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16 Top Things to Do in Chonburi with Best Places to Visit
Chonburi offers travelers a mix of beaches, cultural sites, and local attractions along Thailand’s eastern coast. Located just two hours from Bangkok, this province attracts visitors with its accessibility and range of activities. From Bang Saen Beach to the Sanctuary of Truth, Chonburi provides options for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts alike.
The province serves as more than just a gateway to Pattaya. Smaller towns and coastal areas throughout Chonburi give visitors chances to explore markets, temples, and natural attractions. These spots often see fewer crowds than the main tourist areas.
Planning a trip to Chonburi means choosing between relaxing beach days, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences. This guide covers the top attractions and activities across the province to help travelers make the most of their visit.
Discovering Chonburi: Thailand’s Coastal Gem
Why Chonburi Is a Must-Visit Destination
Chonburi is Thailand’s second-largest industrial province after Bangkok, yet it remains a strong draw for travelers. The coastline stretches for miles, dotted with beaches that range from lively and developed to peaceful and secluded.
Pattaya draws most of the tourist attention, but the province contains numerous other attractions. Visitors can explore morning markets in Si Racha, take boats to nearby islands, or visit temples tucked into the hills. The agricultural areas produce sugar cane, cassava, and natural rubber.
The food scene centers on fresh seafood. Vendors line popular beaches, selling grilled fish, prawns, and local specialties. Many restaurants source their ingredients directly from fishing boats each morning.
Chonburi also serves as a convenient base for exploring the wider eastern seaboard region. The proximity to Bangkok makes it accessible for weekend trips or day visits.
The Best Time to Visit Chonburi
The dry season runs from November to February. Temperatures stay comfortable, typically between 25-30°C. These months see the least rainfall and the clearest skies.
March through May brings hot weather. Temperatures often exceed 35°C. Some travelers avoid this period, though beach activities remain popular.
The rainy season lasts from June to October. Afternoon showers occur frequently but rarely last all day. Hotel rates drop during these months, and beaches feel less crowded.
December and January attract the highest number of visitors. Beach chairs and accommodations book up quickly during this peak period.
Getting Around Chonburi
Songthaews (shared pickup trucks) operate throughout the province. They follow set routes and charge 10-20 baht per trip. Passengers signal when they want to exit.
Motorbike taxis offer quick transport for single travelers. Drivers wear numbered vests and gather at designated stands. Always agree on the fare before departure.
Car rentals provide the most flexibility for exploring multiple sites. International driving permits are required in addition to a valid license. Traffic moves on the left side of the road.
The province sits approximately 80 kilometers from Bangkok’s city center. Buses depart regularly from Bangkok’s Eastern Bus Terminal, taking 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic.
Must-Visit Attractions in Chonburi
Sanctuary of Truth
The Sanctuary of Truth is a massive wooden temple on Pattaya’s coastline. This structure rises 105 meters high and spans across two acres of beachfront property. Every surface features intricate hand-carved details depicting Buddhist and Hindu philosophies.
Construction began in 1981 and continues today using traditional methods. Craftsmen use only wood, without metal nails, in construction. The carvings show scenes of Thai, Cambodian, Chinese, and Indian religious art.
Visitors can tour the interior spaces and watch artisans work on new sections. The site features cultural shows featuring traditional Thai dance. Elephant rides and boat tours are available around the property.
The temple sits directly on the water, providing ocean views from multiple levels. Guided tours explain the symbolism behind different carved sections and architectural elements.
Grand Canyon Chonburi
Grand Canyon Chonburi transformed from an abandoned limestone quarry into a popular water park and adventure destination. The deep blue lake fills the former quarry pit, surrounded by tall rock walls that create a canyon-like setting.
Visitors can cliff jump from various heights into the water below. The site provides life jackets and has lifeguards on duty during operating hours. Inflatable obstacle courses float on the lake surface, offering additional activities.
The water reaches significant depths due to the quarry’s previous excavation. Zip lines stretch across sections of the canyon for aerial views. Small floating platforms and rafts allow people to relax on the water.
