The Pattaya Airport is more like an airstrip, also called U-Tapao airfield, located about 30km south of Pattaya. There are no Bangkok flights; however, there are daily flights between Koh Samui on Bangkok Air.

Pattaya Airport offers joy flights and aerial sightseeing tours on a variety of small planes. They also offer a DOA approved ground course for the Ultralight Pilot License. Experienced pilots can charter their own plane.

Airport mini van is probably the best means of economical transport from Bangkok’s airport. Shared mini-vans charge around 200 Baht one way from Bangkok’s Don Mung Airport directly to Pattaya. There are both buses and vans operating as “Airport Limousines” (Bus) so don't be put off if you think you are choosing the wrong vehicle in which to travel. Time tables vary, but generally leave the airport at 9am, 12 noon & 7pm. Driving time is around 2-3 hours, depending on traffic.

Hiring your own taxi is the most comfortable way to travel between the airport and Pattaya. Set fares are around 1500-2000 baht one way. Use the licensed taxis at the stand directly outside the main terminal doors. Decide on the fare before departing. Other, more luxurious taxis such as Mercedes are available as well, for a higher rate of course. These booths are found inside the airport terminal, after leaving the baggage claim area. Driving time is around 2-3 hours, depending on traffic.

Bus services link Pattaya and Bangkok directly from/to Bangkok’s Don Muang Airport. These also serve Naklua, immediately north of Pattaya, and Jomtien to the south of Pattaya. Driving time is around 2-3 hours, depending on traffic.

From within Bangkok, the Eastern bus terminal, commonly called Ekkamai, serves Pattaya, Rayong and Trat. Driving time is around 2-3 hours, depending on traffic.

There is a weekend excursion train on Saturdays and Sundays only, departing from Bangkok’s HuaLamphong Station at 6:20am. Journey time is about 4 hours.

Transport within Pattaya is most convenient by passenger truck/bus (otherwise referred to as mini-buses or songtaews). They continually ply the Pattaya Beach Road and Pattaya 2 Road in counter clockwise circuits. Fares beyond the main bay area have to be agreed upon before starting the trip. It makes a difference whether one just boards a passenger pickup and drives along its route while the or whether the trip is individual. The rates for individual trips during which the driver does not pick up additional passengers are much higher.

Those who wish to be independent or to explore Pattaya’s surrounding countryside and beaches at leisure, can hire motorcycles, jeeps and cars. The visitor should shop around, for different companies offer different prices and conditions. It’s best to rent from a reputable company such as Avis or Budget. Many street shops don't fully insure. You will also need a drivers license from you home country or an International Drivers License. Bring a copy of your passport too. Keep in mind Thailand has a very high rate of road accidents. Stay alert at all times. Thai law requires the driver and front seat passenger to wear seat belts.

Motorbikes can be fun for short distances. Thai law requires the driver to wear a helmet, but if you’re riding pillion, it’s a good idea to ask for a second helmet for the passenger too. Motorbike rentals are not insured.