Hua Hin is a lovely beach town located 2.5 hours south of Bangkok. It is Thailand’s oldest seaside resort town and still retains a lot of its old-world charm. Although it has become quite popular in recent years with tourists, it is still relatively quiet and relaxed compared to other
Thai beach destinations. It’s a great place to come for a relaxing beach holiday, and there are plenty of things to keep you occupied. To help you plan your trip, here is a list of the 25 best things to do in Hua Hin you shouldn’t miss!
Things To Do In Hua Hin
1. Visit Huay Mongkol Temple
Thailand is a country with a rich Buddhist culture, and you will find temples all over the country. So when in Hua Hin, visiting Huay Mongkol Temple is one of the best things to do.
Huay Mongkol Temple is one of the most popular temples in Hua Hin and also one of the most unique. The temple is dedicated to a highly revered monk named Luang Phor Thuad. He was a highly respected monk who had performed many miracles. The temple was built in his honor, and it is believed that if you make a wish at the temple, it will come true.
The temple’s highlight is the massive statue of Luang Phor Thuad. The statue is 11.5 meters tall and is the largest statue of a monk in the world. This makes it one of the top attractions in Hua Hin that you cannot miss.
The temple is located about 15 kilometers west of Hua Hin town and is open from 5 am to 9 pm. There’s no entrance fee, but donations are appreciated.
Address: Thap Tai, Hua Hin 77110, Thailand.
Read More: Best Temples In Thailand
2. Soak in the Sun at Hua Hin Beach
Of course, one of the best things to do in Hua Hin is to spend some time at the beach. And Hua Hin Beach is one of the best beaches to do that. Unlike other beaches in Thailand that are quite crowded, Hua Hin Beach is a lot more relaxed and laid back. It’s the perfect place to soak in the sun and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Hua Hin Beach is a long and wide beach that stretches for over 4 kilometers. The sand is fine and white, and the water is crystal clear and perfect for swimming. The beach is also a great place to catch some waves as there are some good surf spots here. I tried kitesurfing for the first time here, and it was an amazing experience.
And if you are looking for a place to relax and enjoy some time at the beach, there are plenty of beach umbrellas and sun loungers available for rent. In addition, there are also a few restaurants and cafes nearby should you get hungry.
Read More: Best Beaches In Thailand
3. Try Kiteboarding at Hua Hin Beach
Are you looking for an adrenaline-pumping activity to do in Hua Hin? Then look no further than kiteboarding. This relatively new water sport is becoming increasingly popular in Hua Hin. This is because Hua Hin has the perfect conditions for kiteboarding with its strong winds and wide open beaches.
If you are a beginner, don’t worry, as there are plenty of IKO (International Kiteboarding Organization) certified kiteboarding schools in Hua Hin that can teach you everything you need to know about this exhilarating sport. I tried kiteboarding for the first time at KBA (Kite Beach Asia), and they were great. The instructors were very experienced and made sure I was comfortable with all the safety procedures before taking me out to the open water.
Kiteboarding is the perfect activity for those who are looking for an adrenaline rush. And what better place to do it than at Hua Hin Beach, which offers some of the best conditions for kiteboarding in Thailand.
4. Visit the Maruekhathaiyawan Palace
If you are looking for a little bit of history and culture, then a visit to the Maruekhathaiyawan Palace is one of the best things to do in Hua Hin.
The Maruekhathaiyawan Palace was built in 1923 by King Rama VI, and it served as a summer palace for the Thai royal family. The palace is a beautiful example of Thai architecture, set on a stunning stretch of coastline.
The palace interior is just as beautiful as the outside, with intricate Thai-style wooden furnishings and decorations. The highlight of the palace has to be the King’s living chamber which is partially furnished with his personal belongings.
Take your time to explore the different rooms and learn about the palace’s history. After your visit inside the palace, explore the grounds outside and take a stroll along the beautiful stretch of coastline.
The Maruekhathaiyawan Palace is just a few minutes drive from Hua Hin town center, and it is open every day (except Wednesdays) from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. The entrance fee is 30 baht (about $1) for adults and 15 baht (about $0.50) for children.
Address: 1281 Phetkasem Road | King Rama VI Army Cam.
