Hua Hin is one of Thailand's most popular resort destinations because of its combination of old traditions and today's modern conveniences. The first to settle here where families from neighbouring Petchaburi around 1830. They found the sea rich with fish and a fertile soil and soon these first buildings developed into a busy fishing village. Descendants of these first settlers are still living in the old quarter that forms the center of today's Hua Hin. The name of this village was Laem Hin and was changed to Hua Hin by a member of the Royal family in 1911.

With the development of the railway to Hua Hin in the early 1900s, this place appeared for the first time on the travel map. When King Rama VI's Royal architect constructed Phra Ratchawong Klai Kangwon, a seafront summer palace of golden teak in 1926, just north of Hua-Hin, he created a vogue among high society and Hua Hin became the favourite retreat from Bangkok's summer heat. The palace is still frequently used by the Royal family for part of the year.

Thailand's oldest golf course is located opposite the railway station. It was built in 1926 amidst the rolling hills and close to a Buddhist temple that can be seen from the 14th hole. The Huahin Railway Station with its classical Thai Royal waiting area and the tiered roof dates back to 1930.

Once attracted to the place, Hua Hin has remained a traditional favourite among Thais, who like the natural beauty of the fine long coastline and the neighbouring attractions. They were later substituted by tourists from any part of the planet for the areas wide range of leisure and comforts. Hua Hin provides a quiet, relaxed retreat amid surroundings which preserve a typical Thai ambience. Therefore, Hua Hin is well suited for families and perfect for those who wish to escape the city's bustle.

Today, Hua Hin and the province of Prachuap Kiri Khan are renowned for the charm of its beaches and mountains, for its extensive pineapple plantations, and for its busy fishing ports. Hua Hin is one of Thailand's most popular seaside resorts located on the side of the Gulf of Thailand. By today, the main street of Hua Hin still keeps its restful atmosphere and old-fashioned charm. Fishing boats continue to tie up at the active fishing pier and the catch is sorted in Chomsin Street as in the old days.

The vast expanse of Hua Hin Beach offers ample space for lazing in the sun, playing or a traditional pony ride along the shore. It starts from a rocky headland next to the port and curves gently for some 3 kms to the south, where it ends at Khao Takiab mountain that offers a panoramic view of Hua Hin from its summit. It is also the location of several Buddhist shrines well worth climbing up.

After the sun sets, take a trishaw ride to Hua Hin Night Market. The famed nightmarket is Hua Hin's after-dark highlight and popular for its wide selection of souvenirs and clothing.

Pranburi lies south of Hua Hin, and is less developed and even more relaxed than the well-known sea-side resorts further North. Pranburi town is a typical southern city and does not offer any tourist-related facilities. A small road follows the beaches of Pranburi south of the estuary of Pranburi river to Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park and separates most of the resorts from the beaches.