The smart, stylish and family-friendly resort town of Hua Hin in Thailand has much to offer. Not only is Hua Hin blessed with some gorgeous beaches but you can also do as little or as much as you like, from trips to national parks to snorkeling and beach sports, temple trips to royal palace sightseeing. Check out the best of Hua Hin with this quick guide.
1) Shop at the Hua Hin Night Market
The excellent night market in Hua Hin is a big attraction, and one not to be missed. If you’re hungry, get to the market and find all the delicious temptations you could desire from fresh seafood to BBQ and pad thai. There are also plenty of stalls and shops to browse, selling everything from beautiful jewelry to electronics and clothing.
2) Visit Monkey Mountain
Monkey Mountain is an excellent viewpoint on top of the headland overlooking Hua Hin town, at Khao Takiab which is otherwise known as Chopstick Hill. It is certainly one of the best things to do in Hua Hin. Reach the top of the hill by taking a tuk-tuk and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over the town and the ocean, plus close-up views of the resident monkeys (who like to take your food and drink, so watch your sandwiches.)
3) Check Out Vana Nava
If you want thrills and adventure, go to the new water park in Hua Hin; Vana Nava. It’s definitely a place to enjoy the wilder and more exciting rides for older children and the rest of the family, although there are facilities for young kids.
4) Watch the Trains at the Historic Railway Station
Hua Hin Railway Station is a historic place and its popularity dates from the 1920s when the line was used to get away from the capital in the scorching summers, turning Hua Hin into a luxurious summer retreat from Bangkok. The railway station buildings are interesting, and there is a steam engine exhibit that will get you thinking about times gone by.
Image via Michael Coghlan/ Flickr
5) Pay Respects at Wat Huay Mongkol
The Buddhist temple of Wat Huay Mongkol is eye-catching marked by its huge statue of Buddha. The temple is a peaceful, beautiful place to visit and set within some lovely grounds.
6) Make a Splash at Mountain Water Park
Mountain Water Park is ideal for families as it has a small range of waterslide and pools, with plenty to occupy children. Ideal as a trip to cool down on the hot days.
7) Go to Sam Roi Yot National Park
If you go a bit further afield, Sam Roi Yot national park is a marine park which is well worth a visit. Khao Sam Roi Yot is the “mountain with 300 peaks” and the range extends along the Gulf and is surrounded by freshwater marsh. Visit Phraya Nakhon Cave with the royal pavilion inside and also the Kaeo Cave. Take a tour of the wildlife living in the marsh and wetlands environment, and explore the beaches and the viewpoints over the cliffs.
8) Hike to Pala-U-Waterfall
If you get to the top of this tall waterfall you’ll have the most wonderful views over towards Burma on the Thai border. The waterfall is in the Kaeng Krachan National Park, around an hour and a half from Hua Hin. The park is worth a visit in itself.
9) Drink Up at Hua Hun Hills Vineyard
Hua Hin Hills is definitely worth a visit if you love wine. The vineyard is located in a valley up in the mountains to the west of Hua Hin. The vineyard produces the Monsoon Valley brand and you can take a vineyard tour along with a meal and wine tasting.
Image via Sam Sherratt/ Flickr
10) Cycle With Hua Hin Bike Tours
Hua Hin Bike Tours delivers tailored biking expeditions for cyclists of all levels and fitness abilities. Cycling is a great way to see the national park, the countryside, and the towns. You can take a full day cycling tour that leads your through forests, alongside beaches, and into remote villages. It is one of the best Hua Hin tours worth it for the beauty of the scenery and the sense of accomplishment you get from seeing it under your own steam.
For more details about activities, attractions and accommodation in Hua Hin check out our articles on PhuketOn. PhuketOn is your resource for your Thai vacation to Hua Hin, Bangkok, Phuket, Koh Samui and more.
