Destination Information
Why Golf Here
Hua Hin, a charming coastal resort town, offers a distinguished golf experience characterized by world-class courses set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty. The region boasts championship layouts, including those designed by renowned architects, each presenting unique challenges and breathtaking vistas, often overlooking the Gulf of Thailand. The courses are meticulously maintained, providing excellent playing conditions year-round. Beyond the fairways, Hua Hin is celebrated for its warm hospitality, allowing golfers to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere coupled with the sophisticated ambiance of a premier holiday destination. January falls within Hua Hin's dry season, offering pleasant temperatures and sunshine, making it an ideal time for golf.
Arrival & Meet & Greet
Upon your arrival at the airport, a Golfasian representative will be waiting to greet you. They will be holding a sign with your name for easy identification. Our team will assist you with your luggage and ensure a smooth and comfortable transition from the airport to your hotel, marking the beginning of a seamless travel experience.
Transfers
Throughout your itinerary, all transfers will be conducted in a private VIP high-roof air-conditioned van. These vehicles are equipped with Wi-Fi, cold bottled water, and refreshment towels to ensure your comfort during journeys. Our courteous and professional drivers are dedicated to providing a pleasant and punctual service.
Tipping Guidelines
- Drivers: US$12
- Caddie: US$20
- Guides: US$20-US$40
What to Pack
January in Hua Hin typically brings warm and sunny weather, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 31°C (77°F to 88°F). The humidity is generally moderate during this period. For your golf rounds, comfortable and breathable golf attire is recommended. Most courses require collared shirts, tailored shorts or trousers, and soft-spike golf shoes. Denim and metal spikes are typically not permitted. Essential items to pack include:
- Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing for golf
- A waterproof jacket or umbrella, in case of brief, unexpected showers
- Sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses for sun protection
- Insect repellent
- Comfortable walking shoes for off-course activities
- Swimwear for any leisure time
Must-Try Local Foods
Hua Hin and the surrounding Thai cuisine offer a delightful culinary journey. While in the region, consider trying these local specialties:
- Tom Yum Goong: A famous hot and sour soup, typically made with shrimp, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chilies. It's known for its vibrant and aromatic flavors.
- Pad Thai: Stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, tofu or shrimp, bean sprouts, and peanuts, seasoned with tamarind paste, fish sauce, and chili. A classic and beloved Thai dish.
- Green Curry (Gaeng Keow Wan): A rich and creamy curry made with green chilies, coconut milk, Thai basil, and your choice of protein (chicken, beef, or fish balls).
- Fresh Seafood: Given its coastal location, Hua Hin is an excellent place to enjoy freshly grilled or steamed fish, prawns, and squid, often prepared with local herbs and spices.
Festivals & Events
January 12th, 2027, falls on a Tuesday, and the itinerary commences on this day. While no major national festivals are typically observed in Thailand in mid-January that would significantly impact travel, it is always advisable to stay informed of any local events or public holidays that may occur during your stay. Generally, January is a popular time for tourism in Thailand, with pleasant weather contributing to a vibrant atmosphere in resort areas like Hua Hin.
Dining in Hua Hin
Velo Cafe
Coffee aficionados will appreciate Velo Cafe's dedication to quality brews. Located on Naeb Khehat Road, this cozy spot offers house-roasted beans and an impressive coffee menu, featuring highlights like the affogato and piccolo latte. Non-coffee drinkers can enjoy options like Thai milk tea and caramel milk, alongside a selection of daily rotating desserts.
Huan Lum Northern Thai Restaurant
For those craving authentic Northern Thai cuisine, Huan Lum offers a rustic ambiance and a menu rich with traditional flavors. Signature dishes include Khao Soi, a creamy coconut curry noodle soup topped with crispy noodles, and Sai Oua, a herbaceous Northern Thai sausage. The restaurant provides a culinary journey through Thailand's northern regions.
Krua Lung Ja
Situated within the vibrant Hua Hin Night Market, Krua Lung Ja is a haven for seafood enthusiasts. The menu features fresh, sizable seafood selections, including the delectable grilled mixed seafood platter, stir-fried squid with salted eggs, baked scallops with butter, and shrimp baked with glass noodles. Each dish is prepared with meticulous attention to flavor and presentation.
Shopping in Hua Hin
Cicada Market
Cicada Market is a vibrant weekend night market located in the Khao Takiab area of Hua Hin. This open-air market is renowned for its artistic ambiance, featuring a plethora of handmade crafts, unique artworks, and live performances. Divided into four distinct zones—Art A La Mode, Cicada Art Factory, Amphitheatre, and Cicada Cuisine—the market offers visitors an immersive cultural experience. Art A La Mode showcases a variety of fashion items and accessories crafted by local designers, while the Cicada Art Factory presents an array of contemporary art pieces. The Amphitheatre hosts live music and dance performances, adding to the lively atmosphere. Food enthusiasts can indulge in a diverse selection of Thai and international cuisines at Cicada Cuisine, where numerous food stalls serve delectable dishes in a charming garden setting. The market operates from Friday to Sunday, opening its doors at 4:00 PM and closing at 11:00 PM, making it an ideal evening destination for both shopping and entertainment.
Hua Hin Night Market
Situated in the heart of Hua Hin, the Hua Hin Night Market is a bustling hub that comes alive every evening. Stretching along Dechanuchit Road, this market is famed for its extensive array of street food vendors, offering everything from freshly grilled seafood to traditional Thai desserts. Beyond the culinary delights, visitors can explore numerous stalls selling clothing, accessories, handicrafts, and souvenirs, making it a perfect spot to pick up unique mementos. The market's lively atmosphere is enhanced by street performers and musicians, providing entertainment as you stroll through the vibrant lanes. Open daily from 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM, the Hua Hin Night Market offers an authentic glimpse into local life and culture, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a dynamic shopping and dining experience.
