Pattaya (Pattaya, Eastern Seaboard): The once-infamous red-light capital of Thailand, promiscuous Pattaya invites adulation as much as disdain with the dubious flavor of some of its late-night shenanigans. However, it's cleaning up slowly, and outwardly obscene "attractions" are making way for cleverer, cleaner entertainment. The clubs and bars attract a motley range of characters, giving it an air of a human zoo. Go to watch, and to be watched.
Chaweng Beaches (Ko Samui): If you like the beach, and love to be social, Chaweng has all the action you want. With countless dining and nightlife choices, plus endless vendors and beach boutiques, you'll never walk alone here.
Had Rin (Ko Phangan): The now-infamous Full Moon parties on Ko Phangan's Had Rin have been attracting crowds of raving revelers for years, but they are not the hippy-trippy events of yore, as parties are taking on a more "packaged" experience. Drug busts are on the rise and, despite the warnings, plenty of over-chilled partygoers continue to come undone, with serious consequences.
Patong Beach (Phuket): This busy beachside strip is not sophisticated by any means, but for many young, first-timers in Asia looking to party, it is seen as the place for shopping, dining, and naughty nightlife. If you want to avoid the sordid stuff, the most upmarket area is the JungCeylon mall, with great late-night dining and famous fast food and coffee outlets. Beyond this, there's a shantytown of small bars and concrete bunker clubs, where it's a lot seedier but where the younger frat-party crowd will get their kicks.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
