Hua Hin / Cha Am – Overview

The oldest and most traditional Thai resort combines the attractions of a modern holiday with the charm and fascination of a still active fishing port. And while the most other Thai holiday destinations cater mainly foreign tourists, Hua Hin is a resort for both foreigners and Thais.

Are you looking for a ride on a golf course during your Thailand trip as offering Hua Hin in addition to the large 8 km long beach which is also the only one in Thailand, world-class golf courses. Hua Hin is still undiscovered as an international golf destination. Green-fees and other costs are currently among the lowest in the world and they still have great service and maintenance.

While the beaches of Phuket and Samui were discovered only recently and have since undergone rapid and sometimes destructive development. Hua Hin has been a visitor favorite resort for over 70 years under Thailand trip.

This resort was discovered in the early 1920s by King Rama VII as ideal getaway from the sultry metropolis of Bangkok. The tranquil fishing village was turned into the Royal resort, and therefore became popular among Siam’s knights and upper class.

The construction of a railway line from Bangkok ensured its accessibility and popularity among a wider part of the Thai population.

But it’s the royal aid which has given Hua Hin a special character.

In 1928, King Rama VII built Klai Kangwon (Far From Worries) Palace, which today remains an official royal residence. It is still used frequently by members of the royal family and is open for visits by the public who are on their Thailand trip.

Hua Hin continued to develop in their own relaxing way, both as a noble resort with an 18-hole golf course as an attraction and fishing port. The Railway Hotel, today’s Sofitel Central Hua Hin, was built by the State Railways of Thailand in year 1923 in the older part of the old Siam.

Many of Bangkok’s rich and famous built their own beach huts in north and south along the curved Sandy Bay, to enjoy and have a relaxing weekend with the family in a place that has retained its unique identity.

Hua Hin / Cha Am – Getting there

By taxi

Getting to Hua Hin on your Thailand travel is convenient by taxi. The length of your trip due to traffic conditions, but it usually takes less than three hours. The road between Bangkok and Hua Hin upgraded to a three-lane motorway. In terms of costs, it depends largely on your negotiation skills and the current price of fuel. It is more expensive than the bus but if you are traveling with a lot of luggage or with your family or friends, then it is most certainly agree that it’s worth giving a little extra. It is best to book a taxi in advance through internet. If you wish, some taxi companies meet you in the arrivals hall at Bangkok airport when you arrive!

By bus

Air-conditioned buses depart from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal every 40 minutes between at. 05:00 and 22:00. If you are traveling in the opposite direction from Hua Hin (buses from Sa-song Road terminal) was 30-40 minutes between 03:00 and 21:00. The journey takes about 3 hours. Buy a real ticket from the main ticket office.

By train

On your Thailand trip, you can also choose to take the train to Hua Hin. It runs several trains from Bangkok to Hua Lamphong Station and Hua Hin each day, most trains run late in the afternoon and it can be quite crowded. Since there is only a single track, the big part of the route. The journey takes about 4 hours or more. All trains arrive / depart from Hua Hin station located on the top of Damnern Kasem Road which is within walking distance to most downtown hotels. The price varies because there are four different types of trains, depending on the class. But expect to pay a minimum of around 400 Baht.

By Air

SGA Airlines operates a shuttle service between Bangkok Airport and Hua Hin’s small airport on the outskirts of the city to the north. Not only is this the fastest way to reach Hua Hin on Thailand trip (40-50 minutes), but can also be the most scenic because the plane flying low enough to give you a magnificent view of the gulf of Thailand.

Mini- van

Minivan runs between Victory Monument (near BST Skytrain Station) in Bangkok and Tesco Lotus Express located at Phetchakasem Road in Hua Hin. Travel time is the same as a taxi, but if you do not book an extra seat will boot to be very limited. Not so surprisingly, it has quickly become the preferred solution for people on their Thailand trip, especially for a short weekend / shopping trips, etc.