Tamarind Market
Adjacent to the popular Cicada Market, Tamarind Market offers a more relaxed and intimate shopping experience. This weekend market is renowned for its extensive selection of food stalls, presenting a gastronomic paradise for visitors. From freshly grilled seafood and traditional Thai dishes to international cuisines and delectable desserts, the market caters to all taste buds. Live acoustic music performances enhance the laid-back atmosphere, creating a perfect setting for a leisurely evening. The market's open-air seating areas, adorned with charming decorations and ambient lighting, invite visitors to unwind and savor their meals under the stars. Open from Thursday to Sunday, 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM, Tamarind Market is an excellent destination for food lovers seeking a vibrant yet relaxed dining experience.
Entertainment in Hua Hin
Oceanside Beach Club & Restaurant
Oceanside Beach Club & Restaurant offers a chic and modern beachfront experience in Hua Hin. Guests can relax in stylish cabanas, take a dip in the pool, and enjoy a weekend buffet featuring an array of finger foods. The ambiance is enhanced by a resident DJ spinning chilled lounge house music, creating a laid-back yet sophisticated atmosphere. The club's prime location directly on the beach allows visitors to feel the sand beneath their feet while enjoying the refreshing ocean breeze. The venue is particularly lively on weekends, hosting frequent events and parties that commence during the day and continue into the evening, often featuring special deals on drinks throughout the night.
Cicada Market
Cicada Market is a vibrant open-air market that showcases Hua Hin's artistic talents and creative spirit. The market features a diverse range of handmade crafts, an art gallery, a beer garden, and live music performances, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere. Visitors can explore unique art pieces, enjoy local and international cuisine, and relax in the beer garden while listening to live music. The market operates on weekends, making it an ideal spot for an evening stroll and cultural immersion.
Tamarind Market
Tamarind Market offers a relaxed and bohemian atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers. The market boasts a wide variety of stalls serving both authentic Thai dishes and international cuisine, including freshly grilled seafood, flavorful pad Thai, juicy burgers, and indulgent desserts. The open seating area is ideal for families and friends, with live music creating a fun and relaxing vibe. The market operates from Thursday to Sunday, providing a perfect setting for a leisurely evening filled with delicious food and entertainment.
Sightseeing in Hua Hin
Phraya Nakhon Cave
Nestled within the Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, Phraya Nakhon Cave is a hidden gem that captivates adventurers and nature lovers alike. The journey to the cave is an adventure in itself, involving a boat ride along the scenic coastline followed by a trek through lush forested hills. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by a massive cavern illuminated by natural skylights, creating a surreal and ethereal atmosphere. The centerpiece of the cave is the Kuha Karuhas Pavilion, a delicate royal pavilion built in 1890 for King Rama V. Bathed in beams of sunlight filtering through the cave's ceiling, the pavilion stands as a symbol of reverence and architectural beauty. The cave's serene ambiance, combined with the interplay of light and shadow, offers a unique and tranquil experience. Exploring Phraya Nakhon Cave provides not only a sense of adventure but also an appreciation for Thailand's natural wonders and royal history.
Maruekhathaiyawan Palace
Maruekhathaiyawan Palace, often referred to as the 'Palace of Love and Hope,' is a stunning seaside residence that once served as the summer retreat for King Rama VI. Constructed entirely of golden teakwood, this architectural masterpiece is elevated on stilts, allowing the cool sea breeze to flow freely through its open corridors and spacious verandas. The palace's design reflects a harmonious blend of Thai and European influences, featuring intricate latticework and expansive windows that offer panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand. Visitors can wander through the meticulously restored rooms, each adorned with period furnishings and royal artifacts, providing a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Thai monarchy in the early 20th century. The surrounding gardens, with their manicured lawns and vibrant floral displays, offer a tranquil setting for leisurely strolls. A visit to Maruekhathaiyawan Palace is not only a journey into Thailand's regal past but also an opportunity to appreciate the country's rich architectural heritage.
Kaeng Krachan National Park
As Thailand's largest national park, Kaeng Krachan National Park offers an expansive natural sanctuary teeming with diverse wildlife and lush landscapes. Spanning over 2,900 square kilometers, the park encompasses dense rainforests, rolling hills, and serene reservoirs. It's a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering opportunities for bird watching, trekking, and wildlife photography. The park is home to a variety of species, including elephants, leopards, and numerous bird species, making it a biodiversity hotspot. One of the park's highlights is the Pala-U Waterfall, a multi-tiered cascade surrounded by verdant jungle, providing a refreshing spot for visitors to relax and swim. The park's vastness and relatively untouched environment offer a sense of adventure and tranquility, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Thailand's natural beauty. Whether you're an avid hiker or simply seeking a peaceful retreat into nature, Kaeng Krachan National Park provides a memorable and enriching experience.
Helpful Phrases
- Hello - Sawasdee
- Thank you - Khop Khun
- Excuse me / Sorry - Khor Thot
- How much? - Tao Rai?
Other Practical Information
- Local SIM Cards: Easily purchased at the airport upon arrival or at numerous convenience stores and mobile phone shops throughout Hua Hin. Major providers include AIS, TrueMove, and dtac.
- Currency and Payments: The currency used is the Thai Baht (THB). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and shopping malls. However, smaller establishments, markets, and for local transportation, cash is preferred. ATMs are readily available.
- Plug Types and Voltage: Thailand uses Type A, B, C, and O electrical plugs. The standard voltage is 220V, and the frequency is 50Hz. You may need an adapter for your devices.
- Language and English Proficiency: The official language is Thai. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and by golf staff, making communication generally straightforward for visitors.