Hua Hin is situated around 150km to the southwest of Bangkok on the western seaboard of the Gulf of Siam. It is a location which is renowned for its excellent beaches and warm seas which make the city the perfect destination for both Thais and foreigners. The traditional resort is steeped in history and has a long association with the Thai Royal family. Its slow way of life and stunning backdrop makes it perfect for families visiting the area for a short break.
It is perfectly feasible to spend the day beach-hopping with many of the beaches being in close proximity to each other with convenient and cheap public transport operating between many beaches. Many of the bays offer a range of activities including horse riding, kiteboarding and other water sports. Almost all provide sunbeds for hire and are lined by small bars and restaurants serving fresh Thai and seafood. Here are 5 of the best beaches.
1. Khao Takiab Beach
Khao Takiab Beach is located at the southern end of Hua Hin’s 20km long beach line and is a rugged, rocky section of coastline with north and south zones. This steep outcrop of land is clearly visible along the entirety of the beach, and the mountain is very much a focal point. The mountain itself is home to a monastery which is popular with tourists and locals. The temple is now populated by a large troupe of crab-eating macaques who have become one of the main attractions in the area. To the side of the mountain is a small estuary along with a canal from which fishing boats depart on a daily basis.
2. Suan Son Pradiphat Beach
On the southern side of Khao Takiab Beach is the beach of Suan Son Pradiphat Beach, a long stretch of beach heading away from the mountain. The military controls this area of the beach, and indeed the beach is only accessible via a military camp. There are no shops or restaurants on the beach, and it remains in a similar state to how it would have looked decades previously. The public beach has a very unspoilt feel and is lined by a casuarinas tree forest which makes it looked a remote beach in a Hollywood movie.
3. Khao Tao Beach
One of the smallest beaches in the Hua Hin area is Khao Tao Beach. Although it is small, this is one of the most popular coves and is around 20km from the centre of the town. Khao Tao has a very secluded feel and has rocks all around it as well as dense forest. At the top of a hill, overlooking the beach, you will find a large Buddha looking down. Although shops and restaurants are limited, there is a small hut offering traditional Thai massage. The beach is more steeply shelved than many others in the area, which makes it ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
4. Cha-Am Beach
Cha-Am beach is located to the north of Hua Hin and is one of the closest beaches to Bangkok which inevitably makes it very popular at weekends. This clean beach runs adjacent to a tree-lined road and has almost a party atmosphere, especially on public holidays. There are far more activities to do at the beach in comparison to many of the others, including banana boats, other water sports, football, volleyball and horse riding. Running along the beach, you will find a vast array of restaurants, bars, cafes and tourist shops. There is certainly plenty to do, and on a clear day, you can see for quite literally miles.
5. Hua Hin Beach
Hotels and Amenities
You will find hotels and amenities running along the coast, but it remains relatively unspoilt. The town centre has a reasonably sleepy and relaxed atmosphere and is perfect for families. Although this is one of the leading resorts in Thailand, it is far less commercialised than many others, such as Phuket and Pattaya, which can make it more appealing. The beaches are clean as too is the sea with most of the beaches and coves having gentle shelving, making it suitable for young children.