'''Hua Hin''' (??????) is a seaside resort city in Thailand. It is popular with Thais, having become quite fashionable as a weekend getaway spot for Bangkok residents, as well with foreigners and as an ex-pat retirement or vacation home location.
Although developing rapidly, there is a commitment by the local and provincial authorities to avoid the kind of overheated blight that has affected other beach resorts in Thailand.
Understand
Discovered as a resort in the early 1920s by King Prajadhipok, Hua Hin is closely associated with the Thai royalty and is a quiet and relaxing seaside resort ideal for family vacations, a reasonably drive down from Bangkok. Until 1934, it was known as Samore Riang (????????), or "rows of rocks".
The tranquil fishing village was turned into a royal resort and consequently became popular among Siam's nobility and upper class. In 1928, Prajadhipok built his ''Klai Kangwon'' (Far From Worries) Palace. As of 2007, Klai Kangwon is the full-time residence of the current king and is not open for visitors, although the outer palace grounds are open for walkers and joggers from 4pm to 7 pm daily. (Wear shoes, bring passport)
The 5km long beach itself is pretty, more than Pattaya_fs, and the sea is relatively clean. Besides just sunbathing snorkeling and swimming, visitors can also enjoy golf, spas, caves, peaks, waterfalls, shops, seafood and nearby national parks. The town is warm and laid-back making it ideal for families and couples.
Climate
Hua Hin has a tropical climate with high humidity and occasional rain. It is typically pleasant however, and can be enjoyed all year round. Generally, the best of the year though to visit Hua Hin is in the cool season from November to February but for those who like it hot then the hot season is from March to May (temperature gets up into the high 30s). The rainy season (it doesn_ft rain every day) is from June to October with September being the rainiest of all. For those who don_ft appreciate the rain, then be advised that the rain in Thailand usually comes in short sharp bursts. It doesn_ft usually drizzle for long periods of time unlike in say England.
Get in
By plane
[http://www.sga.co.th/ SGA Airlines] (now in alliance with [http://nokair.com Nok Air] budget airline) is offering regular flights from the new Suvarnabhumi airport in Bangkok to [http://www.huahinairport.com Hua Hin Airport] three times a day. Online booking can be made through Nok Air website (SGA Airlines' website simply redirects there when you start a booking). The price is not "budget" by any means though, compared to the distance and time of flight - 3100 baht one way, or 5800 baht return (adult, as of January 2008) for 50 minutes flight on a small Cessna 208 aircraft. For more details call 0 2535 7050-1 Fax: 0 2504 3305, Hua Hin Office Tel: 0 3252 2300-1 Fax: 0 3252 2302 or visit website : http://www.sga.aero, E-mail: info@sga.aero or reservation@sga.aero
By train
Train is an easy method to get into Hua Hin, as the train station is right in the center of Hua Hin. However, the trains go very slowly getting away from Bangkok so 2 1/2 hour road time to Hua Hin stretches to 5 or 6 on the train. The price of the train is around 100 baht(and only 44Bath for ordinary train). Most trains on the southern route stop at Hua Hin. They leave Bangkok_fs Hua Lamphong and Bang Sue railway stations 10 times daily between 7.45 a.m. and 10.50 p.m. It takes 4 hours for the journey. Only two trains (9.20 a.m. and 1.50 p.m.) stop at Cha-am.
See [http://www.railway.co.th/english/index.asp State Railway of Thailand] for more information on time tables and fares.
By bus
From Bangkok, buses to Hua Hin leave from the Sai Tai Mai terminal about every 20 minutes and take around 3.5 hours. The price (1st class) is under 200 baht. Buses go from 4.00 a.m. ? 10.20 p.m. For more information, please contact Hua Hin-Pran Buri Tour Tel: 0 2884 6191-2, Bang Saphan Tour Tel: 0 2435 5105, 0 2884 8895, Bus Southern Terminal Tel: 0 2435 1199, 0 2435 5605, 0 2434 7192 http://www.transport.co.th. More convenient (but less comfortable) to downtown Bangkok, you can also take a minibus from the Victory Monument (Anusawari Chai) area, near the BTS skytrain. Cost is 180 baht, limited baggage. The Hua Hin vans board in the alleyway next to Rajavithi Hospital at the southwest side of the Victory Monument traffic roundabout. From the skytrain station, take the walkway towards the monument, then turn left and descend the staircase to street level. The minibus area is behind the food vendors area. Look for a small table with "Cha Am, Hua Hin" written in English to buy your ticket.
A 1st class bus service will eventually connect Hua Hin directly with Suvarnabhumi Airport (the new BKK).
By taxi
Taking a taxi from Bangkok to Hua Hin (distance about 200 km) is possible. Price after negotiation should be in the 2000 baht range. The limousine services, available at Bangkok Airport, are more expensive than an ordinary taxi.
Get around
There are many ways to get around in Hua Hin, Sawngthaews run the same routes all day and cost only 10 baht. There are numerous motorcycle taxis and tuk-tuks, fewer car taxis. Negotiate price beforehand. You will also be able to find samlors (rickshaws). There are quite a lot of upscale tourists in Hua Hin and prices are sometimes adjusted upwards. Better to clarify the matter ahead of time. Motorcycle rentals are readily available. Hua Hin is very flat, and bicycle is a good way to get around locally. Rentals available, but not so prevalent as motos.
By car
Car rentals are available, and this can be convenient if you're comfortable driving in Thailand.
