there is fun to be found and several establishments open past the official 02:00 closing. With an annual jazz festival happening in Hua Hin, it’s no surprise that there’s also quite a lot of live music to be enjoyed, from cover bands to authentic Thai acts. And one thing you definitely won’t find back home is ladyboy cabaret Blue Angel. Check this out for 60 minutes of drama, beauty, elegance and glam, as well as dazzling insight into Thailand’s famous third sex.
Hua Hin’s nighlife scene is growing gradually, with new places opening up and widening the scope for visitors. There are a couple of tried and tested venues that have been around for a while – being popular with both locals and visitors – and we’ve lined them up for you here…
Billy's Bar & Restaurant (Hua Hin Bazaar) This place exudes pub atmosphere, and has lots of Brits in attendance. Food, darts, sports TV and all the other things that make for a good pub.
Blue Angel Cabaret (Soi Bintaban)A nightly transvestite show at 20:00 and 21:45 and a midnight show on weekends. Probably different than anything you'll find back home.
Crawford's Irish Bar (Poolsuk Road)Giant TV's, lots of drinks, and highly regarded pub grub. Popular with local expats and suitable for families.
Hua Hin Brewing Company Bar (next to Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa)Decorated like a rustic fisherman’s house, this is Hua Hin’s busiest disco by far. Live music and DJs.
Johnnie Walkers Sports & Music Bar (Selakam Road)Good pub food and lots of promotions. Popular with expats.
Jungle Juice (Selakam Road)Pool and dart leagues, sports on the TV and lots of local expats downing beer and eating good pub grub.
P and P Bar (Poolsuk Road)Lots of attractive girls here, and pool and 9-ball are free.
Octopussy (Selakam Road)Popular beer bar with waitresses dressed in risqué school uniforms. Sports can always be found on the TV.
Satchmo Club (Main Lobby of the Sofitel Central Hua Hin)A live Filipino band play here every night. Satchmo's is also a great excuse for visiting this classic hotel, reputed to have been Hua Hin’s first luxury hotel.
During March, April and May, steady southerly breezes blow throughout much of Thailand. The Thai's, never one's to miss a chance for a good time, have responded to this natural phenomenon by developing a tradition of flying kites. When the winds arrive, arrays of beautiful kites appear to strut their stuff and engage opponents in combat. No where is this more apparent than in the open spaces around Cha-am and at the Thailand International Kite Festival.
Now in its tenth year, the festival, which is scheduled in early March, features kites in all their colourful glory. There are stunt kites, big kites, little kites, high tech kites, traditional Thai kites, and displays of international kites. There are a variety of contests, games, and activities -all involving kites. But the festival is more than an event surrounding kites. Cha-am and its neighbours gussy up for the event and welcome visitors with a variety of opportunities for shopping, sightseeing, and simply having a good time.
Hua Hin Jazz Festival
June is the time of the year when 'jazz on the beach' occurs at the annual Hua Hin Jazz Festival. The popular event attracts world class jazz musicians from Thailand and all over the world, including performers like Lazaro Valdes from Cuba and Bill Bruford from the UK. Stages are set up right on the beach and performances take place each evening. There are also a variety of booths set up offering everything from a chance to get your hair braided to an opportunity to buy Thai handicrafts. Sponsors offer a variety of promotions, including the chance to win valuable gifts. This is an event that encompasses all of Hua Hin and provides and opportunity to have a good time and enjoy jazz on the beach.
Hua Hin Vintage Car Rally
Hoteliers, the Vintage Car Club of Thailand, and the Tourist Authority of Thailand annually sponsor a 'parade' of vintage and classic cars starting at the Sofitel Central in Bangkok and ending in at the Sofitel Central Hua Hin Resort. The cars, with drivers and passengers decked out in 1920's attire, make the 225km promenade in December of each year. The festivities culminate with a 1920's party at the Sofitel, which appropriately is a Victorian-style structure built in the 1920's.
Built during the reign of King Rama VI, and only a short distance from the centre of town, Hua Hin's railway station and the adjacent Royal Waiting Room are attractive and brightly painted wooden buildings that are Thai in concept and design, but somehow manage to have a 'Victorian' feel. Even if you don't arrive at the resort by train, go and have a look.
