One reason Hua Hin is popular is the strong sense of traditional influences in the region, both Thai and European. Here you will find palaces from bygone eras, temples of importance and some of the most spectacular scenery around. Be it on the coast with the long beaches, or inland in the largest national parks, Hua Hin offers something for everyone. Some of the local attractions are around Petchaburi, north of Hua Hin, but are easily accessible by road.
The Palace of Love and Hope, Phra Ratcha Niwet Marukatawan: The retreat was built for King Rama V1 in 1924 and reflects a European Victorian influence. The palace has been renovated and is located about 15 Kms north of Hua Hin, right on the coast.
Phra Nakhon Khiri (Khao Wang): This spectacular palace dates back to 1859 and was used by King Mongut as his getaway retreat. High up on a hill the architecture is a mix of styles from Asia and Europe. There is an impressive Chedi, not unlike the ones seen at The Grand Palace in Bangkok. To get to the palace there is a choice of walking the stairway from the visitor centre, or making it easy for yourself and taking the cable car.
Other temples in this area are Wat Mahathat Worawihan from the Ayutthaya period and Wat Kamphaeng Laeng, which is a 12 century example of Khmer architecture. This was the furthest south the Khmers came. For those very interested in the Buddhist temples then there is also Wat Yai Suwarnaram, with its 300 year old murals, and Wat Khao Takhrao, all in Petchaburi.
National Parks: Although a short distance from Hua Hin, enthusiasts of the natural world would be disappointed to miss the Kaeng Krachan Dam and National Park. It’s the largest park in Thailand, and is the home to some of the most spectacular scenery and animals in the country.
The wildlife in this rainforest park include rare birds such as Hornbills and Serpent Eagles, along with Asiatic Black bears, gibbons and elephants. Information about the park and facilities can be found at www.dnp.go.th or from the local Hua Hin Tourist Office. There is also the Sam Roi Yot Mountain National Park, and the Pran Buri Reservoir, both nearby
Khao Takiab Hill: This is the outcrop of rock separating Hua Hin and Takiab Beach from Takiab Bay. At the top there’s a small temple with a Chinese statue along with some Buddhist statues. The views from here take in the small islands such as Singhtoh island
Video of Khao Takiab
Beaches: From Cha Am south to Khirikhan this coastline offers long stretches of beautiful sandy beaches. In Hua Hin and Takiab Bay there are any number of activities to enjoy, along with some of the best hotels in Thailand. See Beaches in Hua Hin for more information
Golf: For golfers this region has six of the best courses in the country. See Golf in Hua Hin for more information
Hua Hin Railway Station: Well worth a look for anyone keen on the history of the town. The railway station proudly stands as a testament to the days when the monarchy would arrive by rail from Bangkok. There is the Royal waiting room which is the most outstanding feature of the station. On several occasions each month the Orient and Eastern Express train stops at Hua Hin en route to Singapore.
Night Markets: There is a night market every day of the week in the town centre and as with all Thai markets it’s a mass of food, souvenirs and local produce. The biggest market is held on Tuesdays at Pae Mai, where you can buy just about anything.
