Why Pratumnak is considered the best place to live in Pattaya
This is the mountain located between Pattaya and Jomtien, normally called “The Mountain” or “Buddha Mountain” due to the very large Buddha statue on the top.
Google or read in travel guides about tourist attractions, I will concentrate on living on Pratumnak. Nevertheless, for me a main attraction is having a coffee behind the PATTAYA CITY sign: good coffee and absolute fantastic views over the bay.
The area is divided between the actual called Pratumnak area with Sois 1-6 and the Cozy beach area named after the hotel. Unfortunately, these areas are not connected, you have to go to the Police Box on the mountain top to switch sides.
The Cozy Beach area is well known for restaurants like Oxygen, Sky Gallery, 3 Mermaids and more.
The “Pratumnak” part is famous for restaurants and coffee shops epically on Soi 5 with Dom Pizza, Sands Café and the recently opened The View – the name says it all, definitely a place for a sunset dinner!
From Soi 5 you have access to Dongtan Beach and from there to Jomtien Beach Road.
So why is it attractive as a residential area and called “Beverly Hills” of Pattaya?
In Bangkok you want to be close to Lumpini Park, in New York around Central Park…
In Pattaya google map shows me Queen Sirikit Park and Chaloem Phra Kiat Park. Actually, the whole mountain is a double peak with the Pratumnak Road cutting through and becoming 2nd Road or 3rd road after you went downhill. Both peaks are very attractive if you like a walk in the woods or even go jogging in the morning or before sunset. Carry some of fruits as you will meet lots of squirrels. From various points you have fantastic views over Pattaya City but the noise and traffic jams are a distant attraction…and you are still in walking distance to Walking Street!
Leaving the mountain towards Jomtien via Pratumnak Road connects you to Thappraya Road and from there to Jomtien Beach Road of Jomtien 2nd Road. Before you get there you can stop at Food Mart or the bus station to go to Bangkok airport. If you still got some time left on your Thailand trip use Thepprasit Road to go to Bang Sary, Sattahip or one of your favorite golf courses.
The author of this article has been living in this area for 5 years (Cozy Beach and Pratumnak) and appreciates the short distance to several beaches, lots of restaurants, and as a real estate guy his customers and their preferred condos are mostly on the mountain!
Surely the new flag ship is The Riviera Malibu on Soi 5. After completion it will be one of the best condos in Pattaya and even in the whole of Thailand. If you want to move in now, we can offer The Panora. Contact us for some very attractive offers in both projects.
If sqm prices of 160 000 baht scare you off there are lots of options on the secondary market like several Siam Oriental condos between soi 4 and 5, The Peak Towers and The Cliff on the Cozy beach side, View Talay 3 on Soi 6 and many more.
There is no space here to name all the projects and condos available but go to www.pattaya-real-estate.com and chose SMART MAP. There is a special area PRATUMNAK and you will find as I am writing these lines 122 property options.
Pratumnak is one of Pattaya’s most sought-after neighborhoods, offering a perfect blend of tranquility, convenience, and breathtaking views. For those considering investing in real estate or relocating to Pattaya, Pratumnak stands out as an exceptional choice. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top reasons to live in Pratumnak, delve into the fascinating history behind its name, and highlight the unparalleled views that make this area a dream destination for homeowners.
The Meaning & History of Pratumnak
Origins of the Name
The name “Pratumnak” (เขาพระตำหนัก) translates to “Palace Hill” in Thai, derived from the words *Phra* (พระ, meaning “sacred” or “royal”) and *Tamnak* (ตำหนัก, meaning “palace” or “residence”). The hill was historically associated with royalty and high-ranking officials, earning its regal name.
Historical Significance
Pratumnak Hill (Khao Phra Tamnak) has long been a landmark in Pattaya. Originally a quiet fishing village, Pattaya transformed into a tourist hotspot in the latter half of the 20th century. Pratumnak Hill, with its elevated position, became a strategic location for military and naval installations, including a radio station operated by the Royal Thai Navy.
