Hua Hin to Ban Krut: how to make the trip
Published · Last checked · Independent guide, no bookings
Hua Hin is the best-known beach town in Prachuap Khiri Khan province and the usual stop on the way to Ban Krut. It has a long beach, a royal past, busy markets and plenty of restaurants. Here is a short guide to Hua Hin and how to travel on from Hua Hin to Ban Krut.
A royal seaside town
Hua Hin became a royal resort in the 1920s, when King Prajadhipok made it popular. Until 1934 it was known as Samore Riang. Klai Kangwon Palace, a royal summer residence, was built in the late 1920s. Today Hua Hin is the largest city in the province and became a city municipality in March 2025.
Hua Hin Beach
Hua Hin Beach is a long stretch of fine, pale sand, about 6 km long, lined with resort hotels and water sports. It is much busier than Ban Krut, with more choice of food and things to do.
Things to do in Hua Hin
Khao Takiab, a hill about 8 km south of town, has temples and views over the coast. Cicada Market, an open-air arts and food market, is nearby. In town, the night market is known for seafood cooked to order. Khao Hin Lek Fai gives sunrise views, and Rajabhakti Park is a popular landmark. The old wooden railway station is a favourite photo spot.
Getting to Hua Hin from Bangkok
Hua Hin is about 195 km from Bangkok, around 3 to 4 hours by road or rail. Trains run daily, and buses leave from Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal. Hua Hin also has a small airport with limited domestic flights.
How to get from Hua Hin to Ban Krut
Ban Krut is about 160 km south of Hua Hin. The train takes about 2 to 3 hours and stops in Ban Krut village, close to the beach. Check which trains stop at Ban Krut before you book. By car, follow Highway 4 (Phetkasem Road) south and turn off for Ban Krut at about km 382. Buses towards Bang Saphan Noi can drop you at the Ban Krut junction, where you continue by local transport.
Hua Hin or Ban Krut?
Choose Hua Hin for nightlife, shopping and international food. Choose Ban Krut for a quiet beach, local fishing life and simple seafood. Many travellers do both: a few busy days in Hua Hin, then a slower stay further south.
Frequently asked questions
How to get from hua hin to ban krut
By train (about 2 to 3 hours), by car on Highway 4 (turn off at about km 382), or by a southbound bus to the Ban Krut junction.
How far is Hua Hin from Ban Krut?
About 160 km by road.
Is Hua Hin busier than Ban Krut?
Yes, much busier. Hua Hin has markets, malls and nightlife; Ban Krut is a quiet village beach.
We give no fixed prices or timetables, because they change. Check the official source (for trains, the State Railway of Thailand at railway.co.th) before you travel.
