Hua Hin, a popular coastal destination in Thailand, is packed with family-friendly activities, many of which won’t put a dent in your travel budget. From beaches to cultural landmarks, water parks, and bustling markets, here are 23 affordable things to do with your kids in Hua Hin.
1. Hua Hin Beach
Hua Hin Beach is one of the town’s main attractions and a favorite spot for families. With its soft white sand and shallow waters, it’s perfect for a day of fun in the sun. Kids can splash in the gentle waves, build sandcastles, or collect seashells, while parents can unwind under the shade of an umbrella, which can be rented for around 100-150 THB. You can bring your own food for a picnic or enjoy inexpensive local seafood from beachside vendors. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent water sports equipment such as paddleboards or jet skis, but a simple day at the beach remains one of the best budget-friendly activities in Hua Hin.
2. Cicada Market
Held every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening, Cicada Market is an artistic and cultural hub where you can find handmade crafts, unique artwork, and local street food. The market is divided into sections, including the Art A La Mode area for clothing and accessories, and the Amphitheatre where live performances take place. It’s free to enter, and you’ll love the lively yet relaxed atmosphere. There’s something here for everyone: live music and shows to entertain the kids, plus affordable, delicious snacks like grilled meats, fresh fruit smoothies, and traditional Thai desserts—most dishes range from 30-100 THB. For a small fee, kids can participate in art workshops, or you can enjoy the fun vibe of the place by wandering around with no obligation to spend.
3. Vana Nava Water Jungle
One of Thailand’s most well-known water parks, Vana Nava Water Jungle offers a day of thrilling fun for families with children of all ages. Spread over 20 acres, this tropical water park has attractions like the Abyss—a large funnel slide—and the Boomerang, which is ideal for adrenaline junkies. The park is clean and well-maintained, offering a variety of zones for different age groups, including a dedicated area for smaller children. General admission is around 1,200 THB for adults and 800 THB for children, but keep an eye out for seasonal promotions or group discounts that can save you up to 20%. There are also lockers, showers, and restaurants available on-site to make your day more convenient.
4. Hua Hin Railway Station
The Hua Hin Railway Station is a charming piece of Thai history and one of the most photogenic spots in the city. Built in the 1920s, it stands out for its bright red-and-white architecture and quaint royal waiting room, which was built specifically for King Rama VI when he visited Hua Hin. The station is still in operation today, but visitors are welcome to stroll around and take pictures. The nearby train museum is also worth a visit and offers a look into Thailand’s rich railway heritage. Visiting the station is free and is a great way to spend an hour or two exploring the history of Hua Hin.
5. Khao Takiab (Monkey Mountain)
Khao Takiab, or “Monkey Mountain,” is a small hill located just south of Hua Hin. It’s home to a group of wild monkeys, and children love the excitement of spotting and feeding these playful creatures. Be sure to keep your belongings safe as the monkeys can be cheeky! The hike up the mountain isn’t too challenging and is well worth the effort for the panoramic views of Hua Hin and the sea. At the top, there’s a Buddhist temple that offers a peaceful atmosphere and a chance for cultural exploration. You can feed the monkeys for as little as 20-30 THB by purchasing bananas or peanuts from local vendors. Entry to the mountain and temple is free, though donations are encouraged.
6. Rajabhakti Park
Rajabhakti Park is a tribute to Thailand’s greatest kings, featuring seven towering bronze statues of rulers from different periods of Thai history. Set in a vast, open park surrounded by mountains, it’s a peaceful and scenic spot for a family outing. The park is free to enter, and kids will love running around the wide-open spaces while learning a bit of Thai history along the way. There are shaded areas perfect for a picnic, and the park is well-maintained with clean facilities. For families interested in Thai history or just looking for a relaxing outdoor activity, Rajabhakti Park is a great option.
