Active Pursuits in Pattaya

 Golf

The hills around Pattaya are known for their great courses, with many international-class greens in a short 40km (25-mile) radius of the city. Caddy fees are reasonable, around 250B, and golf carts are usually compulsory but rationally priced. Among the recommended are:

• Burapha Golf Club, 281 Moo 4, Tambon Bung, Sri Racha (tel. 03837-2700), is the home of numerous tournaments. Greens fees are 2,000B on weekdays and 2,500B on weekends; it's 500B for a two-person golf cart.
• Laem Chabang International Country Club, 106/8 Moo 4, Tambon Bung, Sri Racha (tel. 03837-2273, dial 0), has three 18-hole courses (A, B, and C) designed by Jack Nicklaus and very dramatic scenery. Greens fees are 3,000B on weekdays, 3,500B on weekends.
• Siam Country Club, 50/6 Moo 9, Tambol Pong, Banglamung (tel. 03890-9600; fax 03890-9699), is a short hop from Pattaya and is said to be one of the country's most challenging courses. Greens fees are 3,5200B on weekdays and 3,600B on weekends.

Watersports

For those who come to Pattaya to do more than party, there is plenty on offer, particularly when it comes to watersports. Pattaya's less than pristine beaches are a good excuse to head to outlying areas, where the conditions are more inviting. Day trips to such nearby islands as Ko Khrok, Ko Lan, and Ko Sok start at 1,000B per head on a full boat (more for a private charter). To go to far-out Bamboo Island, it will cost you a bit more -- about 2,800B. Paragliding around the bay behind a motorboat is a popular beachfront activity, and a 5-minute flight costs from 800B.