Eastern Gulf Coast

The Eastern Gulf Coast is a popular beachside resort in Thailand and the closest one to Bangkok.

• Bang Saen — closest beach to Bangkok and an aquarium
• Ban Phe — gateway to Ko Samet and some beaches of its own
• Chonburi
• Jomtien — beach town, geographically separated but administratively a part of Pattaya proper
• Pattaya — notorious den of sleaze trying to clean up its act
• Rayong — surfing beaches along the coast
• Sattahip
• Si Racha — known for a spicy sauce and seafood

• Ko Laan - small island near Pattaya
• Ko Samet - the nearest thing to a paradise island around Bangkok
• Ko Sak - small island near Pattaya
• Ko Si Chang - the island that tourism (almost) forgot

Golf is a speciality of the region, with more than 20 courses within an hour's drive of Pattaya, many designed by some of golf's most famous names, including Nick Faldo (Great Lakes), Jack Nicklaus (Laem Chabang), Gary Player (Si Racha) and Robert Trent Jones (Eastern Star Resort and Country Club). All offer good facilities and value for money in the 500 baht (green and caddy fee) to 2,500 baht range. It is advisable to wear long trousers rather than shorts to some of the more upmarket clubs.

Other well-known popular courses in the area Pattaya include the Siam Country Club, Siam Plantation, Khao Kheow, Rayong Green Valley, St. Andrews 2000, Mountain Shadow, Burapha, The Emerald, Eastern Star, The Phoenix, Crystal Bay, and Pattaya Country Club. Local Golf operators can easily organise packages that also include accommodation.