Hua Hin began as a sleepy coastal town but has grown into a lively seaside city. Just two and a half hours south of Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, this little village turned major tourist hot spot is a thrilling beach, shopping destination located on the Gulf of Thailand, and eating spots.
Before becoming a tourist destination, this small town of 60,000 people was known primarily for housing Palace Klaikangwon, the summer residence of former kings in Thailand in the 1920s. Today, it’s the ideal destination for exploring some of the country’s best quietest beaches and national parks.
If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, use our list of the most popular attractions and stuff to do in Hua Hin to help you plan your itinerary.
How can you reach Hua Hin?
Because Hua Hin is near Bangkok, road transport is the most convenient option. Hua Hin has a local airport, but I’m not sure how many flights it has. It is also inaccessible by rail or ferry. I will also not recommend one-day tours because you will spend a ridiculous amount of time traveling (4 hours each way).
Bus: The public bus is among the most common ways to get to Hua Hin. If you are coming from Bangkok, you can purchase a bus ticket to Hua Hin on the Southern Bus (Sai Tai Mai). The ticket will cost between 250 BAHT and 350 BAHT per person, and the trip will take approximately 4 hours.
Vans: In Thailand, vans provide a more comfortable method of traveling short distances. And, if you don’t mind being in a smaller space (it can get a little overcrowded sometimes), vans are generally quicker and less expensive. They are rarely crowded.
You can rent a van at any terminal, including Mo Chit, Ekkamai, and Sai Tai Mai. The ticket would cost 180 BAHT, and the journey would last between 3.5 and 4 hours.
If you want to take the van back, you can go to the Ekkamai van station and purchase a ticket at the counter. Both ways, booking online, can help you save a significant amount of time.
Hua Hin, Thailand: 6 Must-See Places You Must Visit
1. Mountains of Chopsticks
Khao Krailart and Khao Takiab are located 4 kilometers from downtown Hua Hin. These two mountains resemble a set of chopsticks when placed side by side. As a result, the locals refer to them as “the chopstick mountains.”
You can interact with the mischievous monkeys scattered around the mountain and near a small monastery. The hill is not very tall, and you can reach the summit in about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on your luggage and belongings when ascending the mountain because monkeys may try to steal them. Visitors who feel brave can also buy bananas to feed themselves.
As there aren’t several tourists, you can enjoy the Hua Hin shoreline as much as you want, and the mountain’s peak overlooks the Hua Hin coastline. At the base of the hill, there’s a tiny fishing village and a few locally-owned inns where you can eat and enjoy.
Location: Khao Takiab, Hua Hin
Read also: Explore Thailand’s Hidden Gems in October
2. Palace of Maruekhathaiyawan
Maruekhathaiyawan Palace was built in the early 20th century as a summer retreat for King Vajiravudh (Rama VI) and sat directly on the beach.
The palace’s innovative design, built on pillars and divided into sections connected by long covered corridors, makes it possible for perfect air flow and keeps the area cool in the humid and hot Thai afternoons. There is even a corridor that leads directly to the seaside and the Queen’s old bathing pavilion.
Some of the King’s initial personal belongings are displayed in his living quarters. His study disregards the ocean and houses the King’s lovable desk and writing materials, where he composed poetry while staying here.
Tourists can also stroll through the palace’s landscaped gardens or picnic on the trees and bushes.
Location: 10 km south of Cha-Am, Hua Hin
3. Temple of Huay Mongkol
At Huay Mongkol Temple, the statue of Luang Phor Thuad is a famous Hua Hin attraction. Luang Phor Thuad was a well-known Thai monk, and the figurine was erected in his honor. The statue’s size is impressive; it stands nearly 40 feet tall and 32 feet wide. As you might expect, it can be seen from a distance, but getting a closer look is strongly recommended, which you can accomplish by climbing up the stairs on which the statue is situated.