Hua Hin / Cha Am – Weather

The average daily temperature in Hua Hin, Cha-am and Pranburi are remarkably consistent throughout the year. It varies from a low temperature of 25.6 ° C in January to a high temperature of 29.9 ° C in April and May. There is a much greater variation in the amount of rain. The average is 4.1 mm in January, and more than 200 mm in October and november. Generally, the best time of year to visit Hua Hin, Cha-Am and Hua Hin in your Thailand trip is from December to February when the temperature is relatively low and only occasional rain showers occur.

Hua Hin / Cha Am – Beaches

Hua Hin beach guide

Hua Hin can no longer be described as a “sleepy village” it retains a relaxed and healthy atmosphere that you do not often find on Thailand’s other popular beach resorts. A variety of water sports available, there are eight golf courses nearby and when the sun goes down there are many bars, pubs and local discos offering drinks and entertainment. Restaurants are plentiful and they offer a wide range of dishes – from traditional Thai dishes to international favorites. With a combination of pristine coastlines surrounded by a charming town that offers lots of exciting attractions, it’s no wonder that Hua Hin has become such a favorite with couples and families, especially on their Thailand trip.

Cha-Am beach guide

Thanks to its long and peaceful coast in the Persian Gulf, the Cha Am hotels and resorts scattered throughout the area so it is never crowded and most have direct access to the beach. The beaches are clean and without lots of lively activities. Yet there are some activities to do on the beach which is a fun experience for those looking for a little more than just a lounge chair and an umbrella for a day on their Thailand trip.

From pony rides on the beach and exciting Banana boat rides for children (and adults!) Water skiing, windsurfing and paragliding for the adventurous beach lovers. Cha-Am’s beaches are something for everyone.

If you want a quiet place and bury your nose in a book or get a traditional Thai massage under a parasol you can easily get your needs met here. It’s a great place to go for a long walk – or for some jogging, especially at sunrise or late afternoon when it is cooler. All along the beach there are trees (but not the palms) a humorous aspect of Cha-Am is that these are the places where you can find Thai visitors, while tourists seek out areas outside the shadow. Without sun and beach on your Thailand trip would not be complete. You want to be able to show your tan when you get home.

Pranburi beach guide

Pranburi is home to the largest water resource for the region and is named after the River Pran which runs through it. “Paknam” means river and “Buri” means city.

Sun, sand, pristine beaches and clear waters of the Gulf of Thailand. A charming local village, several organic attractions which is just 30 kilometers south of Hua Hin is the main causes of Pranburi’s rapidly growing popularity for tourists on their Thailand trips.

It is no longer a sleepy seaside town. Without home to numerous world-class resorts, from very affordable accommodations that are spread far apart to maintain privacy and exclusivity. After all, that attracts people to this part of the country on their Thailand trip is the unique feeling of seclusion, which they manage to maintain.

Hua Hin / Cha Am – Attractions

Hua Hin

Black Mountain Water Park

Black Mountain Water Park offers a fun day out for families and anyone who needs a big splash on his Thailand trip. The park has nine water slides, a wave pool, a relaxing river, beach pool and children’s pool and much more – all surrounded by a large mountain landscape beside a large lake just 10 km north of Hua Hin.

Owned and operated by the same people behind the Black Mountain Golf Course, the water park is the latest attraction in the Group’s portfolio. It is opposite the golf course, on a local road that passes Wat Huay Mongkol and Baan Silapin.

Hin Lek Fai Hill

Hin Lek Fai Hill is located approximately three km west of Hua Hin town. A trip up the steep path to the top where there is a beautiful view of the city, the beach, the bay and Royal Hua Hin Golf Course. There is a small park and a bird conservatory on a hill, with trails that lead to six points of departure.

The road to Hin Lek Fai Hill is steep but manageable if you drive. To go up there on a motorcycle can be a challenge, but for cycling enthusiasts is the steep road a good workout. When you get to the top is relatively flat road.

Hua Hin Fishing Pier

Hua Hin Fishing Pier is a popular spot and a good vantage point to watch the sunrise or take pictures of Hua Hin town. It’s still the middle of Hua Hin’s fishing trade, albeit to a much lesser extent than previously. In the evening, there are often locals to fish.

