Buzz
It's time to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find some tranquility in Hua Hin, Thailand. Let's explore some independent travel experiences in Hua Hin by Klook Vietnam.
Looking for a new travel destination for your upcoming Thailand trip? Want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok to discover something new? Or maybe you're keen to explore a different beach destination beyond Phuket? If you've seen all the temples in Chiang Mai, let Klook Vietnam introduce you to a new destination. Check out these travel tips and highlights in Hua Hin, Thailand.
Independent Travel Tips for Hua Hin
Hua Hin, Thailand is an overseas destination, so if you're traveling independently, don't worry, Klook has some handy tips for you:
1. Compare Cheap Airfares: For a budget-friendly solo trip, #teamKlook recommends choosing the right airline. Don't forget to compare ticket prices between airlines, plan and book tickets about 2-3 months in advance, and take advantage of discounts to snag those budget-friendly fares.
2. Visa Requirements for Hua Hin, Thailand: Fortunately, Thailand is one of the countries that grants visa exemption to Vietnam with a temporary stay of 30 days. This means you don't need to apply for a visa when traveling to Hua Hin, making our trip much more comfortable and hassle-free!
3. Get Ready with 4G SIM Card or Wifi for Your Hua Hin Trip: Make sure to prepare a 4G SIM card for convenient transportation and continuous uploading of stunning check-in photos to impress your friends back home.
4. Don't Forget to Exchange Currency, #teamKlook! It's best to exchange your Vietnamese Dong to Thai Baht before arriving in Thailand. Currently, 1 baht is equivalent to 682,000 VND.
Where is Hua Hin Located?
Hua Hin is a district located in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, on the northwestern coast of the Malay Peninsula in Thailand. The seaside resort town of the same name serves as the administrative center of the district. With an estimated population of about 65,983 people as of December 2019 and an area of 911 km², Hua Hin was once just a quaint fishing village but has now become an ideal destination for travelers seeking peace and relaxation. Located just about 200km from the capital city Bangkok, Hua Hin is known as a beachside resort town on the Gulf of Thailand.
Best Time to Visit Hua Hin?
Similar to other areas in the Land of Smiles, Hua Hin enjoys a warm climate year-round, divided into 2 seasons: rainy season from April to November and dry season from December to March of the following year. Typically, #teamKlook would choose the dry season to visit Hua Hin to comfortably immerse ourselves in cool waters and fully enjoy that summer vacation.
Guide on How to Travel to Hua Hin Independently from Vietnam
Every day, there are hundreds of direct flights from Vietnam to Thailand. However, there are currently no airlines operating direct flights from Vietnam to Hua Hin, so you will arrive in Bangkok and then take other means of transportation to Hua Hin. Once you're in Bangkok, there are plenty of transportation options to get to Hua Hin. Here are some suggestions from Klook.
1. Taxi
Similar to hiring a private car, taking a taxi is also a popular way to travel from Bangkok to Hua Hin. This method usually comes with higher costs, and you need to keep an eye on the meter. The starting fare for a taxi ride will be around 23,000 VND.
With the advancement of technology, booking a ride through apps like Grab or Bolt is becoming more common and provides better protection for travelers' rights, as travelers can easily track the route and know the fare in advance. With both Grab and Bolt apps, you can only use a Thailand 4G SIM card, so remember to change the SIM and download the app before booking a ride.
2. Bus
You can purchase bus tickets at Suvarnabhumi Airport. The current bus fare is 325 baht per ticket, with the earliest departure at 7:30 AM and the latest at 6:00 PM. It takes about 3 hours to travel by bus from Bangkok to Hua Hin, so make sure to pack some snacks just in case. Additionally, there's a 7-Eleven at the bus terminal where you can grab a quick bite before departure.
3. Car Rental
If you're traveling with a large group of friends or family, including elderly or young members, renting a car is the most suitable option for you. You'll have control over your time and can design your itinerary as desired. Local drivers will take your group directly to Hua Hin without the hassle of navigating or buying train tickets. Moreover, if #teamKlook wishes to take a break during the journey to enjoy the fresh air, you can ask the driver to make a rest stop.