Apart from celebrating Thailand’s most famous festivals like Songkran (the Thai New Year or Water Festival) and Loy Krathong (The Festival of Lights), Hua Hin also plays host to a number of other fantastic events. These include world-class performances at the annual Hua Hin Jazz Festival, the International Thailand Kite Festival and a Vintage Car Rally, both also held annually. So, if you’re planning to head out this way, with a bit of planning your visit can even coincide with one of these fun events.
more detail
Several hotels along the beach have concessions offering various types of water sports. Wind surfing, sailboats and parasailing equipment are available, and banana boat rides can be arranged. Hua Hin, with its strong northeasterly winds and clean water, is also becoming well known for windsurfing. Fortunately, there are not many water scooters and jet skis, which can be a hazard. Although there is a dive shop in town, the shallow water around Hua Hin is not really known for coral reefs. The beach is widest south of town, an ideal spot for a game of football or frisbee. ( More Activities & Fun Stuff )
During the day, you are well covered for with all kinds of light meals sold by the vendors on the beach, and with many restaurants nearby too (Thai, international and fast food). All of the large hotels that line the beach have several restaurants and coffee shops, and many of the guesthouses provide more than just basic Thai meals and sandwiches. In the evening, hotels offer buffets with Thai or international themes, often accompanied by traditional Thai dancing. To truly get a taste of what Hua Hin has to offer your taste buds though, explore the restaurants in town or, even better, the local markets.
Armed with your towel, sun-block and a big bottle of water, all you really need is a deckchair and beach umbrella, which can be rented from several vendors along the beach. Note that there are no shower or bathroom facilities on the beach. Vendors selling refreshments – water, soft drinks, ice cream, fruit and all kinds of snack-type eats – makes it easy to remain nourished. It’s also quick stroll to the town and nearby shops, where you can find all that your heart desires.
To the south of Khao Takiap is Takiap Bay, a 5km strip that includes the beaches of Hat Takiap, Suan Son and Khao Tao. These beaches are more isolated and are fronted by numerous hotels and resorts. Hat Takiap is the most popular of the three and is easily reached by ‘songthaew’ (local hop-on taxi) from the centre of Hua Hin. It is also the site of a small fleet of fishing boats and a collection of excellent seafood restaurants where you can enjoy sumptuous seafood at a fraction of what it would cost back home.
Hua Hin’s other charms include an array in interesting sights and attractions to explore, such is the Summer Palace, a beautiful train station, local markets, a butterfly sanctuary, vantage points, waterfalls, scenic walks – to mention but a few (have a look at our What To See page for all the highlights). Overall, Hua Hin is a fantastic beach destination that has all the ingredients of a memorable holiday – whether you’re travelling alone, with a partner, kids or even your mother-in-law!
Hua Hin, which literally means ‘stone head’ in Thai, is the oldest beach resort in Thailand. It’s also one of the most popular, especially for visitors from Bangkok looking for an alternative to Pattaya. The reasons are evident: It’s a wholesome, seaside town with friendly people, endless stretches of white sandy beaches, the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Thailand, world-class resorts, fantastic eco-adventures and sprawling golf estates set against the backdrop of spectacular scenery. And that’s just a small tease of what this charming town has to offer. Factor in its close proximity to Bangkok – less than three hours by car – and it’s no wonder that it’s so fast-growing in the popularity stakes.
It’s extremely unlikely that anything will go wrong during your trip to Pattaya. However, even those in paradise aren’t immune from the occasional crime, accident or bout of illness. Alongside a few common-sense tips to help you avoid nasty mishaps, here are the contact numbers you’ll need if something should happen.
Warnings
The usual warnings when travelling everywhere. Be aware of your belongings in crowded places like buses or bars and try not be suckered by investment touts, gem sellers, etc., Make sure you bargain and agree the price before getting on a bus, hiring a jet-ski, motorbike or taxi. Condoms are of course, essential.
Essential Numbers
Pattaya Code: 038Police: 191 038 428 233Tourist Police: 195, 1699, 038 429 371Marine Police: 038 311285Tourism Authority of Thailand: 038 427 667Lost/Stolen Credit CardsAMEX 12273 9285VISA/Mastercard 02263 2091/2Diners Club 02238 3660Lost PropertyTo validate any insurance claim you must make a report at the Police Station. Standard report cost 10-20 Baht.