191 Avis in Thailand (191 ????? ??? ????????) Hua Hin airport / Hilton Hotel / Hyatt Regency Hotel / Sofitel Hotel Tel: 0 3253 1238, 0 3251 2888, 0 3252 1234, 0 3251 2021, E-Mail: res@evisthailand.com
Car & motorbike hire (?????????? ????? ??????????? ????) Opposite the Red Cross Tel: 08 1449 1996, 08 1637 4051
F.K. Car Rent & Cargo (???.??. ?????????? ????? ???????) Grand Plaza Hua Hin & Pavillion Village Hua Hin Tel: 08 1502 8491, 08 1743 1007
See
Amphoe Hua Hin
'''Hat Hua Hin (????????????)''' Hua Hin Beach extends some three kilometers southwards from a rocky headland until a southern headland where a Buddhist temple cling to the cliffs. Fine white sand, resort hotels and many water sports opportunities lend the resort its distinctive ambiance.
'''Hua Hin Railway Station (???????????????)''' This is Thailand's most beautiful train station of which the local people are very proud. The wooden building used to be a royal pavilion in Sanamchan Palace, Nakhon Pathom province. It was rebuilt at Hua Hin in 1968.
'''Hua Hin Arts and Crafts Centre (???????????????????????)''' This is situated in an old typical house on Naepkhehat Road. It has a collection and exhibition of many contemporary works of Thai artists, as well as old furniture and many pictures about Hua Hin in the past. The centre is open daily from 11 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. Admission is free. Call 0 3251 1249 for more information.
'''Nightly Street Market (?????????????????)''' This is a favourite venue for shoppers. Such excursions offer opportunities for shopping, enjoying native-style seafood cooked on the spot and witnessing local people_fs lifestyle.
'''Klai Kangwon Palace (?????????????????)''' King Rama VII commanded the Klai Kangwon (Far From Worries) Palace to be built in 1929. This Spanish-style summer palace faces the sea and dominates an extensive ornamental garden. The Thai Royal Family still customarily spend the hottest months of the year, usually March through April, there. Members of the public can visit the palace between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. every day, when the Royal Family is not in residence. Admission fee is 20 baht. Call 0 3251 1115 for more information.
'''Khao Takiap (??????????)''' This hill, 14 kilometers from Hua Hin town, supports Buddhist temples and offers a commanding view of the resort, particularly early in the morning. A local bus service from Hua Hin to Khao Takiap is located on the seashore.
Khao Takiab is one of the highest area in Hua Hin, by going up this mountain by driving you will see the whole Hua Hin and also nice beach. This is another good place to wait for the sunset as well. Also the food on Khao Takiab is very delicious too.
'''Beaches''' - there is only one beach, which runs from one side of Hua Hin to the other. Basically it's one long beach. At the south end of town, Khao Takiab interrupts the beach. On the other side (technically not Hua Hin anymore) is a lovely swimming beach with a view of Khao Takiab's South face. Just a little further on, Suan Son beach is owned by the thai army, but open to the public. Notable for the tropical sea pines lining the shore. A little south of the Marriott, watch for tiny sand crabs digging industriously, leaving odd patterns of tiny sand clods around their beachfront property.
Parts of the beach closer to the town may have greenish water, in this case continue walking down the beach where the water appears cleaner. There is ample supply of deck chairs along the beach, however many places will charge for their hire (100 baht is common). Deck chairs that are part of a beachside cafe may be free (in the assumption you will buy food or drink).
'''Khao Hin Lek Fai (?????????????)''' Situated 3 kilometers west of Hua Hin district, Khao Hin Lek Fai or Flint Mountain is 162 meters high and is accessible by a road. On the mountaintop, there is a public park and scenic spots from where the scenery of Hua Hin and its surrounding area can be seen.
'''Khao Tao (???????)''' Between Km 243 and 244 markers, 13 kilometers south of Hua Hin, there is a 1- kilometer branch road on the left which leads to the spot with two beautiful beaches called Hat Sai Noi and Hat Sai Yai. Bungalows are available.
'''Namtok Pa La-u (????????????)''' This 11-tier scenic waterfall, some 60 kilometres west of Hua Hin, is located within a yearlong verdant forest where various kinds of birds and butterflies are found, especially in the morning. Visitors can take a local transport called a songthaew from Hua Hin to this waterfall. The best time to visit the waterfall is from November to April. This place is in charge of Kaeng Krachan National Park. Admission is 200 baht. Camping in the park is allowed and a tent can be rented at 250 baht per night. Call 0 3245 9293 for more information.
Outside of Town
'''Sam Roi Yot National Park national park''', located about 60km from Hua Hin Town, with an area of 98 square kilometers, is renowned for its limestone mountains, mangrove swamps, beaches and several species of local and migrating birds during the cool season.
There are many ridges with the most popular being Khao Sam Roi Yot with 300 peaks.
The park can be reached by following the direction signs marking the remaining distances of 38 and 15 km. at Km. 256 and Km.286.5, respectively.
''Attractions within the parks''
'''Hat Sam Phraya''' located 3.5 km north of the park office, is a lovely beach with a line of pine trees. Accommodation is available there.
'''Tham Kaeo''', situated around 23 km from Pran Buri (15 km north of the park office) is a cave with an abundance of stalactites and stalagmites. For exploring the cave, oil lamps can be rented at a nearby village.
'''Tham Sai''', 9 km north of the park office, is a cave which can be explored in no time. Oil lamps can be rented at a nearby village.
