7 Reasons Why Hua Hin Deserves It’s Royal Reputation
Hua Hin is a little known beach town in Thailand that traces its roots to aristocracy and royalty. In the 1920s, it became the chosen site of Rama VI (King Vajiravudh) and Rama VII’s (King Prajadhipok) summer residences and since then it has grown to become a stunning mix of beachfront idyll and cosmopolitan luxury.
While extremely popular in Thailand, Hua Hin isn’t as popular as Phuket and Koh Samui with outside tourists, which is a pity for them but a benefit to you as it means less crowding and more beach space!
1. Go Wine Tasting
Check out Hua Hin Hills Vineyard, which is around 45km outside of Hua Hin. For 1500B, you’ll get a vineyard tour, return transport, wine and a three course meal! The also offer a simpler wine tasting option as well and an affordable shuttle between the vineyard and Hua Hin.
In addition, there are some lovely mountain biking trails and the very picturesque Sala Wine Bar & Bistro.
2. The Hua Hin Night Market
This is where locals and tourists alike come to get their snack on. Grilled seafood fresh from the fishing boats, decadent Thai curries, and mouth-watering stir fry. And in between the food stalls you’ll find plenty of vendors selling souvenirs and knick knacks. Shopping and eating. What could be a better pair?
The night market opens at 5pm and closes around midnight.
3. It’s Only A 2.5-Hour Drive From Bangkok
For only 300–400B you can get to Hua Hin from Bangkok by bus or train. The train is, of course romantic and more scenic, but is terribly slow and will take around 5–6 hours instead of the 2.5-hour drive on a bus. You can of course also just hire a taxi to take you all the way to Hua Hin.
4. Sam Roi Yot National Park
Gorgeous mangroves, wild birds, lush forests, and strange limestone mountains. It’s about 60km away from Hua Hin but well worth it. Explore the caves of Tham Kaeo and Tham Sai or check out Hat Sam Phraya, a lovely little pine-tree lined beach 3.5km away from the park office. And a definite must is the Kuha Karuhas pavilion inside the Phraya Nakhon Cave.
5. The Beach
It’s why you came in the first place? Hua Hin beach offers exactly what you need. Sun, sand, palm trees, and warm breezes. The strip is around 7km long and despite the surge in development and the luxury resorts, you’ll should be able to find a quiet spot to catch up on some reading and to work on your tan. Do keep in mind that long weekends and Thai holidays will become much more packed as the Bangkok crowd will likely come up to Hua Hin for a getaway.
6. Really Affordable Luxury
Hua Hin is home to some beautiful luxury resorts. What’s more amazing is that they’re extremely affordable. Think 5-star, beachfront, designer decor, and world-class service for less than $150/night.
Our favorites are the Hotel de la Paix Cha Am Beach, Anantara Hua Hin Resort & Spa, and the Evason Hua Hin. For those who prefer minimalist decor and absolute beachfront luxury, check out the Hotel de la Paix Cha Am. For something more traditional, the Anantara Hua Hin Resort is perfect as it’s modeled after a Thai village. The Evason Hua Hin, on the other hand, is a beautiful resort with lotus ponds, private pools, an award-winning spa, and a kids club for the little ones.
7. The Cicada Market
A more recent development than the Hua Hin Night Market, the Cicada Market is a nexus for artists, tourists, creatives, designers, and students. Here you’ll find handicrafts, fashion, accessories, plenty of food, live performances, and art.
The market is open every Friday and Saturday from 4pm–11pm and Sunday from 4pm-10pm.
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