It´s located at the north end of Naresdamri Road which runs parallel to the beach, Fishing Pier, a narrow platform that continues into the sea. It is an ideal place to watch the sunrise during your Thailand trip. Silhouettes of boats and their masts provide a nice contrast against the sky bright orange background.

Hua Hin Hills Vineyard

Hua Hin Hills Vineyard is home to the award-winning Monsoon Valley label / brand. Surrounded by mountain ranges and endless stretches of green vineyard invites you on a delightful excursion with wine tasting and dining on your Thailand trip.

The farm covers 2.3 km2 with lush landscape and is hidden in a remote part of Hua Hin, about 36 km from the city center. It is best to hire a Song Taew and plan to spend at least half a day at the vineyard. You can combine the trip with a visit to Wat Huay Mongkol and Baan Silapin, both are on the way to Hua Hin Hills.

Silapin Baan Hua Hin

Baan Silapin or Artists Home is the brainchild of Thawee Kaesangarm, President of Hua Hin artist club. This gallery displays works from the Thai artists year round and offers various art classes for children, adults and people in their Thailand trip who want to take their love of art to the next level.

Its located with a beautiful view of Hin Lek Fai Moutain hae Baan Silapin an art gallery, Art Studios, classrooms and smiles house exhibitions of ceramic art and sculpture. There is no formal at this location. Their basic philosophy is a meeting and working place for local artists, this meets Baan Silapin with warmth and liveliness.

Klai Kang Won Palace

One of the most special milestones in Hua Hin Klai Kang Won Palace, which is the summer residence of King Bhumibhol Adulyadej (Rama IX) and other members of the royal family. Klai Kang Won, meaning “far from worries”, is named after the peace and tranquility found in the surrounding countryside, with a secluded beach.

Vic Hua Hin

Vic Hua Hin is an area outdoors devoted to contemporary art and culture. Here is the art camp, art gallery, an outdoor amphitheater, school and restaurant. On some weekends there are a lot of dance, theater and music performances that you should see on your Thailand trip.

Patravadi Mejudhon leading this is a famous actor, director, playwright and founder of the Patravadi Theatre in Bangkok. Vic Hua Hin reflects K. Patravadi’s continued efforts to create a public space for artistic and creative soul, especially among the young people who will become tomorrow’s talented artists. Vic Hua Hin offers a variety of workshops, art camps and performances by local, regional and international artists.

Cha-Am

Cha-Am Forest Park

This park does not way up to any other national parks standards, but if you want a relaxing day in the middle of a beautiful nature on your Thailand trip, then Cha-am Park is definitely a good choice. Located on Phetkasem Road can be reached here by Narathip cross if you come from the beach.

The 665.600 square foot park is part of the Don Masang National forest reserves and are at a low area covered by Casuarina trees, cacti and a variety of tropical plants. The length and width of the park is a large lake and home to several species of waterfowl. If you are lucky you may spot some peacocks and monkeys.

Maruekathaiyawan Palace

Like many other buildings in Hua Hin was built so this Thai-Victorian summer palace in the early 1920s during the reign of King Rama VI’s reign. It was designed by an Italian architect and built of golden teakwood from the demolished Hat Chao Samran Palace. With plenty of terraces, barbecues and high ceilings to keep it cool in summer. This palace, you should see on your Thailand trip.

Santorini Park

Want to experience a piece of Greece on your Thailand trip to Santorini Park gives some of the perfect Greek island of Cha-Am. It has all the details from the classic white-washed buildings, colorful stained glass windows, paved paths and domed towers. An impressive alignment of shops, restaurants and an amusement park makes everyone have a good time here.

Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park

Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park is a wonderful playground for nature lovers. It covers an area of Limestone Mountains and green forests. Inside the park passing a 3 km long nature trail through a scenic landscape filled with beautiful rock formations, habitats, birds and a variety of plants and animals.

Shopping Hua Hin / Cha-Am

Hua Hin

Hua Hin Night Market

Located in Hua Hin center between the Petchkasem Road and the railway market is a street that comes alive from 18:30 onwards. It allows traders trimmed their booths with different clothes, crafts, art, CDs, DVDs and cheap good food along the street – generally everything you would expect at a Thai market on your Thailand trip.