'''Hat Laem Sala''' is a beach 16 km north of the park office and can be reached by boat or on foot across a hill from Bang Pu Village. The well-known cave there Tham Phraya Nakhon has a large hole in it so sunlight can shine through, so allowing plantation to grow. There is Phra Thi Nang Khuha Kharuhat which is a Thai-style pavilion with a scenic view of the cave. It was first built during the reign of King Chulalongkorn before ebing dismantled and reconstructed with the cave. There is also a viewpoint on Khao Daeng which is 400km from the park office and Ban Khao Daeng, the latter of which offers boat trips to watch wild birds.
'''Wa Ko''' has been of historical importance since the reign of King King Mongkut when he viewed a full-moon eclipse. There is a long atmospheric sandy beach fringed with pine trees. It is located at Km. 335 of Highway No. 412 km south from the town.
'''
Khao Hin Thoen Stone Park''' is located west of town. To get there travel along Highway No. 4 till Km. 331-332, then turn right and drive for another 8 km. There are nice narrow walks leading out to wide rocky landscape on a mountain top with scenic views of the town.
'''Dan Singkhon''' is located in Khiong Wan sub-district and is the Thai-Burmese border pass.
'''Koh Singto (Lion Island)''' is named after the shape of the island. It is a popular island for diving and snorkeling and offers visitors the chance to explore the Hua Hin and Khao Takiab shorelines.
Do
'''Sand and sea.''' This is the number one attraction of Hua Hin, also according to tourist information.
'''Fishing and eco-cruises''' can be done in Hua Hin, both at sea and inland.
'''Kite-boarding''' is a very popular pastime in Hua Hin. There are several schools giving lessons and tuition with equipment for hire.
'''Fitness and Martial Arts''' can be practiced either in gymnasiums around town or in the top hotels.
'''Elephant camps and trekking''' can be found just west of town. There is also an elephant camp.
'''Walking & Cycling''' are popular in Hua Hin due to the quietness of the roads.
'''Creative Arts''' are a plentitude in Hua Hin including handicrafts, silk weaving, embroidery, basket making, pottery and wood carving.
'''Go Karting''' can be enjoyed at the karting track near the airport. The 700m circuit has a banked curve for speed, pits floodlighting, beer garden and catering.
'''Water Sports''' in Hua Hin include swimming, banana boat rides, waterski-ing, jet-ski-ing, sailing, windsurfing, parasailing, kayaking, snorkeling and scuba-diving.
'''Pony Rides''' can be found on Hua Hin beach
'''Diving:'''
Diving in Hua Hin can be arranged to the nearby island of Koh Tao in Chumphon. Besides that Hua Hin itself with its poor visibility, doesn_ft have much in the way for diving except perhaps for seeing the stingray.
There are many other acitivities as well like Mountain Biking, ATV, horse riding, go-kart, and kite boarding.
'''Golf'''
Golf is extremely popular in Hua Hin and the place has several high quality courses up to international standards and designed by the likes of Jack Nicklaus.
Hua Hin and its surroundings are a golfer's paradise with at least 7 quality courses within a 30 minute drive. There are also two brand new golf courses under construction and a preview of the latest images can be made from the fairways. Most courses offer transportation to and from the course.
'''Spa'''
Spas in Hua Hin offer luxurious treatment which suits every budget. The treatment includes both traditional remedies and modern techniques. Facilities at spas in Hua Hin may also include a Jacuzzi and steam bath. Over the past few years these spas have become leaders in Thailand.
Many Spas in Hua Hin also offer traditional Thai healing arts as form of treatment. There is also alternative treatment such as Rieki. Resorts offer many detox programs. The most popular treatments are chi organ massage, karsai genital detox massage, deeper skin detox and herbal skin detox.
Hua Hin has a world class Chiva Som Resort and SPA. Focusing on greater well-being and vitality, Chiva-Som offers extensive fitness, spa and holistic health facilities to help you relax, restore and rejuvenate.
'''Massage'''
Traditional Thai massage, characterized by its holistic approach to health is aimed at enhancing not only one_fs physical and emotional state but also to allow one to grow spiritually.
There are over 50 massage shops in Hua Hin. All good hotels in Hua Hin offer traditional Thai massage service.
In Hua Hin, at Petchkasem Road next to the Golden Palace and the Royal Palace one can be massaged by very good professional blind masseuses. This is a royal project. Very little English is spoken but don't worry as you will be in professional hands.
'''Shopping'''
Shop at the night markets. Things that you can buy range from T-shirts to antiques. shirt will cost you around 300 baht (__5) . It is also a great place for shopping including contemporary art handicrafts, hand-woven printed cotton, silk fabric, silk weaving, embroidery, basket making, pottery, wood carving, gemstones and jewelry (including sapphires and rubies). Bartering is advisable to get the best prices possible.
Note that there are two night markets. The better known is in the middle of Hua Hin, and is rather tourist oriented. The one the Thais favor is known as the Grand market because its in the parking lot between Grand Hotel and Sao Paulo Hospital. More diverse and interesting, but does not operate Monday and Tuesday. For local handicrafts, the Hua Hin Bazaar, about 100 meters west of the beach, should be your first stop.
Happening only on Tuesdays is Pae Market near the Royal Hua Hin Golf Club. Here is a good place to get the feel for a traditional Thai market.