Read More: Best Things To Do In Pattaya
5. Take a Stroll through Hua Hin Night Market
One thing you will notice while in Hua Hin is that the town comes alive at night. This is when all the shops and restaurants open up, and the streets are filled with people. Therefore, one of the fun activities to do in Hua Hin is to take a stroll through the night market.
The Hua Hin Night Market is located on Dechanuchit road and is open every night from 6 pm to 12 am. As you walk through the market, you will find a wide variety of things to see and do.
There are plenty of food stalls selling delicious Thai food and a few souvenir shops where you can buy some gifts to take home. I tried a few things from the food stalls, including fried chicken, grilled squid, and Thai iced tea.
The night market is a great place to people-watch and soak up the atmosphere of Hua Hin. It’s also a great place to do some shopping as you can find some good deals on things like clothes, souvenirs, and Thai handicrafts.
Address: Petchkasem Road near 74 Street, Hua Hin.
6. Step into a World of Illusions at For Art’s Sake
Many people think that Hua Hin is all about beaches and history, but there is much more to this town. For Art’s Sake is a great example of that.
For Art’s Sake is an art gallery, but it is unlike any other art gallery you have ever been to. The gallery is full of optical illusions and 3D paintings, making it a lot of fun to explore. The paintings are incredibly realistic, and some are so lifelike that it is hard to believe they are not real.
In addition to the paintings, there are a few interactive exhibits where you can take photos and have fun.
For Art’s Sake is a great place to take some unique photos that will impress your friends and family. So, if you are looking for unique places to visit in Hua Hin, this is the place to go.
The gallery is open from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm on weekdays. The entrance fee is THB 115 (about $3.15).
Address: 22/141 Phetkasem Road, Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110.
7. Take a Sunset Cruise
If there’s one Hua Hin activity that you shouldn’t miss, it’s taking a sunset cruise. It’s one of the most romantic things to do in Hua Hin, especially if you are traveling with your significant other.
There are a few different options for sunset cruises in Hua Hin, but the one I took was through a company called Sea Cret Cruise. The tour includes pick-up from your hotel, squid fishing equipment (if you want to try your hand at it), a buffet dinner, fresh fruits, coffee, and the beautiful Hua Hin sunset.
The cruise was relaxing as we slowly sailed along Hua Hin’s coastline while enjoying the beautiful views. The sunset itself was absolutely stunning, and it was the perfect way to end a day in Hua Hin.
I paid 1,850 THB (about 51 USD) for the tour, which I thought was a fair price considering everything that was included. The tour lasts about 5 hours (5 pm – 10 pm), and pick up is typically around 4 pm.
Do you need a break from all the sun and sand? Then head over to Vana Nava Water Park, which is one of the best places in Hua Hin to cool off.
Vana Nava is Hua Hin’s largest water park, and it features a wide variety of different slides and attractions. There is something for everyone here, whether you want to relax in the lazy river or take a death-defying plunge down one of the slides. In addition to the water slides, Vana Nava Water Park also has a swimming pool, a beach area, and a kids’ play area. There are also plenty of places to eat and drink, so you can easily spend a whole day here.
If you are visiting Hua Hin with kids, then a visit to Vana Nava is one of the best things to do. The park is open from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm, and the entrance fee is 1,200 baht (about $33) for adults and 800 baht (about $22) for children.
Address: 129/99 Soi Moo Baan Nong Kae, Nong Kae, Hua Hin District, 77110, Thailand.
9. Take a Culinary Tour
Hua Hin is not only a great place to enjoy the beach, but also an excellent place to enjoy some amazing food. Thai food is some of the best in the world, and Hua Hin has no shortage of excellent restaurants serving up delicious Thai cuisine.
So one of the best things to do in Hua Hin is to take a culinary tour where you will visit some of the best restaurants in town and try various dishes.
If you’re on a budget and want to try some Thai food, then I recommend taking a street food tour. This is a great way to try a variety of different dishes without spending a lot of money.
Popular dishes to try in Hua Hin include things like pad Thai, curry, grilled fish, and mango sticky rice.
10. Walk Through the Pranburi Mangrove Forest
To experience a different side of Hua Hin, I recommend taking a walk through the Pranburi Mangrove Forest. The mangrove forest is located just a short drive from Hua Hin town, and it is one of the top places in Hua Hin if you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the town.
