Hua Hin: A Transforming Destination
1. Historical Background
With broad beaches bookended by temple-topped rocky outcrops, Hua Hin has been a playground for Thai hi-so (local slang for high-society) since members of the royal family built their summer palaces there in the 1920s. Over the century that followed, well-heeled Bangkok residents snapped up beach villas and luxury condominiums, turning this getaway — just three hours south of the capital — into Thailand’s version of the Hamptons. However, the demographic has started shifting in recent years.
That shift accelerated in 2020, as a new crowd of hoteliers, chefs, surfers, and coffee enthusiasts began establishing their presence along the shores. A notable sign of this transformation is the Standard hotel group opening its first Thai outpost in Hua Hin, prior to establishing a presence in Bangkok. The Standard, Hua Hin, which debuted last December, integrates midcentury modern architecture with quirky Thai elements, such as vintage train-station benches in the lobby, creating a unique atmosphere.
2. Accommodations
The Standard offers 171 rooms and suites adorned with sunshine-yellow furnishings and small balconies. Particularly appealing are the 28 villas equipped with private pools and Instagram-ready disco balls in stylish terrazzo-tiled bathrooms.
Additionally, the Peri Hotel Hua Hin provides a more laid-back vibe, featuring a ’60s surf lodge aesthetic with wicker furniture and beanbags around the pool, alongside its popular seafood restaurant, Chow Mong.
3. Cuisine
Hua Hin boasts an exciting culinary scene. At the Standard’s beachside restaurant Praça, diners can enjoy dishes such as tom yum ramen and tuna larb. Nearby, the Italian-inspired Lido serves delicious burrata with tomato sherbet.
For a more eclectic mix of flavors, visit Som’s Table, where Chef Jutamas “Som” Theantae offers unpretentious European comfort food, incorporating fresh herbs from her garden.
4. Beach Experience
When it comes to enjoying the beach, there are diverse options in Hua Hin. For a lively atmosphere, Sundance Dayclub stands out with its marble-tiled pool and swim-up bar, offering delightful bites like fresh oysters and beef sliders. The adjacent Sunrise restaurant serves heartier fare, including crab curry and papaya salad.
Alternatively, for a tranquil afternoon, the Pineapple Surf Club at Khao Takiab Beach provides paddleboard rentals and yoga classes, making it a perfect spot to unwind with a refreshing smoothie or a bowl of açaí.
