I really like Jomtien. I wish the other parts of Pattaya were more like it.
Sure, the beach is no Phi Phi but the restaurants and hotels in the area is definitely a more "wholesome" Pattaya. The beach walk is lined with restaurants that are more family-friendly, fresh seafood is served, and the restaurants are better suited for families and married couples as opposed to the cheap motels lining the other, more saturated beach in Pattaya (Pattaya Beach).
The princess of Thailand has a home in Jomtien. The residential areas in Jomtien (not just beach-side) are quite high-end and several spots makes one think he/she is in a first-world country. There are dozens of Thai and Western restaurants that range from steakhouses, Irish pubs and a quaint art cafe called Sketchbook Cafe in Jomtien.
I found out about Jomtien from two sites I love about Thailand. One of them is about Thailand in general written by an expat who lives in Thailand Asia Meets World and the other one is Pattaya, Thailand – specific (minus the red light district. The more wholesome side of Pattaya, Thailand) Live in Pattaya www.LiveinPattaya.com – That one is ran from Pattaya by a group of expats.
I love coming to Jomtien and go regularly. The place is highly recommended for those who want to explore Pattaya Thailand but is not interested in the sleazy aspect of the city and want to steer clear of go-go bars.