Beaches - Hua Hin Beach

Hua Hin Beach

Hua Hin Beach lies approximately 185 km-a three-hour drive-southwest of Bangkok. It is recognized as Thailand's most traditional beach resort. In 1926, King Rama VII built Klai Kangwon, his summer palace, at the resort, starting a fashion among high society to retreat to Hua Hin during the summer months to escape the heat of Bangkok. Klai Kangwon Palace is still used by the present Royal Family at certain times of the year.

Hua Hin is a well-established beach destination, with full facilities for the tourist. Unlike Pattaya on the other side of the Gulf of Thailand, Hua Hin provides a quieter, more relaxed environment, with a typically Thai ambience. Hua Hin is ideal for families or for those who wish to simply escape the bustle and heat of Bangkok. Many activities are available for the tourist, from just swimming or watching the sunrise through to fishing, golfing, water sports and horse riding.

From Bangkok, Hua Hin is accessible by car, bus and train. To get there by car, the usual route is along Phetkasem Road (Highway No 4) via Nakhon Pathom or Thonburi-Pak Tor Road (Highway No 4) via Phetchaburi. Buses to Hua Hin leave from the Southern Bus Terminal. For timetables, call +66 2 434-5557-8 for air-conditioned services, or 435-1199, 435-1200 for non air-conditioned buses. Trains also leave Hua Lampong Station for Hua Hin. Check schedules at +66 2 223-7010, 223-7020.

On public holidays, the State Railway of Thailand offers a one-day tour to Hua Hin. Trains depart from Bangkok at 6.30 am, and the fare is 100 baht per person. Tourists need to pay additional fees for tours around Hua Hin.