This is absolutely the best way to shop in Thailand, you will find a large selection of items in Bangkok or Chiang Mai. Hua Hin has a great selection of seafood restaurants along the way and draws much attention from visitors who are eager to eat cheap food quality.

Sam Pan Nam Floating Market

Sam Pan Nam Floating Market is a large market, shaped in the style of the Rattanakosin period (King Rama VI). The market’s large grounds include a large artificial lake, mini train tracks, over 200 shops and 40 boat dealers offering all kinds of food and snacks. The market is located in Soi 112 about 6 km south of downtown, and Sam Pan Nam is one of the two floating markets, which are on the same street.

Hua Hin Market Village’s

This Market village has its place outdoors with three floors of shops, restaurants, a supermarket, entertainment and cinema. Some of the stores have both branded and private label. This bright and airy interior with wide hallways and large windows ensure you a pleasant walk during your Thailand trip.

Fly Now Factory Outlet, Hua Hin

Fly Now is a leading Thai fashion brand which was established in 1983 and has its factory outlets located in major tourist cities. It offers more than just clothes and accessories, each store also has Fly Now’s furniture line, home accessories, gift shops and relaxed restaurants.

Khomapastr, Hua Hin

Khomapastr founded in 1948 by Jim Thompson’s company, is one of Thailand’s most respected and reputable brands. You will find the most cotton products, the brand specializes in hand-painted designs and classic designs, especially on “PHA Kiao” where royal palanquins hailed. Located in Hua Hin Soi 84 and it was the first store opened. It is today the company’s headquarters and has an important exhibition, which is run by the third generation owner. The design has been modernized to meet the demands of today’s consumers who are on their Thailand trips, you will also find traditional designs dating back to its earliest days.

Cha-Am

Beachside

On Beach Road you will find a variety of souvenirs, especially items made of shells. This is also the place to buy clothes for your days at the beach. As flip flops, sarongs, T-shirts, hats and shorts are available. For the most part, these stalls in the local market, so do not expect anything “high fashion”. What is good to buy on this route is Thai tokens and some little memory thing. It is definitely a place you can buy gifts that represent the country’s indigenous handicrafts and items like candles, wreaths, wind chimes and figurines.

Cha Am Night Market

In Thai it is called “Talat nad” and is open every day at the same place, except Mondays and Wednesdays. The market is moving around, so on Mondays, the further down the intersection of Narathip and road at Family Mart. On Wednesdays it is found at an intersection near the railway station. Which is the reason why people call it “Train Station market.”

Mainly, it is popular for the locals. Here you can buy clothes, DVDs, CDs and cute accessories. Besides this, there is a lot of food stalls and Fridays are usually the busiest day in which several actors appear. This market is not necessarily filled with things you want to buy on your Thailand trip, but it has a great atmosphere and is a great way to get closer to the locals and get a glimpse of Cha-Am market experience.

Premium Outlet

If you want to buy designer clothes at discounted prices Premium Outlet should be your first choice to go to. Brands such as Naf Naf, Lacoste and Jaspal G200, you can expect to find any of this. Some garments cost less than half of what you would normally pay. Some of the products also compete on prices with the fake brands that you find in the markets on your Thailand trip.

Hua Hin / Cha Am – Restaurants

Nothing less than a feast awaits your taste buds in Hua Hin. To leave the cooking to someone else is always an important part of a vacation experience at Thailand trip. The variety and quality of restaurants in and around Hua Hin will ensure that your experience is memorable. Hua Hin is still enough fishermen to provide a steady supply of fresh seafood restaurants and to their neighbors, Cha-Am and Pranburi. Traditional Thai food is served, of course, everywhere, including food stalls along the beach at Hua Hin’s famous night market.

