The peaceful resorts of Hua Hin and Cha-Am provide the ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of the capital. Located on the sunrise side of the Gulf of Thailand, Cha-Am and Hua Hin are quiet relaxed coastal towns, perfect for family holidays with its white sandy beaches and calm azure seas. These sister resorts lack the bustle of an
international playground and instead offer a quiet escape. Both resorts boast long uncluttered beaches, while Hua Hin, larger than Cha-Am, is a bustling little fishing port with plenty of colourful local life to enjoy, and three miles of white sandy beach. Hua Hin, the oldest resort in Thailand, has a unique and unspoilt image and is justly recognised as the first beach resort of Thailand
with the King himself regularly visiting for long stay holidays and was the favourite of King Rama VII who built his 'Far from Worries' Palace here some sixty years ago. Hua Hin is just 2½ hours drive south of Bangkok or 3½ from Bangkok international airport. Cha-Am's beautiful stretch of soft sand beach is ideal for swimming and just soaking up the sun. If you wish to get away from this
haven of tranquility, Damnern Saduak floating market and the Rose Garden are only 1½ hours drive away, whilst the famous bridge over the River Kwai is just two hours With its long beaches and aquamarine waters this tropical retreat is one of Southeast Asia's premier beach resorts.
Just one hour's flight from Bangkok off Thailand's East coast, lies Cha-Am Hua Hin, the largest of an archipelago of 80 beautiful and tiny islands, of which only 4 are inhabited.
Covered by coconut groves and plantations, surrounded by deserted, white sandy beaches and hidden coves, and is a real treasure where you can enjoy a range of watersports such as sailing and snorkelling.
Hua Hin is an island that encapsulate dazzling beaches and palm shaded escapism. The Phuket of years past, but not so limited in its high and low season climate variations. It is the third largest island in Thailand, 15 miles by 12 miles, and lies off the eastern peninsula.
The most popular beaches are Lamai and Chaweng where swimming in the clear blue waters and relaxing in the shade of a lazy coconut palm is a way of life.
One of the best ways to explore the island is by hiring a jeep and heading into the interior to explore the beautiful waterfalls at Na Muang and Hinlad and the Hin Ngu Temple with its large seated Buddha, or take a boat to the Ang Thong Marine National Park, which is well worth a trip for the avid snorkeller.
From October to December, due to inclement weather, watersports and swimming can be restricted. |