Looking for the best things to do in Hua Hin? Just a few hours' drive south of Bangkok lies Hua Hin, Thailand's first beach resort. Once the favorite beach holiday destination of the Thai royal family, it remains one of the country's most charming coastal towns – with beautiful beaches, historical sites, lively night markets, and family-friendly attractions.

Hua Hin originally developed in the 1920s after the railway connected Bangkok to the coast, and rose to prominence with the opening of the Railway Hotel (now the Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin) in 1922. More than a century later, Hua Hin still blends old-world charm with the energy of a modern beach town.

Here are the 10 best attractions and activities in Hua Hin.

Wat Hua Hin is one of the city's most important Buddhist temples and was founded during the reign of King Rama V (1868–1910). It is located in the city center and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the streets.

Visitors can light incense, observe local worshippers performing their penances, and admire traditional Thai temple architecture. As in all temples in Thailand, appropriate attire is required – shoulders and knees should be covered.

2. Explore the Chat Chai Market (morning market in Hua Hin)

For an authentic local experience, visit Chat Chai Market, also known as Hua Hin Morning Market. This lively market, which has been around since the 1920s, is where the locals shop.

It is one of the best places in Hua Hin to try fresh coconuts (typically 20-40 Baht) and traditional Thai snacks.

3. Take a photograph of the royal waiting room at Hua Hin railway station.

Hua Hin railway station is one of Thailand's most famous railway stations and dates back to the early 20th century. Its red and cream-colored wooden design reflects classic Thai Victorian architecture.

The beautifully preserved Royal Waiting Hall was built to receive King Rama VI and members of the royal family, cementing Hua Hin's reputation as a royal resort. It is one of Hua Hin's most photographed landmarks.

4. Go horseback riding on the beach in Hua Hin

Horse riding on the beach is one of the most popular experiences in Hua Hin. Horses are available for short rides near the main beach access points.

The beach of Hua Hin stretches for about 4 kilometers and is known for its long sandy coastline and relatively calm waters, making it suitable for swimming almost all year round.

5. Get your adrenaline rush in the Vana Nava Water Jungle

Vana Nava Water Jungle is one of Thailand's largest water parks and a popular family attraction in Hua Hin. Opened in 2014, it offers:

  • Thailand's first professional underwater studio
  • Rope obstacle course Aqua Course

    • It's an excellent option if you're traveling with children or want to take a break from a beach holiday.

    6. A journey through time in the Mrigadayavan Palace

    Located between Hua Hin and Cha-Am, Mrigadayavan Palace was built in 1923 as the summer residence of King Rama VI. Its name translates to "Palace of Love and Hope".

    Built of golden teak and erected on stilts, the palace complex consists of interconnected pavilions by the sea and long covered walkways. It is considered one of the most elegant examples of early 20th-century Thai architecture.

    Visitors are asked to dress appropriately.

    7. Stroll through the cicada market

    The Cicada Market (Creative Market) is Hua Hin's most stylish weekend market. It is open from Friday to Sunday evening and offers art, handcrafted goods, boutique items, and live performances.

    Unlike traditional markets, Cicada offers a carefully designed atmosphere with separate areas for food, art, and family-friendly entertainment. It is considered one of the best places in Hua Hin for dinner and shopping.

    8. Discover the retro charm of Hua Hin (former Plearn Wan site)

    Plearn Wan was a retro-style village recreating 1950s Thailand and was once a popular destination for visitors seeking vintage photo spots and nostalgic snacks. It finally closed in 2020.

    Even today, travelers in the city can find retro-style cafes and creative communal spaces that reflect Hua Hin's blend of old and new.

    9. Enjoy lunch on the beach in Hua Hin

    Dining on the beach is one of the highlights of a visit to Hua Hin. Restaurants along the main beach and near the fishing pier serve:

  • Western classics like burgers and pasta

    • Several fish restaurants are built on stilts over the water and offer a magnificent view of the sunset over the Gulf of Thailand.

    10. Experience the Hua Hin night market

    The original Hua Hin night market takes place every evening along Dechanuchit Road near the train station. It stretches over about two city blocks and is one of the city's most popular evening attractions.

    Besides the main night market, you can also explore the Tamarind Market (on weekends) and the Cicada Market, which offer a slightly more exclusive experience.

    Arrival in Hua Hin

    Hua Hin is located about 200 km south of Bangkok and is easy to reach:

    By car: The journey from Bangkok via highways 35 and 4 takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.

    By train: Direct trains run daily from Bangkok's main train stations to Hua Hin station. The journey takes approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on the connection.

    By bus or minivan: Regular buses and minivans depart from Bangkok's southern bus station (Sai ​​Tai Mai) and from Ekkamai. The journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours.

    By plane: Hua Hin has a small regional airport with limited domestic flights. Most international travelers fly to Bangkok and continue their journey from there by car or train.

    Whether you are looking for relaxation on the beach, royal history, lively markets or family attractions, Hua Hin offers a relaxed alternative to Thailand's busier island destinations – and boasts a coastal tradition spanning over a hundred years.