Discover Huay Yang, Thailand, a hidden gem for your bucket list.
Introduction
When people think of Thailand, bustling cities like Bangkok, the historic charm of Chiang Mai, or the vibrant beaches of Phuket often come to mind. However, for those seeking an authentic and serene Thai experience, including beautiful beaches, great food and authentic markets, we want to highlight one of our favourite destinations in Thailand: the lesser-known village of Huay Yang. Located in the Prachuap Khiri Khan province, only 4 hours south of Bangkok, Huay Yang is a small fishing village that blends traditional Thai culture with a unique Scandinavian influence thanks to many expatriates mainly from Sweden. In this blog post we explore why Huay Yang is an ideal destination for travellers looking to escape the crowds and why we keep coming back to this place, year after year. In a few weeks we will go back to Huay Yang and share more of our home away from home, with more details of this place that you can’t reach by charter and that doesn’t have any regular tourist hotels.
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From the city of Bangkok to the calm fishing village of Huay Yang, passing by Hua Hin on the way.
Huay Yang: A Hidden Treasure
Location and Accessibility
Huay Yang is nestled along the Gulf of Thailand, approximately 120 kilometers south of Hua Hin. This small village is part of the Prachuap Khiri Khan province, known for its stunning coastal landscapes and rich biodiversity. Despite its remote feel, Huay Yang is accessible by car or train from major cities like Bangkok. We have become friends with Sirichai, a taxi driver from Bangkok, who always supports us by picking us up from the International Airport of Suvarnabhumi and takes us straight to the village of Huay Yang in about 4 hours. Sometimes we spend a few days in Bangkok city before going south and letting our taxi driver know where and when to pick is up. You can go by taxi back and fourth and there are companies that can arrange a taxi also from Huay Yang if needed.
Tip! You can take a train from Bangkok to Hua Hin if you want to spend days and explore a day or more before continuing south to Huay Yang. Check Thailand Trains for time schedules.
If you choose to go straight from Bangkok you can also find the train schedule here. If you want to explore the south and places like Chumphon and the islands of Koh Tao, Koh Phangan and Koh Samui, there are possibilities to take the train or book a tour or transfer from local operators in Huay Yang. Opening hours can vary due to the season but there are always options of transportation which we will share more about in this blog.
Tip! A few days in Bangkok before heading south is highly recommended if you have time. We recommend at least 2-3 days in this amazing city. Don’t miss our introduction to Bangkok here.
Feel free to contact us or keep an eye out on the blog for our favourite things about Bangkok City.
Happy to have arrived in Huay Yang again, together with the best taxi driver, Sirichai Jairak. You can contact him on his Facebook & messenger here
Pristine Beaches
One of Huay Yang’s most captivating features is its pristine beaches. Unlike the crowded and commercialised beaches found in more popular tourist spots, Huay Yang’s 40-50 km coastline offers tranquility and privacy. The soft sandy shores and clear, warm waters are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, daily walks and explorations. You will not find any beach vendors or hawkers trying to sell you things, only some dogs on occasion that might want to say hello. The community in Huay Yang are supporting in castrating and feeding the dogs. For more information you can find groups on Facebook. There are several local restaurants to choose from (opening hours depending on the season) where you can enjoy authentic thai food and refreshing drinks or popular thai beers like Singha, Chang or Leo. You can also find a variety of western food if you are not always up for thai food or have children that are picky 😅.
Namtok Huay Yang National Park
Namtok Huay Yang National Park, located just a short distance from the village of Huay Yang, is a natural park that attracts nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those looking to escape into the tranquility of Thailand's wilderness. This national park, established in 1991, spans an area of approximately 161 square kilometers and is part of the Tanaosri Mountain range. Its diverse landscapes, rich biodiversity, and pretty waterfalls make it a popular destination for anyone exploring Huay Yang.
The highlight of Namtok Huay Yang National Park is undoubtedly its waterfalls. The park is home to several cascading waterfalls, each offering a unique and picturesque setting.
Huay Yang Waterfall
The Huay Yang Waterfall, after which the park is named, is the most famous and frequently visited. This seven-tiered waterfall is a magical sight, with each tier providing a different level of tranquility. The clear, cool waters cascade down rocky formations, creating natural pools that are perfect for a refreshing dip.
The trek to the top tier of the waterfall is relatively moderate and well-marked, allowing visitors to enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the lush forest scenery, the sounds of cascading water, and the occasional sighting of local wildlife.