7. Plearnwan Vintage Market
Plearnwan is a unique, retro-style market designed to resemble a village from 1960s Thailand. The market is not just about shopping; it’s a cultural experience that offers a glimpse into the past. Here, you’ll find old-fashioned shops selling retro goods, along with small stalls offering snacks and souvenirs. Entry is free, and there are several low-cost activities for children, including vintage arcade games and mini Ferris wheels. While you can easily spend the evening browsing without spending much, kids will enjoy the nostalgic vibe, and parents might find some quirky items to take home.
8. Hua Hin Night Market
Every night, Hua Hin’s Night Market comes alive with vendors selling everything from local street food to handmade crafts and souvenirs. The market stretches along a street in the city center and is a must-visit for foodies and bargain hunters. Entry is free, and you can sample dishes such as pad Thai, grilled squid, and mango sticky rice for as little as 50-100 THB per plate. It’s also a fun place to people-watch or pick up inexpensive souvenirs. Children will enjoy the bustling atmosphere and the chance to try new foods.
9. Wat Huay Mongkol
Wat Huay Mongkol is home to the largest statue of Luang Pu Thuat, a revered Thai monk. The statue stands 12 meters high and is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a peaceful spot to explore. Entry to the temple grounds is free, but donations are welcome. If your kids are animal lovers, they can also participate in feeding the elephants or even take a short elephant ride, with prices starting at 100 THB. The temple grounds are spacious and serene, offering plenty of room for kids to run around and for families to enjoy a quiet afternoon.
10. Black Mountain Water Park
For families looking for a more affordable water park option, Black Mountain Water Park is a great alternative to Vana Nava. With its large wave pool, lazy river, and several water slides, it offers plenty of fun for kids and adults alike. The park is clean, and the staff is friendly, ensuring a safe environment for children. Entrance fees are 600 THB for adults and 300 THB for children, and there are often group discounts or promotions available. It’s a great place to cool off and spend a fun-filled day.
11. For Art’s Sake
For Art’s Sake is Hua Hin’s quirky 3D art museum, perfect for families who love taking creative photos. Each room features optical illusions and interactive displays where visitors can step into the artwork. The museum is divided into different themed sections, such as fantasy, adventure, and horror, so there’s something for everyone. Kids will enjoy the immersive experience, and parents will appreciate the photo opportunities. Tickets are priced at 500 THB for adults and 300 THB for children, but the experience is well worth it for the memories and fun.
12. Hua Hin Hills Vineyard
Nestled in the hills about 40 minutes from Hua Hin, this vineyard offers scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere. While it’s known for its wine, the vineyard also offers a range of family-friendly activities. Kids can feed the resident animals, including llamas and sheep, or participate in grape-stomping during harvest season. Vineyard tours cost between 300-600 THB, and there’s also a restaurant on-site where parents can sample local wines while kids enjoy the open spaces. It’s a great day trip for families who want a mix of nature and relaxation.
13. Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park
A bit of a drive from Hua Hin, but well worth the trip, Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park is known for its dramatic limestone mountains, caves, and wetlands. The entrance fee is 200 THB for adults and 100 THB for children, and there are plenty of affordable activities like hiking, bird watching, and exploring the famous Phraya Nakhon Cave. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys and rare bird species, making it a great option for families who love nature and adventure. If you want to take a boat tour or rent kayaks, prices start at around 500 THB.
14. Hutsadin Elephant Foundation
The Hutsadin Elephant Foundation is an ethical elephant sanctuary that rescues and cares for elephants that have been mistreated or abandoned. Families can take a guided tour to learn about the elephants, their history, and the foundation’s work. Kids will enjoy the opportunity to feed and interact with the elephants in a safe and humane environment. Entry costs 500 THB per person, and feeding the elephants costs an additional 100 THB. All proceeds go towards the care of the elephants, making it an activity that’s both fun and meaningful. We do not recommend riding the elephants as it can hurt their back over time and leads to more opportunities for exploitation of these amazing creatures.
