Hua Hin

Approximately 4 hours away south from Bangkok (200 km) is the coastal city of Hua Hin. Due to the proximity of Bangkok it is a popular destination for Thai people who want to escape the busy city life in the weekend. Hua means head in the Thai language and Hin means stone. Therefore, Hua Hin means “ Stone Head “. This name comes with a reason; The beaches of Hua Hin are littered with rocks and stones. In the south of Hua Hin is a hotel with the name Stone Head Hua Hin. There is also a local rock band called Stone Head Band which are performing regularly in the bars of the city. Throughout history it has been a popular residence for the Thai royal family. Klai Kangwon Palace (‘Far From Worries’) is the (summer) residence of the present king of Thailand. It was build in the 1920s and is open to the public for visits. The Royal allure of the city has lead to the development of luxury golf  courses and spa treatment resorts. The city can be  reached by bus and train. There is a nice night market and a restricted area for nightlife. The small city is close to Kaeng Krachan National Park and Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park. The popular Pa La-U waterfalls in Kaeng Krachan are approximately 1,5 hours driving from Hua-Hin.

Game fishing is a popular tourist activity as well.

There are two water fun parks in Hua Hin; Black Mountain and Vana Nava. Both have a huge swimming pool wit huge spectacular water rides and slides.

The main tourist area for foreigners (farrang) is located between the railway station and the Hilton Hotel. This area is well described in the Lonely Planet and for a lot of people the only part of Hua Hin that they see. In the night there are many bars with girls trying to tempt foreigners to spend money.

On the hill where the temple Wat Khao Takiap is located is also a viewpoint. From here you have a great view over the city.

Thai people (and many foreigners to) are addicted to shopping. The Venezia Hua Hin is a theme shopping park in the style of Venice, Italy. Another shopping venue is The Tamarind Market, very close to the Cicada market.

Backgrounds and more info:
Detailed information on WikiTravel.
Travel story from Learn Thai with Mod.
Travel story from Thailand Red Cat.