Joanna James
Tipped to be one of Thailand's most visited beach holiday hubs, Hua Hin offers visitors a plethora of unforgettable experiences. Here are six unusual things to do during a trip to the beach Mecca.
How many vacationers in Thailand can boast that they have hiked up one of the largest waterfalls in the country? Not many. But those based in Hua Hin have the unique opportunity to climb up to the summit of the iconic Pala-U Waterfall, one of the biggest cascades in all of Thailand. Located in the southern reaches of Kaeng Krachan National Park, the waterfall's peak can be accessed via a three levels of steps and rocky paths which are both challenging and exhilarating to hike up.
As a national park spread out over an island the Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park is home to such a staggering variety of landscapes one can hardly believe it. Legend says it was 300 Chinese traders who first found this island by seeking refuge in the area but the national park known as "Island of Three Hundred Peaks" offers more than a verdant refuge for visitors who come in search of its natural wonders. Lined with caves and a dozes of coves and tropical jungles, the island is equally well-known for its caverns, beaches and idyllic marshes.
In addition to being one of the best places to catch a spectacular sunrise in Hua Hin, the village surrounding Bang Tabun River also offers visitors the chance to engage in a while watching experience of a lifetime. With its coastal waters teeming with Bryde's whales, many private tour companies offer whale watching safaris for tourists. Allowing marine life enthusiasts the opportunity to come face to face with the larger than life mammals, it is easy to see why whale watching is one of the best things to do in Hua Hin, whether you are based at the AVANI Hua Hin Resort & Villas or any other similar resort hub.
Just minutes away from the heart of Hua HIn lies what has often been described as Thailand's own incarnation of Italy's overwater city Venice. Names The Venezia, this mammoth outdoor shopping hotspot exudes the charm of the European city as well as the romantic atmosphere one has come to expect from Venice. Housing a replica of the bell tower in San Marcos as well as its own Grand Canal, take a gondola ride across The Venizia which is home to a replica of the Trevi Fountain as well. More than 350 stores are found in the area which also houses art galleries, music gardens, horse drawn carriages and miniature trains.
From Italy, then move on to Hua Hin's tribute to Greece and spend a glorious afternoon in the Santorini Amusement Park. Housing not only buildings and structures resembling those found in ancient Greece, the park offers visitors a plethora of distractions including stylish boutiques, food kiosks and cafes. Rides and other activities for children are also part of the landscape while art showcases on weekends are also a common occurrence.
Named Camel Republic, Hua Hin's latest theme park has often been compared to a visit to Morocco. Ideal for adrenalin junkies as well as animal lovers, the venue offers camel feeding sessions and a mini wildlife sanctuary while traditional amusement park rides and attractions are also found here.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
