Thailand · Central Thailand Coast

Hua Hin

Thailand's royal beach town — 8 km beach, weekend market, close to Bangkok

Hua Hin is Thailand's royal beach town — the Chakri dynasty summer palace. 8 km of beach, night markets, golf courses, seaside restaurants. Family-friendly + quieter than Phuket/Pattaya. 3h drive from Bangkok — no international flights.

From Bangkok
3h by van/train
Beach length
8 km
Best season
November-March
Vibe
Family + retirement + weekend market

Hua Hin highlights

Hua Hin Beach

8 km beach — public + free access. Cleanest at the northern end near the Sofitel.

Cicada Market

Weekend art + food market — best of the Hua Hin night markets.

Phra Ratchaniwet Marukhathaiyawan Palace

Golden teak beachside palace built 1923 — free entry.

Khao Takiab (Monkey Mountain)

Temple on a hill with panoramic bay views + wild macaques.

Sam Roi Yot National Park

Prachuap Khiri Khan — limestone karsts, Phraya Nakhon Cave with pavilion inside.

Hua Hin Night Market

The classic street food market — seafood, satay, mango sticky rice.

Getting there

Hua Hin Airport (HHQ) has no scheduled commercial flights. Van from Bangkok (3h, ~$6-10), train from Hua Lamphong (4h, ~$10), or Grab (~$60).

Getting around

Grab, tuk-tuk, or motorbike rental $8/day. Beach is walkable from town centre.

Best time to visit

November-March (cool, dry). April-October is hot + occasional rain.

Budget per day

$25-45 backpacker · $80-150 mid-range · $200+ luxury (Anantara)

Where to stay in Hua Hin

Frequently asked about Hua Hin

Hua Hin vs Pattaya — which is better?
Hua Hin is family-oriented + quieter + royal. Pattaya has nightlife + more nightlife. Hua Hin is the better choice for families + couples.
How do I get from Bangkok to Hua Hin?
Minivan (3h, ~$6-10) from Ekkamai/Southern Bus Terminal. Train (4h, ~$10) from Hua Lamphong. Grab is ~$60.
How many days do I need in Hua Hin?
2-3 days is a good weekend break. Longer if playing golf or using it as a base for Sam Roi Yot National Park.
Is Hua Hin worth visiting?
Yes for a weekend beach escape from Bangkok. Skip if you want tropical island vibes — Hua Hin's beach is decent but not stunning.