Once a quiet fishing village, this Thai town has grown into a popular coastal resort. Its long beach, royal palace, and numerous golf courses draw visitors year-round.
Hua Hin, a seaside resort town on Thailand's Gulf coast, is a calm beach getaway with royal connections. Just a few hours from Bangkok, you can sunbathe on golden sand beaches, browse lively night markets, play golf, and explore nearby national parks. The town attracts both Thai and international visitors seeking a coastal escape with a mix of local and international influences.
Beaches
Hua Hin's coastline stretches for several kilometers, offering various beach experiences. The main Hua Hin Beach runs along the town center, where you can rent umbrellas and lounge chairs or try kitesurfing when conditions are right. For a calmer atmosphere, head south to Khao Takiab Beach, overlooked by a hill with a Buddhist temple. Suan Son Pradiphat Beach, about 10 km south of town, has pine trees lining the shore and is a popular spot for local picnics.
Night Markets and Shopping
As evening falls, Hua Hin's markets come to life. The Hua Hin Night Market, open daily, spans several blocks with stalls selling street food, clothing, and souvenirs. For a more artistic atmosphere, visit the Cicada Market on weekend evenings, where you'll find handmade crafts, live music, and an open-air food court. The Plearn Wan vintage village offers a nostalgic shopping experience in a recreated 1950s Thai setting, complete with old-fashioned sweets and retro fashion.
Golf Courses
Hua Hin has become a major golfing destination in Thailand, with nine courses in the area. The Royal Hua Hin Golf Course, Thailand's first standard golf course, opened in 1924 and still welcomes players today. Other popular courses include Black Mountain, highly regarded in Asia, and Banyan Golf Club, known for its mountain and ocean views. Many resorts offer golf packages, making it easy to plan a golf-focused holiday.
Nearby National Parks
A short drive from Hua Hin takes you to several national parks. Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, about 60 km south, is known for its limestone mountains, mangrove swamps, and the Phraya Nakhon Cave with its pavilion. For wildlife viewing, head to Kaeng Krachan National Park, Thailand's largest national park, where you might spot elephants, gibbons, and numerous bird species.
Royal History
Hua Hin's transformation from fishing village to resort town began in the 1920s when Thai royalty chose it as a summer retreat. While you can't enter the Klai Kangwon Palace, as it remains a royal residence, you can admire its grounds from outside. The historic Hua Hin Railway Station, with its distinctive Thai-Victorian architecture, reminds visitors of the town's early days as a royal getaway. You can take a stroll on the platform and take photos of the iconic red and cream pavilion.
Getting There and Around
Hua Hin is about 200 km south of Bangkok, reachable by car, bus, or train. The train journey from Bangkok takes about 4 hours and provides views of the countryside. Within Hua Hin, you can get around by songthaew (shared pickup truck taxi), motorbike taxi, or rental bicycle. For exploring further afield, consider renting a car or scooter, but be aware of local traffic conditions and insurance requirements.
When to Visit
Hua Hin has a tropical climate with three distinct seasons. The cool season from November to February is the most popular time to visit, with comfortable temperatures and low rainfall. March to May brings hotter weather, while June to October is the rainy season. Even during the rainy season, showers are often brief, and you can still experience plenty of sunshine.
