The coastal district of Hua Hin is the oldest beach resort in Thailand. It boasts of long, idyllic beaches, oozes cosmopolitan vibes and has lively markets and food stalls. Home to many luxury resorts and world-class golf courses, Hua Hin is a family-friendly beach destination dotted with historical, cultural and natural attractions. Read on to know about some of the most interesting attractions of Hua Hin.
Hua Hin Beach (Hat Hua Hin)
Relax by the seaside at the Hua Hin beach. This 5-km-long beach is thronged by all kinds of visitors including beach bums, people watchers and water sports lovers. The beach looks beautiful and is bustling with activity. You can enjoy pony rides on this sandy beach, get photographed with friends in front of smooth, round boulders on the seashore and enjoy a plethora of water sports. Continue walking down south and you will come across the much quieter and more scenic spot on this beach. This is the place to relax in tranquil environment, swim in the calm, grey-green ocean waters and sunbathe lying down in its fine white sands.
Phra Ratchaniwet Mrigadayavan
Visit the historical royal palace Phra Ratchaniwet Mrigadayavan in Hua Hin. This 1924-built beachfront palace was built by Rama VI as a summer resort. The palace, which is set amidst a sprawling garden full of tall trees, is a collection of interconnected teak houses having tall, shuttered windows and patterned fretwork. You will be welcomed by picture-perfect views of the sea and lush surroundings at this historical destination. Don’t forget to spend some time exploring the small collection of selected royal photos on display at the palace. Travellers should be careful to wear modest clothes at this summer palace, as arms and legs need to be covered here at all times.
Khao Takiab
A leisurely hike is all it takes to explore the charming Khao Takiab mountain in Hua Hin. A tour of Khao Takiab, which literally translates to the ‘Chopsticks Hill’, will be memorable for many reasons. First, a hike to the mountain will introduce you to rural Thailand. Secondly, you will be welcomed by a horde of stunning panoramic views of the surrounding sea and the coastline. Also, the quaint Buddha temple atop the mountain will make you feel blessed in its peaceful environs. Khao Takiab is also called the ‘Monkey Mountain’ due to the presence of a large number of monkeys. Climb around 100 steps up the mountain to reach the serene and beautiful Buddha Temple, from where you can soak-in tranquil views of Hua Hin’s coastline. As it is a place of worship, travellers are advised to keep their shoulders and legs covered.
Hua Hin Hills Vineyard
A trip to the Hua Hin Hills Vineyard will introduce you to the untouched beauty of this charming destination. Set in a scenic mountain valley close to Hua Hin, the vineyard produces wine from the Rhone grape varieties. Local companies offer daily vineyard tours at reasonable rates, which is probably one of the best ways to explore the region. These tours usually include wine tastings, a three-course meal and return transport.
