PATTAYA, Thailand – Some foreign visitors in Pattaya are beginning to enjoy the city’s beaches much like locals do — by setting up simple seaside camps and spending relaxed evenings by the water.
Rather than moving between bars and restaurants, groups of tourists can often be seen sitting on mats or beach chairs along the sand, chatting while enjoying sea breezes and the night view of the bay.
Many purchase drinks, grilled seafood, snacks and other street food from nearby vendors and small beachside stalls, creating an informal picnic-style atmosphere that mirrors how many Thai residents spend their evenings at the beach.
Local vendors say the trend has been growing, particularly among long-stay visitors who prefer a more laid-back and affordable way to enjoy the coastline.
For the tourists themselves, the experience offers a chance to slow down and take in the atmosphere of the seaside without the crowds of nightlife districts.
The mix of ocean views, casual dining and friendly interaction with local vendors gives the evenings a distinctly relaxed character that many visitors say feels more authentic.
As the sun sets over Pattaya Bay, small groups of Thai residents and foreign tourists can often be found sitting side by side along the sand — sharing food, drinks and the simple pleasure of a night by the sea.
However, some business operators in Pattaya have begun questioning whether the trend ultimately benefits the city’s tourism economy. While foreign visitors bring overseas currency into Thailand, critics say many are increasingly spending in ways similar to local residents — purchasing low-cost food and drinks from street vendors rather than visiting restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues that traditionally rely on tourist spending.