'''Night Market and Other Markets''' Although there is no large shopping mall in town but there are famous markets in Hua Hin. Located in the centre of town adjacent to Dechanuchit Road, just west of Phetkasem Road is the Hun Hin Night Market which is a great place to eat. There is a market devoted primarily to tourist shops along Dechanut Road.
'''Sport'''
Dragon Hills Golf & Country Club (??????? ????? ????? ????? ??????????) 192 Mu 2, Ang Hin, Pak Tho, Ratchaburi 70150 Tel: 0 3226 1206, Fax: 0 3226 1205
Hua Hin Seoul Country Club (?????? ??? ??????????) 174 Mu 1, Pranburi, Prachuab Khiri Khan 77120 Tel: 0 3257 2441
Imperial Lake View Hotel & Golf Club (?????????? ??? ??? ?????? ????? ?????????) 80 Mu 4, Hubkrapong-Pranburi Highway, Cha Am, Phetchaburi 76120 Tel: 0 3245 6233-39 Fax: 0 3245 6298, Email: lakeview@imperialhotels.com
Majestic Creek Country Club (???????? ???? ??????????) 164 Mu 4 Taptai, Hua Hin, Prachuab Khiri Khan 77110 Tel: 0 3252 0162-6 Fax: 0 3252 0477
Palm Hills Golf Resort & Country Club (????? ????? ????? ??????? ????? ??????????) 1444 Phetkasem Road, Cha-am, Phetchburi 76120 Tel: 0 3252 0801-9 Fax: 0 3252 0820, Email: info@palmhills-golf.com, Website: www.palmhills-golf.com
Royal Hua Hin Golf Course (????? ?????? ????? ?????) Hua Hin Town, Parchuab Khiri Khan 77110 Tel: 0 3251 2475
Springfield Royal Country Club of Cha-am (?????????? ????? ?????????? ??? ????) 193 Mu 6 Phetchasakem Road, Cha-am, Petchaburi 76120 Tel: 0 3259 3223 Fax: 0 3259 3227, Email: playgolf@springfieldresort.com, Website: www.springfieldresort.com
Festivals
'''Thailand_fs International Kite Festival''' is during March, April and May and features stunt kites, big kites, little kites, high tech kites, traditional Thai kites, and displays of international kites. Visitors also enjoy a variety of opportunities for shopping, sightseeing, and simply having a good time.
'''Hua Hin Jazz Festival''' June is the time of the year when 'jazz on the beach' happens at the annual Hua Hin Jazz Festival. The popular event attracts world class jazz musicians from Thailand and all over the world.
'''Hua Hin Vintage Car Rally''' Hoteliers, the Vintage Car Club of Thailand, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand annually sponsor a 'parade' of vintage and classic cars starting at the Sofitel Central in Bangkok and ending in at the Sofitel Central Hua Hin Resort. The cars, with drivers and passengers decked out in 1920's attire, make the 225km promenade in December of each year. The festivities culminate with a 1920's party at the Sofitel, which appropriately is a Victorian-style structure built in the 1920's.
Learn
Hua Hin Cooking courses are on offer to those tourists who would like to learn about cooking their favourite Thai dishes when they return to their home country.
A few Thai Cooking schools have sprung up in Hua Hin where foreign tourists can learn the art of serving up their favourite Thai dishes such as: Phat Thai (Thai-style fried noodles), Tom Yum Kung, Panaeng with Beef and Chicken and Cashew Nuts. Courses vary in length from just the single day to a few. Courses are also available at most of the large hotels but you will have to ask around.
Buy
One of Hua Hin_fs most renowned local product is ''pha phim khommaphat'' or printed cotton, a typical product of Hua Hin which is to be sold by the yard. The finished product of the Khommaphat print is colourful and can be turned into shirts, handkerchiefs, wraps, even toy elephants or fish, as well as decorative pieces such as pillows, bags, fans, etc. Contact: 0-3251-1250, 0-3251-3506.
A large variety of other cotton products are also obtainable, such as placemats, table clothes, and pillowcases. Most of the products, fresh and dried seafood, souvenirs, dishes made of seafood are available at Hua Hin Market.
For hand-woven cotton go to Baan Khao Tao, there is the Baan Khao Tao Handicraft Center which was founded in 1964. In 2003, the center_fs works were registered as the province_fs four-star OTOP product. Hand-woven cotton is offered for purchase in different forms, such as in the Yok Dok print, bathing cloths, sarongs, even large pieces of fabric like bed sheets.
A traditional duster made from Sisal is popularly grown around Khao Takieb. It resembles a broom but is smaller in size and much more colourful. The duster is of good quality, it is durable, and can be used to brush away dust in small corners. To use them as decoration is an innovative idea as well. The dusters are priced at 10-30 baht per piece, according to size. They can be purchased on Hua Hin Beach. When buying a duster, choose one that has its leafstalk securely attached to the handle, which should be easy to grip.
Where to shop in Hua Hin
Art Gallery (????? ????????) 41/91 Thavorn Village 5 Soi Mooban Noi, Nongplub Road, Hua Hin Tel. 032-516314, 081-8905786 (Pictures)
Gaw Gai Shop (?????????) 2/1 Dechanuchit Road, Hua Hin (Ceramics, Wooden Bric-a-Brac and Lamps)
Hua Hin Arts & Crafts Center (?????? ????? ????? ?????? ????????) Naepkhehat Road (Paintings, Sculptures, Handicrafts, Antique Furniture and Historical Pictures)
Hua Hin Gallery Orient (?????? ???????? ?????????) 7/14 Sra-Song Road, Hua Hin , Thai handicrafts, wood products and numerous antiques.
