Hugging Thailand’s western Gulf Coast south of Bangkok, Hua Hin made its name as a summer retreat for Thai royals in the 1920s. Today, Bangkokians and Europeans decompress on its beaches and detox at its hotel wellness retreats. But the top things to do in Hua Hin lie beyond its sands and spas. Explore its Victorian-era station, temples, and palaces; savor freshly caught seafood, street eats, and vibrant night markets; and hit golf courses and water parks. Or, visit the surrounding mountains to discover cave-dotted national parks, mangroves, wildlife reserves, and waterfalls.
Most visitors head to Hua Hin during Thailand’s dry season of November-May, so expect peak crowds and prices in December-February. For quieter times, consider March-May; though May’s daytime temps are consistently around 86°F (30°C) and you’ll experience the first downpours of the upcoming rainy season. Come in peak season and you might catch two of Hua Hin’s annual festivals: cue November’s Lantern Festival (Loi Krathong), when locals float banana-leaf candles on the water, and March’s beach-based kite-flying festival.
Hua Hin ’s heat and dispersed attractions make walking tiring, but luckily the resort offers numerous other transportation options—from Thailand’s signature songthaews (open-sided, bench-lined trucks) to tuk-tuks and hotel shuttles. Cheap and cheerful songthaews cover key routes including the north-south Phet Kasem Road (Highway 4) and you can flag them from the roadside. Tuk-tuks and cabs are also plentiful and cheap, while hotel buses make it easy to reach the main night market. Otherwise, local rideshares such as Bolt and Grab are quick and easy alternatives.
While Hua Hin’s main night market is a must-visit for its huge choice of souvenir stalls and seafood grills, don’t miss its other markets. At the top of the list is Cicada Market in tree-dotted grounds off Nong Kae-Takiab road near the resort’s southern end. Stalls selling art, handicrafts, and clothes combine with international food stands, craft cocktail bars, and live music performances to create a hip, creative vibe. Note that it’s only open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings.