It’s worth mentioning that if you’re going to do this climb, you should bring water & sunscreen because the weather is hot, and there’s no hue on the way up to the statue. You’ll observe that the figure is very widely known among Thai people; people come from across the nation to ask Luang Phor Thuad for favors. If you wish for good luck, you should do as the locals do and stroll in a circle around the wooden elephant adjacent to the statue. When you visit the Huay Mongkol Monastery, you can also take advantage of the surrounding parkland.
Location: Chang Wat Prachuap, Amphoe Hua Hin
4. Cave of Phraya Nakhon
Phraya Nakhon Cave is near Bang Pu Village and is situated in Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park. The cave is on a tiny island formed by an initial reef caused by a saltwater decrease. The cave is large and picturesque, with a magnificent environment. A natural hole at the top of the cave also serves as a natural light source. When sunlight penetrates the castle from the top of the cave, it creates a brilliant and spectacular panorama.
A four-corner castle with a distinct style was built during the era of Rama V, Thailand’s King. Due to its distinctive architecture and attractiveness, the palace has become a representative and icon of Prachuap Khiri Khan. There are few tourists, and the water is clear to the bottom. The terrain on the island is highly similar to that of the south island, and it is very pristine and serene. You can come here to unwind and reflect on life.
At the far right end of the cave, an essential influential Thai monk widely regarded by the Thai people is buried, and there is a Buddha statue for worship. All Thai Kings, including Rama V, Rama VII, and the present Rama IX, pay religious tribute to the monk by enduring the lengthy travel and challenging walk up the mountain route. During Rama V’s reign, the four-cornered palace was constructed.
Location: Tambon Sam Roi Yot, Chang wat Prachuap, Hua Hin
5. Night Market Cicada
You must have been to several night markets in Thailand by now. They can be found in every city! Cicada is a great night market with dangling fairy lights & simple outside decor.
Food, souvenirs, clothing, accessories, & art are all available at the night market. The live performances in many places, however, highlight the venue.
There is a small theater nearby where some people may be doing theatre. There’s also a live band space in the rear where one or more persons can perform at the same time. In the art section, numerous artists are painting, and you may even order a live sketch.
The food is adequate, although the prices are higher than at other night markets. Food vouchers are required for all food vendors.
Location: Tambon Nong Kae, Hua Hin
6. Venezia Hua Hin, Thailand
The Venezia is a fascinating theme shopping attraction & destination in Hua Hin, following in the footsteps of other similar weekend getaways in Thailand. Palio in Kao Yai was most likely the catalyst for such a flurry of picturesque villages, closely followed by the stunning Santorini Park in Hua Hin and the well-known Asiatique in Bangkok.
The Venezia’s motif is Venice, and you should not miss the replica of San Marco’s bell tower when passing through Cha-am on your route to Hua Hin. The park is massive, including a 200 m ‘Grand Canal’ through which you may ride in traditional Venetian gondolas.
Location: Chang Wat Phetchaburi, Hua Hin, Thailand
Conclusion
This does not imply that you should expect to spend a lot of money visiting Hua Hin; there is much to enjoy at a fair price. The numerous, excellent, inexpensive seafood eateries are among the most significant discounts you’ll discover. It’s also simple and affordable to hop on and off public transportation to go between the beaches, which are probably one of Hua Hin’s biggest draws. Their sands are immaculate, the sea is inviting, and several beaches have shallow waters, making them ideal for families. Aside from the beaches, Hua Hin is known for its temples, where you may immerse yourself in the culture and history of the locals.
For more details on Thailand:
- 10 Places in Thailand to See in November
- Top 10 Best Honeymoon Resorts in Thailand
- 10 Tourist Destinations to See in Chiang Rai
- Famous Places to Visit in September in Thailand
- How to Get Thailand Tourist Visa for Indian Citizens
- 12 Top-Rated Destinations To Visit In Chiang Mai
- Thailand’s 10 Famous Places to See in December
- Traditional Thai Massage & Spa- Things You Need to Know About
- 15 Things You Should Buy In Thailand
- Top 5 Places to See in Ayutthaya
- 5 Things To Do When Visiting Krabi, Thailand
