Hua Hin is not only a beach destination. Although the lengthy coastline of Hua Hin is one of the main attractions, this coastal resort has a lot to offer in addition to sunbathing and swimming. The area has a rich golf culture and history. Shopping provides a wonderful chance to explore local specialities, handicrafts, boutiques, night markets, and other interesting things. The food is another main draw, as well as the local communities and their unique culture.
Tee off in Hua Hin
“The destination is very well known for golf tourism on both seaside and mountainside courses and was voted the “Best Golf Destination of Asia” from the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) for two consecutive years.” (TAT News)
Source: https://www.tatnews.org/2020/01/tat-launches-new-hua-hin-thai-authentic-beach-brand/
Golf is part of the local identity in Hua Hin. Its development as a royal seaside escape has contributed to its reputation as a golfing destination. Golfers looking for where to stay in Hua Hin near golf courses, shopping areas or activities can consider a property such as NH Hua Hin, which is located in the heart of the town. You can access several golf courses, including Royal Hua Hin, which is Thailand’s first world-class golf course. Shopping destinations such as Market Village, Bluport and Cicada are also nearby, so you can hop out for an evening of indulgence. The golf course features natural vegetation, creating a sense of a natural habitat rather than an artificial setting.
Shop like a local
“To enjoy a real Thai life experience, the only way is to come to Thailand and live like a local and act like local. When the sun goes down, experience the night markets could be the interesting activities. The night markets offer a carnival like atmosphere with a huge array of goods, snacks, bars and live music to keep everyone in good spirits. They are the best places to find local items even some crafted by skilled artisans; such as, Talat Rot Fai Ratchada in Bangkok, Lat Yai Sunday walking street in Phuket and Cicada Market in Hua Hin.” (TAT News)
Source: https://www.tatnews.org/2018/05/open-to-the-new-shades-product-presentation-by-tat-deputy-governor/
Hua Hin’s markets offer more than souvenirs. One can find clothes, handicrafts, works of art, accessories, food, and local specialities for budget-friendly prices. Hua Hin Night Market is one of the key shopping destinations in the city, offering a great mix of street food and upscale shopping with a nightlife experience. It is one of Thailand’s essential landmarks. Cicada Market is another prominent shopping hub which offers a more creative shopping experience, with an emphasis on handmade goods. Food is an important aspect of Hua Hin’s culinary and entertainment culture and markets offer a great blend of the two, allowing the visitor to both sample local dishes and shop for souvenirs.
A taste of authentic Thai flavours
Hua Hin Night Market is described as “a must for every visitor. This is the most colourful spot in Hua Hin during the night where the market offers a wide variety of food, drinks, desserts, memorable souvenirs. The famous freshly-prepared dishes are Phat Thai, Hoi Thot, fresh seafood, Indian roti bread, coconut ice cream, just to name a few. This market will delight visitors wishing to savour the real taste of Hua Hin.” (Amazing Thailand)
Source: https://www.thailandtourismus.de/fileadmin/user_upload/E_Broschueren/Destinationen/Hua_Hin_01.pdf
Food is one of the most significant ways to explore Hua Hin. The area’s culinary culture goes considerably beyond beachfront dining. Hua Hin Night Market is the perfect place to discover street food. A variety of Thai delicacies and street cuisine can be found in this area. Seafood represents the region’s fishing and can be found in almost every popular dish, such as charcoal-grilled tiger prawns, oyster omelette, and seafood Tom Yum soup. These marketplaces are an insight into the everyday life of the region. Sampling local delicacies offers a chance to witness yet another part of the island’s identity beyond typical sightseeing.
Meet the local side of the city
“The first location in Samo Riang and Poon Suk villages features walls adorned with creative images that reflect Hua Hin’s local way of life, as well as the Thai people’s love for the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX). Themes include a man jumping on water; train station post; local tricycle taxi; boats; man fighting a shark, mermaids and paintings of the late King. The villages are two of Hua Hin’s oldest communities that still follow a traditional Thai way of life located right in the heart of the town centre.” (TAT News)
Source: https://www.tatnews.org/2020/01/tat-launches-new-hua-hin-thai-authentic-beach-brand
Hua Hin’s roots are deeply embedded in the fishing village culture. Its character was shaped long before it became a destination for beachgoers. Khao Tao offers a community-based insight into the region. The village has a history linked with fishing, local produce and the Khao Tao Reservoir. Taking part in Thai silk weaving, textiles, jewellery crafting, and pottery and painting workshops lets visitors witness traditional local handicrafts being formed. Khao Tao features street-art installations which have a connection to the region’s past. The Hua Hin Railway Station is a reminder of a time when the railway helped to put the town on the map.
Conclusion
Golf, markets, food and cultural sights are great options for those looking to experience Hua Hin beyond the sand. Golf combines both sport and relaxation, offering an alternative to a typical beach holiday. Historic courses and the surrounding greenery provide a different kind of experience. By shopping for souvenirs and local handicrafts and trying the street food on offer, a simple evening can become an adventure. Therefore, look beyond the beach for a unique perspective of Hua Hin. Grab the opportunity to play golf, shop at markets, try local dishes and experience the culture and community atmosphere.