Other Waterfalls
Besides the main Huay Yang Waterfall, the park features other lesser-known waterfalls, such as the Khao Lan Waterfall and the Sam Lan Waterfall. These spots offer more secluded and serene experiences, often with fewer visitors, allowing for a more intimate connection with nature.
Hiking and Trails
Namtok Huay Yang National Park boasts a network of hiking trails that cater to different levels of fitness and adventure. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely walk, the park has something to offer.
Nature Trails
The park features several well-marked nature trails that take visitors through diverse ecosystems, including dense forests, open grasslands, and along riverbanks. These trails provide opportunities to observe the park's flora and fauna up close.
Interpretive signs along the trails offer educational insights into the park's ecology, plant species, and wildlife, enriching the hiking experience with knowledge about the natural environment.
Adventure Hikes
For those seeking more challenging adventures, the park offers longer and more strenuous hikes that lead to remote areas and higher elevations. These hikes often reward trekkers with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and the Gulf of Thailand in the distance.
One popular route is the hike to the summit of Khao Lan Mountain, which provides panoramic views and a sense of accomplishment for those who reach the top. It is accessible for visitors only in guidance with rangers. It takes nearly 5 hours to reach the peak and an overnight stay at the summit is required.
We visited the park in January 2019, when it was dry season and the waterfalls were less “alive”. It is a popular place to visit with ratings of 4.5 on Trip Advisor and there is a lot to explore so we warmly recommend a visit. For opening hours and other practical information you can read more about the park here: Thai National Parks.
A Glimpse into Local Life
Huay Yang Fishing Village
Huay Yang has the charm of a traditional Thai fishing village. Fishing remains a primary economic activity, with many locals engaged in traditional fishing practices. Early morning visits to the village pier reveal scenes of fishermen returning with their catch. This close-knit community lifestyle offers visitors a glimpse into the simplicity and authenticity of rural Thai life.
Fishing is often a family affair, with skills and responsibilities shared among family members. Women and children frequently assist in sorting and preparing the catch for sale at the local market.
Respecting Their Privacy and Way of Life
While the fishermen of Huay Yang are an integral part of the village’s charm and authenticity, it is important for visitors to respect their privacy and way of life. The fishermen are generally reserved and prefer to keep to themselves, focusing on their work and daily routines without distraction.
Respect Boundaries: Visitors should be mindful of the fishermen’s need for privacy and space. Avoid intruding on their activities, especially during early morning or late evening hours when they are most busy.
Photography Etiquette: If you wish to take photographs of the fishermen at work, always ask for permission first. Many fishermen are not comfortable being photographed, and it’s important to respect their wishes.
Cultural Sensitivity: Understand that the fishermen’s way of life is deeply tied to their cultural and familial traditions. Approach interactions with sensitivity and respect, recognizing that their practices are rooted in a long-standing heritage.
Local Markets & Countryside Farming
Huay Yang local market.
The village market is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience an authentic and local culture. Here you can find fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and handmade crafts. The market is an ideal place to sample traditional Thai street food, such as freshly grilled fish, spicy papaya salad, and different desserts.
Tip! We always find some nice fruit and one of our favourites is fresh pineapple that comes with a tiny pouch of sugar and chili for extra flavour. It is a popular plays to buy produce if you prefer doing your own cooking or grilling, but you can also buy cooked meals to take with you for very good prices.
A fruit stand in the village of Huay Yang. We have found different fruit stands in the village itself and they can often cut the fruit for you so you can eat it right away. Perfect to bring with you for exploring the surroundings.
Time schedules for local markets in and around Huay Yang can vary but there are some general patterns and key points to keep in mind:
Huay Yang Village Market
Operating Days: Daily
Typical Hours: Early morning (around 6:00 AM) to mid-morning (around 10:00 AM)
Highlights: The village market is the heart of Huay Yang's daily life, offering fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional Thai snacks
Thap Sakae Market
Location: Thap Sakae, a short drive from Huay Yang
Operating Days: Daily
Typical Hours: Early morning (around 5:00 AM) to late morning (around 11:00 AM)
Highlights: This larger market provides a more extensive selection of goods, including fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and household items. It’s an excellent place to stock up on supplies or find unique local products.