Basic facilities include changing rooms, restrooms, and a small cafe area. The park attracts both local residents and tourists seeking outdoor activities.
Mini Siam
Mini Siam displays over 100 miniature replicas of famous structures from Thailand and around the world. The park is divided into two main zones: Mini Siam and Mini Europe.
The Thai section features scaled models of the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, the Bridge over the River Kwai, and other national landmarks. Each model maintains accurate architectural details at 1:25 scale. The international section includes the Eiffel Tower, Statue of Liberty, Taj Mahal, and other global icons.
The park covers 46,400 square meters of landscaped grounds. Pathways wind between the miniature buildings, allowing close-up views of each structure. Night lighting illuminates the models after dark, creating a different viewing experience.
Miniature trains and traditional Thai houses add to the park’s scenery. Information plaques provide details about each original structure’s history and location. The attraction appeals to families and photography enthusiasts.
Beach Escapes Near Chonburi
Bang Saen Beach
Bang Saen Beach is about 13 kilometers from Chonburi city and attracts primarily Thai visitors seeking a relaxed weekend getaway. The beach features a long stretch of sand where families set up umbrellas and enjoy picnics throughout the day.
Local vendors line the beach selling fresh seafood, grilled snacks, and cold drinks. Visitors can rent deck chairs and enjoy the calm waters, which are suitable for swimming. Freshwater bathing facilities are available near the beach.
The atmosphere is more laid-back than at other tourist beaches in the province. Bang Saen draws crowds on weekends and holidays but stays quieter during weekdays. The beachfront road leads to restaurants and small shops serving local dishes at reasonable prices.
Pattaya’s Beaches
Pattaya Beach is one of Thailand’s most famous coastal destinations, offering a vibrant mix of activities and nightlife. The main beach curves along the city center with numerous restaurants, bars, and hotels lining the shore. Beachside vendors provide water sports equipment and boat tours to nearby islands.
The beach gets busy throughout the day with both Thai and international visitors. Swimming conditions vary by season and water quality. The promenade behind the beach features shops and dining options that stay open late into the evening.
Jomtien Beach provides a quieter alternative located south of the main Pattaya area. This beach offers better swimming conditions and attracts families and long-term visitors. Water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing remain popular here.
Wonnapha Beach
Wonnapha Beach offers a peaceful escape from the busier tourist beaches in the region. The area maintains a natural setting with less commercial development compared to Pattaya. Local visitors and those seeking quieter surroundings frequent this beach.
The beach provides basic facilities and a few small restaurants serving Thai food. Swimming conditions are generally good, and the water stays relatively clean. Parking is available near the beach entrance.
This destination suits travelers who prefer a simple beach experience without crowds or heavy tourist infrastructure. The beach remains accessible yet off the main tourist path.
Koh Larn (Coral Island) Overview
Koh Larn sits approximately 7 kilometers offshore from Pattaya and can be reached by ferry or speedboat. The island features multiple beaches with clear waters and white sand. Tawaen Beach and Samae Beach are the most developed, with restaurants and water sports facilities.
Visitors can explore the island through snorkeling, where coral reefs and tropical fish are visible in shallow waters. Hiking trails connect different parts of the island and provide viewpoints overlooking the coastline. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent at the main beaches.
The island primarily operates as a day-trip destination, though some accommodations are available for overnight stays. Ferry services run regularly from Pattaya’s main pier, with the journey taking about 45 minutes. Speedboats offer faster transport but cost more than the standard ferry.
Wildlife and Adventure Experiences
Sriracha Tiger Zoo
Sriracha Tiger Zoo in Sri Racha stands as one of Thailand’s most popular animal attractions. The zoo houses hundreds of Bengal tigers, along with crocodiles, elephants, and other wildlife. Visitors can watch daily shows featuring trained tigers, elephants performing tricks, and crocodile feeding demonstrations.
The facility allows guests to interact with animals in a supervised setting. People can bottle-feed tiger cubs, take photos with adult tigers, and observe the animals in various enclosures throughout the grounds. The zoo also includes a small aquarium section.