Medical
Many hospital out-patient clinics can be visited for general health problems. Visits usually cost between 200-600 Baht for doctors fees - medicine extra. Imported medicine will generally cost a lot more than locally produced medicine.
Bangkok Pattaya Hospital301 Moo 6, Sukhumvit Rd, Tel 038 427751/5 - The largest of Pattaya's hospitals.
Pattaya International ClinicPattaya Soi 4,5. Established clinic with a lot of experience with tourists.
The Pattaya Marathon is an international event attracting runners from all over the world as well as hundreds of local runners. Held in July of each year it features a full marathon, a half-marathon, a quarter marathon and a wheel chair marathon. To beat the heat the event usually begins at 04:30. In spite of the early hour, Pattaya's streets are lined with spectators cheering on the competitors.
The more adventurous - some would say foolhardy - transport themselves on a motorbike for B150 to B200 baht a day for a 100/125 cc model. If you're a frustrated 'biker', a 750 cc or 1000 bike can be rented for B500 to B2500 a day.
Renters are expected to have a valid driver's license. This means either a Thai license or an international license. The rental agency won't check for the license, but the police might and if you don't have one it will cost B200. Helmets are mandatory and the fastest way to get stopped by the police is to not wear one. Thai law requires motorbikes to be operated with the headlight on and Thai spec bikes have them permanently illuminated. Accidents are common in Pattaya; driving defensively is the only way to survive and if you have never used a motorbike previously, it is best to learn elsewhere.
Car rentals are available from both local and international companies like Budget +66 (03) 871-0717, Hertz +66 (03) 871-6693, Avis +66 (03) 836-1627, National +66 (03) 841-125 /6. The most popular rental vehicle is a Suzuki jeep. They rent for about B1000 from locals and more if using one of the international big guys. As with a motorbike you will need a valid license although local companies rarely ask for them. On the other hand, if you are in an accident, they will tell you your insurance is invalid because you didn't have a license.
Taxis
Since Pattaya is a frequent destination for taxis from Bangkok, cabbies will often take fares in Pattaya until they find someone heading back to the Big Mango. Taxis are particularly useful if you are travelling more than a couple of blocks, but you'll have to negotiate a price. There are also cars and mini-vans available in Pattaya for longer trips into surrounding areas.
Most of Pattaya Beach’s hotels, clubs, bars and shops are condensed into an area that spans little more than a few kilometres, so it’s perfectly possible to get around entirely on foot. However, the transport facilities here are so regular, reliable and affordable that you’ll probably see little point. Getting to anyone of the nearby beach areas, like Jomtien or Naklua, is also a cinch.
Songthaew
The most common form of transport in Pattaya is a songthaew, a dark blue pick-up truck with two benches in the back and a cover on top. Called 'baht buses' by most people, the official fare within Pattaya is B5, but foreigners are expected to pay B10. Although two tier pricing irritates many people, fighting the system probably isn't worth the effort. The fixed fare only applies when the songthaew is following a set route like a bus. If you want it to take you somewhere off its route, you'll have to negotiate a price.
The most frequently used route is a circular one along Beach Road, then left on South Pattaya Road to Second Road where it again turns left and travels parallel to Beach Road. When it reaches the Dolphin Circle roundabout, it travels back to Beach Road and begins the journey again. At Dolphin Circle some songthaews head to Naklua Beach and others up North Pattaya Road to the a/c bus terminal and Sukhumvit Road. Songthaews from the North Pattaya Road bus station to points along Beach Front and Second Road are B20. Songthaews to Jomtien can be boarded at the intersection of South Pattaya and Second Road.
For trips up and down Sukhumvit Road (the main highway to Bangkok) including trips to and from the airport at U-Taphao, the songthaew are white and cost B20. Songthaew from the North Pattaya Road bus station to points along Beach Front and Second Road are B20.
Motorbike Taxi
Pattaya is chocablok with easy to identify motorbike taxis. The operators wear colourful vests and can be flagged down as the cruise the streets or camp on street corners chatting and playing checkers.
The tariff is usually between B30 and B40 for trips within Pattaya, an amount that cheaper than chartering a songthaew. On the other hand, a songthaew is safer as there is a wall of metal between you and oblivion.
