Some 281 kilometers south of Bangkok, Hua Hin, which literally means stone head in Thai, is Thailand’s oldest beach resort. The area’s clean, white sand, crystal clear water and tranquil atmosphere continue to attract tourists in search of peaceful and relaxing holidays. Originally known as Ban Laem Hin (Stony Point Village), Hua Hin earned its reputation as a high-society resort when King Rama VII built his summer palace there. Even today, the Royal Family continues to reside at the Palace for part of the year. The opening of the Railway Hotel (now the Sofitel Centara Hotel), an elegant Victorian-style resort hotel, and also the country’s first standard golf course marked the beginning of the city’s transformation into the nation’s first seaside resort. Despite its expansive growth and development as a luxurious destination, the original splendor of Hua Hin remains intact. Hua Hin features a beautiful, powdery sand beach, numerous seaside seafood restaurants, a lively night market, numerous beach activities, and some great inland activities, not the least of which is golfing at some of Thailand’s most renowned courses. Accommodation along the beach and on the streets leading away from the sea range from simple guesthouses to luxury resorts, and includes some of the finest spa-retreats in the world. Hua Hin is accessible via train, bus, or car and the seaside community of 60,000 residents epitomizes warm and welcoming Thai hospitality. In addition to beach activities, outstanding seafood restaurants, and a vibrant night market, Hua Hin is well known for having some of the finest golf courses in Thailand, as well as some of the most renowned resorts and destination spas in the world.

Namtok Pa La-U

This beautiful 11-tiered rock waterfall is located in the densely verdant forest in the area of Kaengkrajan National Park where various kinds of birds and butterflies are found, especially in the morning. Some levels of the waterfall can be reached along a trekking trail parallel to the stream. In addition, visitors may be able to spot wild animals and several species of rare birds.   The best time to watch butterflies is from 7.00 a.m. to 10.00 a.m. The best time to visit the fall is from November to April when the fall is at its most beautiful.

Hua Hin Railway Station

Its most striking feature is the splendid Royal Waiting Room constructed in the Thai architectural style. The room was relocated from Sanam Chan Palace in Nakhon Pathom Province during the reign of King Rama VI.   Hua Hin Night Market is the most colorful spot in Hua Hin during the night. The market offer a wide array of food, drinks, deserts, memorable souvenirs and all kinds of freshly-prepared dishes. Famous are Pad Thai, Hoi Thod, fresh seafood, Indian roti bread, coconut ice cream, etc. (the list is endless) This market will delight visitors wishing to savor the real taste of Hua Hin. Hua Hin Railway Station is one of the country’s most beautiful train stations with unique architecture.

Hat Hua Hin

While offering a tranquil atmosphere, the beach is also the place for fun-filled activities ranging from jogging, walking, sun bathing, horse riding, kite boarding, and other kinds of water sports.   Located at the sunrise side of the city, the beach runs from a rocky headland which separates it from a tiny fishing pier, and gently curves for some three kilometers to the south where the Giant Standing Buddha Sculpture is located at the foot of Khao Takiap.

Sam Roi Yot National Park

Located 63 kilometres south of Hua Hin in the vicinity of Kui Buri district, this coastal national park covers an area of 98 square kilometers with limestone mountains, mangrove swamps, and beaches.   It is also home to various kinds of local and migrating birds, which are plentiful from November to February.

Hua Hin in Prachuap Khiri Khan

A resort equally popular with young couples and families, tourists and Thais, Hua Hin is also the location of the King of Thailand’s summer palace, Klai Kang Won, ‘Far from Worries.’