Naklua

Overview

Naklua is the quiet fishing district at the northern tip of Pattaya, where narrow sois (lanes) wind past traditional wooden houses, seafood drying racks, and small neighbourhood temples. It offers a glimpse of what Pattaya looked like before mass tourism transformed the coastline.

Highlights

• Naklua seafood restaurants: Family-run eateries serve some of the best crab and prawn dishes in the region.
• Wong Amat Beach: A small, relatively secluded beach north of the main tourist strip.
• Lan Pho Market: A morning market popular with locals for fresh produce and cooked food.

History

Naklua — meaning 'salt fields' in Thai — was historically a salt-farming and fishing community. While high-rise condominiums have encroached in recent years, the inner sois retain a distinctly local, village-like character.

Visitor Tips

• Walking: The district is best explored on foot; motorbike taxis are available for longer distances.
• Evening seafood: The waterfront restaurants are best visited at sunset.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.