PATTAYA, Thailand — Thousands of US sailors and Marines arriving aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group will face restrictions on cannabis shops, watersports and several nightlife areas during a scheduled port visit near Pattaya.
The US Navy group, led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, is scheduled to dock at Laem Chabang Port in Chon Buri from September 2 to September 6, 2026. More than 5,000 personnel are believed to be travelling aboard the carrier and two accompanying vessels.
Officials estimate that around 60%, or approximately 3,000 service members, could visit Pattaya and stay overnight during the port call, potentially delivering a significant short-term boost to hotels, restaurants, transport operators and entertainment businesses.
• USS Abraham Lincoln is scheduled to visit Chon Buri from September 2–6
• More than 5,000 sailors and Marines are aboard the visiting vessels
• About 3,000 personnel could visit or stay in Pattaya
• Cannabis shops, pharmacies and water-based activities are off-limits
• Soi 6, Soi 6/1 and Soi 7 have also been designated off-limits
• Visiting personnel must leave Walking Street by 2 a.m.
What is banned for US sailors in Pattaya?
The restrictions were discussed during an August 31 security and coordination meeting at Pattaya City Hall involving local authorities, tourist police and representatives of the visiting ships’ security teams.
Under the announced arrangements, US Navy personnel will not be permitted to enter cannabis shops or pharmacies. They will also be prohibited from participating in water-based recreational activities, including watersports such as parasailing.
Several nightlife streets—Soi 6, Soi 6/1 and Soi 7—have been designated as off-limits. Sailors will be allowed to visit Pattaya’s better-known Walking Street entertainment district, but reports say they must leave by 2 a.m.
The restrictions appear to form part of coordinated safety and conduct measures for the US military visit rather than a general ban applying to every tourist in Pattaya.
Pattaya officials have also reminded businesses and the public that prostitution is illegal under Thai law. Authorities particularly emphasized that the exploitation, purchase or sale of sexual services involving anyone under 18 is strictly prohibited.
Businesses have been instructed to charge fair prices and avoid taking advantage of visiting personnel. Police presence is expected to increase around Pattaya Beach, Walking Street and other heavily visited areas during the port call.
USS Abraham Lincoln visit could boost Pattaya businesses
The visit comes after the USS Abraham Lincoln completed an unusually long deployment connected to US military operations in the Middle East. The carrier was relieved in the region by the USS George Washington before beginning its journey home through Thailand.
According to the Associated Press, the carrier had spent more than 250 consecutive days at sea, raising concerns about the strain placed on its crew during the extended deployment.
Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngampichet welcomed the port call and expressed hope that it would support the local tourism economy. The beach city has been working to promote its family, cultural and natural attractions alongside its internationally known nightlife industry.
Local tourism businesses have been affected by reduced international travel and increased fuel costs. Those pressures have also been seen in other markets, as explained in our report on how international oil developments could affect gas prices.
About 40 buses are reportedly being arranged to transport sailors between Laem Chabang Port and Pattaya in staggered groups. Thai authorities are deploying hundreds of officials to assist with transportation, security and visitor safety.
The arrival also highlights Pattaya’s long relationship with American military personnel. The city grew rapidly as a rest-and-recreation destination for US service members during the Vietnam War before developing into one of Thailand’s most visited coastal destinations.
Anyone who witnesses suspicious activity or requires assistance can contact Thailand’s Tourist Police on 1155. Visitors can also use the Thailand Tourist Police mobile application to request assistance and share their location with officers.
Reporting note: This article is based on information published by Pattaya authorities and reports from the Associated Press, Bangkok Post and local Thai news organizations. Restrictions or visit arrangements may be updated during the port call.
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