I usually stay in Pattaya less than 2 weeks, so i usually stay in a hotel. LK/Diana/Buakhao sois are my favourite area, so...PBR, Areca (many times, one of my favourites), LK Metro (too dated for me), Adelphi (i like it too), Page 10 (good, but i dont like the pool).
In the future, i intend to stay longer time, so i will look for a condo for rent