I’m saying this because as soon as you step into the forest, you feel like you have been entirely transported to a different world. The air is fresh and cool, and the forest is very quiet and serene. The only sound you will hear is the sound of the birds chirping and the leaves rustling in the wind.
Take a walk along the raised wooden walkway that meanders through the mangrove forest. Along the way, you will be able to see all sorts of birds and wildlife as well as some amazing views of the mangroves.
At the end of the walkway is a pine-lined beach where you can relax and enjoy the sound of the waves crashing against the shore.
The Pranburi Mangrove forest is open from 8 am to 5 pm, and the entrance is free. So if you are looking for free things to do in Hua Hin that are both fun and educational, this is the place to go.
Address: Moo 1 Pran Buri, Prachuap Khiri Khan.
11. Get a Massage
You can’t come to Thailand and not get a massage. It is one of the things that Thailand is famous for. And Hua Hin is no exception. There are plenty of places to get a massage in Hua Hin. And the best part is, it won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
A Thai massage will usually cost around 300 THB for an hour. But if you want something a little more luxurious, you can opt for an oil massage or a foot reflexology massage which will cost you a bit more.
There are plenty of places to get a massage in Hua Hin. But if you’re looking for the best, I recommend going to Let’s Relax Spa. It is a bit more expensive than the other places, but it is worth it. The service is excellent, and the massage therapists are very skilled.
12. Pamper Yourself at a Luxury Hotel
After spending most of your time exploring the best sites in Hua Hin, it’s time to pamper yourself a little. After all, you are on vacation. And what better place to pamper yourself than at a luxury hotel?
There are plenty of luxury hotels in Hua Hin to choose from. But if you want to experience the best of what Hua Hin offers, I recommend staying at the Hyatt Regency Hua Hin.
The Hyatt Regency Hua Hin is a 5-star hotel that offers stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, and the service is excellent. In addition, the hotel has an outdoor pool, a spa, a fitness center, a gold course, and a beautiful beachfront.
Another great option is the Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa. The Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa is a luxurious 5-star hotel that offers stunning views of the ocean. The rooms are spacious and well-equipped, and the service is impeccable.
I have just given you two examples of the best luxury hotels in Hua Hin. But there are plenty of other great options to choose from. So, whether you are looking for a place to relax and unwind or a place to enjoy some luxury and pamper yourself, Hua Hin has plenty of great options to choose from.
13. Wine Tasting at Monson Valley Vineyard
Are you a fan of wine? If you are, then you should go for a wine tasting at Monson Valley Vineyard. Monson Valley Vineyard is located just an hour west of Hua Hin, and coming here is one of the cool things to do in Hua Hin.
This vineyard has 270 acres planted with different grape varietals such as Dornfelder, Shiraz, Sangiovese, Chenin blanc, and Colombard. This makes it one of the largest vineyards in Thailand, producing some of the best wines in the country.
The vineyard offers a wine tasting tour where you will get to try different kinds of wines. The tour costs 300 THB (9 USD) for a mock-up bottle and 800 THB (22 USD) for a premium wine bottle. The tour must be booked in advance and is available daily from 9 am to 6:30 pm.
Address: Moo 9, Baankhok Chang Patana, NongPlup, HuaHin District, Hua Hin 77110.
14. Shop the World at the Venezia Hua Hin
Have you ever wanted to go shopping in Venice but never had the chance? Well, now you can do exactly that at The Venezia Hua Hin.
The Venezia Hua Hin is a massive shopping complex inspired by Venice’s canals. And today, it is one of the most famous attractions in Hua Hin. This shopping complex is home to over 300 shops, restaurants, and cafes. You can find everything from clothes and accessories to art and souvenirs here.
In addition, there are a lot of attractions and things to do here as well. You can take a mini train ride around the complex, visit a 3D museum, go bowling, or even go on a shopping spree.
Being one of the most popular shopping complexes in Hua Hin, The Venezia Hua Hin is always crowded with locals and tourists alike. So if you are looking to do some shopping, be sure to come here early to avoid the crowds.
15. Shop at Cicada Market at Night
If you are looking for a more unique and authentic Hua Hin experience, then you have to check out Cicada Market. This open-air night market is unlike any other, making it one of the best things to see in Hua Hin, especially at night.
