Located in Sattahip District, Chon Buri Province, Thailand, Ramayana Water Park is Thailand’s largest and most celebrated water park, offering an exhilarating blend of thrilling rides, family-friendly attractions, and serene relaxation spaces. Situated just 20 kilometers south of Pattaya and a 2-hour drive from Bangkok, this sprawling 184,000-square-meter park, themed around an ancient forgotten city inspired by Thai mythology, has earned accolades as Asia’s top water park and ranks among the world’s best, according to TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards. This 1500-word travel guide provides a comprehensive overview of Ramayana Water Park, covering its attractions, accommodations, dining, activities, and practical tips for an unforgettable visit.
Overview of Ramayana Water Park
Opened on May 5, 2016, after a 1.7 billion THB construction project, Ramayana Water Park is a standout destination in Southeast Asia, blending world-class water attractions with a lush, tropical setting. Nestled in a scenic valley near Silverlake Vineyard and Khao Chi Chan (Buddha Mountain), the park’s location offers stunning views of green hills and natural lakes, creating a resort-like atmosphere. Its ancient city theme, designed by ATECH International Thailand (known for work on Disneyland Hong Kong), immerses visitors in a world of caves, sculptures, and Thai mythological elements, making it more than just a water park but a cultural experience.
The park boasts 21 premium water slides, a 600-meter lazy river, a double wave pool, and dedicated kids’ zones, catering to thrill-seekers, families, and those seeking relaxation. With over 100 certified lifeguards, high safety standards, and water sourced from nine private wells, Ramayana ensures a clean, safe, and fun environment for all ages. Its proximity to Pattaya makes it an ideal day trip or weekend getaway, while its extensive facilities make it a full-day adventure.
Attractions and Highlights
Ramayana Water Park is renowned for its diverse range of attractions, designed to entertain visitors of all ages. Here are some of the standout features:
Water Slides: The park offers 21 unique slides, crafted by WhiteWater West, Canada’s leading water attraction manufacturer. Thrill-seekers can experience high-speed rides like the AquaDrop, Free Fall, and Abyss, which feature steep drops and twists. The Aquaconda and Spiral slides offer thrilling spirals, while the Mat Racer allows four riders to race head-to-head. Unique to Ramayana, the Aquacoaster uses water jets to propel riders uphill seven times, and a river slide flows directly into the lazy river. Most slides are accessible to children over 106 cm, except for the extreme Aqualoop and Free Fall.
Wave Pool and Lazy River: The double wave pool, spanning 150 meters, offers one section for tube riding and another for open swimming, simulating stormy waves or calm waters. The 600-meter lazy river, one of the longest in the region, winds around a natural hill with integrated waves, bubbles, and waterfalls, providing a relaxing float through tropical scenery.
Kids’ Zones: Two dedicated children’s areas cater to younger visitors. The AquaSplash zone, designed for smaller kids, features spray attractions and gentle slides, while a second area for older children includes water games, climbing structures, and slides. Children under 90 cm enter free, and those between 91-121 cm qualify for discounted rates.
Dry Land Attractions: Beyond water activities, Ramayana offers a floating market built into a natural lake, a sand play area, a maze, waterfalls, and even elephant encounters. The Rainbow Sky Bridge, a rope-based climbing structure, is a unique adventure for kids and families, offering scenic views and playful challenges.
Relaxation Spaces: Over 40 private cabanas, surrounded by tropical trees, provide shaded retreats for rent. The park’s pool bar, integrated into a relaxing pool, serves refreshing drinks, while sunbeds and umbrellas are plentiful for lounging.
The park’s natural surroundings, with lush greenery and proximity to Silverlake Vineyard, enhance its appeal, making it feel like a tropical paradise rather than a typical water park.
Accommodations
While Ramayana Water Park does not offer on-site accommodations, its location near Pattaya and Sattahip provides easy access to a variety of lodging options for all budgets. Many visitors opt to stay in Pattaya, just 20 km away, and travel to the park for the day.
Luxury Options: In Pattaya, resorts like the Hilton Pattaya or InterContinental Pattaya Resort offer upscale amenities, including pools, spas, and sea views, with rates ranging from $80-$150 per night. Closer to the park, the U Pattaya in Bang Saray provides boutique luxury with beachfront access, costing $70-$120 per night.