Shows run multiple times throughout the day, giving visitors flexibility in planning their visit. The tiger shows demonstrate the animals’ natural abilities while handlers explain conservation efforts. The park operates as both an entertainment venue and breeding facility for endangered species.
Khao Kheow Open Zoo
Khao Kheow Open Zoo spans over 2,000 acres of natural forest in Chonburi Province. The zoo maintains animals in spacious habitats that mirror their natural environments. Visitors can drive through certain sections or take guided tours to see animals roaming in open areas.
The facility houses more than 300 species, including giraffes, zebras, hippos, and a variety of bird species. A night safari option lets guests observe nocturnal animals after dark. The zoo focuses on conservation and education while providing interactive experiences.
Walking trails wind through different habitat zones. Feeding stations allow visitors to feed giraffes and other friendly animals. The zoo also features a petting area where children can safely interact with domestic animals.
Cultural and Local Market Highlights
Nong Mon Market
Nong Mon Market stands as one of Chonburi’s most authentic local markets. The market operates daily and features fresh seafood caught by local fishermen each morning.
Vendors sell dried fish, shrimp paste, and other preserved seafood products for which the region is known. Visitors can also find fresh fruits, vegetables, and ready-to-eat Thai dishes at affordable prices. The market is less crowded than the tourist spots, making it easier to explore.
Local families shop here for their daily groceries. This creates an authentic Thai market experience without the tourist crowds. The best time to visit is early morning when the seafood selection is largest, and the temperature is cooler.
Ang Sila Old Market
Ang Sila Old Market sits in a historic fishing village along the coast. The market specializes in handcrafted stone mortar-and-pestle sets made from local stone. These tools are essential for making Thai curry paste and other dishes.
Dried seafood products are available at many stalls throughout the market. The village’s fishing boats bring in fresh catches that vendors dry and preserve using traditional methods. Tourists can watch the drying process along the shoreline.
Small restaurants near the market serve fresh seafood dishes at reasonable prices. The village maintains its old-world character with traditional wooden houses and quiet streets.
Traditional Craft Villages
Several villages around Chonburi produce traditional crafts using skills passed down through families. Basket-weaving villages create items from bamboo and rattan that locals use daily. These include food containers, fishing equipment, and home decorations.
Some villages specialize in pottery and ceramics. Craftspeople shape clay using traditional techniques and fire pieces in wood-burning kilns. Visitors can watch artisans work and purchase finished products directly.
Textile weaving villages produce cotton and silk fabrics with traditional patterns. The weavers use manual looms and natural plant dyes. These crafts support local families and keep traditional skills alive for future generations.
Day Trips and Unique Local Experiences
Exploring Sri Racha
Sri Racha serves as a working port city with a distinctive blend of Thai and expat communities. The town is famous for its namesake hot sauce, and visitors can explore local sauce factories and markets where the condiment originated.
The city’s waterfront features Ko Loi, a small island connected to the mainland by a bridge. This island holds a Chinese temple and offers views of the harbor and industrial landscape. Seafood restaurants line the coast, serving fresh catches prepared in local styles.
Sri Racha Tiger Zoo attracts families with animal shows and exhibits, though visitors should research current animal welfare standards before visiting. The Japanese community has established authentic restaurants and shops in specific neighborhoods, creating small cultural enclaves worth exploring for those interested in international food.
Nature Trails and Scenic Spots
Khao Kheow Open Zoo provides a semi-natural habitat experience where visitors can see animals in spacious enclosures. The facility offers night safari tours that allow guests to observe nocturnal animal behavior.
Bang Phra Reservoir attracts locals for picnics and water activities. The surrounding area includes quiet walking paths and fishing spots. Weekdays see fewer crowds than weekends.
Ang Sila, a coastal village, maintains traditional stone carving workshops where craftsmen create mortars and pestles from local rock. The village also features a small fishing pier and seafood market where visitors can buy directly from boats.
Food Tours and Culinary Hotspots
Bang Saen’s beach road transforms into a seafood market each evening. Vendors grill fish, squid, and shellfish while serving som tam and other Thai dishes. Prices remain reasonable compared to tourist-heavy areas.