Cicada Market is a place where you can find everything from souvenirs to clothes and art. However, this is not your typical tourist market. Yes, you can find souvenirs here. But they are unique souvenirs that you will not find anywhere else. They are handmade by local artists, and they are very beautiful. I bought a couple of paintings here as well as some unique jewelry, and I was very happy with my purchases.
Another highlight of this market is the massive outdoor food court that serves up some of the best foods in Hua Hin. There is a huge variety of food to choose from, and it is all very reasonably priced.
And since the market is open at night, there’s an area dedicated to live music where you can enjoy some live tunes while you shop or eat. It’s a very fun and festive atmosphere, in addition to being one of the points of interest in Hua Hin.
Cicada Market is open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 4 pm to 11 pm.
Address: 83/159 Nong Kae-Khao Takiap Road, Hua Hin District, Prachuap Khiri Khan.
16. Take a Trip to Santorini Park
Want to experience a little bit of Greece in Hua Hin? Then you need to take a trip to Santorini Park. Santorini Park is a Greek-themed amusement park located just outside Hua Hin town. The park is quite large, and it has a lot of different things to see and do.
Rows of white-washed buildings with blue roofs line the streets, and there are plenty of Greek-themed sculptures and statues around the park. There is also a large shopping mall, an outdoor market, a water park, and an amusement park. In the amusement park, you will find a Ferris wheel, a carousel, and a roller coaster. And in the water park, you will find a lazy river, slides, and a wave pool.
Spend a day exploring Santorini Park, and you will feel like you have been transported to Greece. And being one of the largest amusement parks in Thailand, it is definitely one of the top attractions in Hua Hin to visit.
17. Visit the Swiss Sheep Farm
Are you looking for something different to do in Hua Hin with your kids (or even without)? Why not visit the Swiss Sheep Farm, where you can see (and even feed) some of the sheep.
The Swiss Sheep Farm is a small family-run farm located just outside Hua Hin. They have a few sheep they bring out for people to see and feed. The farm also sells some homemade Swiss cheese, which you can buy to take home with you.
If you have kids, they will love the farm’s playground, which has a few statues of sheep for them to climb on. There is also a small cafe on the premises where you can enjoy some light snacks and refreshments.
Address: Kao Yai, Cha-am District, Phetchaburi 76120, Thailand.
18. Browse the Galleries at Hua Hin Artists Village (Baan Sillapin)
Hua Hin Artists Village, or Baan Sillapin, is a small community of artists that have made Hua Hin their home. The artists here are from all over the world, but most of them are Thai.
The community is quite small, with only around 20 artists living and working here. However, it is definitely worth a visit if you are interested in art. There are a few galleries that you can browse, and the artists are usually more than happy to chat and tell you about their work. I found the artists to be very friendly, and it was a great way to get to know the local art scene in Hua Hin.
The community is located in Baan Sillapin, just 5 km west of Hua Hin town center, and it is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. Admission is free.
Address: 299/8 3218 Tambon Hin Lek Fai, Amphoe Hua Hin, Chang Wat Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110.
19. Shop at Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall
Located just a few minutes drive from Hua Hin Beach, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall is one of the best places in Hua Hin to go shopping. This modern shopping mall is packed with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as a multiplex cinema.
There are plenty of international brands to be found here as well as local Thai brands. And if you are looking for souvenirs to bring back home, there is also a good selection of shops that sell Hua Hin-themed souvenirs.
In addition to the shops, there are also a number of restaurants and cafes located within the mall. The main food court is the Blueport Food Hall which serves a variety of international cuisine. There is also a good selection of fast food options if you are looking for something quick.
And being one of the best shopping destinations in Hua Hin, you can also find some good deals here. Prices are generally cheaper here than in Bangkok and other major cities in Thailand.
Address: 8/89, Soi Moo Baan Nongkae, Nong Kae, Hua Hin 77110 Thailand.
20. Have Fun at Black Mountain Water Park
Are you looking for a fun-filled day out with family or friends? Then a trip to Black Mountain Water Park is one of the exciting things to do in Hua Hin. Located about 15 minutes from Hua Hin town, this water park provides a great escape from the heat with its many exciting slides and pools.
Here, you’ll find nine slides, six different pools, and a lazy river where you can just float around and relax. In addition, there is also a kids’ zone with a few smaller slides and pools that are perfect for the little ones.