Additionally, if your group desires comfort and freedom, Klook also suggests self-drive car rental. With this option, you'll have more opportunities to fully enjoy your preferred itinerary with your travel companions. To rent a car in Thailand, you'll need to prepare your passport and original driver's license, as well as a deposit to cover potential damages. This deposit will be refunded to you on the day you return the car.
4. Motorcycle Rental
Once you've arrived in Hua Hin, how do you get around town? Renting a motorbike will be the optimal choice for you. Typically, hotels offer motorbike rental services, so just discuss it with the staff upon check-in. The rental price for a motorbike is around 160,000 VND per day (may vary depending on the tourist season). You'll need an international driver's license, passport, and a deposit to register for the rental.
Explore the Famous Tourist Attractions in Hua Hin
Once you're in Hua Hin, #teamKlook, let's discover the prominent attractions here! Hua Hin is known as a beautiful town, with blue sea, white sand, golden sun, friendly people, and a leisurely pace of life, making it perfect for leisure travel. So besides the beautiful azure beaches of Hua Hin, what else is there?
1. Vana Nava Water Park
When in Hua Hin, #teamKlook shouldn't miss the Vana Nava Water Park. As the first jungle water park in Asia, Vana Nava promises to bring you and your loved ones hours of fun underwater. With a total of 19 rides ranging from gentle to thrilling, from slides, artificial beach area, artificial wave pool, etc., no matter what age you are, you'll find exciting experiences here. So why wait? Come and explore the Abyss funnel slide with speeds up to 45km/h, twist and turn in the Master Blaster, Aqua Loop, SuperBowl slides, and enjoy a cocktail at the outdoor bar!
2. Hua Hin Beach
Of course, being in Hua Hin and not playing in the sea, walking barefoot along the beautiful and romantic beach is a big miss. Whether it's early morning or late afternoon, Hua Hin beach is always charming, with gentle waves lapping at your feet, serving as a highly effective soul-healing remedy. No wonder it's a favorite destination for locals every holiday; the waves of Hua Hin embrace any traveler who visits.
As the twilight falls, when the sun begins to dip below the horizon, from afar, you only see the orange light pouring down onto the sea, sitting with your friends enjoying delicious Thai skewers, it's just pure chilling and forgetting the way back!
3. Black Mountain Water Park
Operating since 2011, Black Mountain Water Park is one of the beloved underwater adventure destinations in Hua Hin. Equipped with high-quality modern facilities, #teamKlook can enjoy safe and thrilling adventures here. Buy your ticket and explore what makes it so special that it was awarded the Traveler's Choice Award in 2017 by TripAdvisor; you'll surely have unforgettable experiences.
4. Hua Hin Night Market
Night markets are a popular form of tourism in Thailand, especially in major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or Pattaya. So what makes Hua Hin Night Market stand out from the rest? The answer lies in its diverse and fresh seafood offerings at very reasonable prices.
Hua Hin Night Market operates from around 18:30 every day, although not large, the market area offers a wide variety of antique items, artworks, handicrafts at affordable prices, and many stalls selling fresh and delicious seafood. At the end of the road leading to the beach, there are a few small bars where you can enjoy a beer or two!
5. Hua Hin Railway Station
Built in 1921 to connect Bangkok to southern Thailand, Hua Hin Railway Station still retains its ancient and unique architecture. The station impresses visitors with its vibrant colors; from a distance, you can see the red-tiled roofs and pillars, creating the distinctive character of this railway station.
6. Maruekhathaiyawan Palace (Summer Palace)
Dubbed the Palace of Love and Hope, Maruekhathaiyawan Palace was built in 1923 and is among the most beautiful royal palaces in Thailand.
With architecture distinct from palaces in Bangkok or Pattaya but equally exquisite and magnificent, it remains a royal retreat during the summer. There's a beautiful corridor extending from the palace to the beach, shaded by lush trees. Walking along this corridor gives you a feeling of being in a heavenly place with a fantastic view of the sky and the sea. If you're in Hua Hin, don't miss out on visiting Maruekhathaiyawan Palace.
