Authorities in Pattaya have historically overlooked the city’s sex trade and related activities, but police are now stepping up efforts to enforce regulations. Residents of this popular Thai tourist destination are growing frustrated with tourists engaging in public sex acts, fueling demands for greater awareness of appropriate behavior among visitors.
The most recent case involved a foreign couple allegedly caught having sex in plain view on Kratinglay Beach, as reported by local media over the weekend. An 18-year-old witness, identified only as Bew, told journalists he spotted the pair while unwinding on the beach with friends. Despite other people being present, the couple appeared unbothered—even after Bew asked them to stop.
“I couldn’t believe someone would be bold enough to have sex on a beach surrounded by people. It was shocking. They should’ve gone to a hotel,” Bew told Thaiger, a bilingual news source.
In Thailand, penalties for public sex range from a 500-baht (US$15) fine to potential jail time, per Pattaya Mail. Foreign offenders may also face deportation.