Tourists call on Pattaya City Hall to tackle beach vendor hustle and restore peace for a truly relaxing experience. PATTAYA, Thailand — At first glance, Pattaya Beach looks like the perfect tropical getaway: sun, sand, and sea. But for many expats and foreign tourists who have returned or stayed longer, the reality can be far less relaxing. “It is, but it’s no different to Spain, the Canaries and most other beach locations around the world,” said one seasoned visitor, pointing out that heavy tourist crowds and vendor hustle are common global challenges. Yet the intensity of commercial activity here leaves many wishing for quieter shores. One visitor recalled drifting off in a deck chair with sunglasses on, only to be woken by a vendor asking if he wanted to buy sunglasses. “Commercial day and night,” they said. “More like every 30 seconds.” “More like walking down Soi 6,” joked another, comparing the relentless sales pitches on the beach to the bustling nightlife streets. “How dare you call it a beach? It’s a sewers swimming pool,” quipped a frustrated traveler, capturing the dissatisfaction of some beachgoers. The constant interruptions from hawkers selling everything from trinkets to foot massages can wear down even the most patient. “It annoys the hell out of me when I’m trying to relax and get a foot massage,” one expat shared. “One person sees you say no, and they still approach you trying to sell the exact same item. Even suits! Who goes to the beach to buy a suit?” Despite the pressure, many visitors try to be polite. “They are working hard,” said one commenter. “Say no thanks and smile — it’s not so hard.” Still, the nonstop sales pitches drive some tourists away. “Yes, I will not sit at the beach for just that reason. The beach is never relaxing in Pattaya,” admitted a foreigner. Pattaya Beach: From sunny getaway to nonstop sales zone, testing tourists’ patience. Some suggest simply avoiding engagement with vendors. “Do not even look at them,” advised one. “As soon as you engage, the only way to get rid of them is to say get out of my face, which usually makes them aggressive.” Others lament the toll on Pattaya’s tourism. “More and more tourists stay away, and that means a buildup of lack of money,” said one observer. “Back in 2012, it was like that. Why would it be different today?” Many visitors to Pattaya Beach express growing frustration over the nonstop vendor hustle. As one expat put it, “Easy, you say no thanks…” — but the persistent pestering quickly wears down even the most patient beachgoer. Another explained, “The number one reason I refuse to pay for a place on the beach is that I like to relax, read a book, or just contemplate my life. The constant interruptions take that opportunity away, so I stay away.” What should be a peaceful escape often becomes a stressful experience, especially when sellers circle back repeatedly with the same pitch. Tourists and long-term visitors are now urging Pattaya City Hall to step in. Many say they want to enjoy the beach without hassle, but feel their concerns are being ignored. Calls for stricter rules, vending-free zones, and better enforcement are growing louder — with hopes that the city will act before more visitors choose to stay away.