Dongtan Beach (หาดดงตาล)
“The palm trees along the shore are home to incredibly bold squirrels that will happily eat nuts right out of your hand.”
Description
If you are looking for a happy medium, dongtan beach pattaya is a great compromise. It is noticeably quieter and greener than neighboring Jomtien Beach, thanks to a lush line of palm and pine trees offering blessed natural shade. People flock here to lounge on rented deckchairs, lazily dodging beach vendors. The vibe is decidedly mellow, free from the roar of jet skis, attracting a mix of European expats, retirees, and families with kids.
However, commercialization has claimed almost the entire shoreline. There is barely any open sand left to just lay down a towel—almost every square inch is packed with rows of paid sunbeds. By evening, the promenade transforms into a hub for runners and fitness enthusiasts. The primary drawback here is cleanliness; the water can get murky, and high tides often wash up plastic debris. Still, compared to Pattaya Beach, this stretch feels significantly tidier.
Why visit
Insider tips
💡 The Restroom Situation: The only public toilet charges a small fee, but reviews warn it is in terrible condition. You are better off buying a drink at a nearby cafe and using theirs.
💡 No Public Showers: There are no official changing rooms or public showers on the beach. At best, some sunbed operators have a hose to rinse the sand off your feet.
💡 Parking Headache: The narrow beach road is constantly congested. Finding a car parking spot is a rare stroke of luck. It is slightly easier with a scooter, but still a challenge.
💡 Muddy Seabed: Be prepared—once you wade a few dozen meters out, the sandy bottom can turn into a squishy, silty mud.