Must-Try Specialties in Hua Hin
When in Hua Hin, what should you eat? Generally, Hua Hin cuisine is similar to other regions, such as Pad Thai, papaya salad, green curry, red curry, tom yum. Additionally, since Hua Hin is famous for its coastal tourism, don't miss out on the seafood here. Klook recommends some highly rated eateries in Hua Hin:
- Hua Hin Village Market: Delicious food, slightly higher prices compared to the average, but the quality is excellent.
- Rod Fai Stall at the entrance of Hua Hin Night Market: offers dozens of different types of seafood at very affordable prices, and the dishes are delicious.
Exciting Hua Hin Tours on Klook Vietnam
With numerous tourist destinations in Hua Hin, if you're hesitant to explore or find it difficult to choose a favorite spot, Klook suggests booking a short tour every day, which is the most reasonable option. It saves you the effort of planning and allows you to explore the most characteristic spots with a knowledgeable guide.
1. Pa-La-U Waterfall & Monsoon Valley Vineyard Tour
Experience the natural Pala-U waterfall and Monsoon valley vineyard to explore the unique wine-making process of Hua Hin. You'll start with the natural waterfall in the 1000-year-old tropical forest, after which you'll enjoy a traditional Thai lunch. Following a short break, the tour continues to the Monsoon Valley vineyard, where clusters of grapes are waiting to be pressed to start the fermentation process that produces the renowned wines of Hua Hin.
2. Local Food Tour in Hua Hin by Feast Thailand
Klook tip: Night markets and restaurants in the city center are familiar spots for tourists, but locals always have their own culinary customs and flavors! Let Feast Thailand's guide take you to local eateries to savor the special Hua Hin cuisine that only the natives know!
3. SUP and Surfing Experience in Hua Hin by KBA - KiteBoarding Asia
Enjoy a peaceful time with surfing and stand-up paddleboarding in Hua Hin! Hua Hin beach with its gentle waves is perfect for stand-up paddleboarding. Haven't tried SUP before? No worries, professional trainers are there to guide you and ensure 100% safety so you can have fun to the fullest. Don't hesitate, book a SUP tour now and enjoy the summer!
4. Santorini Park Hua Hin Day Tour
Experience Thailand but still marvel at the beauty of Europe, why not? With the Santorini Hua Hin day tour, besides checking-in at a series of stunning spots in the park, you'll also explore the diverse culture and religion of Thailand at Maruekhathaiyawan Palace. Admire the large Buddha statue made of gold at Khao Luang Cave, or try numerous unique dishes and fresh seafood while strolling around the famous Chatchai night market, then visit the Cicada market and buy souvenirs. Don't forget to experience a time-travel journey back to Hua Hin in the 1950s at Plearn Wan.
5. Day Tour with Round-trip Transfer or Customizable Sightseeing in Hua Hin
If you want to plan and explore Hua Hin your own way, then a customizable sightseeing tour in Hua Hin is perfect for you. With this tour, you'll discover unique floating markets, admire the cultural beauty along the river, and indulge in unique local cuisine. Don't forget to check-in at Hua Hin Railway Station - one of the oldest stations in Thailand; learn about the history and culture of the Land of Smiles at Mrigadayavan Palace and visit the historical park Phra Nakhon Khiri on the hill.
6. Explore Famous Places in Hua Hin & Monsoon Valley Vineyard Tour
As a renowned wine-producing destination, Monsoon Valley Vineyard is an unmissable stop for wine enthusiasts. Don't forget to try a delicious glass of wine right at the production site, surely #teamKlook will be amazed! Challenge yourself with the experience of climbing Khao Takiab Monkey Mountain, visit Rajabhakti Park - where kings are honored, and then admire the statue of Luang Phor Thuate - the most famous Thai monk to date. Enjoy the best that Hua Hin has to offer for explorers.