Dansinkhon Market - known as “Burma Market”
Since Huay Yang is located near the Myanmar boarder, you can take day trips to the Dansinkhon Market, commonly known as the Burma Market. It is a vibrant and bustling marketplace that offers a unique cross-cultural shopping experience. Just a short drive from Huay Yang, this market is a must-visit and if you go on a motorcycle it takes you through an amazing landscape on small roads towards the mountains and the Thai-Myanmar boarder. This market and roadtrip deserves a post of it’s own and we will make a separate blog post in the near future (because there is a lot to explore on the way). You find the market location on Google maps here.
To avoid driving on the highway you can find smaller roads by the help of navigation. Finding the ways around can be a fun part of the adventure!
A magic drive home through the countryside as the sun sets over the Burma mountains.
Palm Trees and Coconut Plantations
One of the most striking features of the landscape is the abundance of palm trees and coconut plantations. These tall, swaying trees create a stunning backdrop and are a significant part of the local economy. Coconut farming is prevalent in this region, and you can see workers harvesting coconuts, either by climbing the trees or using long poles to knock them down. The coconuts are then collected and transported to local markets or processing facilities.
The Countryside Road from Huay Yang to Thap Sakae
When staying in Huay Yang we often take the small road to Thap Sakae village. The road itself is relatively quiet, with little traffic, allowing for a leisurely drive where you can truly appreciate the surroundings. You pass by traditional Thai homes, small farms, and occasional water buffalo grazing by the roadside, often accompanied by a white bird on it’s back. From Huay Yang to Thap Sakae it is only a 13 minute drive if you take the highway, something we always try to avoid since it can be very busy. If you rent a scooter or motorcycle (or even a saleng, which we will explain more about below), we really recommend putting in Thap Sakae on your mobile GPS to explore the scenic route to this village. And it is possible to go even further south and experience amazing places and drive by the sea!
The Thai - Swedish Connection
Swedish Expatriate Community
We have friends that have houses and apartments in Huay Yang from both Norway and the USA, still most of the expatriates and visitors are mainly from Sweden. The unique blend of cultures has led to the development of Swedish-owned vacation villas and businesses, creating a distinct Scandinavian influence within the village. The presence of Swedish residents has also contributed to the local economy and cultural exchange. You also find a Swedish school that serves as a unique educational institution that caters to the children of Swedish expatriates living in the area. Find out more about Svenska Skolan at their website.
Freshly made, Swedish Cinnamon Rolls from “Ranchen”, one of the restaurants that sometimes offer traditional food and celebrations. You can also find fresh bread and traditional thai dishes here. Please note that some restaurants might close during low season, but you can always find food 😊
Cultural Exchange
The interaction between Thai locals and Swedish expatriates has resulted in a cultural exchange. Swedish-run restaurants and shops offer a taste of Scandinavian cuisine and goods, while traditional Thai businesses continue to thrive. Cultural events and gatherings often celebrate both Thai and Swedish traditions, fostering a sense of community and mutual respect. This blend of cultures makes Huay Yang a unique destination where you can experience a harmonious mix of Eastern and Western lifestyles.
Local Cuisine
In Huay Yang you can find a variety of restaurants and new ones are popping up regularly as others disappear. When we return we are curious to try out the new places and will give an update in our blog or other channels.
Tip! Some of our favourite thai foods to try are:
- Pad thai
- Papaya salad with the delicious peanuts
- Red Curry (spiciness can vary ;)
- Panang curry
- Green Curry
- Deep fried shrimp with plum sauce
- Massaman Curry
- Thom kha gai (chicken in coconut soup)
- Khao soi, which is a delicious dish from the northern parts of Thailand.
When it comes to desserts one of our absolute favourites is the Mango sticky rice. It might be harder to find in Huay yang, but if mangos are in season we won’t miss out!
Sustainable Tourism & Wellness
Eco-Friendly Practices
Huay Yang is committed to sustainable tourism practices to preserve its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Efforts to maintain the village’s clean environment include regular beach clean-ups with the support of locals and expatriates/tourists.
Community Involvement
Tourists visiting Huay Yang are encouraged to participate in community activities that promote sustainability. This includes joining beach clean-up efforts, supporting local artisans by purchasing handmade crafts, and respecting local customs and traditions. By engaging in these practices, visitors can contribute to the village’s efforts to maintain its unique charm and natural environment.
There are several groups on Facebook, mainly in Swedish, that informs about local events and activities as well as local stores.
Wellness and Relaxation
The tranquil environment of Huay Yang makes it an ideal location for a private wellness retreat. Depending on the season you can find sessions of yoga and different (free!) aerobic classes and workouts as well as a gym. The last times we visited there was also the option of taking up lessons for kite surfing.
