“LIFE’S A BEACH”, says the old adage, and all those sun lovers and beach bums out there need look no further than Hua Hin, Thailand’s first beach resort destination. However, there’s heap more to the coastal city than just stretches of powdery golden sand. It’s also got its roots steeped deep in history, while embodying contemporary Thailand.
To celebrate Hua Hin’s unique charm, the Tourism Authority of Thailand Prachuap Khiri Khan Office in collaboration with Hua Hin’s public and private sectors have launched the “Hua Hin: Thai Authentic Beach” campaign to throw the spotlight on features that make the coastal resort super special.
Hua Hin has firmly cemented itself as a top Thai vacation destination, having served holidaymakers for more than 110 years. This means the area is dripping in historic and cultural sites, while offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into authentic Thai life.
Among the unmissable attractions sits mystical Prayanakorn Cave by King Rama V and Marukatayawan Palace, a stunning teakwood retreat that dates back to 1923 when it served as the summer seaside palace of King Rama VI. The factor that planted Hua Hin on the tourism map more than a century ago was the launch of the first train route for tourism, from Bangkok to Hua Hin. While it was the brainchild of King Rama V, it was completed under the reign of King Rama VI and the train station is a striking piece of architecture.
There’s also the unique chance to mix nature with history with an enchanting horse ride on the beach. During World War II, a horse trainer fled from Bangkok to Hua Hin, bringing her prize horses with her. Today, they are taken care of by locals, who earn a living from horse rides – fear not, as the number of horses is controlled to ensure the beach isn’t impacted.
If it’s a taste of local life you’re after, then Hua Hin is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the daily activities of locals. Here, tourists and locals live life in tandem. Enjoy the calls of “hello” from children as you cycle along bike lanes, shop alongside residents at the bustling markets, visit lively weekend night markets, or make friends with fishermen as they dock their colorful fishing boats to offload that day’s catch.
Of course, we can’t forget to mention Hua Hin’s glorious collection of beaches. While the majority are ideal for soaking up a sumptuous sunset, head to Sunrise Beach to start the day with an energizing sunrise. And don’t forget to tick Khao Takiab off your list. Standing as a local landmark, the site comprises idyllic hilltop temple, Wat Khao Takiap – a great spot to lap up unparalleled vistas of Hua Hin – with a striking giant golden Buddha standing against the clifftop. Khao Takiap beach is well worth a visit too for some mellow beach time.
The best part is, Hua Hin is the perfect year-round holiday destination. While late-December to mid-October are the ideal times to visit, refreshing rains fall when the cool weather from north-east monsoons clashes with south-west monsoons in the months in between. Plenty of reasons make Hua Hin your next holiday destination!
All photos courtesy of Let’s Sea Hua Hin and Loligo Resort Hua Hin.