7. Indulge in Thai Evening Delicacies in Hua Hin
Don't miss the most epicurean warriors, join the Hua Hin Thai Evening Delicacies Tour! Wander around the food district and indulge in up to 15 tastings right at the market, then enjoy a satisfying meal at highly-rated local restaurants. You'll explore everything, from fresh ingredients, cooking processes, delicious flavors,... Moreover, #teamKlook food enthusiasts will get to dine in a garden setting with the famous Grilled Salt-Crusted Fish dish, Miang Bplaa Phao!
8. Discover Hua Hin Tour
Want to visit and explore Hua Hin but don't know where to start, where to go, or how to arrange your time? Don't worry, with the Discover Hua Hin Tour, you'll thoroughly explore this coastal land. You'll delve into the cultural colors by visiting the Petchaburi community - where you'll get the most authentic view of local life here. You may even stay with locals in their own homes, visit a school to experience Thai student life. Additionally, adventure enthusiasts will admire a 700-year-old Buddha statue in a cave. It's not just tourism, it's a real insight into Hua Hin that history buffs will love.
What to Buy as Souvenirs When Traveling to Hua Hin?
No matter where you go, you want to buy a souvenir to keep the memories, or simply buy small souvenirs to give to friends and family, right? Let Klook suggest you buy souvenirs at the largest night market in Hua Hin - Cicada Market. Here, you'll be spoiled for choice with a variety of items from handmade crafts, cute little artworks, mini models of famous Hua Hin landmarks, traditional Thai spices, and thousands of other souvenirs at very affordable prices.
Great Hotels or Resorts in Hua Hin
Being a local retreat, Hua Hin offers a variety of hotels ranging from budget to upscale for you to choose from. Below are some suggested accommodations with affordable prices, beautiful views, and top-notch services that travelers love:
1. I Style Hua Hin Hotel
- Address: 112 19 Hua Hin 19
- Price: 300,000VND/night
2. Eco Hostel Hua Hin
- Address: 22 Thanon Phet Kasem, Hua Hin City Center
- Price: 300,000VND/night
3. Huahin Terminal
- Address: 23/531, Western Railway Rd., Hua Hin 88, Hua Hin
- Price: 300,000VND/night
4. OYO 227 Suchaya House
- Address: 22 128 Petchkasem Rd, Hua Hin
- Price: 320,000VND/night
5. Pearl@HuaHin
- Address: 250 88 Hua Hin, Hua Hin District
- Price: 320,000VND/night
6. Get Link Hip Hua Hin Hotel
- Address: 41/285, Soi Hua Hin-Huaymongkol 29
- Price: 500,000VND/night
7. Chaba Place
- Address: 27-96 Soi Hua Hin 56 Hua Hin
- Price: 420,000VND/night
8. Daddy’s Home Huahin
- Address: 123, 69 Soi Hua Thanon 15, Nong Kae, Hua Hin District
- Price: 420,000VND/night
9. Hua Hin Home Hill
- Address: 38/205 Soi Moo Baan Rod Fai Fang Tawantok, Hua Hin Soi 88, Tumbol
- Price: 470,000VND/night
10. UR The Private Hua Hin
- Address: 23 598 Soi 94, Hua Hin, Hua Hin District
- Price: 500,000VND/night
Hua Hin is an appealing tourist destination with many new attractions being discovered. When visiting Hua Hin, you'll feel healed by the tranquil, gentle space of the sea breeze, which is completely different from the hustle and bustle of the big shopping centers in Bangkok along with the characteristic vibrancy and dynamism of the capital city.
With your Hua Hin DIY travel guide in hand, why wait any longer to grab your passport and stamp yourself a new visa stamp! Don't forget to check out Klook Blog - the place where a variety of exciting travel activities are updated daily such as: Phuket DIY Travel Experience from A to Z, 7 Suggestions for Animal Lovers' Travel in Phuket, Phuket Travel Hacks for Unlimited Fun on a Small Budget, Bangkok Summer Family Travel Guide, Krabi Travel Experience - Famous World Islands,... and much more.
Are you confident to embark on a trip to Hua Hin, Thailand yet?