According to one of Thailand's leading property developers, Raimon Land, the combined value of the condominium sector in Pattaya represents 2.5 billion baht (USD 65 million) in the first half of 2006. And, to demonstrate the company's confidence in the Pattaya real estate sector, Raimon Land launched its second prestigious condominium project in November 2006.
Pattaya is an international playground of note, with the rare distinction of being both a beach destination and having all the creature comforts of a major metropolis. The delights of sun, sea and sand, combined with outstanding entertainment, commercial and tourist attractions, have made this formerly sleepy fishing village a big winner amongst expats from all over the globe and city dwellers from Bangkok - a mere two hours or so away - seeking the perfect retirement spot or weekend getaway. Real estate in Pattaya has been one of the fastest growing and most sustainable industries, and the number of property developments currently underway is a clear indicator that this trend is set to continue.
There are many places to eat in Jomtien. That said, the range of food on offer isn’t quite as diverse or delectable as in Pattaya Beach. No-frills expatriate run restaurants and bars serving European and Thai cuisine abound. Swiss, British, German, Dutch, Indian, Chinese and Russian it’s all here. Along the busy northern seafront parade are lots of seafood restaurants. And every hotel has a restaurant or two catering to its guests and visitors.
Connoisseurs more given to formal dining will probably be prepared to venture outside Jomtien. You should check out Reviews of Pattaya's Best Restaurants for suggestions. If not, there are a few Jomtien gems anyhow, some among the best Pattaya has to offer:
Brunos
Long established European restaurant, formerly home to a Michelin chef (Chateau Dale Plaza, Thep Phrara Road)
Deano's Wine Bar and Bistro
Gourmet European cuisine and Thai Fusion. Outdoor terrace and extensive wine list too (Jomtien Beach Road, 75m south of Soi Chaiyaphruek)
Pinnacle and Meridian
Revolving Restaurant Slowly revolving views over Jomtien Beach accompanies its sumptuous foods (52, 53 or 54th floor of Pattaya Park Tower, 345 Jomtien Beach)
The Grill House
Steak and seafood's and romantic dining on the beach (Rabbit Resort, Dongtan Beach, Jomtien)
Rim Talay Seafood
First-rate seafood in a pleasant seafront setting (between Soi 8 and 9, Jomtien Beach Road)
From curbside cuisine and greasy burgers to five-star gourmet, Pattaya has it all. The range of food available here is as diverse as the people who flock here. As easily as you can mingle with Europeans, Russians, Middle Eastern people, Americans, Asians and of course Thais in Pattaya, you can enjoy food originating from their homelands. Everything from schnitzel, falafels and kebabs, to British pub grub, homely Italian pasta and fresh seafood can be found in the city's eclectic restaurants, many of which are run by expats who've set up shop here and brought their culinary know-how with them.
There's a lot of competition for your business so prices are generally very competitive. Fast food, like every corner of the modern world these days, is also widely available. McDonalds, KFC, Burger King, Pizza Hut and Subway are all in attendance. Try the Royal City Garden shopping mall (Beach Road) for your processed food fix.
A tad surprising considering the numbers living in shorts and vests here is that there are many excellent upscale restaurants featuring starched tablecloths and immaculate service alongside superb cuisine. Expect to pay accordingly though (read Patttaya's Best Restaurant Reviews for information about where to find top cuisine). Pattaya's many five-star hotels are a great choice. Try the Cantonese cuisine at the 'The Peak'in the Dusit Resort Pattaya. It's on the top floor of the hotel and has a breathtaking view across the bay. The Royal Cliff Beach Hotel is also a great choice. The doyenne of Pattaya's luxury hotels has no less than ten unique restaurants, including The Maharani (mouthwatering Indian cuisine), Larn Thong (authentic Thai) and Rossini (superior Italian). In fact, you'll find that pretty much every hotel worth its salt has a restaurant serving decent cuisine in an affable setting.
Another great, as well as educational option in Pattaya is street food. Choose carefully (ideally somewhere busy where the food is cooked freshly in front of you), and you can enjoy exotic cuisine in a no-frills al fresco setting 'and usually for less than 50 baht! Roaming vendors and temporary stalls sell noodles, grilled meats, seafood, fresh fruit and other oddities all across town.