There are many dining options Western, Indian and Japanese. For those looking for a drink after the sun has gone down, there are plenty of bars and pubs, some with live music. In addition, many hotels their own bars and lounges with live entertainment. All hotels and resorts have restaurants that extend to the excellent international cuisine, for the convenience of Thai and Western dishes. It is warmly recommended is breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets at the best hotels and they are definitely worth the price, because you will get to try a wide selection of Thai, Asian and Western dishes on your Thailand trip. In some places these buffets open cooking stations and often offer live entertainment such as traditional Thai music and dance.

Hua Hin

Caruso

Powered by native Italian Corrado Caruso. This popular Italian restaurant has a selection of over 20 pizzas on the menu, and as with everything else on Caruso made it from scratch. Traditional dishes include penne al salmon or spaghetti Siciliani, both of which are even better with a fine wine, although this can be easily obtained on Caruso.

Chub Cheeva

This gallery cafe is a cozy eatery and an indie in the Arts. They have mixed and matched furniture, abstract paintings on the walls and a garden where you can both relax and enjoy a variety of modern Thai and Italian dishes. If you prefer something lighter than a full meal, try the homemade pastries with coffee or mixed fruit juice. Service is friendly, but very slow, so expect to spend a good time on your afternoon or evening here.

Livanto Lifestyle

With imports of all its meat from Australia and New Zealand, this is definitely one of Hua Hin’s more upscale eateries, with chic designs that are both spacious and relaxed. Guests can choose from air-conditioned seating or patio with views of Hua Hin’s shopping street. Generous portion sizes can be followed by homemade ice cream or a cup of Illy coffee for the perfect end to a lovely evening at the Thailand trip.

Cha-Am

Aree

Serving both Thai and European food. The best reason to eat at this restaurant is the best Indian delicacies on offer. A number of curry dishes can be accompanied by a cold beer. Appetizers and side dishes include what you would expect from western India – onion bajis, samosas and roti.

Baan Thai

Only ten meters from the beach and on a raised terrace you will find Baan Thai. Here, all guests expect great sea view to their meal. The restaurant is owned by a Norwegian and a Thai family. Baan Thai was opened to tailor courses to suit the needs of guests who are on their Thailand trip. The menu is mostly full of Thai dishes like Phad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, curries and of course seafood. Drinks are available in a variety of wines and beers, including some from Norway.

O-Zone

This bustling restaurant attracts an audience that is eager to enjoy live music while they revel of seafood with the cooling sea breeze that makes the experience even more enjoyable. This place has atmosphere, especially with wooden terraces and certainty on Beach Road, so you can understand why it is so popular.

Hua Hin / Cha Am – Nearby

Kaeng Krachan National Park

Just two hour’s drive from Bangkok you will find Kaeng Krachan, one of Thailand’s most beautiful and ecologically diverse national parks. The park has 2,915 km2 of forest area, with pristine forests, Granite Mountains, waterfalls, caves and a lake. It offers plenty of hiking and bird-watching opportunities. The park has many wild and endangered animals including barking deer, tapirs, Asian elephants, tigers, wild dogs and Asian leopards. There is much to see on your Thailand trip.

Because of abundant rainfall throughout the year is Kaeng Krachan forests blessed with several waterfalls, rivers and streams. PA La-U waterfall is one of the most famous in the park, it has 15 levels and flows along a stream that extends to the Burmese border. Most visitors stop at the third level, where there is a large deep pool perfect for a swim. From this level the road is steep. Those who are not in physical form should not continue.

Other waterfalls require hours of hiking in deep, steep forests and some are overnight trips. You can camp along the way at campsites. To reach the top of Thorthip-Tharnthip-Hinlad waterfall loop you need to plan 3-4 days of your Thailand trip for hiking.

Besides waterfalls hike, rent a boat, canoe or kayak and go on sightseeing inside the Kaeng Krachan reserves. Panoen Thung Moutain is Kaeng Krachan’s second highest peak and is 1,207 meters above sea level, this is a beautiful camping spot, but it takes about 5-6 hours walking along the difficult tracks.

Khao Takiab

This rapidly growing town is only about 7 km from Hua Hin and has quickly become an independent holiday. With amenities from accommodation, beaches, activities, restaurants and bars. It is not many years ago that the city only had a little visit by tourists on their Thailand trip, but now you can take care of package travelers and independent travelers for a long time. Things have changed, and the city is worth a visit for a day, or even longer.