One of the most iconic historical landmarks on the hill is the Abhakara Kiartivongse Monument, a bronze statue honoring the “Father of the Royal Thai Navy.” Though partially obstructed by an abandoned condominium project, the monument remains a significant historical site.
Another key attraction is Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha Hill), home to an 18metertall golden Buddha statue built in 1977. The temple dates back to the 1940s when Pattaya was still a sleepy fishing town, making it a spiritual and cultural cornerstone of the area.
Top Reasons to Live in Pratumnak
1. Spectacular Panoramic Views
Pratumnak’s hilltop location provides unmatched views of Pattaya Bay, Koh Larn Island, and the Gulf of Thailand. Many condominiums and villas here offer expansive balconies where residents can enjoy sunrise vistas or sunset cocktails with a backdrop of the glittering city lights.
Big Buddha Hill Viewpoint – A prime spot for photography and relaxation.
Pattaya City Sign – Recently upgraded with LED lighting, this landmark offers a stunning overlook of the bay, especially at night.
Helipad Lookout – A lesser known gem with sweeping coastal views.
2. Peaceful yet Central Location
Unlike the bustling streets of central Pattaya, Pratumnak offers a residential retreat while still being minutes away from key attractions:
Walking Street & Bali Hai Pier – Just a short drive away for nightlife and island ferries.
Jomtien Beach – A quieter alternative to Pattaya Beach, ideal for swimming and relaxation.
Pratumnak Beach – A serene stretch of sand with fewer crowds.
3. Thriving Expat & Dining Scene
Pratumnak has evolved into a cosmopolitan hub, attracting expats and digital nomads with its diverse dining and social options:
Soi 5 – A hotspot for international cuisine, from Italian pizza at Dom’s to American soul food at Kickin’ Chicken.
Russian Market (Soi 6) – A vibrant night market offering fresh seafood and Thai street food.
Café Culture – Trendy coffee shops like King of Coffee Cafe provide perfect work from anywhere spots.
4. Fitness & Outdoor Lifestyle
Health conscious residents love Pratumnak for:
Open-air gyms like “The Zoo,” a budget friendly fitness center with Muay Thai training.
Scenic walking paths along Dongtan Beach and Pratumnak Hill’s slopes.
Yacht clubs & water sports – Thanks to its proximity to the sea, sailing and kayaking are popular activities.
5. Strong Real Estate Investment Potential
Pratumnak is Pattaya’s Beverly Hills, offering luxury condos, hillside villas, and high-end developments. Key advantages include:
High rental demand from tourists and long-term expats.
Exclusive properties with infinity pools and sea view balconies.
Affordable luxury – Compared to Western markets, high end condos here offer incredible value. Like New Nordic Condo for less than 150,000 USD
Living the Dream: Pratumnak’s Balcony Views
One of the biggest draws of Pratumnak real estate is the breathtaking balcony views. Whether you’re sipping morning coffee or hosting sunset gatherings, the vistas are unmatched:
Oceanfront Condos – Many high-rises provide unobstructed sea views, with Koh Larn visible on clear days.
Hillside Villas – Private residences nestled in lush greenery, offering both tranquility and panoramas.
City Skyline at Night – The glittering lights of Pattaya create a mesmerizing backdrop.
As one expat noted: “Watching the sun set behind Koh Larn from a Pratumnak balcony is a soul soothing experience everyone should have at least once in their lifetime!”
Conclusion: Why Pratumnak is the Ultimate Pattaya Address
Pratumnak combines history, luxury, and lifestyle like no other area in Pattaya. From its royal origins to its modern-day appeal as an expat haven, this neighborhood offers the perfect balance of serenity and excitement. Whether you’re seeking a vacation home, retirement paradise, or a lucrative investment, Pratumnak delivers.
At Pattaya Real Estate Co Ltd, we specialize in helping buyers find their dream property in this prestigious area. Contact us today to explore available condos, villas, and land opportunities in Pratumnak!
Pratumnak Hill, Pratumnak History, Pratumnak Views
Pattaya Real Estate
434/33 M.12, View Talay 2 A. Rm 33 Floor 1, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi, 20150, Pattaya, Thailand