Highlights
Beaches
Where the city meets the sea, Hua Hin lies along the western Gulf of Thailand, boasting long, sweeping beaches and warm waters, ideal for bathing and water sports; feel the thrill as you enjoy kite boarding, water-skiing, banana boating and more! The main scoop of powdered sand stretches some 7km, offering a perfect mixture of lively and quieter spots. The northern end is lined with Thai-Victorian garden estates, while the southern side of Hua Hin offers fine sands and calm seas, as well as the striking, buddha-topped mountain of Khao Takiab. Welcome sea breezes can fool sun-worshippers, so remember to apply ample sunscreen.
Palaces
Just north of Hua Hin and open to the public daily, Maruekatayawan Palace is an exquisite example of raised Thai design, a splendid golden teak palace offering a glimpse of Thailand’s royal past. Built in 1923 by King Rama VI, beautiful wooden pavilions look out over the turquoise sea, linked by open-sided hallways. In Hua Hin, apply to the Royal Household Office for a permit to visit Klai Kang Won Palace, a royal beachfront residence built in the 1920s. The stunning estate combines eclectic styles of colonial Spanish, modern Thai and even Scandinavian log cabin, coupled with a Roman garden and Javanese art.
National Parks & Wildlife
Just five miles south of Hua Hin, discover Thailand’s first marine national park, home to over 200 species of birds, monitor lizards, mongoose, deer and goat-antelope. Alternatively, amidst towering limestone outcrops, the rocky, jigsaw-puzzled landscape of Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park (comprising a staggering 300 mountain peaks) boasts forest trails, sprawling marshes filled with wildfowl, countless caves and fine, white sand beaches. Boat excursions to outlying islands are available and, if you’re particularly lucky, you might spot the resident pod of dolphins; a day trip is highly recommended. Closer to resort, Khao Takiab (Chopstick Hill) is a natural playground of resident macaque monkeys.