Where to Eat in Pattaya Beach Area
With something new to eat every few steps, just walking around usually stirs up many mouthwatering ideas. These are by no means the final word, but it's always helpful to have some suggestions:
Try Ali Baba for excellent Indian tandoori cuisine (Central Pattaya Road, opposite Nova Lodge Hotel)
Alt Heidelberg: sausage and sauerkraut on Beach road (273 Beach Road)
Bob's Burger: big burgers! (South Pattaya Road)
Cafe New Orleans: Cajun ribs and a good wine list (Soi Pattayaland 2)
Head to renowned Bruno's for classy French cuisine and an extensive wine-list (Chateau Dale Plaza, Thappraya Road)
Ciao: fresh pasta, homely atmosphere. (Walking St 03871 0805)
Food Wave: Stylish international food court with views out to sea (third floor Royal Garden Plaza, Beach Road)
Henry J. Beans: Pricey Tex-Mex but excellent steaks (Beach Road, near Amari Orchid Resort)
Hopf Brew House: Great pasta, Neapolitan pizzas and home-brewed German beer (219 Beach Rd)
Laughing Cow: Decent steakhouse (Second Road, between Soi 7 and 8)
Lobster Pot: Lobster and seafood (228 Walking Street)
Mantra: Mouthwatering Japanese, Indian, Thai or Mediterranean in this hip, stylish restaurant and bar (North Beach Road, near Amari Orchid Resort)
The Montien Hotel: Great value Mediterranean, BBQ & Seafood or International theme buffets in a luxurious resort setting. Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings respectively (Beach or Second Road, just north of Central Pattaya Road)
Nam Sing Restaurant: Bird's Nest and, if you're a controversialist, Shark Fin Soup (Second Road)
Pak Boong Loi Faa: Flying vegetables at this popular Thai restaurant aimed at Thais (North Road)
PIC Kitchen: Divine traditional Thai cuisine while seated on teak wood floors inside a classic Thai pavilion (255 Soi 5)
Rosie O'Grady's: Fine Pub grub including fish and chips, plus Thai, curries and Italian (Soi 7)
Siam Elephant : Traditional Thai cuisine served in a ravishing al fresco setting (Siam Bayshore Hotel, Walking Street)
Stone Oven: Gorgeous French baguettes, Danish pastries and more rise from within this café's imported Italian stone ovens (Beach Road, corner of Soi 6)
Subway: Devour a foot-long sandwich at these four locations (South Pattaya Road near Walking Street, Beach Road, Second Road opposite Soi 1, Central Pattaya Road on Carrefour ground floor)
Sugar Hut: A classic Thai restaurant useful for making an impression 'and the food's good too! (Thappraya Rd, towards Jomtien Beach 0385 1686)
Toscana: Green gardened beachfront trattoria with antipasti, pasta, pizza and more 'all mama's finest! (Beach Road, between Soi 6/1 and Soi Tropicana)
Vientiene Kitchen (Lao, Thai) : Great seafood at low prices served Thai and Lao style outdoors. (Pattaya Second Rd)
Morning After Revivers
For those who can't handle noodles for breakfast, especially with a hangover, there's an alternative. Pattaya Beach offers lots of good places to help you get into recovery mode, from great British fry-ups to top-grade bagels and gourmet coffee.
Baywatch Café : Excellent breakfasts, reliable coffee and beach views (325/6 Beach Road)
Greg's Kitchen: Enjoy a full English fry-up and quick service, all day! (22 Second Road, opposite Soi 6)
Rosie O'Grady's: Their Superman Breakfast is the ultimate hangover cure-all (Soi 7)
Au Bon Pain:Quality bagels, croissants and sandwiches at a reasonable price (Royal Garden Plaza, ground floor)
Shenanigans: Excellent full English breakfast alongside the morning papers. Free Cappuccino refills (218 Second Road)Pig and Whistle: Gargantuan English breakfasts in an authentic British pub with comfy sofas (Soi 7, Beach Road)
Superb food is just about everywhere in Thailand and Pattaya is no exception. From street vendors to five star gourmet dining - you'll find it in Pattaya. Food from every country and cuisine - Thai, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, French, Italian, German, or Scandinavian, Pattaya will cater both to your taste and, your pocket.
