Virtually all of Thailand‘s renowned beaches are located on islands, whether remote like Koh Phi Phi or popular like the vast Phuket. There are a few exceptions, such as the Krabi peninsula, though this destination is more famous for its nearby islands. For Thais living in Bangkok, however, Hua Hin is a must-see coastal destination that isn’t on an island.
Just over a couple of hours from Bangkok on a day with minimal traffic, this coastal town is the most popular choice for those living in Thailand’s capital who want a nearby beach resort. Hua Hin offers better seaside spots than the overcrowded, nightlife-focused Pattaya, along with attractive places at affordable prices. The town boasts a waterfall in a nearby national park, a beautiful cave near the beach, and a calm sea.
Hua Hin may not be the top destination for those who visit Thailand solely to experience its best beaches, as they are not particularly spectacular. However, those seeking a tranquil, pleasant place with good restaurants and hotels might find Hua Hin ideal for a two- or three-day getaway.
The city is worth a visit, as it has served as the residence of several Thai monarchs and has become a retreat for many retired Westerners.
As the Thai royal family’s favorite seaside town, Hua Hin is best enjoyed on weekends and is perfect for those wanting a break from international tourism. The town features Thai night markets, a water park, and numerous seafood restaurants.
Hua Hin is a destination you can enjoy year-round, rain or shine. There are great hotels at reasonable prices, themed cafes, and an attractive city center even during the monsoon.
It is advisable to avoid Hua Hin during Thai national holidays, as there can be a large influx of local tourists, leading to higher prices.
The seasonal variations are similar to other coastal locations in the Andaman Sea, even though Hua Hin is not located there:
Hotel prices vary greatly depending on the time of year and whether it is a weekend. To get around Hua Hin, you can choose taxis or rent a motorbike.
It’s essential to travel to Thailand with comprehensive insurance. We were among the first to offer the popular 5% IATI discount, and you can now get it with Heymondo Travel Insurance as well. You can find more information about both companies through the links provided above, or you can access the discount directly using the buttons below (in both cases, you’ll see the reduced final price on their website):
While many hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants in Thailand offer free Wi-Fi, some travelers prefer or need a constant connection. We’ve included details on obtaining a eSIM Thailand card with unlimited data (from Holafly) or with fixed data but cheaper (from Saily).
If you want to get it directly, here’s the link (with a discount) for both companies:
Hua Hin is primarily reached by road from Bangkok. The trip takes about two and a half hours on a normal day and is quite relaxing. A taxi ride costs around 2,000 baht (approximately 55 euros) for a private journey.
A bus ride costs 160 baht per person (just over four euros) and departs regularly from Bangkok’s South Station. However, due to frequent stops, the journey takes more than three hours.
You can also travel by ferry from Pattaya, which takes about two hours, though the ticket price is around 35 euros. Hua Hin also has an airport with connections to cities such as Chiang Mai.
This central beach stretches about seven kilometers. It may not be particularly beautiful, but during the rainy season, the sandy esplanade becomes vast, making it ideal for relaxing in the sun or at one of the many nearby hotels and restaurants.
On Hua Hin Beach, you might see tourists riding ponies, an activity that often shows little respect for animals, leading to frequent animal droppings.
Many of the restaurants in the area are quite nice and inexpensive, perfect for lunchtime.
Cha Am Beach, located north of Hua Hin, is known for being less attractive but is more affordable. It is an extension of the Hua Hin coast, and many large international hotels are situated here at lower prices. Many of these hotels have white sand in their pools facing the sea.
Cha Am Beach being very family-friendly for those staying in a beachfront hotel resort but less suitable for travelers who want to explore and interact with the city.
The most picturesque beach is undoubtedly in the main area of Hua Hin. It is a cove at the southern end, connecting to the central Hua Hin beach near a hill with a large Buddha statue, several restaurants, a sanctuary, and many monkeys.
The views from the hill are spectacular, and the restaurants offer affordable prices, with the best aerial views of the sea. The waters here are also cleaner, making swimming a pleasure. It is a popular spot for taking photos
Located in the city center, Hua Hin’s night market is one of the most famous in Thailand. In addition to typical tourist souvenirs, it offers high-quality clothing, with many local designers showcasing their creations here.
The market is also an ideal place to try street food or, if you prefer, you can spend a little more at one of the many seafood restaurants. However, for a truly excellent dinner, it’s better to explore other areas.
Continuing from the market towards the beach, you’ll find Hua Hin’s nightlife area. Although small and cozy, it centers around the well-known Chaolay Restaurant, which is recommended for quality seafood at reasonable prices.
While there are no nightclubs, some pubs stay open late, such as the Panama Bar, which attracts both tourists and locals.
For those seeking a more laid-back atmosphere by the beach, the lively Hippie Bar is open every evening until midnight.
In Hua Hin, as in many places with Thai tourists, themed coffee shops are all the rage. The city features some spectacular spots where the coffee is secondary to the views.
You’ll find countless themed cafes, one of the most famous being Skoop in Khao Takiab, known for its indulgent pastries.
There is also a new water park called Vana Nava, which is a true marvel for water park enthusiasts and rivals some of the best in the world. It’s perfect for a family or friends outing.
For those traveling by car or motorbike and looking to explore the area, south of Hua Hin there are some interesting beaches and a picturesque cove. You can even stay in this area if you seek maximum tranquility.
If you have more time in Hua Hin and want to enjoy nature, the Sam Roi Yot National Park is an excellent alternative, with waterfalls and caves. It’s about an hour’s drive from the coastal town.
One way to experience Thai cuisine in Hua Hin is through various food tours, including:
Hua Hin is an excellent destination for a relaxing holiday, offering a range of accommodations from budget to luxury. Here are some options:
If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, the Verso Hotel in Khao Takiab offers stunning views and impressive pools. It usually costs around 110 euros per night during high season but is well worth the splurge.
No trip to Hua Hin is complete without experiencing its restaurants. The Chaolay Restaurant is one of the most famous in the area, offering excellent seafood with a sea view.
Along the beach, you’ll find numerous restaurants with great views and seafood at reasonable prices. Another good recommendation is Chay Had, located right on the sand of Hua Hin’s central beach.
Hua Hin also offers a taste of Western cuisine. La Terrasse is an impressive restaurant that blends Spanish and French dishes with a few Asian options, providing an unbeatable atmosphere by the sea. For bread and cheese lovers, La Baguette shops offer these products to both tourists and locals.
Exploring the underwater world is a fascinating yet sometimes daunting activity. Simply putting on a diving mask and peering beneath the surface reveals a whole new world of colors and unfamiliar life forms.
However, this world needs to be cared for and respected. If you’re planning to include snorkeling in your trip and want to ensure your presence doesn’t negatively impact the ecosystem, consider learning about responsible diving practices (whether with or without a tank).
Click on the image and it will take you to a new Google Maps window with all the points of interest to travel around Hua Hin.
