Joanna James
In the idyllic town of Hua Hin, the string of magnificent beaches grab the spotlight, no different to every seaside destination in Thailand, but the charming beach town has a whole lot more to offer than its beaches. For the avid explorer, exciting activities off the beaten path are aplenty in Hua Hin.
At an extent of nearly 3,000 square kilometres, Kaeng Krachan National Park is the largest national park in all of Thailand, yet it is hardly a popular destination even among travellers to Hua Hin, despite the town’s close proximity to the national park. The nature reserve’s undiscovered reputation is certainly a pity, but the adventurous few who choose to explore are treated to a territory of secluded nature, untouched and unmarred. As the Southeast Asian nation’s largest national park, oodles of nature and beauty are an absolute certainty, but the one attraction that steals the limelight and what almost every visitor to the nature reserve looks forward to is the Pala-U Waterfall. Sixteen steep steps lead the path to the breathtaking waterfall, where the first 3 steps are rather easy, but the rest, not so much, make for an adventure for the truly adventurous.
Seven different types of pools and nine waterslides, including an impressive 17-metre-high vertical slide tower with a straight double-drop — families on vacation with kids in tow, you’ve just discovered heaven on earth. Extending over a massive 48,000 square metres, the sprawling water park makes for a world of fun for the young as well as the young at heart.
As the sun goes down and the darkness descends upon charming Hua Hin, there’s no place you’d rather be than Cicada Night Market. Where hundreds of local vendors come together, and the ambience is lively with oodles of excited shoppers, the vibrant marketplace offers more than just retail therapy, and authentic experiences are plenty.
Adventure activities in beach-rich Hua Hin are undoubtedly plenty, but nothing treats you to an adventure in the classic sense as good as Khao Takiap. A scenic hilltop temple awaits trekkers ascending the seaside mountain and affords breathtaking views overlooking the tropical blue — greeting the adventurous and tired-out summiteers.
Fun, exciting and fascinating things to do in Hua Hin may be plentiful, but your Thailand experience wouldn’t be complete without getting a taste of the Southeast Asian nation’s authentic local cuisine. Embark on an exploration of cuisine at one of the finest hotels or resorts in town, including the likes of Anantara Hua Hin, and let the longing taste buds revel in the mouth-watering treat.
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.
