Where do you vacation when you already live in paradise? With its stunning beaches, lively cities and lush rainforests, Thailand is famed worldwide as a vacation destination. Equally renowned is the warmth of its people — the country is often called the Land of Smiles. So where do Thai people escape to for a break? The answer lies along the western coast of the Gulf of Thailand, about 125 miles southwest of Bangkok: Hua Hin, part of a coastal stretch nicknamed the Thai Riviera. Located in Prachuap Khiri Khan province on the northern Malay Peninsula, Hua Hin looks out over the Gulf of Thailand.
This relaxed coastal town has become a popular weekend retreat for Bangkok residents. Though less well known to many foreign travelers, Hua Hin is actually Thailand’s oldest seaside resort, developed by Kings Rama VI and VII as a royal seaside retreat. The royal family still spends time here at Klai Kangwon Palace, which remains a summer residence. Despite its royal associations, Hua Hin retains a low-key atmosphere compared with livelier islands and party hubs like Phuket. Its high season begins in November, after the monsoon ends in October, when European visitors and other international travelers arrive for the dry months.
PHOTO:
© TOURISM AUTHORITY OF THAILAND
Hua Hin offers a pleasing mix of attractions: white-sand beaches, bustling markets and cultural sites. Khao Takiab Beach, also called Monkey Mountain Beach, is a particularly scenic stretch of sand. The popular Hua Hin Night Market opens in the evening and features local vendors selling crafts and street food, while the Cicada Market and Market Village are well-loved destinations for shopping and dining. Although the culinary and nightlife scenes are more understated than in larger coastal cities, Hua Hin has a fine selection of restaurants and venues well suited to business entertaining and memorable client outings.
PHOTO: © ALEENTA
For a refined beachfront stay and a distinctive setting for business guests, consider Aleenta Hua Hin Pranburi Resort & Spa, a boutique property in a Thai-owned hotel collection. Its dining options include the Aleenta Restaurant and The Aleenta Beach Cafe, both of which make use of ingredients from the resort’s organic garden. For a private, memorable experience, guests can book an alfresco beach dinner: a three-course meal prepared by a private chef beneath the stars and ambient string lights. Another special option is a picnic on Khao Kalok Hill (also known as Buddha Blessing Hill), where sunset canapés and sweeping views of the forest and coastline create an unforgettable backdrop.
Visitors should also rise with the city to witness the morning Buddhist blessing ceremony led by local monks — a peaceful and culturally rich tradition. For business meals in a historic setting, the Centara Grand Railway Hotel, built in 1923, remains a prominent landmark. Jaras at InterContinental Hua Hin offers contemporary royal-style Thai cuisine with fresh seafood from local fishing villages and produce from nearby farms. For a stylish option popular with fashionable diners, Praça at The Standard Hua Hin combines striking views of the Gulf of Thailand with modern, creative dishes and a chic atmosphere.
Many experienced travelers are pleasantly surprised the first time they discover Hua Hin. The town is easy to reach from Bangkok: a car trip by taxi or rental takes just under three hours from the city and from Suvarnabhumi Airport. Private transfer services such as Hua Hin Cab can be booked in advance. Public options include hourly minibuses that take around four to five hours, and a scenic train from Krung Thep Aphiwat station that takes roughly three to four hours.
PHOTO:
© TOURISM AUTHORITY OF THAILAND
Hua Hin Airport mainly handles domestic flights, including services from Chiang Mai — a convenient option for travelers combining northern and coastal itineraries. Within the town, local transport options include songthaews (shared pickup trucks that act as buses) and tuk-tuks; be sure to agree the fare before you ride. Ride-hailing apps such as Bolt and Grab are also available in the area for added convenience. While Hua Hin may feel like a tucked-away gem, once you arrive it’s easy to explore its beaches, markets and cultural sites, making it an ideal destination for relaxed escapes and understated luxury.