The highlight, for me, was the 17-meter-high vertical slide tower which gives you a bird’s eye view of the entire water park before you plunge into the pool below.
Black Mountain Water Park is open from 10 am to 5 pm, and tickets cost 600 baht (about 17 USD) for adults and 300 baht (about 8 USD) for children.
Location: 1 Moo 2, Tambon Hin Lek Fai.
21. Visit Sam Roi Yot National Park
Do you want to experience Thailand’s lush nature without traveling too far from Hua Hin? Then take a day trip to Sam Roi Yot National Park, one of Thailand’s most beautiful national parks.
The national park is just an hour away from Hua Hin and is a perfect place to enjoy some time in nature. There are plenty of things to do here, from hiking and biking to bird watching and boating. In addition, there are three accessible caves that you can explore. And if you are feeling really adventurous, you can hike all the way to Khao Daeng Peak viewpoint for some stunning views of the lowland.
There is a lot you can do in Sam Roi Yot National Park, and you can easily spend a whole day here. So if you’re looking for the very best of Hua Hin attractions, this is one place you don’t want to miss.
Address: Rai Mai, Kui Buri District, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77150, Hua Hin.
22. Khao Hin Lek Fai Viewpoint
Khao Hin Lek Fai is one of the best viewpoints in Hua Hin, offering a stunning panorama of the town, the beach, and the coast. The viewpoint is located about 3km west of Hua Hin town center, and it can be reached either by motorbike or car.
To get to the viewpoint, you will have to follow a winding road that leads up to the top of Khao Hin Lek Fai. The road is in pretty good condition, but it can be a bit narrow and steep in some parts. But don’t worry, it’s still doable even if you are not used to driving such a road. There is a parking lot at the top, so you can just leave your car there and walk to the viewpoint.
From there, you will be able to see the Hua Hin town center, the beach, and the coast stretching out into the distance. The view is absolutely stunning, especially during sunset. I spent a good 30 minutes just taking in the view and watching the colors change as the sunset.
Khao Hin Lek Fai Viewpoint is open 24 hours, and there is no entrance fee. So, be sure to add this place to your list of famous places to visit in Hua Hin.
23. Wild Elephant Spotting at Kui Buri National Park
Kui Buri National Park is located about a 2-hour drive from Hua Hin, and a visit here is one of the best things to do near Hua Hin to see wild elephants. The national park is home to a large population of elephants that roam freely in the forest. In addition, the park is home to a significant number of Gaurs, which were listed as endangered in 1986.
The best way to see the elephants in Kui Buri National Park is on a safari. There are a few companies that offer safaris in the park, and I would highly recommend going on one of these safaris. The safaris typically last around 3-4 hours, and you will be able to see a lot of elephants and other wildlife during that time.
The cost of the safari depends on the company you book with, but it should cost around 1500-2000 THB (45-90 USD) per person.
Location: Prachuap Khiri Khan Province.
24. Enjoy Hua Hin’s Nightlife
Hua Hin is not known for being a wild and crazy party town. But that doesn’t mean that there isn’t anything to do at night. Hua Hin’s nightlife scene is a lot more relaxed and subdued than in other places in Thailand, but it’s still a lot of fun.
There are a few bars and nightclubs in Hua Hin where you can go to drink, dance, and socialize. The most popular ones are located along Soi Bintabat Street. And if you are looking for something a little more low-key, there are also many restaurants and cafes that stay open late into the night.
Therefore, after a long day of sightseeing in Hua Hin, you can still enjoy a good meal and a few drinks before returning to your hotel.
25. Shop at the Sam Pan Nam Floating Market
Thailand is well known for its floating markets, which are great places to buy fresh produce and souvenirs. And when you’re in Hua Hin, the Sam Pan Nam Floating Market is one of the best places to go.
The market is located about 15 minutes from the Hua Hin town center and is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. When you arrive, you will see a long line of boats selling everything from fruits and vegetables to clothes and souvenirs. But what makes this market special is the different kinds of entertainment you can find here. The market holds music and cultural shows daily to keep things interesting. In addition, you can ride a miniature train or take a boat tour through the market to get a better view of everything.
In Summary
There’s a lot to do in Hua Hin, whether you are looking for some adventure or just wanting to relax and soak in the sun. These are just a few of the best things to do in Hua Hin that I think you should check out during your time here.
