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Only Bangkok beats Pattaya in number of hotel rooms. For seclusion, you'll have to stay at one of the high-end places. Ask hotels about packages and discounts—it can save you a chunk of change.
At the northern end of Pattaya Beach, this sprawling hotel has superb bay views and several pools, including one with a swim-up bar. The rooms themselves also have comfortable seating areas and private balconies, and the lobby that leads to them is a light-soaked atrium complete with waterfalls. Not to be outdone, the resort's restaurants have expansive views, and the Devarana Spa is a luxurious, cutting-edge facility.
High on a bluff about 1½ km (1 mile) south of town, this four-hotel ensemble, a Thai institution, is known far and wide for its gulf views, setting, and staggering size. Even the standard rooms are well furnished, and most have ocean-view terraces (request one ahead of time). Some suites have two bedrooms, making them good for families. The beach is nice, too, but it's a hike down some stairs. The 11 on-site restaurants prepare a range of cuisines. Rossi serves high-quality Italian food at affordable prices.
