There is a compelling case for Hua Hin being the best place to live in Thailand, a point I have highlighted many times elsewhere. It also benefits from an ideal location for exploring other beautiful destinations across the Land of Smiles. For this blog, I will focus on places within Thailand, but it’s also worth noting that the two Bangkok airports are within three hours of Hua Hin, making it a convenient hub for traveling throughout Southeast Asia and beyond.
Krabi / Phuket
Krabi is my favorite holiday destination in Thailand; we usually visit once a year. Situated on the Andaman Sea side of southern Thailand, Krabi is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, idyllic islands, and breathtaking limestone cliffs. The perfect day often involves hiring a private boat and exploring the hundreds of secluded islands scattered around the region. Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta are also part of this area and are accessible from Phuket.
Getting there from Hua Hin takes about a seven-hour drive. We typically set out around 6 a.m. and arrive in the afternoon, ready to relax and enjoy some fun on the beach. The region boasts a variety of fantastic seafood restaurants, making dining out an experience in itself.
Hopefully, in the near future, there will be a direct flight from Hua Hin to Krabi, which would make the journey even quicker and more convenient.
Koh Tao
Chumphon is a four-hour drive south of Hua Hin and is the gateway to Koh Tao. The boat crossing takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Koh Tao is renowned for its excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities; during our visit, we encountered turtles, pufferfish, and numerous other marine species. The best way to experience the island is by taking an organized boat trip that circumnavigates the entire island, with plenty of stops to enjoy the coral reefs and wildlife.
The island also boasts beautiful beaches and a variety of seaside restaurants and bars where you can relax with cocktails and fresh seafood.
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is Thailand’s second-largest city after Hua Hin, but it’s quite different from Bangkok. Surrounded by mountainous terrain, it is home to Thailand’s highest peak, Doi Inthanon. The city is rich in culture, with many fascinating temples such as Doi Suthep, as well as a lively night bazaar. This is also the birthplace of the renowned noodle dish Kao Soi, which is definitely worth trying.
Chiang Mai is a great destination if you’re seeking a change from the beach scene. The surrounding mountains offer plenty of activities, including thrilling 4×4 excursions. It’s also very convenient to reach—there’s a direct one-hour flight from Hua Hin airport, making the journey quick and easy.
Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi is about a four-hour drive north of Hua Hin and is an excellent destination for day trips and excursions. The town centers around the river, and there are many wonderful accommodations right on the water. Some must-visit sites include the Death Railway and the River Kwai Bridge, Hellfire Pass, and the Erawan Falls. Being situated along the river, the area offers numerous water-based activities such as paddleboarding and canoeing. Most hotels provide their own equipment. It’s a fantastic destination for families looking to enjoy outdoor adventures and explore historical sites.