Dine al fresco for under 50 Baht. There are literally dozens of food vendors and noodle stalls where you can dine on noodles, fried chicken fried rice and local favourites around Pattaya's main streets.
If you like more comfort, Pattaya has so many excellent local restaurants you'll be spoilt for choice. Fancy Cajun styl
e spare ribs or a beef enchilada, fresh pasta or fresh seafood straight from the tank? It's a tough choice, so we've selected just a few....to give you a taste...
Dining in Pattaya Beach
From curbside cuisine and greasy burgers to five-star gourmet, Pattaya has it all. The range of food available here is as diverse as the people who flock here. As easily as you can mingle with Europeans, Russians, Middle Eastern people, Americans, Asians and of course Thais in Pattaya, you can enjoy food originating from their homelands. Everything from schnitzel, falafels and kebabs, to British pub grub, homely Italian pasta and fresh seafood can be found in the city's eclectic restaurants, many of which are run by expats who've set up shop here and brought their culinary know-how with them. (Read More...)
Dining in Jomtien Beach
There are many places to eat in Jomtien. That said, the range of food on offer isn’t quite as diverse or delectable as in Pattaya Beach. No-frills expatriate run restaurants and bars serving European and Thai cuisine abound. Swiss, British, German, Dutch, Indian, Chinese and Russian it’s all here. Along the busy northern seafront parade are lots of seafood restaurants. And every hotel has a restaurant or two catering to its guests and visitors. (Read More...)
Dining in Naklua & Wong Amat
Most hotels here have their own restaurants, and there are several ordinary expat-run bars and pubs that serve food, as well as local Thai food establishments serving seafood, noodles and the like.
Pattaya Restaurant Reviews
The Pattaya area’s fine-dining scene is helping to redefine the meaning of R&R, says Dr Iaian Corness. Pattaya is really one of the newer centres in Thailand, despite the fact that King Taksin the Great rested here in the late 1760s on his way through to throw the Burmese out of Ayutthya. It has seen periods of accelerated growth, but probably none as dramatic as the current spurt. With 60 percent of Thailand’s manufacturing output coming from the Eastern Seaboard, of which Pattaya is its unofficial capital, and with the proximity of this popular seaside resort to Bangkok, it should come as no surprise that the area enjoys a vibrant economy. (Read More...)
The question should be "how can I fit it all in?" From sun drenched watersports and world-class golf to bowling and go-carting, Pattaya has something to thrill young and old alike...
Mini Siam Tour (start from THB 500)
Alangkarn Include dinner (start from THB 1,550)
Coral Island Include Lunch (start from THB 570)
Pattaya Temples & Tiger Zoo (from THB 1,630)
Greater Pattaya City boasts an abundance of clean, sandy beaches. These are ideal places for simply relaxing on a deckchair or swimming through clear blue waters. However each also has its own unique flavour and appeal. Some like Jomtien Beach are perfect for watersports, while others like Naklua and Wong Amat are serenely quiet, perfect for those seeking solitude.
And then there’s Pattaya Beach. Buzzing and vibrant, this incredibly famous and enduringly popular stretch is a whole different story: a cosmopolitan seafront in which it’s possible to enjoy all of the above, plus pretty much every modern convenience and luxury known to man. World-class shopping, restaurants, clubs, bars and hotels in addition to sun, sand and sea - Pattaya truly has it all!
Discover all you need to know about each beach in these seperate area guides.
Pattaya Main Area Guide
Jomtien Beach Area Guide
Naklua Beach Area Guide
Wong Prachan Beach Area Guide
Islands around Pattaya
The romantic summer seaside palace, often referred to as ‘the palace of love and hope’, is located midway between Cha-am and Hua Hin. It was built in 1923 under the royal command of King Rama VI using golden teakwood from the demolished Hat Chao Samran Palace.
Combining two popular destinations in one package, the Hua Hin & Cha-am Discovery Tour takes you to the golden teakwood Maruekhathaiyawan Palace to see its dazzling composition of verandas and latticework corridor leading to the sea. Enjoy a trip to the animal sanctuary and Khao Takiab, where a giant Buddha statue is situated and a bird's eye view of Hua Hin can be had.
