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things to do in Hua Hin but if you just want to see the highlights or top attractions of interest to you, 3 days or so is enough. Although it would be best to budget 4 to 5 days to get through everything on the list at a leisurely place.
Just in case some of you are short on time, here are 5 itineraries from day trip to 5-day!
> The itinerary doesn’t go into depth on the attractions, you can see my top things to do in Hua Hin for that
Table of Contents
How to go to Hua Hin from Bangkok
Wondering how to get to Hua Hin? Most people looking to get there would do so from Bangkok, though you can also travel up from the south and make a stop there. Hua Hin has its own airport, but it mostly service flights from Kuala Lumpur, Chiang Mai, and Udon Thani.
I like to book my transfer using 12GoAsia because it saves me from using cash and also allows me to book well in advance and not through my hostel.
Bangkok to Hua Hin Distance
The driving distance between Bangkok to 198.7 km. It takes around 2 hours and 36 minutes but in reality the driving time is often longer due to traffic, especially when exiting Bangkok city.
Bangkok to Hua Hin by Bus
There are two main points for buses from Bangkok to Hua Hin: Khao San Road or the Suvarnabhumi Airport. Unless you are staying in the old town or near Khao San Road, it’s easier to get to the airport in my opinion. I was staying in Ratchathewi and the BTS and Skytrain got me to the airport in half an hour or so.
The bus was surprisingly spacious and comfortable and the 4 hours flew by. That said, we spent almost an hour alone getting out of Bangkok, so it’s definitely not the best choice if you have limited time.
Bangkok to Hua Hin Train
While slower than the bus, the train is actually a cheaper option and the rail station in Hua Hin is in the center of town. Trains depart from Hua Lamphong in Bangkok and run roughly every 1-2 hours and take 4 to 4.5 hours.
Bangkok to Hua Hin minibus
The minibus options for Bangkok to Hua Hin give you more departure time options but it’s known to be more cramped. It’s less suited for those with big luggage. You can set off from Ekkamai, Asoke, or Mochit.
Bangkok to Hua Hin Taxi
If you are in a group, a private transfer directly to and from your accommodation is the fastest way. Especially if you are not near any of the bus or train stations.
Driving Bangkok to Hua Hin
If you’re a confident driver and prefer to make your trip from the capital by self-drive. It’s likely going to take 4 hours accounting for traffic. You’ll find better deals renting a car in Hua Hin locally, otherwise, it’s probably easiest in terms of pick up and driving to do it at the airport.
Getting around Hua Hin
Hua Hin has a very simple layout of a city linear to the beach either side of a main road. However, it has very limited public transport options with no grab bike, only grab car available.
Getting a grab is also not the easiest so the best option is to rent a car or motorbike, or plan to hang out by the beach or join day tours. The only public transport is the songthaew and you can see the routes here.
Hua Hin Itinerary Suggestion
How many days should I stay in Hua Hin?
The optimal time to spend in Hua Hin depends on what you want to do. There are plenty of things to do in Hua Hin but if you just want to see the highlights or top attractions of interest to you, 3 days or so is enough. Although it would be best to budget 4 to 5 days to get through everything on the list at a leisurely pace.
Just in case some of you are short on time, here are 5 itineraries from a day trip to 5-day:
Hua Hin Day Tour
Some people might opt for a Hua Hin tour from Bangkok, but given that traffic often makes the trip a 4 hour journey one way, I would say that it’s best to spend more time in Hua Hin if you can.
Otherwise, a day trip to Hua Hin means it’d be similar to a trip going down from Bangkok to Hua Hin. If you have no idea where to visit, there are tours available like
Alternatively, you can opt to get a car with a driver and plan your own itinerary. Although the drivers often have recommendations for you. But those tend to be more touristy destinations!
Bangkok to Hua Hin Day trip set off time
In order to make sure you have enough time in Hua Hin, I recommend setting off at 9am, and picking a day that’s not Friday to Sunday. This should help you avoid traffic jam. Although it would also mean you won’t get to visit the Cicada Market.
Tham Khao Luang
Tham Khao Luang is 2 hours from Bangkok and 1 hour from Hua Hin. It’s a temple inside 3 connected caves most famous for the way sunlight streams through an opening in the ceiling – so it’s best to visit around noon.
It has historical significance as it was a favorite meditation site for King Rama IV. Be prepared for a short climb up then down to reach the cave!
Khao Wang
Khao Wang, also known as Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park, is a historical palace complex situated on a hill in Phetchaburi. Built by King Rama IV in the 19th century, the complex includes royal residences, temples, and a museum.
The park offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and is accessible by a funicular railway or a steep walk. The blend of Thai, Western, and Chinese architectural styles in the buildings is fascinating, and is generally a quiet place to take in the stunning view of Phetchaburi.
Hua Hin town center
Hua Hin town center is a charming mix of old and new with a relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals. You can see my post here on the top attractions in Hua Hin.
Hua Hin Beach or Beach Club
Hua Hin Beach is a long stretch of sandy shoreline that offers a perfect spot for relaxation and water activities.
There are plenty some beachfront restaurants with loungers. If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, consider visiting one of the beach clubs like Sundance Day Club, which offers luxurious amenities, stunning views, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Kite-surfing in Hua Hin
If you are adventurous and well planned, you can probably book a short kite-surfing lesson in Hua Hin since you have the luxury of a private car! I have covered more about it in my article on things to do in Hua Hin, along with other town center attractions.
