Hua Hin Beaches

Hua Hin Main Beach

Hua Hin itself boasts an uninterrupted 7km stretch of glorious white sand beach that runs from the rocky outcrop by the Hilton hotel to Kao Takiap (Chopstick Mountain). The area around the town entrance to the beach, by the Hilton and Sofitel can get quite busy during the high season and much of it is taken up with small restaurants, their parasols and deck chairs. Along this stretch of the beach you will find Thai massage, horse rides and a number of other vendors. You don’t have to wander far to find quieter spots, especially in the areas between the larger hotels. When the tide is out you can walk all the way to Kao Takiap, which will take around one and a half hours at a steady pace. Roughly half way along, you will find a kite boarding school, jet skis for hire and banana boat rides.

Kao Takiab Beach

The beach just South of Kao Takiap can be accessed by driving along the Petchkasem road, taking the left fork at the flyover and then following the road through the village of Kao Takiap. You will find less foreigners here and there is plenty of space on the wide sands for frisbee (we recommend aerobie) and football. The water is shallow and ideal for bathing. You only have to walk about 10 minutes south to find a completely secluded spot and you might even see the odd Scandinavian naturist (nudity is NOT recommended in Thailand).

Suan Son Beach

Suan Son, which takes its name from the many pine trees that fringe the beach, is about 15 kms south of Hua Hin or 30 minutes walk along the beach from Kao Takiap. It is very popular with locals especially at the weekend when the Bangkok crew come visiting. The sea is cleaner here and there’s plenty of space for activities.

Had Sai Noi

The next prominent feature of the coastline is Kao Tao (Turtle Mountain) which juts out into the ocean. The bay just beyond this outcrop is known as Had Sai Noi. This small beach was traditionally a secluded and deserted spot with a few small, delightful seaside restaurants specializing in very reasonably priced fresh seafood. Recently, a number of developments have begun to spring up in the Kao Tao area so we may see this quiet place become a bit busier of the next couple of years. Nevertheless it’s a nice place for a day trip and there’s a pleasant walk you can take to the sitting Buddha and temple and the top of the hill. To get here by car or taxi, follow the main Petchkasem Road south for about 20 kms and take the signposted turning on the left to Kao Tao. Cross the railway track and take the first right. Follow the road around the lake and just as the road starts to go up the hill, take the road on the left to the beach.

Khao Kalok Beach

Khao Kalok is a fair way out of town but well worth the trip. To get there, drive to Pranburi and head towards Paknampran. Take the second major turning on the right (not the one to Sam Roi Yod) and continue for about 10km. Turn right at the T-Junction, and follow the signs. The journey will take about 40 minutes. The beach is long with a number of excellent restaurants at the far end. If you need to get out of the hot sun you can seek some shade in the hole of the rocky outcrop.

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