Hua Hin Beach

Hua Hin Beach is a long, gently sloping sand beach on the Gulf of Thailand in Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, 199 kilometres south-south-west of Bangkok by road. Often called Thailand's first beach resort, it suits families, older travellers and anyone wanting a calm royal-era seaside town within a few hours of the capital.

From Klai Kangwon Palace to Khao Takiab

The beach stretches from near Klai Kangwon Palace in the north to Khao Takiab hill in the south. Khao Takiab, topped by a temple, separates it from Suan Son Pradiphat Beach further south.

Railway, royals and the 1921 Railway Hotel

The Southern Railway reached the town in the early 20th century, and the royal family, officials and Bangkok's elite followed. In 1921 Prince Purachatra built the Railway Hotel close to the beach, and it still stands. King Prajadhipok (Rama VII) built the summer palace later named Klai Kangwon, far from worries. Hua Hin became its own district in 1949, and King Bhumibol Adulyadej lived here full-time from 2004 to 2006.

Sunrise, horse rides and jet skis

The sand is fine and pale. The beach faces east, so sunrise over the gulf is the time to come. Horse riding along the shore is its best-known activity, and jet skis and banana boats run in season.