A Fresh Take on Coastal Elegance
Meliá Pattaya Hotel, the fifth property in Thailand under the Meliá brand, stands tall as a 12-storey building on Pattaya Sai Song. The hotel has undergone a major transformation, emerging with a new identity that makes it difficult to believe it wasn’t built from scratch. As someone who has visited all Meliá hotels in Thailand, I can confidently say that this latest addition doesn’t disappoint.
Upon arrival, guests are greeted by a fountain that sets a positive tone, followed by a spacious lobby where the design pays homage to the Gulf of Thailand. Textured wall panels mimic ocean waves, and accent pillows in various shades of blue add a touch of vibrancy. The use of arches is consistent with Meliá’s signature style, and this nautical theme continues throughout the guest rooms and public spaces.
The hallway leading to the rooms features low ceilings and rounded corners, giving it a cruise ship-like feel. Each room is adorned with a pottery display representing a lost treasure found in the sea. The 218 rooms and 16 suites come in seven categories, ranging from 27 to 125m², offering a variety of options for different needs.
Inside a Deluxe Room, the sea-inspired design is evident in the wallpaper and bathroom tiles. The use of arches and natural light through large windows creates a clean and inviting atmosphere. A room-length sofa offers a comfortable spot to enjoy the view, while the compact bathroom can be accessed via sliding doors.
For those seeking more space, the Premium Room and The Level Premium Sea View Room offer 31m² of area, with the latter providing stunning views of the Gulf. The Level suites, including one- and two-bedroom options, range from 61 to 125m², making them ideal for families or extended stays.
The Level Presidential Suite is a standout feature, featuring a spacious kitchen/living room with an island and dining table, as well as two ensuite bedrooms that offer panoramic views from the 11th floor.
Guests staying in The Level rooms and suites enjoy exclusive access to The Level Lounge on the second floor, where they can enjoy breakfast, all-day refreshments, and afternoon canapés.
A Tropical Oasis
The hotel’s mosaic pool serves as a small oasis, complemented by an adjacent function lawn and Lula pool bar. Five pairs of sunloungers are available on the Baja shelf, though the towering condos nearby may affect privacy. For a more secluded experience, opt for roofed cabanas that can be closed off with curtains.
On the same level, the kids’ club Kidsdom features its own pool, a submarine theme, and activities to keep children entertained. Sanehh Sarae, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, offers a bountiful breakfast and fresh seafood sourced locally, with decor that tells the story of Pattaya’s Bang Saray fishing village.
Despite being part of a Spanish hotel group, Meliá Pattaya Hotel excels in Chinese cuisine at Yitong Chinese Restaurant and Sky Bar. This sophisticated setting features pops of red, black, and gold trimmings, and offers generous portions of Cantonese and Sichuan dishes. Highlights include golden-fried fish, char siu, roast duck, and stir-fried aromatic fish fillet with black bean sauce.
Yitong’s long balcony offers scenic views of the Gulf, but the rooftop bar provides a more open-air experience, perfect for watching the sunset with a cocktail in hand. The view of the horizon dotted with boats and the Pattaya city sign is a romantic backdrop.
Culinary Delights
Another dining highlight is Den, a Nikkei restaurant that features a golden pine tree at the entrance. Non-traditional delights such as Hamachi ceviche with ponzu vinaigrette, Salmon crudo with chimchurri sauce, and Spicy wagyu aburi rolls with grilled asparagus and wasabi aioli are sure to impress. For a more traditional option, the Shoyu ramen with braised pork belly and chashu is a must-try.
If the night is still young, guests can take a free ride from the lobby to Lay Beach Club, located just across the street. This two-storey beach club offers a stylish yet laid-back vibe, signature cocktails, Mediterranean-Asian fusion dishes, poolside fire shows, and an outdoor LED screen on the upper floor suitable for events.
Wellness and Fitness
For those looking to stay active, the hotel’s gym offers an interesting layout. Exercise machines are placed along the building perimeter, allowing guests to enjoy views while working out. This design contrasts with the usual large, enclosed gym spaces.
For a quick escape, guests can indulge in a pampering session at Meliá’s signature Yhi Spa. The spa’s design includes a decorative tray of sand and seashells, creating a serene environment that reminds guests they are in Pattaya.
Convenient Location
Located in the heart of Pattaya’s action, Meliá Pattaya Hotel offers easy access to attractions along Beach Road and Pattaya Sai Song. Nearby landmarks such as the Sanctuary of Truth and Bali Hai Pier are just a short car ride away.
