Being off the beaten path, Hua Hin invites you to create your own itinerary, whether it be lazing along the beach, matching wits with vendors, or simply exploring with one’s mind open to surprises.

1. Just laze along HUA HIN BEACH

Hua Hin’s beautiful white-sand beach, gently curving five kilometers from the headland at Damnernkasem Road to Khao Takiab is a tranquil haven for visitors. There’s no beach road to bring in traffic and vendors, just hotels, condominiums, and cottages facing straight onto the sand, and few jet scooters and motor boats (they are frowned upon). Instead, tourists walk and jog along the sand, ride the local ponies, swim, windsurf, or simply relax blissfully soaking up the warm sunshine.

2. Take snapshots of the historic RAILWAY STATION, the oldest in Thailand

Hua Hin became fashionable as a resort in the 1920s when the rail line was extended south from Bangkok and a station built in the centre of town. To facilitate visits by the royal family, a beautiful red and white waiting room was moved from Sanam Chan in Nakhon Pathom and erected on the platform. On the other side of the track is a well preserved old steam train in front of the 1st tee off at Royal Hua Hin, Thailand’s oldest golf course.

3. Exercise your haggling skills at the NIGHT MARKET

A visit to the Night Market on Dechaunuchit Road is a must, if only just to savour the Hua Hin atmosphere. Here you will find roadside restaurants, food stalls, and the famous roti (pancake) maker mingled with vendors selling T-shirts, shoes, handicrafts, shells, knick-knacks, and a variety of souvenirs. Open 7 days a week from 5 p.m. till midnight.

4. Experience riding the PEDAL TRISHAWS

Hua Hin’s charm is its quiet simplicity, narrow lanes full of shops and restaurants, and a distinct lack of traffic. What better way to explore the old town than from the back seat of a pedal trishaw, whose ancient drivers can usually be found dozing in front of the Night Market? For a few dollars, these cyclists with legs of steel will take you on an exhilarating tour of discovery.

5. Meditate at the KHAO TAKIAB

At the south end of Hua Hin Beach, Khao Takiab (Chopstick Mountain) offers superb views of the bay from the small temple perched on top, an ideal photo viewpoint provided you can make it up the steep steps. Small seafood restaurants abound at the foot of the hill, supplied by a nearby fishing village.

6. Be mesmerized by the WATERFALL AT PA LA-U