Pretty Hua Hin has been a popular beach resort amongst Thais for almost a century, and is the preferred holiday destination for the Thai Royal Family.
Due to their influence, the town is ‘squeaky clean’, with no red light district and beautifully maintained public spaces, as well as serene royal villas and palaces, some of which are open to the public.
The beauty of Hua Hin was discovered by railroad engineers in 1909 and as the railroad was completed, connected Bangkok to Malaysia and Singapore, it became a destination where wealthy Bangkok residents built their holiday homes, and soon became known internationally.
History and culture in Hua Hin
1. Visit Wat Hua Hin temple
Light some incense and pray for good fortune at Wat Hua Hin, also known as Wat Ampharam. This Buddhist temple built during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (King Rama V).
2. Visit historic Hua Hin Railway Station
The Hua Hin Railway Station opened in 1911 and still holds its colonial charm. Be sure to take a selfie outside the old Royal Waiting Room, a grand-looking building that was used to welcome the King and his court when they visited the town.
Book a day tour of Hua Hin Railway Station and Hua Hin Cicada Market
3. Step back in time at Mrigadayavan Palace
The Mrigadayavan Palace was the Summer Palace of King Rama VI. The Palace is currently being restored to its former glory, and there are lots of interesting artefacts on display throughout the sprawling complex. Tip: Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.
Beach and water park fun in Hua Hin
4. Cool off at Vana Nava Water Jungle Hua Hin
The Vana Nava Water Jungle is one of the largest water parks in Thailand, which also boasts the largest and longest water slides in Thailand. As well as the thrills, there are water play areas for littlies and a unique ‘Aquacourse’, a course of ropes and challenging obstacles, combined with water guns. And, of course, there are water rides and slides galore providing hours of fun, plus a wave pool and onsen zone for relxation.
5. Ride a horse along Hua Hin's main beach
At the entrance to Hua Hin’s main beach area you’ll find a selection of ponies and horses available for hire for a walk or a trot along the white sandy beach.
6. Have lunch at Hua Hin Beach
Grab a deck chair and have lunch on the beach at one of the many cafes and restaurants on Hua Hin Beach, and wriggle your toes in the sand as you eat. They all serve the same thing: Thai favourites such as Pad Thai, BBQ seafood, pasta, burgers or fries.
Visit Hua Hin's best markets
7. Take in the sights, sounds and smells of Chatchai market
The Chatchai market sells everything from fresh vegetables, all manner of seafood to local handicrafts and school uniforms. Be sure to quench your thirst with a fresh coconut, usually around 20 Baht ($1).
8. Taste food from all over Thailand at Cicada Market
Browse through stalls selling arts and crafts and take in some live music at Cicada Market. This upscale market opens at 4pm on Friday and Saturday nights, and it’s very family friendly.
Book your Hua Hin Cicada Market and Hua Hin Railway Station Day Tour here
9. Visit the Hua Hin Night Market
Taste some BBQ seafood and pick up a few souvenirs at the Hua Hin Night Market. The colourful stalls stretch over two blocks, a few blocks down from Hua Hin Railway Station, and they’re a blast to the senses, a kaleidoscope of colour and cacophony of noises.
Day trips from Hua Hin
10. Visit family-friendly Monsoon Valley Vineyard
A trip to the Monsoon Valley Winery is a must-do for the whole family – while the parents are wine-tasting, the kids can paint and decorate their own bottles. Activities for all ages here include mountain biking, vineyard tours and visits to the Baan Khok Chang Elephant Sanctuary.
Where to stay in Hua Hin with kids
There are some top-notch resorts scattered along Hua Hin’s eight kilometre white-sand beach, including the ritzy Intercontinental HuaHin Resort and the famous Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin (formerly Sofitel Central). Originally the old railway hotel, the property has grown significantly over the years, but the original historic building still stands. Located right in the centre of town, it’s a great place to stay.
Opening image: A sunny day at Hua Hin Beach, Thailand
