Khao Takiab, Hua Hin

Khao Takiab Beach is located approximately 7kms south of central Hua Hin. The distinguishing feature of this particular beach is the hill which gives the area its name. ‘Khao Takiab’ translates to ‘Chopstick Hill’ and visitors here can enjoy scenic views looking out over Hua Hin and the Gulf of Thailand. The hill, which is over 100 metres high, divides Khao Takiab Beach into two distinct areas. Either side of the hill, fishing boats ply their trade bringing in the fresh catches which make dining in Hua Hin such a treat.

North Khao Takiab Beach

The beach on the north side of Khao Takiab (closest to central Hua Hin) isn’t the most visually stunning by Thai standards, but it does have a relaxed ambience and it’s an area I’ve personally always enjoyed visiting. There are some great local restaurants close at hand and there is easy access to the 19 metre high Standing Buddha (Phra Pang Haan Yad) which looks out onto the sea. A short walk up the hill brings you to a shaded sala area where you can get a cold drink or a a traditional massage and enjoy the view. From here, a staircase leads further up the hill to a temple (Wat Khao Takiab), but if you are planning on venturing up there beware of the monkeys who will sometimes grab hold of bags and personal belongings as they look for food.

South Khao Takiab Beach

The beach on the other side of Khao Takiab is best reached by doubling back to the main road and following it south. You will soon see a number of hotels set back from the beach which offer budget and mid-priced accommodation. Pathways and side-roads lead through from the main Takiab Road to the beach. This stretch of sand extends south to Haad Suan Sod (Sea Pine Garden Beach) which is a favourite for locals and Thai tourists who enjoy the shade offered by the pine trees and causarinas. This southerly point of Khao Takiab Beach also marks the area which backs on to the military camp at Suan Son.

Getting to Khao Takiab

Local open-sided buses known as ‘songthaews’ run regularly during the day to and from central Hua Hin. They depart at approximately 15 minute intervals from the Night Market area and travel along the main Petchkasem Road which runs parallel to the beach. You can get on or off at any point and the last time I was in Hua Hin in 2009 the price charged was 10 Baht each way. Alternatively, you can hire a tuk-tuk. There is no set price for the tuk-tuks and the amount you pay will depend on pot luck and your negotiating skills. Confirm the price with the tuk-tuk driver before you get in and pay when you arrive. Individuals can expect to pay a minimum of 100 Baht for the 10 minute journey, but the more of you that travel in the tuk-tuk then the more it will cost. Try and negotiate with a smile on your face (even if it is through gritted teeth) and if the driver is unreasonable you can always look for another one or take the local songthaew. Motorbike taxis also travel between Hua Hin and Khao Takiab (prices approximately 50 Baht each way).

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