Joanna James
There's something magical about Hua Hin and its charming neighbour, Cha-am. Set along the Gulf of Thailand, the beach resort is where sun-kissed beach days and history, vibrant markets, and the occasional monkey (yes, really) come together. Whether you're surfing waves, walking down royal halls, or eating at night markets, this region has something for everyone—plenty of character to go around. Here's an insider's guide to five things to do that capture the spirit of Hua Hin and Cha-am.
Start your adventure with the obligatory—but never overhyped—Hua Hin Beach. Stretching along the coast with soft golden sand and rolling waves, this is a place where time stands still. It's ideal for sunbathing under an umbrella with a good book, but if you're feeling a bit more adventurous, water sports like kiteboarding are at your fingertips. When the sun starts its descent, grab a spot in the nearby night market. As the lights flicker on and the scent of grilled seafood fills the air, you’ll know you’ve arrived at the heart of Hua Hin’s coastal rhythm. Whether you're staying at the serene Anantara Hua Hin Resort or simply ticking off your list of things to do in Hua Hin Thailand, this beachside escape sets the perfect tone for your getaway.
Beyond the beach, Hua Hin holds a deep sense of culture that’s hard to ignore. Take a short trip inland to visit the towering statue of Luang Phor Thuad at Wat Huay Mongkol. It's peaceful, spiritual, and lush with greenery—a lovely contrast to the busy town. Then go to the Hua Hin Railway Station. With its retro Thai architecture and rich history, it's not only a train stop—it's a glimpse into Thailand's royal past. For a dose of creativity, end your day at Cicada Market. It's part art gallery, part performance space, and worth a visit.
Need a little adrenaline? Look no further than Hua Hin's wild side. Spend the day at a water park built to resemble a tropical jungle, where slides twist through vegetation and splash areas bring respite from the sun. Like hiking boots better than swim trunks? Head out to Kaeng Krachan National Park. This vast sweep of reserved wilds is perfect for those who love to feel lost in the wild—birdwatching, jumping over streams, and a whiff of that great forest scent.
No visit to Hua Hin is complete without a walk down the corridors of Maruekhathaiyawan Palace. As a summer palace built, this light seaside structure showcases fine woodwork and offers a glimpse into the old royal way of life. Then continue to Khao Takiab, a scenic hill offering a bird's-eye view of the coast. Ascend to the top of hilltop Wat Khao Takiap, a temple that's defended by pesky monkeys and contains golden Buddhas standing guard over the ocean.
Food is the heartbeat of Hua Hin, and no matter where you wander, there's something delicious around the corner. Beachside restaurants serve up everything from hot stir-fries to fresh catches of the day. To experience it like a local, venture into the night markets. There, food stalls along the walkways sizzle and steam with the aroma of Thai spices. From mango sticky rice to seafood skewers, every bite is a photo of the region's flavour.
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.
