Yes, there is diving in Pattaya
Closest to Pattaya (40mins boat ride) are the “Near Islands” which include Koh Sak, Koh Larn, and Koh Khrok. These sites are ideal for beginners and also include the wrecks HTMS Kut and HTMS Mataphon are accessible here for beginners. This is typically where IDC Open Water Training is conducted.
A little bit further away (70-90mins by boat) are the far islands which include Koh Rin, Koh Phai, Koh Klung Badan, and Koh Manwichai. Out here coral tends to be healthier and there is more marine life.
The best driving is around Koh Samaesan which is roughly a 40 minute drive south of Pattaya. Sites include Koh Chuang, Hin Chalam (Shark Fin Rock) which feature healthy coral gardens. There is also the famous HTMS Hardeep (Suddhadib) wreck in the local vicinity as well as the newly sank T94 and T95 wrecks. This area includes some of the best tec diving sites in Thailand including the world famous Samaesan Hole, Sark Fin Deep Drop, 1/4 Mile Mouthpiece Drop, Narcosis Colosseum and Thunder Bowl.