Tucked away from a crowded city, the summer royal retreat at Prachuap Khiri Khan province promises a tranquil oasis and pleasant beach getaway.
How To Go
AirAsia is currently the only airline that flies directly to Hua Hin from Kuala Lumpur. Check out the Southern Bus Terminal if you are departing from Bangkok city center as buses depart daily with 3-4 hours on road. Boarding a train will take a 4-5 hours journey from Hua Lamphong railway station.
What To Do
The Hua Hin beach is a populous choice for watersports and beach restaurants while the adjacent Cha-Am beach is less crowded. Nature enthusiasts can explore Pranburi Forest Park with mangrove trails and bird watching, river tours to Pak Nam Pran village or rock hiking.
Photo from Maruekhathaiyawan Palace
Other than sunbathing and sporty activities, peep into the Thai Royal Family residence at Maruekhathaiyawan Palace. The century-old seaside palace built by King Rama VI is now a museum. Buddhist temple Wat Huay Mongkol at Khao Takiab houses the world’s largest statue of Luang Phor Thuad, a miraculous monk.
For cultural shopping experiences, Sam Phan Nam floating market and Plearnwan revive Thailand’s elemental market concepts with a local essence.
Photo from 1d+ Day Artist
Where To Eat
Look forward to fresh fishing hauls at Saeng Thai Seafood when travelling along the coastline. The popular restaurant has plenty of local specialties at reasonable prices. 1d+ Day Artist is a modern campsite hip café that serves Asian fusion or breakfast at Chatchai Market with choices of Thai noodles, desserts and dried food at hand.
Avani Sea View Villa
Where To Stay
Seekers of an indulgent retreat can indulge in AVANI Hua Hin Resort & Villas by the coast with a private jacuzzi or plunge pool in each villa. Close to Hutsadin Elephant Foundation, The Bike Loft is an excellent choice for minimalists to rest in cosiness and style in the industrial-themed guestrooms.
Good To Know
1 Go to Hua Hin Night Market that operates from 7 till 11pm daily for a sundown shopping spree.
2 Muay Thai fans can catch real fights of the traditional sport on every Tuesday and Saturday night at Thai Boxing Garden.
3 Chatchai Market is built as a dedication to Rama VII by Prince Purachatra Jayakara back in 1926.
Text by Jessy Wong
