Hua Hin Beach Resort Guide
Introduction
Since the days when Thailand's much-revered royalty had their palatial holiday escape built here in the 1920s, Hua Hin has been a popular beach resort with many Thais. In recent years the number of international hotels has increased as Hua Hin has emerged as one of Thailand's most popular destinations amongst domestic and international visitors. Hua Hin feels a step up in class compared to many Thai beach resorts, with slick hotels, top seafood restaurants and, of course, the continuing visits of the country's royal family.
Who goes there?
With year round warm weather, and a climate that tends to be a lot drier than much of the country, it is easy to see why Hua Hin now has West Europeans joining the thousands of Thai tourists who flock here every year. This fully-fledged resort caters for all types of Western Europeans, ranging from 18-35 year-olds looking for sunshine break through to families.
Where in the world?
The Southeast Asian resort of Hua Hin lies on the east coast of Thailand in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province just to the south of the Thai capital, Bangkok. The resort has a small airport. The resort of Hua Hin lies in the Gulf of Thailand, which is a branch of the Indian Ocean. The main resort lies across a largely flat plain that stretches inland from the beach.
When to go?
The average daily temperature in Hua Hin is consistent throughout the year at around 27°C (80°F). The rainy season is from October to November, although showers don't tend to last for long. The hottest time of year is between April and May, with temperatures reaching 34°C (93°F), which can be uncomfortable and humid at times. Generally, the best time to visit is between December and February when the temperature is warm and rain showers infrequent, however, it is beautiful year round.
Beach
There is over 4km (2.5 miles) of sandy beachfront within the resort of Hua Hin and its surrounds; plenty to keep most holidaymakers happy. There are stalls selling fresh seafood and drinks as well as sun loungers and sunbeds. A variety of watersports is also available.
Beyond the beach
Keen golfers will be more than happy in Hua Hin as the region is developing a reputation for catering to golfing enthusiasts as it is home to the highest density of world class golf courses in Thailand. The Royal Hua Hin Golf Club (
www.golfhuahin.com/royalhuahin.htm) boasts regal connections and was the country's first golf course when it opened back in 1924. It was expertly designed and is still very playable today. An elephant polo tournament is sometimes held in Hua Hin in September, a spectacular event that is a reason in itself for visiting.
Family fun
Hua Hin's beaches are a fun place for younger holidaymakers to hang out. They can take a swim in the calm sea followed by a pony ride along the sands. There tends to be less surf here than in some Thai beach resorts with swimming usually safe all year round. Some hotels have dedicated facilities for children, including children's clubs and crèches.
Retail therapy
The informal stalls in and around the beaches are fun places to haggle over the price of your tourist souvenirs. The Naresdamri area is the place to head for some fine bespoke tailoring. Here myriad tailors await, trying to tempt customers into a new suit or two with very reasonable prices, though holidaymakers are well advised to shop around and check quality before parting with any cash.
A night on the town
Hua Hin's nightlife is certainly not the wildest in Thailand, but it has its fair share of nocturnal activities on offer. A sundowner on the waterfront is a good way to start an evening before moving on to one of the city's excellent restaurants. Seafood is a particular speciality. There are a range of bars, cafes and modest nightclubs as well as a small girlie bar scene.
Eating out
Most of the better hotels boast their own restaurants where a range of international cuisines is available. Many holidaymakers also choose to sample the local cuisine with the most interesting place to try it being at the street food stalls that are found around the main beach area. The Chatchai market is also home to some intoxicating smells and flavours. There are more formal restaurants dotted around the resort where Thai cooking is also available with Thais coming all the way from Bangkok to enjoy the seafood of Hua Hin.
Getting around
Although there are regular inter-regional services the local bus service in this resort town is not extensive. The most popular way of getting around is on foot, through there are also the rough and ready sawngthaews (the truck-like local minibuses they use all over Thailand) as well as taxis. It is also possible to hire motorbikes and cars.
Exploring further afield
The protected Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park is an excellent day trip option from the resort of Hua Hin. This swathe of limestone scenery offers its own sprinkling of beaches and hiking opportunities, as well as food stalls for those looking just to relax and take in the nature and the views.
Splashing out
For a seafood splurge head for the
All Seasons Restaurant (154 Naresdamri Road) (
www.all-seasons-restaurant.net). Enjoy the fruits of the labours of the local fishermen. Highlights include the likes of kingfish, crab and squid, most of it caught locally.
Flying in
Hua Hin Airport (HHQ)