There are two good beaches lying on either side of the “hill”, both of them are less visited than Hua Hin. They offer quiet places to relax and enjoy good food from the many nearby beach restaurants. Note: The area can become crowded during weekends and holidays with visits from the Thai population at important Buddhist holidays. There are generally hundreds of devotees who flock to temples to offer to the monks.

Accommodation is growing all over town, and you can now find the complete range from five-star resorts and spas to a number of medium-sized hotels and guest houses.

Khao Tao

Khao Tao is a charming village best known for having a lovely secluded beach called Hat Sai Noi. Do not confuse this city with diving on Koh Tao Island, located just south of Hua Hin and from Chumphon.

You will find this idyllic town about 20 km south of Hua Hin, not far from the main road to Pranburi. Just follow the signs to Khao Tao, and then Sai Noi beach. The road goes around a sanctuary and is easy to find. The beach is small – probably no more than a kilometer long – hence generally quiet, except on weekends and holidays. There are a number of beach restaurants serving delicious local food, seafood and drinks. They all have sun beds and umbrellas for you to use.

Khao Kalok

About 40 km south of Hua Hin you will find Khao Kalok is a tranquil bay. When you arrive, you will find many restaurants along the beach road overlooking the beach and ocean. Choose the one that suits your taste and relax for a few hours, cooled by the sea breeze over some delicious food and drink. You’ll find great prices here as significantly cheaper than Hua Hin, and the locals are friendly and always happy to see new faces.

Again Khao Kalok is full of visitors on weekends, so keep that in your mind. During the week, you can have almost all the place for yourself. Khao Kalok means “head mountain” in English, and the bay is long and wide. There is an interesting cave on the south side with a hole in the middle. Swimming is reasonable at high tide and quad bikes can be hired to explore the beach further. Alternatively you can simply relax in the restaurant or on the beach. Khao Kalok’s good to get away for a day away from Hua Hin on your Thailand trip.

Pranburi and Paknampran

Is located about 30 km south of Hua Hin. Pranburi and Paknampran have quickly become its own tourist destinations. For many years they were not visited, either by local people or tourists, most of them stayed in Hua Hin or CH-am. But Pranburi and Paknampran have become popular, and as a result, there have been a number of hotels and resorts in the area and more are under development. The beach here is not one of the area’s best, but they are okay. What attracts most people to their Thailand trip is the peace and quiet that you get here.

Hua Hin / Cha Am – Article

8th preserve Hua Hin Heavy Half Marathon & Fun Run for environmental reasons.
Published @ 02 May 2011 by Hua Hin Today

The eighth Hua Hin Heavy Half Marathon will take place on 28 May 2011 from at 4:00 in the morning until the Hin Lek Fire Mountain. The host of events preserving Hua Hin Group and Hua Hin Municipality has this year taken in favor of raising awareness of environmental issues in Hua Hin while promoting good health among the Thai people.

Mr. Kris Rojanasathira who is chairman of the Preserve Hua Hin Group, said during the royal patronage of HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of the group usually organize activities aimed at environmental protection in Hua Hin throughout the year, as the city has many beautiful tourist attractions that draw visitors. While some tourists are concerned about the environmental threat that seems to rise gradually, others are still ignorant. The eighth Hua Hin Marathon is an event that not only promotes good health for the Thai people, but they also require a commitment to protect the environment.

This year there are two competitions: a 21.1 km half marathon and 10.55 km quarter marathon for men and women. There is a competition for good health and the winner of this category will be awarded with a medal. The winning of the half and quarter marathon will receive a trophy by Princess Sirindhorn. Also involved two winners in a lottery draw on a computer, a TV and other prizes.

The application for this is now available. Registration can also be done on Hin Lek Fire Mountain, May 28 between the hours of 12:00 and 19:00 or 29 May at. 04:00 in the morning. The price for the half marathon is 350 baht per person, 200 baht per person for the quarter marathon and 3 km jogging.