Phaiboon (???????) 56/1-4 Dechanuchit Road, Hua Hin (Handicrafts)
Eat
There are plenty of eating options around Hua Hin. Those close to the beach and atop Khao Takiap are touristy, while some good local options can be found on Phetkasem Rd along the way to Khao Takiap. Hua Hin is famed for its delightful fresh seafood which can be found in abundance at the Night Market, restaurants and hotel restaurants. Naresdamri Road is a fine place for great inexpensive restaurants while serving up romantic sea-views. Some hotels offer buffets consisting of open cooking stations, including a Seafood BBQ, and also offer live entertainment like traditional Thai music and dancing.
This area is the site of the Hua Hin Fishing Harbour and in the early morning, fresh-out-of-the-water seafood can be snapped up.
Moreover, there are numerous dining spots serving Western, Indian and Japanese food.
For cheap eats, check out the night market. Budget tourists having problems with the local fare will be happy to know that at the Tesco in the posh Market Village mall, there's street-style Thai food with modern fast food hygeine: 25-45B, and real coffee for 10B.
Baan Monta Restaurant (???????? ???????????) 51 Dechanuchit Road (Thai Food and Sedfood)
Ban Isara (?????????) 7 Naeb Khehat Raod, Tambon Hua Hin, Tel: 0 3253 0574, 0 3251 1673, 0 3251 4517 (Seafood Mon-Fri 10.00 a.m.?10.00 p.m. Sat-Sun 11.30 a.m.?10.00 p.m.)
Ban Luk Sao (??????????) Phetkasem Road, Tel: 0 3251 2366
Ban Nong Kae (???????????) Petchkassem Road (Thai Food)
Ban Pu Pen (??????????) 33/4 Tambon Nong Kae, Tel: 0 3251 3751, 0 1332 1491 (Thai food open 09.00 a.m.?9.00 p.m.)
Brasserie de Paris (?????????? ??? ?????) 3 Naresdamri Road (French Food)
Chao Le (?????) 15 Naret Damri Road, Tambon Hua Hin, Tel: 0 3251 3436-7 Fax: 0 3253 0610 (Thai food open 10.00 a.m.?10.00 p.m.)
Charoen Photchana (??????????) Naret Damri Road, Tel: 0 3251 2168 (Thai food)
Chon Ngoen (????????) 59/2 Phetkasem Road, Tambon Hua Hin, Tel: 0 3252 0341, 0 3252 0143 (Thai food open 9.00 a.m.?10.00 p.m.)
Hagi Japanese Restaurant (???? ???????? ???????????) 1 Damnernkasem Road (Japanese Food)
Hai Piang (????????) 6/7 Phetkasem Road, Tambon Hua Hin, Tel: 0 3251 1072, 0 3251 2070 Fax: 0 3251 3236 (open 9.00 a.m.?9.30 p.m.)
Jay Khiao (????????) 42 Ta Kiap Road, Tambon Nong Kae, Tel: 0 3251 2233, 0 3253 6899, 0 3253 6900 Fax: 0 3251 4302 (Seafood open 10.00 a.m.?10.00 p.m.)
Ketsarin Restaurant (????????? ???????????) 17/1 Naresdamri Road (International Food and Sedfood)
Khao Suai (???????) (Opposite to Golden Place Hua Hin) Phetkasem Road, Tambon Hua Hin, Tel: 0 1863 9481 (Thai food)
Khao Niao Mamuang Pa Jeua (???????????????????????) 118 Naret Damri Road, Tel: 0 3251 1704 (Mangoes with sticky rice open 7.30 a.m.?7.00 p.m.)
Khao Niao Mamuang Mee Chai (?????????????????????) 57 Phetkasem Road, Tambon Hua Hin, Tel: 0 3251 1035 (Mangoes with sticky rice open 7.00 a.m.?9.00 p.m.)
Korawik (?????) 4/7 Naeb Khehat Road, Tambon Hua Hin, Tel: 0 3251 4516 Fax: 0 3251 4517 (Noodle, Thai Food open 10.00 a.m.?12.00 p.m.)
Ko Thi (????) 61/1 Phetkasem Road, Tambon Hua Hin, Tel: 0 3251 1252 (Seafood open 11.00 a.m.?4.30 p.m. and 6.00 p.m.-10.00 p.m )
La Mer (?? ??) (On Khao Takiap), Tambon Nong Kae, Tel: 0 3253 6205 (Seafood open 10.00 a.m.-10.00 p.m.)
Let_fs Sea (????? ??) 83/155 Soi Tha-le, Khao Takiap-Hua Hin Road, Tambon Nong Kae, Tel: 0 3253 6022 (Thai Food and Seafood, Sun-Thu 11.00 a.m.?11.00 p.m. Fri-Sat 11.00 a.m.?12.00 p.m.)
Maharaja (???????) 25 Naresdamri Road (Northern Indian food open 11:00 a.m. ? 11.00 p.m.)
Mi Karuna (???????) 26 Naret Damri Road, Tambon Hua Hin, Tel: 0 3251 1932, 0 1880 7522 Fax: 0 3253 0103 (Thai Food open 11.00 a.m.-11.00 p.m.)
Nern Chalet, (??????? ??????????) 144/7 Nongkae-Takiab Rd., Hua-Hin, Prachuab Khiri Khan, Thailand 77110, Phone: +66(0)32-511-288 Fax:: +66(0)32-536-050 (Thai and Western Cuisine)Open 7.00 am - 10.00 pm or special requested can be arranged.