You find traditional Thai massages and herbal treatments, providing a comprehensive wellness experience. The peaceful surroundings and natural beauty of Huay Yang create the perfect setting for relaxation and self-care in combination with lots of healthy food choices. If nothing else, to be able to take long walks on the beach and swim in the warm water gives you the opportunity to wind down.
Relax with a massage on the beach. You can also visit one of the massage clinics if you prefer.
Where to Stay
Huay Yang offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. From beachfront bungalows, guesthouses to a few quiet resorts, Swedish-owned vacation villas and apartments. There is something for everyone and we will share a more detailed post of all the different options in a separate blog post. Many accommodations provide stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand and personalised services to give the best guest experience. We have supported with basic home styling and photography of some villas in Huay Yang and stayed in different areas. The accommodations have good standard and most offer weekly cleaning service, a big common pool and gym, security guard 24/7 if needing any support. Best of all, you are never far from the beach ☀️
Convenience Stores and other Facilities
There are local shops in Huay Yang where you can buy groceries, clothes, beach accessories and home supplies to mention a few. There is a 7-eleven located by the highway where you can get everything from coffee, drinks and snacks to suntan lotion and beauty products. Don’t miss our gallery below for some ideas and check out the popular Si Shop on our Youtube shorts.
Si Shop is located on the opposite side, and not far from 7-Eleven. On this street you also find the local market, a pharmacy and other small shops.
The village has it’s own doctors in local clinics and the nearest hospital is in Thap Sakae, a 15 minute drive from Huay Yang. There are of course other options if needed in both Hua Hin and Bangkok, who is said to have the best healthcare in the world. In Huay Yang you also find pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications, health supplements, and personal care products. If you would like some extra care and attention there are also hair dressers, massage places and nail salons. If you have a problem finding your way around, try asking a local (thai or swede ;)
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
The most popular time to visit Huay Yang is during the cooler months from November to February, when the weather is most pleasant. The temperatures are comfortable, and there is minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach relaxation. This is the high season when the village becomes more alive and everything is open and it also means the prices to rent are higher (but still lower than many other typical tourist places in Thailand.
Huay Yang’s charm is present year-round, and even during the hotter months, the coastal breeze and shaded areas provide relief. We have visited Huay Yang in both high season and low season (which is rainy season between May to October) and have not been bothered by the weather at all.
IF hit by the rain (more likely during rainy season) it’s good to have purchased a poncho at 7-eleven. This is the time when we were looking for a restaurant, but ended up at a funeral due to language confusion 😂. A story still to be told.
December and January is the peak season when many Scandinavians, especially from Sweden, spend time in their houses and bring their families to escape the cold winter months in Northern Europe. Even if it gets more busy it never feels crowded and you can still enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. You will not find any night markets or clubs, this is for those of you that want a different experience from the more busy places like Koh Samui and Phuket.
How to get Around in Huay Yang
There are no taxis in Huay Yang itself. You have the possibility of renting a “Saleng”, a three-wheeled motorbike with an attached sidecar. You need to drive it yourself and there are seats on the sidecar for several passengers and is a common vehicle to rent in the village, also for families with young children that often bring helmets with them. When we are there we have rented a motorcycle/scooter and they are from 125cc - 155cc. There are also bicycles for rent at the center of Huay Yang where they also offer organised tours by request. At Huay Yang Travel you can read more (Swedish only) about their services and opening hours. As we are writing this we don’t know if the information on the website is updated, but you can always contact them for more information. We have rented a motorcycle from Jeab and can recommend to rent from her. They also can deliver your scooter to your rental place for your arrival. You find her website in English and Swedish here.
Summary
Huay Yang is a hidden gem that offers an authentic and serene Thai experience. With its beautiful, calm beaches, lush national parks, authentic local markets, and unique blend of Thai and Swedish cultures, it provides a distinctive and enriching destination for anyone looking for relaxation or adventure. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore nature, engage with locals or meet new friends, or simply unwind in a tranquil setting, Huay Yang has something unique to offer.
As an off-the-beaten-track destination, Huay Yang allows visitors to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the charm and simplicity of rural Thailand. The village’s commitment to sustainable tourism, its welcoming community, and its natural beauty make it a perfect choice for those seeking an authentic and peaceful retreat. Discover the hidden treasures of Huay Yang and experience a side of Thailand that is different from many other known destinations in Thailand.
