Hua Hin, a beloved beach getaway for over a century, traces its roots back to the construction of a railroad connecting bustling Bangkok to this dreamy seaside town. By the mid-1920s, it had become the preferred holiday retreat for Thai nobility, drawn by its pristine coastline.
The resort town remains a popular destination despite the rise of other tourist hotspots like Phuket, Pattaya and Koh Samui. Unlike other coastal towns, it seamlessly blends beachfront charm with a vibrant city-like ambiance, alongside historical attractions, diverse shopping options and delightful gastronomy. Here’s how you can explore some hidden gems beyond the beach.
1. Chase the waterfalls
Nestled within the lush, bird-filled forest of Kaeng Krachan National Park is the magnificent 11-tiered Pa La-U rock waterfall. After trekking along a parallel trail to the stream, explore the many different levels of the waterfall, with plenty of butterfly and wildlife spotting opportunities in the surrounding jungle. For the adventurous, there’s a rope swing and refreshing water for epic jumps, and overnight camping.
2. Walk the Roti Trail
Roti, a beloved treat in Hua Hin, is a soft-cooked omelette wrapped around fillings like banana, mango, cheese and coconut. Start your self-guided roti tour at street stalls and the famous Hua Hin Night Market and end it on a high note at one of the legendary Than Roti eateries where flavours range from condensed milk to chicken curry.
3. Bike through vineyards
Hua Hin boasts some of the most impressive biking scenery outside of Bangkok. Enjoy the sun, the sea and the flat terrain as you roll through Monsoon Valley’s vineyards or take on a more challenging mountain biking tour through the surrounding hills. Afterward, unwind with a wine bottle painting session.
4. Disappear into pineapple plantations
Hua Hin is known for its delicious pineapples, arguably Thailand’s finest. Take an epic road trip through lush pineapple and papaya plantations that lie just a 10-minute drive out of town. Stop for a bite of fried pineapple, a popular dessert served in roadside shops and restaurants in Thailand.
5. Meet the monkeys at Hin Lek Fai Hill
Visiting the Hin Lek Fai Hill viewpoint is a great way to orient yourself and get a lay of the land. Take in panoramic views of the town and coastline, explore the landscaped park and breezy garden, and perhaps make friends with the local cheeky monkeys.
6. Try muay thai
Change up your workout routine with a touch of Thai martial arts. Local gyms and mixed martial arts centres offer authentic Muay Thai training alongside Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and other disciplines for all fitness levels.
7. Spend a day at The Standard Hua Hin
The chic beachfront resort with private villas is renowned for its excellent leisure facilities, culinary collaborations and forward-looking music programming. With a day pass, you can relax by the pool, unwind in the sauna and spa, and enjoy the beautiful beachfront lawn. Prices are THB 800 for adults, THB 400 for kids Sunday to Friday, and THB 1,000 for adults, THB 500 for kids on Saturdays. Find out more here.
8. Travel the retro way
Hop on a train to enjoy the landscape at a slower pace by taking a leisurely rail journey from Hua Hin to Bangkok. Departing from the iconic Hua Hin Railway Station, which dates back to 1910, the train route passes through scenic countryside, endless coconut plantations and Bangkok’s suburbs.
