I live in Pattaya, it's the city that never sleeps, but truth be told the beach is not Pattaya's strong suit.
If you're looking for tropical paradise and love to swim in the ocean go somewhere else.
Thailand has many beautiful islands, some quiet and others with vibrant nightlife.
Phuket and Ko Samui have nightlife similar to Pattaya but on a much smaller scale.
Ko PhanGan is the favorite of backpackers, with a full moon all night rave everymonth.
Pattaya is all about sex with close to 100,000 girls, boys, and ladyboys just dyin to meet ya.
If that's what you're looking for then goforit. If not, skip it.