Horizon Rooftop

Horizon Rooftop is on the 34th floor of the Hilton Pattaya on Beach Road, in the Central Pattaya district. Festival Plaza, Mulligans Irish Pub, Central Pattaya mall, Sunset Bar and Restaurant, Soi Honey massage and Mirror Bar are close by. The bar looks out over the bay.

A 34th-floor bar over the bay, and the best sunset drink in town. That is the reason to go: the height, the open view of the water and the light going down. It is a good stop before Walking Street.

Aim to be there 30 to 45 minutes before sunset to get a seat with the view. That gives you the daylight, the sunset and the lights coming on. After the sunset crowd leaves, it is quieter, with a better chance of a table.

Booking is wise if you want a seat near the edge at sunset or on a weekend. Reservations are normally taken online or by phone. Walk-ins are fine on quieter evenings, but check the current policy before you go up.

Smart casual is the safe choice. Pattaya's rooftops are more relaxed than Bangkok's big hotel bars, but sportswear, shorts and flip-flops can still be refused, so check before you go. Your companion should dress up a little as well, since the same rules apply to her.

Yes. The view and the sunset do half the work, and the setting is public and relaxed. Book a table, go for the light and plan dinner nearby afterwards. For a date on Beach Road, it is the one I would pick.

Festival Plaza, Mulligans Irish Pub, Central Pattaya mall, Sunset Bar and Restaurant, Soi Honey massage and Mirror Bar are all close by. Beach Road's promenade is below, and the beer bars on Soi 6, 7 and 8 are a short walk away.

Go up for sunset with a drink, stay to watch the lights come on over the bay and head to dinner or the bars afterwards. Dress smart and book if you can. VIP members can see current hours and prices on the venue listing.