Price Includes:
The average daily temperature in Hua Hin, Cha-am and Pranburi is remarkably consistent throughout the year. It varies from a low of 25.6° Celsius in January to a high of 29.9° in April and May. There is a much greater variation in the amount of rain. The average is 4.1 mm in January and slightly over 200 mm in October and November. Generally speaking the best time of the year to visit is December through February when temperatures are relatively low and the rains less insistent. Hua Hin is usually pleasant at any time of the year, even during the monsoon season as there is usually a break in the rain at sometime during the day.
Nightlife Venues
These places tend to come and go. This is only a short list. There are many more places that you can find by simply wandering about.
Billy's Bar & Restaurant
Hua Hin Bazaar, Near the Hilton Hua Hin ResortExudes pub atmosphere, lots of Brits in attendance. Food, darts, sports TV and all the other things that make for a good pub.
Blue Angel Cabaret
Soi Bintaban, Hua Hin(08) 6892 2856Nightly transvestite show at 8.00 PM and 9.45 PM and a midnight show on week-ends. Probably different than anything you'll find back home.
Crawford's Irish Bar - Restaurant
Poolsuk Road, Hua Hin(0) 3251-1517Giant TV's, lots of drinks, and highly regarded pub grub. Popular with local expats and suitable for families.
Johnnie Walkers Sports & Music Bar
Selakam Road, Hua HinGood pub food and lots of promotions. Popular with expats.
Jungle JuiceSelakam Road, Hua HinPool and dart leagues, sports on the TV and lots of local expats downing beer and eating the good pub grub.
P and P Bar Hua Hin
Poolsuk Road, Hua Hin(08) 6171-9007Lots of attractive and thirsty girls and pool and 9-ball are free.
Octopussy
Selakam Road, Hua Hin(0) 3251-1087Popular with those who like to drink and have a good time. Sports can always be found on the TV
Satchmo Club
Main Lobby of the Sofitel Central Hua HinHua HinTel: 0-3251-2021-38Features a live band, somewhat of a rarity in Hua Hin, and beginning at 9.00 PM each evening. Satchmo's is a great excuse for visiting this classic hotel
Hua Hin and the area around it are wonderful places to shop for virtually all of Thailand's traditional handicrafts. In addition, the town itself has become a centre for contemporary art with several small galleries in town featuring works by local artists. If you are looking for a suit or dress, there are legions of tailors in hotels and other areas that will craft one to your specifications.
There are also numerous opportunities to purchase reasonably priced handbags, sunglasses, costume jewellery, prescription glasses, or readymade clothing. If you haven't been to a dentist recently, having your teeth cleaned or other dental work done costs a fraction of what it would in most other places. Other than a few large factory outlets on Petchakasem Road, there are no large shopping malls. Instead you will find small shops operated by individual proprietors who pride themselves in offering personalised service.
Handicrafts and Art
There are a lot of art and handicrafts on offer in Hua Hin. Although it is difficult to generalize, you'll find lots of products from seashells near the Sofitel and loads of handicrafts in the nearby Hua Hin Bazaar. Paintings, carpets, handicrafts and antiques are offered in many shops on Naresdamri Road. The shopping bHere are a few places to get you started.
Art Gallery41/91 Thavorn Village 5Soi Mooban Noi, Nongplub Road, Hua Hin(08) 1890-5786 A good selection of pictures and oils by local artists.
Gaw Gai Shop2/1 Dechanuchit Road, Hua HinNear the entrance to the ChaoLay Seafood Restaurant. It offers ceramics, wooden bric-a-brac and lamps made from Thai pottery.
Phaiboon56/1-4 Dechanuchit Road, Hua HinA large shop with virtually all types of handicrafts represented. A good place for Kom Ma Phat, a beautiful local cotton print cloth.
Hua Hin Gallery Orient7/14 Sra-Song Road, Hua Hin(0) 3253-0652Thai handicrafts, wood products and numerous antiques.
Hua Hin Night MarketDechanuchit Road, Hua HinAlthough thought of primarily as a place to eat, Hua Hin's Night Market and the adjoining Night Plaza are excellent places to shop for Thai trinkets and handicrafts. (Read More... )
