South East Asian Trips

Hua Hin is closely associated with Thai royalty, and located on the sunrise side of the Thai Gulf, some 3 hours southwest of Bangkok, are essentially quiet and relaxing seaside resorts ideal for family vacations. Although merely some 25 Km apart, the resorts are each in neighbouring provinces, Cha-am in Phetchaburi, and Hua Hin in Prachuap Khiri Khan. Both enjoy a wealth of satellite attractions, prominent among them national parks and historic cities.

Attractions of Hua Hin

Khao Takiap

This hill marking the southern extent of Hua Hin supports Buddhist temples and offers a commanding view of the resort, particularly early in the morning.

Sea Pine Tree Garden

This is located 8 Km south of HuaHin. A left turn is made at Km 240 on Highway 4 for a distance of half a kilometre. There are restaurants and accommodation facilities. Further details may be obtained from Hua Hin

Pala-U Waterfall

This scenic waterfall, some 60 Km west of Hua Hin, is an increasingly popular destination.

Khao Sam Roi Yot - National Park

This coastal national park, literally translated as 'Three Hundred Peaks', covers more than 24,500 acres. High, thinly vegetated limestone mountains and coastal marshlands overlook several islands. The marshlands support a great variety of waterfowl species and the limestone masses are riddled with popular caves. Accommodation and camping facilities are available.

Prachuap Khiri Khan

Phra Nakhon Khiri Palace, PhetchaburiThis unpretentious and somnolent provincial capital lies 90 Km south of Hua Hin and nestles against a crescent bay with a fine beach. The most prominent landmark is a beachside hillock named Khao Chong Kra Chok (Mirror Mountain) near the provincial office. The hillock supports a Buddhist shrine on the top, which is reached by a climb of some 390 steps. A tribe of mischievous monkeys inhabit the hillock. The summit affords exhilarating views of the rugged coastline to the north, including Sam Roi Yot, and a splendid view of Prachuap Bay.

Golfers Paradise

Golfing opportunities abound in Cha-am and Hua Hin. Indeed, golf is the major sport aside from popular watersports. Some of the courses are well established. Others are recent creations, several having been specially designed by internationally renowned golfers. Major golf courses include:

Special Attraction

Each February, the hilltop Phra Nakhon Khiri palace in Phetchaburi becomes the focal point of a popular fair which features light & sound presentations, bazaars, folk entertainment and other special activities.

Shopping's Paradise

Hua Hin is best known for its cotton products, which come in a wide range of prints and colours, and its dried seafood products which enjoy enduring appeal among those who favour Thai and Chinese cuisine. A nightly street market in Hua Hin is the favourite venue for shoppers. Phetchaburi has long been renowned for the excellence of its Thai-style sweets which include subtle custards and e g g - b a s e d confectionery. Several spe c i a l t y sweet shops are located at the foot of Khao Wang on the northern outskirts of the provincial capital.