Top 10 Must-Visit Attractions in Hua Hin for First-Time Visitors
If you’re heading to Hua Hin for the first time, here are the top 10 things I recommend – a mix of must-sees, hidden gems, and personal favorites from over 15 years of living here. Hua Hin isn’t just beaches – it’s a place full of charm, history, food, and culture.
1. Hua Hin Night Market
This is where Hua Hin comes alive after dark. Expect sizzling street food, fresh seafood BBQ, local crafts, and a buzzing atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to get a taste of Thailand on your first evening in town.
2. Khao Takiab – Monkey Mountain
A short drive south takes you to Khao Takiab, known for its hilltop temple and resident monkeys. Climb the stairs to the top for panoramic sea views and a peaceful break from the beach crowd.
3. Wat Huay Mongkol
This peaceful temple complex is home to the giant statue of Luang Phor Thuad. A sacred site for locals – and worth the 20-minute drive for the atmosphere and surrounding nature.
4. Cicada & Tamarind Markets
Only open on weekends, but absolutely worth it. These evening markets are packed with creative food stalls, handmade crafts, and live performances. Cicada is a bit artsy, Tamarind more about food – both are great.
5. Visit the Iconic Hua Hin Railway Station
One of Thailand’s oldest and most beautiful train stations. Great for a photo stop and a little taste of the royal history that helped put Hua Hin on the map.
6. Pala-U Waterfall
For a real change of scenery, head to this waterfall deep inside Kaeng Krachan National Park. Bring swimwear and good shoes – it’s a cool jungle escape from the heat.
Explore the Pala-U Waterfall tour
7. Golf at Pineapple Valley or Black Mountain
Hua Hin is Thailand’s golf capital. Black Mountain is world-famous, and Pineapple Valley (formerly Banyan) is stunning too – both less than 20 minutes from town.
View our Hua Hin golf packages
8. Vana Nava Water Jungle
Asia’s first ‘water jungle’ – a massive, modern waterpark that’s fun for all ages. Slides, lazy rivers, and even a skywalk with city views. Ideal if you’re travelling with kids – or just want to cool off.
9. Thai Cooking Classes & Street Food in Hua Hin
Hua Hin has fantastic food – from beachside BBQs to night market snacks and authentic cooking classes. Don’t miss spicy som tam (papaya salad), grilled prawns, and mango sticky rice.
10. Best Day Trips from Hua Hin
For first-timers, a private day trip is one of the best ways to discover more. We offer custom tours to Bangkok, River Kwai, national parks, hidden temples, and more – all with your own driver and local guide.
Bonus: Stay somewhere special
Hua Hin has everything from budget to boutique and beachfront luxury. If you’re not sure where to stay, check our handpicked list of places we recommend – we know them all personally.
See top-rated hotels in Hua Hin
Final tip
Try not to cram too much in. Hua Hin is best enjoyed at a slow pace. Stroll the beach, explore a temple, enjoy a lazy lunch with a sea view – and let the town grow on you.
Need help planning your stay? Feel free to reach out – we live here, and we’re happy to help you make the most of your time in Hua Hin.
