The Floating Market in Pattaya is the largest floating market in the East of Thailand. The market covers over 62 acres of land, and offers a significant number of activities to visitors. The Market incorporates the four main cultural regions of Thailand - (Northern, Southern, Central, and Northeastern).
Ethical Significance comes in here due to the fact that there is a lack of authenticity due to extreme number of tourists that gather to experience this attraction. Authenticity is important and the Floating Market had incorporated 4 regions of Thailand to introduce cultural, traditions and food; even with this there is a sense of profit before authenticity and culture. Some will argue that the floating market is not authentic, and has become just another tourist trap that is expensive. Others would argue that the floating market is a great way to spend your day and learn about many aspects of Thai life and culture in a short time and at one location.
The Floating Market in Pattaya is the largest floating market in the East of Thailand. The market is huge, covering over 62 acres of land, and it offers a significant number of activities to visitors. It has four thematic areas incorporating the four main cultural regions of Thailand - (Northern, Southern, Central, and Northeastern). All in one large theme park. The market was first established with education in mind, providing opportunities for others to see how Thai people live, what their main activities are, what traditional products they produce in the different regions, and what they eat. The market is something for one to experience! As the whole market itself is built on top of water and floating markets are typically not easy to come across. The market is full of shopping opportunities, selling goods that range from typical souvenirs to wooden sculptures, clothes, silverware, textiles, paper handcrafts, Thai silk, musical instruments and more. Food is the main draw, but the market also provides activities such as a Muay Thai kickboxing fight - over water! You may experience the market in two different ways – either by paying the basic entrance fare and walking around the market, or by paying a larger sum and being able to experience the market aboard a boat or gondola. Either choice is a great way to enjoy the market and makes for an enjoyable experience.
Good - I had a great time experiencing the Floating Market; It was something I have previously never done before and enjoyed the time I spent there. I read many reviews before going to the Floating Market and I felt there was a divide between those who enjoyed the market and those who did not. Of course at every attraction there is going to be something that is not ideal for everyone. I understand where there are flaws and the floating market was exactly what I was expecting; great food (Deep Fried Bananas were my favourite), Muay Thai Boxing Fight, Boat Rides, Shopping and more. The Floating market also has many vendors selling souvenirs and goods that I haven't seen at other markets. I went to the Floating Market mid morning and it was not overly busy which was nice and the market is mostly covered so need to worry about the sun or getting extremely hot.
Bad - The market had over priced boat rides to bring you around the market. The Floating Market also is catered to tourists, giving myself a feeling that they have lost their authenticity as they market themselves on bringing together four regions of Thailand. I also would have liked to see more signs or information regarding which sections belonged to each region. The markets were fun but slightly overpriced for this tourist attraction.
Overall, I would return to the Floating Market.
Green Light
The Floating Market is appropriate for all ages, and is a must see when visiting Pattaya. I can understand how one can question the authenticity of The Market and label it as a tourist trap. However, my experience was quite positive and was something I never had the chance to enjoy before hand. A great day trip.
*Rating is based on my personal experience and my own opinion*
The market offers many activities for tourists to enjoy including
- Zip lining adventure
- The cruise boat to experience the charm of the river and enjoy a cruise to choose to eat food that is sold in the boat throughout the project
- Water Buggy's
- A haunted house
- Sniper rifle, archery and crossbow shooting
- Cultural Performances
- Thai traditional meals and snacks
Everyday 10:00am - 9:00pm
The basic entrance fee for each person entering the floating market is 200 Baht
To enjoy the market by boat the costs can range from 600-900 Baht
Coming from Alcazar Cabaret
Head north - 150 M
Take a right onto Central Pattaya Road - 60 M
Take a right onto Sukhumvit Road - 700 M
Turn right onto Route 3 - 7.4km
Destination will be on the left
This destination is on the left about 7.5 km South of Pattaya City down Sukhumvit Road, also known as Route 3. Song taews or taxis will also take you here from the City.
451/304 Moo 12, Sukhumvit Rd.. Bang., Banglamung, Chonburi. 20150
Laura Mannen
Last Updated: April 2015