Mid-Range and Budget Options: Hotels like Cosy Beach Hotel in Pattaya offer comfortable rooms for $30-$60 per night, while budget guesthouses in Sattahip, such as Samaesan Beach Resort, provide basic accommodations for $20-$40 per night. Airbnb rentals in the area, including condos and private homes, start at $15-$30 per night, ideal for families or groups.
Packages with Tickets: Ramayana partners with select Pattaya hotels to offer packages that include free or discounted park tickets, making it a cost-effective option for tourists. Check the park’s website for current offers.
For those planning a multi-day visit, staying in Pattaya provides access to additional attractions like Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden and Pattaya’s vibrant nightlife, complementing a day at the water park.
Dining and Local Cuisine
Ramayana Water Park features 10 themed restaurants, offering a diverse menu of Thai, European, American, and vegetarian dishes. The main restaurant serves over 100 dishes, including authentic Thai cuisine like tom yum goong (spicy shrimp soup) and pad thai, as well as Italian pizzas and American burgers. A dedicated kids’ menu ensures options for younger visitors. Prices are reasonable, with meals for two averaging $10-$20. Coffee shops, ice-cream stands, and cocktail bars are scattered throughout the park, with the pool bar being a highlight for refreshing drinks in the water.
Outside food and drinks are not permitted, but the park’s dining options are varied and high-quality, reducing the need for external provisions. For a local experience, visitors can explore nearby Sattahip or Bang Saray, where seafood restaurants like Mum Aroi Como Khao Cheechan serve fresh catches at affordable prices ($8-$15 for a meal).
Activities and Entertainment
Ramayana Water Park is designed for all-day entertainment, with activities catering to every preference:
Thrill-Seeking: High-speed slides like the AquaDrop and Aqualoop provide adrenaline-pumping fun, while the Mat Racer and Aquacoaster offer competitive thrills.
Family Fun: The kids’ zones, wave pool, and lazy river are perfect for families, with safe, supervised environments. The Rainbow Sky Bridge adds a playful challenge for kids and parents.
Relaxation: Cabanas, the lazy river, and poolside lounging areas offer serene escapes. Thai massage and spa services are available for ultimate relaxation.
Events and Special Occasions: The park hosts team-building events, birthday parties, and student outings, with discounted packages and decorated celebration areas.
Professional photographers capture memories across the park, with free photos and videos available on select slides via wristband scanning. Free high-speed Wi-Fi allows guests to share their experiences instantly.
Practical Tips for Visitors
Getting There: From Pattaya, the park is a 20-minute taxi or Grab ride, costing 300-500 THB ($9-$15). From Bangkok, a 2-hour drive via Sukhumvit Road is the fastest route, or take a bus/train to Pattaya (100-200 THB) followed by a taxi. Private transfers from Bangkok are available through the park’s website.
Best Time to Visit: The dry season (November-February) offers comfortable weather (25°C-30°C), ideal for outdoor activities. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends or holidays. Arrive at opening (10 AM) to maximize ride time.
Tickets and Costs: Adult tickets start at around 1,190 THB ($35), with discounts for children (91-121 cm) and free entry for those under 90 cm. Online booking before 11 AM is recommended to avoid lines. Check for resident promotions requiring Thai ID or work permits.
What to Bring: Pack swimwear, sunscreen, and a change of clothes. Towels and lockers are available for rent. Cash is useful for small purchases, though most vendors accept cards.
Safety and Rules: Over 100 certified lifeguards ensure safety, with a first-aid room staffed by qualified nurses. Outside food is prohibited, and height restrictions apply to certain slides.
Conclusion
Ramayana Water Park in Sattahip, Thailand, is a world-class destination that combines thrilling water slides, family-friendly attractions, and a tropical paradise setting. Its unique Thai mythology theme, top-notch facilities, and commitment to safety make it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re racing down the Aquaconda, floating along the lazy river, or relaxing in a private cabana, Ramayana offers an unforgettable day of fun and relaxation. With its proximity to Pattaya and cultural landmarks like Khao Chi Chan, it’s the perfect addition to any Thailand itinerary.