Orchids French & Thai Restaurant (??????? ?????? ????? ??? ???????????) 110/1 Naresdamri Road (French and Thai Food)
Saeng Thai (??????) Naret Damri Road, Tambon Hua Hin, Tel: 0 3251 2144, 0 3251 2867 (Seafood open 9.00 a.m.-10.00 p.m.)
Sailom (?????) (in Sailom Hotel) 29 Phetkasem Road, Tel: 0 3251 1890-1 Fax: 0 3251 2047 (open 7.00 a.m.-10.30 p.m.)
Sasi (???) 83/159 Tambon Nong Kae, Tel: 0 3251 2488, 0 1693 2096 Fax 0 3251 2488 www.sasi-restaurant.com (Thai food, Seafood open 11.00 a.m.?10.00 p.m.) Thai Classical Dance Show on *Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays at 7.00 p.m.
Supatra by the Sea (??????? ???????) 122/63 Soi.Mubaan Khao Ta Kiap, Tambon Nong Kae, Tel: 0 3253 6561-2 Fax:: 0 3253 6560 www.supatrabythesea.com, E-mail: info@supatrabythesea.com (Seafood Thai food open 11.00 a.m.?11.00 p.m.)
Taj Mahal (??? ?????) 31/1 Naresdamri Road (International Food and Seafood)
Drink
If you want English songs better go in the downtown area of Hua Hin, where Hyatt Hotel is located. If you go there, most of the people will be foreigners. There's active tourist night life between Dechanuchit Road and Soi Bintabaht with mostly middle-age and older customers.
'''El Murphy's'''. The place for live music,located in the heart of Hua Hin on Soi Selakam 20M. from the Hilton Hotel.This Irish Bar is the nightly home of Hua Hins own '''The Stonehead Band''',these boys have been rocking Hua Hin for more then 15 years with their great rock and blues classics.Sometimes there is an early opening act.
'''Style'''. One of the best nightspots in Hua Hin, with hip hop music and techno. Popular for teenagers around that area. Open from 6 pm to 2 am, but most people come around 10 pm onward. Live music as well, but thai music. Frequently overcrowded.
'''Bluestation Country Pub'''. Very popular with local folks, but nearly unknown to tourists. Located behind the older of Hua Hin's two bus depots, by the intersection of Chomsin Road and the railroad track (only rail crossing in central HH, so easy to find). The house band is excellent, playing all Thai country (Peu Chiwit) songs. Before 10 pm, there's an opening act that some nights (but irregularly) consists of a duo of Thai on guitar and farang on accordion, doing all Thai songs. One of a kind, and pleasant listening.
'''Satchmo Club''' (????? ????) Main Lobby of the Sofitel Central Hua Hin.); The Satchmo Club is Hua Hin_fs ultimate in classy entertainment. Featuring a vibrant Filipino Band, The Flash Band, Satchmo features delicious drinks, including a Mojito such that you will only taste in Mexico. Located underground below the main lobby, Satchmo Club is both hip and modern - a relaxing venue from the bustle of Hua Hin.
Billy_fs Bar & Restaurant (?????????? ????? ???????????) Hua Hin Bazaar (Pub and Restaurant)
Blue Angel Cabaret (??? ??????? ???????) Soi Bintaban, A nightly transvestite show at 20:00 and 21:45 and a midnight show on weekends (Show)
Crawford's Irish Bar (????????? ????? ????) Poolsuk Road (Pub)
Hua Hin Brewing Company Bar (?????? ???????? ??????? ????) next to Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa (Disco)
Johnnie Walkers Sports & Music Bar (???????? ???????? ?????? ????? ??????????) Selakam Road (Pub)
Jungle Juice (??????? ???) Selakam Road (Pub)
P and P Bar (?? ????? ?? ????) Poolsuk Road
Octopussy (???????????) Selakam Road (Bar)
Sleep
Hua Hin is quite tourist oriented at least in the central parts and thus there's mostly hotels there, but also some guest houses and motels are available.
Budget
True budget beds are less common than they might have been a few years ago, at least during high season.
'''Kings Home Hua Hin''' is a quite small and very friendly guesthouse in the centre of Hua Hin with prices ranging from 800 to 1200 baht a night.
'''21 Guesthouse''' advertises 100-300 baht rooms with AC and television on their signage, but on arrival will offer you only a 500B room or a disgusting, mosquito-infested 100B with unspeakable stains on the sheets.
'''Sukwilai Hotel and Guesthouse''' on western Soi Bintabaht near a "150 meters to Burger King" ad offers fan rooms for 300 baht, or 350 with cable TV. Also upper scale rooms available in the main building. Guest house is opposite to some bars playing quite loud until 2 AM.
'''Mod Guesthouse''' is near 21 Guesthouse and the Hilton.
Mid-range
'''Nern Chalet Hotel''' - Private Beach, excellent services, relaxing atmosphere, free wireless internet, reasonable rate, "Your second home on the beach". Contact: www.nernchalet.com or E-mail to rsvn@nernchalet.com
'''Chom View Resort''' - very nice, not big, cheap, clean. Near Kao takeab, private beach.
