Where to live in Hua Hin: the main areas, by the beach or inland

Hua Hin is a beach town about three hours’ drive south of Bangkok, popular with Thai families at weekends and with foreigners who stay for months or for good. It is compact: from most residential areas you are about 10 to 20 minutes by car from the centre, the main beach and the big shopping centres.

From Tytus’s own experience: “I have lived here for years and I am not afraid anywhere. For me every area is fine. Choose by how you want to live: near the sea, near the school, or with more space and a garden.”

The town centre

Restaurants, the night market, shops, hospitals and the main beach within walking distance. Mostly condos and small houses. Good if you want to live without a car, and for a first month while you look around. Livelier and a little noisier than the rest.

South along the coast (towards Khao Takiab)

Long beaches and calmer streets than the centre, with condos and holiday homes close to the sea. A favourite for people who want the beach on the doorstep. Rents for sea-view flats are higher.

Inland: Hin Lek Fai, Nong Kae, Khao Tao, Thap Tai

West of the main road the town turns into villages with houses and villas with gardens and pools, often in gated estates. More space for the money than by the sea.

• Hin Lek Fai: hilly, green, popular with families, close to some of the international schools.
• Nong Kae: near markets and the busy local social life.
• Khao Tao: quiet, with a reservoir and nature around it, south of town.
• Thap Tai: newer housing estates and more space, with quick access across town.

Further out: Cha-am and Pranburi

Cha-am to the north is a separate town, very popular with Thai weekenders. Pranburi to the south is quieter still, with nature and long empty beaches. Both cost less, but you will drive more.

How to choose

1. School first if you have children: choose the school, then an area with a short school run. See international schools in Hua Hin.
2. Car or no car: without one, stay central or near the beach road. With a car, inland houses give the most space for the money.
3. Start short: book two or three weeks, look at areas in person, then sign a long lease.
4. Before signing: read the contract and the deposit terms, and make sure the landlord files your address (TM30). See the 90-day report and TM30 guide.

Monthly costs depend on the home and your lifestyle: the cost of living tool shows dated prices, and the trip planner adds rent to your budget.