What it is

Tranquil resort edging a culturally rich city on the Gulf of Thailand.

What it isn't

A lone resort on a virgin white sand beach (that is, what many travelers might think of when envisioning a Thai beach vacation).

What we think

Hua Hin allows travelers to throw down a towel on the Gulf of Siam without getting on another plane to Ko Tao or Ko Samui. The cosmopolitan beach a few hours outside of Bangkok is where Thai royals originally built their beachfront leisure residences, and it still attracts affluent Bangkok residents with its cosmopolitan beachfront vibe. The resort sits on 14 waterfront acres with low-rise buildings housing the resort’s 187 modern rooms. All are dressed with Thai silks and have floor to ceiling windows, overlooking jungle gardens and reflecting pools designed by landscape architect Bill Bensley. Lounges line the white-sand beach and the beachside swimming pool; activities range from Hua Hin market tours and fruit-carving classes to language and Thai boxing lessons.

You're here because

You want to pair your Thai beach vacation with a city that, unlike much of Phuket, has a life beyond tourism.

The Moment

Walking barefoot along the resort’s foot reflexology-focused paths, flanked by palm and heliconia gardens, to the Anantara Spa for an indulgent four-hands body treatment or active Thai massage.

Restaurants & Bars

Baan Thalia - Italian cuisine in a rustic setting

Issara Café - Breakfast buffet on the terrace

Sai Thong - Beachside restaurant with sandwiches and other fresh meals

Loy Nam - Swim-up bar

Lagoon Pool Bar - Freshly squeezed juices, detoxifying drinks, healthy spa cuisine and cocktails

Location

Five minutes outside of the town of Hua Hin on the Gulf of Siam. Bangkok is a 2.5-hour drive.