LEARN TO SCUBA IN PATTAYA
Pattaya is a unique seaside resort in the Gulf of Thailand with three Island clusters just 40min offshore. Despite been one the lesser-known diving destinations in Thailand, compared to Phuket, Koh Tao or the Similan Islands, Pattaya is more popular in many ways for those that now about Pattaya.
City and Island life rolled into one!
Pattaya City extends the east coastline just an hour or so from Bangkok. Stretching through Naklua (North Pattaya) Pattaya Beach (Central Pattaya) South of Walking Street into Jomtien This area extends around 10miles (17km approx) offering fast easy access to almost anywhere in 20min or less.
The South end of the Beach Road features a large Pier ( Bali Hai Pier) where ferry boats to Koh Lan take beach lovers over to the famous coral island on day trips and the diving boats depart daily each morning for Pattaya diving tours to either the Pattaya Near islands or the Pattaya far island dive sites. At least a few times each week, the Pattaya dive centres use minibuses to shuttle scuba divers from Pattaya down the coast 40mins to Samae San peir where they can access another cluster of islands around Koh Samae San, know as the Samaesan Marine Park.
Pattaya: From Fishing Village to Global Beach Destination
Pattaya’s story is one of transformation. Once a quiet fishing village, it began to change dramatically in the early 1960s when American servicemen stationed in the region during the Vietnam War discovered its peaceful shores. That discovery marked the beginning of a rapid evolution—from simple beachside huts to a bustling city filled with guesthouses, bars, hotels, and shopping centres.
Today, Pattaya welcomes over 4 million visitors each year with a dynamic mix of culture, adventure, and entertainment. It’s home to some of Asia’s most impressive beachfront malls, like Central Festival and Terminal21, alongside local favourites like Mike’s Mall and the family-friendly Harbour Land.
But Pattaya isn’t just about nightlife anymore. It’s a vibrant city that offers everything from extreme sports and fine dining to international shopping and sightseeing. Whether you’re travelling with family, as a couple, or for business, Pattaya delivers experiences for every kind of traveller.
Located close to Bangkok, Pattaya is Thailand’s closest major beach resort to the capital. It’s also become one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Southeast Asia, attracting a diverse mix of tourists, artists, and creatives drawn to its unique coastal energy.
In Pattaya, the past meets the present. It’s a place where you can relax by the sea, dive into adventure, or discover something entirely new. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to see how much it’s grown, Pattaya is ready to surprise you.
The Tourism Boom of the '70s and '80s
The First Foreign Visitors to Arrive in Pattaya were during the Vietnam War, when American servicemen stationed at the U-Tapao Airbase, about 30 miles away discovered its peaceful shoreline and nearby islands. In search of a place to unwind from the chaos of war, they were drawn to Pattaya’s calm beaches. Word quickly spread, and the once-sleepy fishing village began its journey into tourism with the rise of modest accommodations and basic entertainment venues.
The 1970s and 1980s marked a period of rapid development for Pattaya. As tourism demand surged, infrastructure expanded to support it—roads were built, hotels rose, and tourist services flourished. By the 1980s, Pattaya had cemented its status as a popular beach destination, attracting not only military personnel but also backpackers and international travelers eager for sun, sea, and adventure. It was during this era that Seafari Dive Centre earned the distinction of becoming Thailand’s first PADI 5 Star IDC (Instructor Development Centre), offering the full range of scuba diving courses up to instructor level.
From the 1990s into the 21st century, Pattaya began to evolve beyond its reputation as a nightlife hub. The city invested heavily in diversifying its appeal and improving quality across the board—from upscale resorts and revamped infrastructure to new cultural and recreational attractions. A landmark moment in its diving history came with the sinking of the HTMS Khram, Pattaya’s first artificial reef project, offering divers a compelling new wreck site in addition to the Bremen, Vertical Wreck, and the historic Chinese Pottery Wreck.
This period also saw the emergence of family-oriented attractions, including water parks, golf courses, and cultural performances, making Pattaya more inclusive and appealing to Thailand holidaymakers.
Seafari: Pioneers of Diving in Pattaya
Seafari was the very first scuba diving operation established in Pattaya—and one of the earliest in all of Thailand. Founded by Bill Burbridge in 1970, Seafari has been welcoming divers from around the world for over five decades. When it comes to experience, few dive centers can compare. With more than 40 years of diving Thailand’s waters, our legacy truly speaks for itself.
Seafari holds the distinction of being Thailand’s first registered PADI dive facility, the first PADI 5-Star Dive Center, and, after years of dedication to meeting PADI’s highest standards, the country’s first 5-Star Instructor Development Center (IDC).
At Seafari, we prioritize fun and safety—ensuring every dive is as enjoyable as it is secure. Whether you’re taking your very first breath underwater or aiming to become a professional diver, we offer a full range of PADI courses and dive trips to support your journey.
For those seeking an extra thrill, Seafari also offers a variety of cave diving courses, perfect for divers looking to explore the more adventurous side of scuba.
Playground for Adventure, Culture, and Island Escapes.
Pattaya isn’t just about beaches and nightlife—it’s a diverse adventure playground with something for everyone. From adrenaline-pumping activities to cultural wonders and relaxing escapes, this vibrant coastal city delivers unforgettable experiences both on land and at sea.
Adventure & Thrills:
Feel your heart race with tandem skydiving from 13,000 feet with Thai Sky Adventures—Thailand’s highest jump. Or head off-road into Pattaya’s rugged countryside on ATV and Buggy tours, kicking up dirt as you explore jungle trails, creeks, and farmlands.
Island Escapes:
Take a short boat trip to Koh Larn (Coral Island) for crystal-clear waters, soft white beaches, and laid-back island vibes. It’s the perfect day trip for sunbathing, snorkeling, or simply relaxing away from the city.
Water Fun:
Make a splash at Ramayana Water Park, Thailand’s biggest water park, featuring thrilling slides, wave pools, and family-friendly attractions set in a lush, tropical landscape.
Scuba Diving:
Dive into Pattaya’s underwater world with colorful coral reefs and seven fascinating shipwrecks just offshore. It’s a great destination for both beginner and experienced divers, with year-round dive trips and courses available.
Culture & History:
Step into another world at the Sanctuary of Truth, a breathtaking all-wood temple carved entirely by hand. This architectural marvel blends Thai tradition, spirituality, and craftsmanship into one awe-inspiring attraction.
Whether you’re seeking thrills, tranquility, or cultural enrichment, Pattaya offers a dynamic mix of activities to suit every traveler.
