PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya’s tourism sector enjoyed a strong boost during the extended New Year holiday, as large numbers of Thai and international visitors traveled to the city, filling beaches, ferries, and local services while helping drive income for small operators.
The five-day public holiday period, running from December 31, 2025 to January 4, 2026, led to a lively atmosphere across Pattaya, particularly at Jomtien Beach and on Koh Larn. Families and group travelers were seen relaxing along the coastline and crossing to the popular island destination in large numbers.
Despite the surge in visitors, transport and service prices remained stable. Ferry operators confirmed that fares for boats crossing to Koh Larn stayed unchanged at 30 baht per person per trip. Pattaya City also provided free parking for tourists at the Blue Zone parking area, which can accommodate up to 200 vehicles, helping ease congestion during the busy period.
Local beach operators reported strong business throughout the holiday. Ms. “P’Maem,” a Jomtien Beach umbrella and chair operator, said December 31 was particularly busy, with sunbed areas nearly full for most of the day. She noted that the long holiday generated excellent income for vendors and created a vibrant tourism atmosphere.
Importantly, operators said no price increases were introduced despite high demand. Beach chair rentals remained capped at 50 baht per day for canvas chairs and 100 baht per day for pool-style loungers, with the same prices applied to both Thai and foreign visitors.
Beach massage therapists also reported packed schedules throughout the holiday period, with customers lining up continuously from morning until evening. Most clients were Thai and Myanmar tourists, while the number of Western foreign visitors remained relatively low.
Ms. Krisana Phueakphong, another Jomtien Beach operator, echoed the positive outlook, saying the long holiday period generated strong earnings and wishing such extended breaks could occur more often. She added that many Myanmar tourists arrived in large groups by bus, contributing significantly to local spending.
However, she also noted a shift in visitor demographics. Compared with previous high seasons, the number of Western tourists using beach services has declined, even during peak travel periods, suggesting changes in Pattaya’s tourism mix.
Overall, the extended New Year holiday provided a welcome lift to Pattaya’s local economy, with domestic and regional tourism playing an increasingly important role in sustaining beachfront businesses.
