About Hua Hin
Photo Credit by Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)
Hua Hin is approximately 200km from Bangkok.
It is a well-known beach resort, popular with those who prefer a more relaxing, serene lifestyle to, for example, Pattaya or Phuket.
There are hotels of every price range, but in recent years the construction of a number of exclusive, luxury hotels has cemented Hua Hin's reputation as a holiday retreat for the rich and famous.
Beautiful beaches, excellent seafood, and a range of beautiful natural attractions are part of what attracts visitors to Hua Hin.
The current administration of Hua Hin has done an excellent job of combining the need for modern infrastructure with a respect for local tradition and history.
Location
Hua Hin is the northernmost district of Prachuab Khiri Khan.
It is located just south of Petchaburi province, on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand.
For details of how to get to Hua Hin, look under the heading – TRAVEL → Getting to the Festival
Photo Credit by Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)
History
Last year, Hua Hin celebrated its centenary, commemorating the year 1910, when the town was given its current name.
But the history of the town actually dates back to 1834, when neighboring Petchaburi province was hit by a severe drought and a group of farmers moved south and arrived at a village that had a white, sandy beach and rocks guarding one end.
They settled and named the village Samor Riang, which means "row of anchors", after the fishing boats anchored off the beach, or "row of rocks" depending on which translation you take.
In 1910, Prince Chakrabongse, brother of Rama VI, visited Hua Hin on a hunting trip and was so enchanted by the area that he built himself a villa.
The Royal affection for Hua Hin was one of the key factors in its subsequent growth.
In 1921, it was linked to Bangkok with the construction of a railway line initiated by Prince Purachatra, and in 1928, the Royal Hua Hin Golf Club opened, the first golf course in Thailand.
The Royal connection was strengthened when His Majesty King Rama VII built a palace, Klai Kangwon - "far from worries" in Hua Hin – or 'sans souci' in French, after the famous palace in Ramiers. It was designed by the then-director of the Department of Fine Arts, Prince Iddhidhepsarn Kridakara in a European style, to allow the breezes from the sea to pass through and stay cool. His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej has always had a particular fondness for Hua Hin, and this Palace is still in frequent use by the Royal Family.
Its Royal heritage made Hua Hin a fashionable retreat for high society, and the town began to develop.
Today, Hua Hin continues to grow, and now offers the facilities of an an international holiday destination, whilst not losing the charm of a fishing village, and the pride of its royal heritage.
Climate
In January, one can expect clear skies and a cool breeze. It is perhaps the best time to visit Hua Hin, Bring light, loose, cotton clothing, or shop for local clothes.
Local Attractions
Hua Hin Night Market
Photo Credit by Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)
A trip to Hua Hin must include a trip to the night market. In the center of town, between Petchkasem road and the railway line, it opens from 18.30. The usual selection of T-shirts, souvenirs and crafts can be found here, but we recommend doing what the locals do and eat your way from one end to the other. Every sort of delicious snack from seafood kebabs to banana roti can be found here, along with some great seafood restaurants alongside the market.
Photo Credit by Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)
Hua Hin Beach
The beach is four kilometers of white sand stretching form the town centre to Khao Takiap. It is seldom crowded, and is a perfect place to wind down by taking a gentle stroll, relaxing on a deckchair, or taking a pony ride. Those looking for action might enjoy more energetic activities such as windsurfing or water-skiing.
Photo Credit by Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)
Hua Hin Elephant Village
Elephants play a very important part in Thai history, as a source of transport, as a battle weapon, and for their valuable skills in logging and jungle navigation.
If you have never seen these extraordinary animals close-up, or had a chance to ride an elephant, Hua Hin offers this opportunity at the Elephant Village
Royal Hua Hin Golf Club
Photo Credit by Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)
In the 2nd decade of the 20th century a Scottish railway engineer by the name of O.A.Robins designed Thailand's 1st golf course. Opened in 1924 and less than one kilometer from the center of town, the Royal Hua Hin Golf Course offers tempting Tee shots, natural jungle surroundings, as well as views over the gulf of Thailand, making this course a must for any golfer staying in or near Hua Hin.
Photo Credit by Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)
Hua Hin Hills Vineyard.
The climate in Thailand is generally not ideal for wine production. But a few vineyards have persevered, and have seen a great improvement in recent years. Thai wine now regularly wins international awards, and can now truly hold its own in international wine competitions.
One of the most innovative and successful vineyards is in the Hua Hin Hills. In over 200 acres, the vineyard produces a variety of wines from Muscat to Merlot. A restaurant perched on stilts offers beautiful views of the vineyard, and excellent food.
This is just a very small sample of the many attractions that Hua Hin has to offer. For more information, visit: http://www.tourismhuahin.com or http://www.itsinhuahin.com
