Joanna James
If you spend even the shortest holiday in Hua Hin, you will undoubtedly come to the decision that the locale is fabulous in more ways than one. Read on for the best experiences Hua Hin has to offer.
No, you will not look childish; you will merely be joining the hordes of tourists hanging around the station snapping up pictures of the place. Watch as locals alight from arriving trains, and visitor cameras click; capturing the vintage allures of the Hua Hin Railway Station. One of the oldest stations in Thailand, this iconic attraction is loved for its atmosphere and the royal waiting room, built by King Rama VI, who visited his summer palace in Hua Hin. There is also an exhibit steam engine to explore and plenty of good vibes to absorb at this station, a short walk from the towns centre and easy to access from the AVANI Hotels & Resorts property in Hua Hin.
Monkey Mountain is located at Khao Takiab on Chopstick Hill; this is a 272 metre long headland which juts out to sea. From town, Monkey Mountain can be accessed by hopping in a tuk tuk, it is a short 20 minute drive which takes you across the charming fishing hub of Khao Takiab. From the base of Monkey Mountain, you need to climb about 100 steps to reach the Buddhist shrine located there. Remember to dress modestly and cover bare legs and shoulders, or else you may have to rent out a sarong and shawl to serve the purpose. From the summit of the mountain, you are rewarded with picture postcard views of the Hua Hin coastline. There are plenty of resident monkeys too in the region, which is not cause for worry, although they are quite cheeky and not too shy about snatching a snack or drink from the hands of unsuspecting visitors. One of the most interesting of things to do in Hua Hin, climbing and exploring Monkey Mountain is quite the experience.
Located on the outskirts of Hua Hin town, this water park is perfect for spending a fun day, for the entire family. Ideal for cooling down and enjoying some splashing fun, the place is well managed, clean and streamlined, for the best experience. Smaller kids too are well thought of, with plenty of attractions like shallow pools, small slides and play areas on offer.
Just 45kms from Hua Hin is the Hua Hin Mountain Valley; there growing amongst the lush foliage is a variety of Rhone Grapes; used to make the Monsoon Valley wine. You can join a daily vineyard tour, which includes transport to and from the valley as well as, a three course meal there. You can also opt for just the wine tasting tour, and hop aboard the shuttle which leaves the Hua Hin Wine Cellar at 10.30 am and 3 pm.
It is tradition to visit the famous night market of Hua Hin, and no self-respecting tourist should miss it. The place is the best venue for sampling local food, and enjoying local company, while the atmosphere is an eclectic amalgamation of east and west; where you can buy a variety of trinkets from local handicrafts, clothes and household wares, to lobster, prawns and crab on ice!
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