Hua Hin 2 day Itinerary
If you can make your trip to Hua Hin 2 days, I would recommend it for some rest! Here’s what my itinerary suggestion would be:
Day 1 in Hua Hin
Arrive in Hua Hin
Whether you are taking a bus, train, or private car, drop your bags and relax first when you get to Hua Hin! If you are coming directly from the airport, my personal suggestion would be the bus as it’s comfortable (or return with the bus)
Visit Chopstick Hills
You can get a Songtheaw from the mainroad to go down to Chopstick Hill. Taxi app can be fickle in Hua Hin, I recommend you have both Grab and Bolt, use them to know the rough fare if they don’t work, and see if the hotel can call you a taxi.
Chopstick Hills is about 7 km from the town center, and the hill offers stunning views of the coastline and the town below. You can also visit Wat Khao Takiab, a temple with a large golden Buddha statue overlooking the sea. Watch out for the monkeys as they can be quite vicious
Relax on Hua Hin Beach
Hua Hin Beach is perfect for unwinding with a scenic surrounding. The beach stretches for several kilometers and offers soft sand and calm waters with aesthetic rocks. ideal for swimming and sunbathing. There are plenty of beachfront cafes and bars where you can grab a refreshing drink or a light snack.
Night Market or seafood dinner
Hua Hin is much more lively in the evening with night markets popping up and people coming out to the pleasant evening air. You can grab a bite at the night market or have some fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants around town.
See here for where to eat in Hua Hin.
Day 2 in Hua Hin
Day trip in Khao Sam Roi Yat National Park (or Pranburi)
Start your day with a trip to Khao Sam Roi Yat National Park, located about an hour or so drive from Hua Hin. This park is known for its dramatic limestone mountains, extensive wetlands, and beautiful beaches. Highlights include the Phraya Nakhon Cave with its iconic royal pavilion.
If you want a more chill outdoor experience, Pranburi offers beautiful beaches, mangrove forests, and a relaxed atmosphere. And you can combine it with cafe hopping.
Cafe hop in Hua Hin
Depending on how long you spend at Khao Sam Roi Yat National park (and how tired you are), you can also go cafe hopping. There are many cute and relaxing sea-side cafes in Hua Hin, more on the cafes in Hua Hin here.
Hua Hin 3 day Itinerary
Follow the 2 day itinerary and you can do both Khao Sam Roi Yat National Park and Pranburi with cafe hopping!
Hua Hin 4 day Itinerary
Day 1 – arrive and visit Chopstick Hills
Arrive in Hua Hin, visit Chopstick Hills and relax on Hua Hin Beach. Visit a night market or seafood restaurant for dinner.
Day 2 – Khao Sam Roi Yat National Park
Day trip in Khao Sam Roi Yat National Park!
Day 3 – Pranburi and Kui Buri
Pranburi Forest Park
Begin with a visit to the Pranburi Forest Park, where you can take a leisurely walk through the mangrove trails and enjoy the tranquil scenery. Remember to apply and keep your mosquito repellent on you!
Cafe lunch
Personally, I recommend 1d+ Day Artist since it’s also located in Pranburi. You can rest under the shade during the hottest part of the day while sipping on juices and there is plenty of parking.
7 King Monument
Drive to 7 King Monument, which is en-route towards Kui Buri Elephant Safari. The monument is free to visit and a tribute to seven of Thailand’s most influential kings.
Kui Buri Elephant Safari
Kui Buri National Park is known for being the place to spot wild elephants in Thailand. It’s about 1.5 hours drive from Hua Hin. There are other animals in the park but you’ll most likely find boars.
The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon. It’s harder to visit as a solo traveller as you have to pay for the Jeep to go on the safari along with the entrance fee and tipping the guide.
Cost: for 2 people, it was a total of 1250 baht. It’s cheaper to share the Jeep, which is 800 baht with 200 baht entrance fee per person. I can’t remember where the extra 50 baht fits!
Note: it’s encouraged to tip your guide and driver here
Address: 3J4G+Q9, Hat Kham, Kui Buri District, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77150, Thailand
Opening times: 8:00 – 16:30
It’s free to park at the Pran Buri National Park.
Day 4 – Phetchuburi and leave
Day trip to Phetchuburi before leaving.
Hua Hin 5 day Itinerary
The itinerary remains the same as day 4, but for the extra day, you can:
Pala-U Waterfall Day Trip
Take a day trip to Pala-U Waterfall, located in the lush Kaeng Krachan National Park. This waterfall is one of the highest in Thailand, with 16 levels of cascading water. The trek to the waterfall is a beautiful hike through dense jungle, where you might spot various wildlife, including monkeys and butterflies.
The trail is well-marked up to the first five levels, but it becomes more challenging as you go higher. Make sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the waterfall and take a refreshing dip in the natural pools. The serene environment and the sound of cascading water make this a perfect spot to relax and connect with nature
Where to stay in Hua Hin blog 40/25
Budget to Midrange:
I stayed at the Moon Hostel, which is right by the clock tower. The facilities are good and clean, but the vibe is not very friendly. The day receptionist was better, but the night one was mostly preoccupied by her phone. The signs around are all about warning and fines, which didn’t add to it being welcoming. There’s also no lift/elevator, but there are 4 floors so you would have to carry your luggage up.
A non-dorm choice is EU – Bakery Guesthouse, which also has no lift but is otherwise highly rated for its spacious and clean room. Anchan Hotel & Spa is another great choice but it is nearer to the nightlife which means it doesn’t get quiet until after 1am.
Splurge: Hua Hin Marriott Resort and Spa has its own space near the center and beach with a spa and a pool. Another nearby choice is Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa with similar facilities.
