Hua Hin was Thailand's first beach resort. The country's first resort, the Railway Hotel, was built here over 90 years ago and remains a popular spot for Thais and international tourists alike. Here are our top 10 tips for Hua Hin.

1. Visit Wat Hua Hin, light incense, and pray for good fortune. The most important temple in Hua Hin was built during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (King Rama V).

2. Enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of the Chat Chai Market, which offers everything from fresh vegetables and seafood of all kinds to local handicrafts and school uniforms. Be sure to quench your thirst with a fresh coconut, which usually costs around 20 baht (US$1).

3. Take a selfie in front of the old royal waiting room at Hua Hin railway station, which opened in 1911 and has retained its colonial charm. This imposing building once served to receive the king and his court during their visits to the city.

4. Go for a horseback ride on the beach. At the entrance to the main beach area, you will find ponies and horses of all sizes that you can hire for a walk or a trot on the white sandy beach.

5. Experience pure adrenaline at Vana Nava Water Jungle, one of Thailand's largest water parks with the biggest and longest water slides. Besides the thrills, there are water play areas for the little ones and a unique "Aquacourse"—an obstacle course made of ropes and challenging obstacles, combined with water pistols.

6. Step back in time with a visit to Mrigadayavan Palace, the summer residence of King Rama VI. The palace is currently being restored and is gleaming with renewed splendor. Numerous fascinating artifacts are on display throughout the extensive complex. Note: Please wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

7. Sample specialties from all over Thailand, browse the handicraft stalls, and enjoy live music at the Cicada Market. This exclusive market opens at 4 pm on Fridays and Saturdays and is very family-friendly.

8. Treat yourself to an ice cream at Plearn Wan – a two-story, vintage-style wooden building that's something like Thailand's answer to Coney Island or Brighton Pier. Upstairs you'll find numerous ice cream and pancake stalls, while downstairs there are souvenir shops and a Ferris wheel.

9. Enjoy your lunch on the beach at one of the many cafes and restaurants along Hua Hin Beach. Take a swim while you wait for your food and feel the sand between your toes. Most cafes offer similar dishes (Thai specialties like Pad Thai, grilled seafood, pasta, burgers, or fries).

10. Visit the night markets of Hua Hin, try giant grilled prawns, and buy some souvenirs. Spanning two city blocks, just a few blocks from Hua Hin Station, the night markets are a true feast for the senses – a kaleidoscope of colors and deafening noise.

Accommodation tip: The former Railway Hotel is now called Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin. Although the hotel has grown considerably over the years, the original building still stands. It is centrally located in the city and is an excellent choice for a stay.