The stunning Khmer-style temples of Phetchaburi are the most significant cultural sites near Hua Hin and Cha-Am, but really what attracts so many to this area is what first attracted the Thai royal family: proximity to the capital; lovely beaches; watersports; and activities such as golf, scuba, and horseback riding. Hua Hin also supports fine resorts such as The Hilton, Hua Hin, which come with great facilities, extensive dining, and top-notch spas.
One of the oldest resorts here is the newly rechristened Sofitel Centara Grand Resort and Villas, originally built for Thai royalty and their guests in the 1920s. Visitors are welcome to wander around its pretty colonial buildings and gardens (don't miss the giant topiary elephant). High Tea at the Sofitel costs 450B per person (US$13/£6.90) on weekdays, and 600B (US$17/£9.25) on weekends. It offers a chance not just to sip tea and nibble scones in a lovely original wing of the hotel, but transports guests back in time to the era when Hua Hin was a getaway purely for the Thai upper crust.
Don't miss the town's Night Market (on Decha Nuchit Rd., on the northern end at town center), which is busy from dusk to late with small food stalls and vendors. There are also lots of shops in and around the central beachfront, and Hua Hin -- not unlike most resort areas in Thailand -- is a good place to get that suit made or buy your brother a Buddha ornament.
The big Buddha and viewpoint from spiky Khao Takiap (Chopstick Peaks) -- a small cape just a bit south of Hua Hin (hop on a tuk-tuk for 100B/US$2.85/£1.55) -- is a pretty area worth a visit. Also near Hua Hin is the Mareukatayawan Palace, or the Teakwood Mansion (no phone; daily 8:30am-4pm; free admission). Built and designed in 1924 by King Rama VI, it served for many years as the royal summer residence and is now open to the public.
Horseback riding is popular along the busy beaches at Hua Hin and Cha-Am. Frisky young fillies can be rented by the hour from 600B (US$17/£9.25). At 100B (US$2.85/£1.55) for 10-minute kids' rides, you can ride with a Thai escort leading the horse (safest idea), or on your own if you're confident. If you're interested, take a walk down to the beach and you'll be besieged by young men eager to rent out their horses.
