Pattaya Floating Market

The Pattaya Floating Market is a little-known gem situated just southeast of Jomtien Beach. It’s the largest man made floating market in the world, with more than one hundred shops and vendors selling everything imaginable.

The easiest way to get to the floating market and other destinations in the area is with a car hire at U-Tapao international airport. from Drive Car Rental. With keys in hand, it’s time to see what else makes the Pattaya Floating Market worth a visit. 

Traditions of the Thai Floating Market

Bangkok was once called the ‘Venice of the East’ for its vast network of canals, many of which still exist today. This is because much of Thailand is low-lying terrain that floods easily in the rainy season. 

Long ago, when the rains came, the few roads that existed would become impassable. Therefore, canals became the primary way to move people, livestock, and goods around the area. 

Naturally, people would often gather in the morning before the heat of the daytime sun to conduct business between boats. This is how floating markets became everyday life for millions of Thais. 

As the 20th century progressed, many markets slowly disappeared as massive land works began to fill in the canals. This was especially true when Bangkok became a major trading hub for Southeast Asia. 

While floating markets still exist, they’re seen as a novelty for both locals and tourists. Visiting these markets is a fun way to experience long-held traditions while enjoying some excellent food.

Things to Do at Pattaya Floating Market

There are many activities in the Pattaya Floating Market for visitors to explore. Some are free with admission, while others ask for a small fee on top of the entrance ticket. 

Northern Thailand specialises in handmade silver jewelry, paper umbrellas, and wood carvings. Southern Thailand features coconut products and seafood. Northeast Thailand makes silks and other handwoven fabrics. Lastly, central Thailand is primarily represented by the market itself, which originates from the floating markets of Bangkok. 

In addition to the shops selling goods representative of their region, many vendors offer an array of incredible food. Everything from fruits and shakes to noodles and fresh seafood dishes are available. 

The floating market also features live performances throughout the day. There are dance performances with traditional costumes as well as musical acts and other temporary exhibitions. 

Along with showcasing culture, the market features traditional handicraft demonstrations where you can see some of Thailand’s best artisans at work. You’ll watch craftsmen make paper umbrellas, create intricate soap sculptures, and work on large wooden murals carved entirely by hand. 

Some additional activities cost a small fee. At the market, you can rent a boat, wear traditional Thai clothing, and have family photos taken. You can also hop on a zipline or opt for a massage. The market also has a variety of children’s activities like fish feeding, carnival games, and other attractions aimed at getting children engaged in Thai culture. 

How to Get to Pattaya Floating Market

The Pattaya Floating Market is located just southeast of Jomtien beach along the main Sukhumvit Road. The road is also known as ‘Highway 3,’ and it runs all the way from Rayong, through Pattaya, and north to Bangkok along the coast. Visitors wondering if it’s better to stay near Pattaya Beach or the city can take their pick, as Sukhumvit Road can be easily reached as it slices through the city. 

See Everything With Drive Car Rental

Drive Car Rental offers a wide selection of vehicles at reasonable rates, and we have locations throughout Thailand’s provincial capitals and major airports. With so many locations, Drive Car Rental gives customers the flexibility to pick up in one location and drop off at another. 

Vehicle choices include sedans, electric vehicles like Tesla and BYD, luxury vehicles, SUV’s, vans, and more. To ensure the best selection and pricing, book well in advance. This is especially true for the tourist high season from November to April.    

For even larger discounts, long-stay tourists, expats, and business travellers can take advantage of monthly and annual rentals. These come with free car maintenance, roadside assistance, and repairs, all for one low price!