Are you planning on spending some time in Hua Hin, Thailand soon? With historic charm and beauty, Hua Hin was once the vacation destination of royal families who sought to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With just 144 km separating Hui Hin and Bangkok, vacationers enjoy the convenience of proximity to the big city, and the laid back atmosphere of this sleepy beach side town.
Though less busy and crowded, there are still plentiful things to do in and around Hua Hin. From some of the world’s most breath-taking natural wonders to adrenaline inducing waterparks and rides, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful beachfront destination. If you’re thinking about booking your next vacation at Hua Hin, here are ten great places to go which capture the essence and atmosphere of this amazing tropical destination.
Top 10 in Hua Hin
Maruekhathaiyawan Palace
Enjoy exploring the history of Thailand with a trip to visit the beautiful and historic Maruekhathaiyawan Palace. Initially constructed nearly one hundred years ago, Maruekhathaiyawan Palace was intended as the seaside residence of King Rama VI. Take in the splendor of it’s breathtaking Victorian style architecture, while you enjoy scenic views of the Gulf of Thailand from one of several viewing rooms located within the palace. Be mindful of the required dress code while visiting the property, and purchase your tickets ahead of your trip. The relaxing and soothing atmosphere throughout this area makes the Maruekhathaiyawan Palace a must see destination while on vacation in Thailand.
Cicada Market
If you’re looking for a fantastic open air market to deliver an authentic taste of Thailand, look no further than the busy, bustling Cicada Market. Conveniently located in the heart of Hua Hin’s tourist district, Cicada Market comes to life in the evening hours. Explore fabulous nightlife, live music, delicious and inexpensive street food, art shows, and unique shopping opportunities from the hundreds of vendors that make up this charming and lively marketplace. Be sure to check the calendar for engaging theatre performances by local acting troupes, as well as amazing interactive activities and displays for the whole family to enjoy.
Hua Hin Night Market
If there’s one thing to learn about Thailand, it’s that no two markets are ever quite the same. Even if you’ve already taken time to visit Cicada Market, be sure to stop by Hua Hin Night Market as well, and explore everything it has to offer. Enjoy the variety of lively entertainment offered by street performers while you browse the market stalls and soak in the atmosphere of this authentically Thai marketplace experience. After you’ve walked around a while and worked up an appetite, stop by one of the many delicious and affordable seafood restaurants lining the streets. You’re sure to find just the dish that hits the spot while visiting Hua Hin Night Market.
Black Mountain Water Park
If wakeboarding and pool time is part of your itinerary while in Thailand, be sure to spend a day exploring Black Mountain Water Park. With nine exciting waterslides, eight themed pools, and an 800 meter wakeboard cable, you’re sure to enjoy every moment of this thrilling waterpark experience. Conveniently located near Black Mountain Golf Club and Resort, this waterpark is a must see attraction that shouldn’t be missed. Pick up your tickets at the gate, or pre order online.
Khao Takiab
If you’re craving a change of pace and breath-taking scenic views, take a day trip out to Kaho Takiab. A conveniently short trip just south of Hua Hin, Khao Takiab is sometimes referred to as “Monkey Island” due to the large population of curious, and somewhat mischievous, monkeys. As tempting as it may be, try to refrain from feeding them, as the peace and solitude you came here seeking may be replaced by gangs of monkeys determined to follow you wherever you choose to go.
Plearn Wan Shopping Village
Offering more than just an open air market shopping experience, Plearn Wan Shopping Village is the perfect place to go in order to experience what life in Hua Hin was like in the 1950s. With unique and stately architectural design, Plearn Wan Shopping Village features a myriad of street food stalls and unique souvenir shops. Be sure to spend time at the fair ground, where game booths and carnival rides are a fun and enjoyable family attraction.
Phraya Nakhon Cave
Not to be missed, Phraya Nakhon Cave is one of those places that must be experienced at least once in your lifetime. To get here, take a short drive to Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park and enter Bang Pu village. Arriving here is relatively easy, locating the breath-taking golden pavilion within the cave is more challenging. Rent a boat to reach the caverns, or take a walk along the sandy shores until you’ve reached your destination.
Santorini Park
While the charm and elegance of Greece may be the last thing you’d expect to see in the heart of Asia, Santorini Park is a Grecian inspired tourist spot featuring gorgeous European style architecture, cobble-stone pathways, and an endless array of shops, restaurants, and attractions that are sure to delight the senses. Enjoy the charm and elegance of boutique style shopping, or visit the lively Art Market which takes place on the weekends. Santorini Park is a unique and fun experience that’s perfect for families to explore.
The Venezia Hua Hin
For yet another European style attraction located in Thailand, be sure to stop by the Venezia, a premier shopping and entertainment district in the heart of Hua Hin. Entry fee is minimal, and the San Marco bell tower replica is spectacular. Enjoy a peaceful and romantic gondola ride while you watch the streets come to life with busy shoppers and live entertainment. Be sure to check out the 3D art gallery for fun and humorous photo opportunities.
Panee Butterfly Farm
If you’re traveling with your family, or you appreciate nature and learning about local flora and fauna, Panee Butterfly Farm offers a unique learning opportunity for travellers both young and old. Panee Butterfly Farm is one of the most widely acclaimed attractions in Hua Hin, due to it’s exceptional natural beauty that’s rich in biodiversity and aesthetic appeal. Discover the reason why so many nature enthusiasts flock to Thailand every year, and enjoy taking in the sights and sounds of nature. Featuring butterflies, birds, orchids, and other herbal plants, you can easily lose track of time here as you explore every inch of Panee Butterfly Farm. After you’ve experienced an afternoon among the wildlife, enjoy a stroll through Klai Kangwon Palace, located alongside the farm.
Thailand is one of the most popular travel destinations in all of Asia, and continues to grow in popularity every year. With amazing wildlife, rich cultural history, unbelievably delicious cuisine, and friendly people, it’s no wonder why so many continue to flock back to this country year after year. It would take more than one trip to experience all this amazing country has to offer. Book a trip to Thailand and experience for yourself why so many travellers and expats consider this country to be one of the most unforgettable destinations in the world.
Hua Hin Travel Map
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