If you want to step out of your hotel and be in the middle of everything, this is it. Central Pattaya packs the beach, the big malls, cabaret theatres and the famous nightlife into a few walkable blocks.
The vibe. Energetic and loud: Beach Road and Second Road by day, Walking Street and the beer-bar sois by night. Convenient, never boring, not exactly peaceful.
Best for. First-timers, shoppers, nightlife and anyone who wants to walk to most things.
Worth knowing. Sleep a couple of sois back from Walking Street for the convenience without the 3am soundtrack. Soi Buakhao in the middle is cheaper and full of food.