'''Preeburan Resort''' - you can feel warm welcome with local Thai greeting, beachfront unique design villas with relax sensation at the affordable price visit www.preeburan.com
Splurge
Hyatt Regency Hua Hin"
address="91 Hua Hin - Khao Takiap Road"
directions="on the beach-front"
phone="+66 3 252 1234"
email="hotel.hrhuahin@hyattintl.com"
url="http://huahin.regency.hyatt.com"
>5 star hotel with 204 rooms and suites. The hotel is within 12.5 acres of tropical landscaped gardens and has a 200-metre long beach-front. Host to The Barai Spa.</sleep>
'''Veranda Resort''' - very nice, cozy resort, not too big, service is excellent and all rooms are unique.
'''Chevasom Resort and Spa''' - one of the best Spa resorts in Thailand, very private. And well known to tourist as well. Pricy but the quality you get back is the best.
'''Evason Hideaway'''- Nicest pool villas, luxurious/secluded 5 star hotel, 6 senses spa (one of the best in Thailand)
Le Bayburi De Pran (??? ???? ???? ??? ????) . each Front Rd., Pak Nam Pran Buri, Pranburi, Prachuab Kirikhan, Thailand . 66(0) 2696 8233. ttp://http://www.lebayburi.com/ . Le Bayburi Villa_fs is a private complex of 4 privately owned luxury beachfront villas, operated as vacation home rentals for short and long stay guests. Guests can choose between the four themed Villas, each with completely self contained facilities, including private pool.Located at romantic Pranburi, just 20 minutes south of Hua-Hin, situated on the South West coast of the gulf of Thailand 2.5 hours from Bangkok. Here you will discover a tranquil, luxurious and private atmosphere that is home to many famous boutique resorts and spa_fs. The area is characterized by crystal clean natural beaches, breathtaking sea views, refreshing sea breezes and all this set against a backdrop of inland mountain ranges. Located close to the beautiful mountains of Sam Roi Yod national park and six world class golf courses, Pranburi represents that hard to find private luxury. Pranburi is unique in that it has only boutique private resorts along the beachfront, so even in high season the area is peaceful and quite. At the same time it is only a short drive to golf courses and tourist sites, and only a stroll along the beach to any of a dozen restaurants.
</sleep>
'''Amphoe Hua Hin'''
A & B Guesthouse (?? ????? ?? ???????????) 113/16-17 Phetkasem Road, Tambon Hua Hin (Tel & Fax: 0 3251 2711), 6 rooms: 500-700 baht
All Nation (?????????) 10/1 Dechanuchit Road, 11 rooms: 100-500 baht
Anantara Resort and Spa Hua Hin (??????? ??????? ????? ??? ??????) 43/1 Phetkasem Road, Tambon Bo Fai (Tel: 0 3252 0250-6 Fax: 0 3252 0260 www.anantara.com), 181 rooms: 4,943-11,299 baht
Ba Yan (??????) (close to Baan Chan Chai) 119 Phetkasem Road (Tel: 0 2636 6588, 0 3253 3544 Fax: 0 2636 6590, 0 3253 3545 www.baanbayan.com), 21 rooms: 4,500-13,000 baht
Ban Noen Tha-le (????????????) Khao Takiap Village 144/7 Baan Noen Tha-le, Nong Kae-Khao Takiap Road (Tel: 0 3251 1288), 18 rooms: 1,500-2,500 baht
Ban Phak Loong Daeng (????????????? ???????) 15 Mu 1 Tambon Huai Sak Yai (Tel: 0 1943 9808, 0 1364 6593, 0 6035 3123), 5 houses: 500-3,000 baht (Tents are available 150-200 baht/night).
Ban Phak Phoen (?????????????) 4? Soi Binthabat, Poon, Suk Road, Tambon Hua Hin (Tel: 0 3253 2156, 0 3251 2344 Fax: 0 3253 2156), 12 rooms: 150?500 baht
Ban Busarin (?????????????) 8/8 Phunsuk Road (Tel: 0 3251 2076), 10 rooms: 800 baht
Ban Floulay (?????????) 110/1 Naret Damri Road, Tambon Hua Hin (Tel: 0 3251 3670 Fax: 0 3253 0320), 9 rooms: 750 baht
Ban Somboon (?????????) 13/4 Soi Kasemsan, Damrikasem Road, Tambon Hua Hin (Tel: 0 3251 1538 Fax: 0 3251 1538), 13 rooms: 400?800 baht
Best L.D. Hotel (????? ??? ??) 236 Phetakasem Road, Tambon Hua Hin (Tel: 0 3251 2429 Fax: 0 3251 3507), 37 rooms: 200?500 baht
Bird Guesthouse (?????? ??????????) 31/2 Naret Damri Road, Tambon Hua Hin (Tel: 0 3251 1630 Fax: 0 3251 1630), 10 rooms: 350?600 baht
'''Hat Khao Takiap (14 km south of Hua Hin)'''
Anantasila (?????????) 33/15 Nong Kae-Takiap Road, Ban Hua Don, Tambon Hua Hin (Tel: 0 3251 1879, 0 3253 6364 Fax: 0 3251 5914 Bangkok Office Tel: 0 2222 3788), 82 rooms and bungalows: 1,800-7,500 baht
Ban Khachthong (??????????) 214 Phetkasem Road, Tambon Hua Hin (Tel: 0 3253 3644), 10 rooms: 690-890 baht