Local markets like Chonburi Fresh Market open early in the morning, with vendors selling produce, meats, and prepared foods. These markets offer visitors a chance to see daily Thai life and sample regional specialties such as khanom krok (coconut pancakes).
Si Racha district hosts several notable restaurants specializing in seafood prepared with the local chili sauce. Many establishments have operated for decades under the same families, maintaining consistent recipes and cooking methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top tourist attractions to visit in Chonburi?
Bang Saen Beach ranks as one of the most popular destinations in Chonburi. The beach sits about 13 kilometers from Chonburi city and offers deck chair rentals, freshwater bathing facilities, and plenty of seafood vendors.
Pattaya is the province’s central tourist hub. It draws visitors with its beaches, entertainment options, and nightlife.
Koh Larn Island makes for an excellent day trip from the mainland. Visitors can reach the island by boat and enjoy its clearer waters and quieter atmosphere compared to mainland beaches.
Khao Sam Muk features a mountain with notable religious and cultural significance. The site provides views of the coastline and houses several shrines.
Where can I find the best beaches in Chonburi for swimming and sunbathing?
Bang Saen Beach offers the most accessible option for swimming and sunbathing near Chonburi city. The beach provides basic amenities and is busy on weekends with local visitors.
Pattaya Beach attracts the largest crowds with its long stretch of sand. The beach offers numerous facilities, water sports, and nearby restaurants.
Koh Larn island beaches provide clearer water and less crowded conditions. Several beaches dot the island, each with different levels of development and visitor facilities.
Jomtien Beach in Pattaya offers a quieter alternative to the main Pattaya Beach. The area is ideal for families and visitors seeking a more relaxed beach experience.
Are there any cultural or historical landmarks to explore in Chonburi?
Khao Sam Muk is a cultural landmark, featuring hilltop shrines and statues. Local residents consider it a sacred site and visit to make offerings.
Wat Yansangwararam stands as a large temple complex near Pattaya. The grounds include various buildings representing different architectural styles and a museum.
The Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya represents a unique wooden structure covered in carvings. Construction began in 1981 and continues today, with all decorative elements hand-carved.
Nong Nooch Tropical Garden showcases Thai culture through its gardens and daily shows. The park features traditional dance performances and displays of Thai village life.
Could you suggest some family-friendly activities in Chonburi?
Khao Kheow Open Zoo houses a variety of animals in naturalistic settings. The zoo recently gained attention for Moo Deng, a pygmy hippopotamus that became popular on social media.
Cartoon Network Amazone waterpark offers slides, wave pools, and themed areas. The park features characters from Cartoon Network shows throughout its attractions.
Underwater World Pattaya provides an aquarium experience with a walk-through tunnel. Families can view sharks, rays, and tropical fish from various angles.
Ramayana Water Park includes attractions suitable for different age groups. The park combines water slides with gentler options for younger children.
What are the most recommended local dishes to try while visiting Chonburi?
Fresh seafood dominates the local food scene in Chonburi. Vendors along beaches like Bang Saen serve grilled fish, prawns, and squid prepared to order.
Si Racha is the name of the famous hot sauce produced in the area. Visitors can try the original sauce at local restaurants and markets.
Morning markets in Si Racha and other towns offer authentic Thai breakfast options. These include rice porridge, noodle soups, and sweet treats.
Coastal areas specialize in seafood curries and spicy salads. Local restaurants prepare these dishes with catches brought in daily by fishing boats.
Where are the best shopping and souvenir areas in Chonburi?
Si Racha morning market provides an authentic local shopping experience. The market sells fresh produce, prepared foods, and everyday items used by residents.
Pattaya features numerous shopping centers and street markets. Central Festival Pattaya Beach offers international brands, while Walking Street markets sell souvenirs and local crafts.
Night markets throughout the province sell clothing, accessories, and gifts. These markets typically open in the evening and offer lower prices than shopping centers.
Local shops near beaches stock typical souvenirs such as T-shirts, sarongs, and handicrafts. Visitors can find items related to local attractions and Thai culture.
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16 Top Things to Do in Chonburi with Best Places to Visit
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog
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