16. Santorini Park
This Greek-inspired shopping park is located a bit outside Hua Hin, but it’s worth the trip for families looking for a fun day out. With its whitewashed buildings, blue-domed roofs, and cobblestone streets, Santorini Park is a great place for photo ops. There are several affordable rides and attractions inside the park, such as a Ferris wheel, bumper cars, and a small water park. The entrance fee is 150 THB, and individual rides cost between 40-100 THB. It’s a fun and whimsical place that will delight both kids and adults.
17. Cha-Am Beach
A quieter alternative to Hua Hin Beach, Cha-Am Beach is located about 30 minutes north of Hua Hin. It’s a great spot for families looking for a relaxing beach day without the crowds. The water is calm and shallow, making it safe for kids to swim and play. Like Hua Hin Beach, it’s free to visit, and you can rent beach chairs or umbrellas for 100-150 THB. There are plenty of affordable food vendors along the beach, offering dishes like grilled chicken, papaya salad, and coconut ice cream.
18. Malls
FN Outlet is a large, air-conditioned shopping center offering discounted clothing, accessories, and home goods from well-known brands. While shopping might not seem like an obvious family activity, FN Outlet has play areas for kids and cafes where parents can relax with a coffee. It’s free to enter, and you might find some good deals on souvenirs or items you need for your trip. It’s a great spot to escape the midday heat while still keeping the kids entertained. You can also check out Bluport and Hua Hin Market Village. There are affordable food stalls and street food options. Bluport and Hua Hin Market Village are directly across from the beach too.
19. Swiss Sheep Farm
Swiss Sheep Farm is a petting zoo and theme park located near Cha-Am, where kids can feed and interact with animals such as sheep, horses, and rabbits. The farm is designed to look like a European countryside, with photo spots and activities like mini-train rides and horseback riding. Entry is 150 THB for adults and 120 THB for children, and additional activities like feeding the animals cost around 50-100 THB. It’s an ideal destination for families with young children who love animals.
20. Hua Hin Artist Village (Baan Sillapin)
Hua Hin Artist Village is a haven for creativity and art lovers. The village consists of galleries, workshops, and studios where local artists create and sell their work. Kids can participate in art workshops, learning to paint or sculpt for a small fee. Entry to the galleries is just 40 THB per person, and you can wander around and watch the artists at work. It’s a peaceful and inspiring place to spend an afternoon, especially if your kids are budding artists themselves.
21. Cha-Am Forest Park
Cha-Am Forest Park is a serene green space filled with towering trees and nature trails. It’s free to enter and offers a relaxing environment for families who enjoy nature walks and wildlife spotting. You might see birds, monkeys, or even wild boars while exploring the park. There are picnic areas and playgrounds, making it a perfect spot for a family day out. The park is well-maintained, with clean restrooms and shaded areas for when the sun gets too hot.
22. Sam Phan Nam Floating Market
Sam Phan Nam Floating Market is designed to mimic traditional Thai floating markets, with vendors selling goods and food from boats along a canal. While it’s more of a tourist attraction than an authentic floating market, it’s still a fun and affordable experience for families. A boat ride around the market costs around 50 THB, and you can find inexpensive snacks and souvenirs along the way. The market also has cultural performances and shows that are free to watch.
23. Wat Khao Krailas
Located on a small hill, Wat Khao Krailas is a peaceful temple that offers stunning views of Hua Hin and the surrounding coastline. It’s a lesser-known temple, making it a quiet and serene spot to explore. The climb up to the temple is easy and can be done in about 10 minutes, and along the way, you’ll see statues of Buddha and other religious figures. Entry is free, though donations are appreciated. It’s a great place to reflect and enjoy the beauty of Hua Hin from above.
Conclusion
Hua Hin is an ideal destination for families traveling on a budget, offering a wide range of affordable and free activities. Whether you’re exploring markets, hiking up Monkey Mountain, or enjoying a day at the beach, there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained without overspending. With this list of budget-friendly activities, you’re sure to create lasting memories while keeping your travel costs low.