Baan Duangkaew (???????????) 83/158 Soi Tha le 12, Hua Hin-Takiap Road, Tambon Nong Kae (Tel: 0 3251 5770, 0 3253 6460, 0 3253 6459 Fax: 0 3251 5532 www.baanduangkaewhuahin.com), 19 rooms: 1,800-3,000 baht
Ban Sabai Jai (??????????) 3/9 Takiap Road, Khao Takiap, Tambon Nong Kae (Tel: 0 3253 6036, 0 1333 0009 Fax: 0 3253 6037 Bangkok Office Tel: 0 2745 8550 Fax: 0 2745 8566 www.baansabaijai.com), 11 rooms: 2,800-6,500 baht
Baan Talay Dao Resort Hua Hin (??????????? ??????? ??????) 2/10 Takiap Road (Tel: 0 3253 6024?30, 0 1845 2809 Fax: 0 3253 6031 www.baantalaydao.com), 38 rooms: 2,500-12,000 baht
Baan Thai Resort (??????????????) 13/36-40 Ban Hua Don, Nong Kae (Tel: 0 3251 2181 Fax: 0 3251 5899 www.baanthairesort.com), 20 rooms: 1,000-1,800 baht
Casa del Mare, Hua Hin (???? ??? ???? ??????) 25/2 Phetkasem Road, Tambon Hua Hin (Tel: 0 3251 9061-6 Fax: 0 3251 9099 www.casadelmare.net, E-mail: info@casadelmare.net), 36 rooms: 5,000 baht
Guesthouse Hua Hin (??????????? ??????) 1/30 Soi Khieng Tha-le, Takiap Road, Tambon Nong Kae (Tel: 0 3251 5568, 0 3251 5968 Fax: 0 3251 2746 www.guesthousehuahin.com, E-mail: rsvn@guesthousehuahin.com), 19 rooms: 600-1,000 baht
'''Hotels and Resorts with Spas'''
Anantara Resort & Spa (Mandara Spa) 43/1 Petchakasem Road, Hua Hin, Prachuab Khiri Khan 77110 (Tel: 0 3252 0250 Fax: 0 3252 0259)
Chiva-Som International Health Resort (??????? ????????????????? ????? ???????) 73/4 Phetchakasem Road, Hua Hin, Prachuab Khiri Khan 77110 Tel: 0 3253 6536, Fax: 0 3251 1154
Evason Hua Hin & Six Senses Spa 9 Mu 3 Paknampran Beach, Pranburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77220 (Tel: 0 3263 2111 Fax: 0 3263 2112)
Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa 33/3 Naresdamri Road, Hua Hin, Prachuab Khiri Khan 77110 (Tel: 0 3251 2888, Fax: 0 3251 1135)
Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa (Mandara Spa) 107/1 Petchakasem Rod, Hua Hin, Prachuab Khiri Khan 77110 (Tel: 0 3251 1881 Fax: 0 3251 2422)
Sofitel Central Hua Hin Resort (Centara Spa) 1 Damnernkasem Road, Hua Hin, Prachuab Khirikhan 77110 (Tel: 0 3251 2021-38 Fax: 0 3251 1014)
Springfield Village Spa (?????????? ?????? ???) 193 Mu 6 Phetchasakem Road, Cha-am, Petchaburi 76120 Tel: 0 3259 3222, Fax: 0 3259 3260
Stay healthy
Hua Hin has many medical centers but for anything serious it is advised to go to nearby Phetchaburi or even Bangkok.
Cha-am Hospital (?????????????) Tel: 0 3247 1808
Dental 2000 (?????? 2000) 20/45, Petchkasem Road, Hua Hin 77110, Tel: 0 3253 6957 Fax: 0 3253 6958
Dr Sumet Clinic (????????.?????) 87/5 Petchkasem Road opposite soi 80 Tel: 0 3253 3404 (Open Monday - Friday 07.30-12.00 and 16.00-21.00 and Saturday 08.00-12.00 and 16.00-21.00)
Ear, Nose and Throat Clinic (???????? ???? ??) Petchkasem Road
Hua Hin International Polyclinic (?????? ????????????????? ??????????) Petchkasem Road Tel: 0 3251 6424
Hua Hin Hospital (???????????????) Tel: 0 3252 0401
Hua Hin Red Cross (????????????????) Tel: 0 3251 2567
Petcharat Hospital (??????????????????) 45 minutes from Hua Hin Tel: 0 3241 7070-8
Pranburi Hospital (?????????????????) 25km south of Hua Hin Tel: 0 3261 2757
San Paulo Hospital (???????????????????) Petchkasem Road Tel: 0 3253 2576-85 (Dental and Physiotherapy Clinics)
Contact
Landline telephone, all mobile phone systems, high-speed internet (ADSL), post offices and parcel services are available in Hua Hin.
Tourist information can be found from the corner of Petchkasem Road and Damnerkasem Road (Soi 76), quite close to the railway station. There is also an English-language ''Hua Hin Today'' newspaper.
Stay safe
As the King has a palace here, the security in Hua Hin is very tight, with a lot of cops around.
'''Tourist Police''' Their office is located at the end of Damnoen Kasem Road, right at the main entrance to the beach. Tel 1155.
'''Hua Hin Police''' The police station is situated on Damnoen Kasem Road, opposite the CAT offices and Post Office. Tel 032 511027. Emergency numbers are 191 (police), 195 (crime), 199 (fire).
'''Tourist Offices The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)''' was established in 1960 to promote tourism to the country. The first office was in Chiang Mai and there are now 22 local offices throughout the country. TAT also maintains a presence overseas, now having 15 offices worldwide.
'''Hua Hin Immigration Office''' Call +66 32 526-556
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