Why are Pattaya Soi 6 and Soi 7 off-limits to US Navy personnel after dark?
USS Abraham Lincoln personnel have been told to avoid Pattaya Soi 6 and 7 after sunset under safety rules outlined by the city’s mayor
Personnel from the USS Abraham Lincoln have reportedly been prohibited from entering Pattaya Soi 6 and Soi 7 after sunset as part of safety rules imposed during the aircraft carrier’s port call in Chonburi.
Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngampichet disclosed the restriction while outlining security arrangements for the 4,830 sailors and Marines visiting the area, according to the report.
The USS Abraham Lincoln arrived at Laem Chabang Port on September 2, providing its personnel with an opportunity to rest after an extended deployment.
Pattaya authorities have increased security and coordinated visitor services during the port call.
Pattaya Soi 6, a beer-bar district lively from afternoon to evening
- Pattaya Soi 6 is located in northern Pattaya, connecting Pattaya Beach Road with Pattaya Second Road. It is regarded as one of the city’s most distinctive entertainment districts.
- A hub for beer bars: The street, which stretches for only a few hundred metres, is lined on both sides with around 60 to 70 small beer bars.
- Lively from the afternoon: Unlike other entertainment districts that become active late at night, venues on Pattaya Soi 6 begin opening at around 1pm, with welcoming staff and music creating a lively atmosphere throughout the day.
Pattaya Soi 7, a relaxed nightlife and live-music district
- Pattaya Soi 7 is located in central Pattaya and is another area with a high concentration of nightlife venues and bars.
- A mix of bars and restaurants: The street features beer bars, bar-restaurants and small live-music venues.
- A casual hangout: Connecting towards Soi 8 and the central Pattaya beachfront, the area attracts visitors looking to enjoy drinks, live music and the city’s night-time atmosphere.
Why has the US Navy banned personnel from visiting these areas after dark?
Although both streets are popular with international visitors, they contain a high concentration of entertainment venues and bars selling alcohol, with large crowds gathering in confined spaces.
The US Navy has therefore imposed force-protection measures to prevent incidents, reduce safety risks and make it easier to supervise personnel at night. Sailors are instead permitted to visit more open areas, such as Walking Street and other general tourist zones.
