โ€” equatorial sun burns rapidly

INFO

Keep children hydrated with 1.5+ liters of water daily in Chon Buri's heat

INFO

Water parks have height requirements โ€” check before purchasing tickets

INFO

Avoid Walking Street with children under 16

INFO

Ko Lan public ferry is safe and has life jackets available

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Chon Buri?

The best time to visit Chon Buri is year-round. Check local conditions may have less favorable conditions.

Do I need a visa for Chon Buri?

Visa requirements vary by nationality. Check with your nearest embassy or consulate for Chon Buri for current requirements before travel.

How many days do I need in Chon Buri?

For a comprehensive Chon Buri experience, we recommend 7-10 days. However, you can have a great trip in 5 days focusing on highlights.

Is Chon Buri expensive to visit?

Budget travelers can expect $30 per day, mid-range $85, and luxury $320.