🔄 Updated 21 Jun 2026
Khao Hin Lek Fai (some people call it Radar Hill because of the radar station on top) sits just west of central Hua Hin, only about 3 kilometres out. The best part is that you don't have to hike — a paved road runs all the way up, and there's a car park for both cars and motorbikes. Once you're up there you can stroll between the various viewpoints at an easy pace, which makes it work for solo travellers, couples, and families with small kids alike.
What you'll see up top
From the summit you get a wide 180-degree view over Hua Hin. One side looks across the town, the golf course and the beachfront buildings; the other side opens onto the blue Gulf of Thailand, stretching south as far as Khao Takiab. On a clear day the horizon is razor-sharp, and it's the kind of angle where you fit both the town and the sea into one shot.
- Viewpoints 4 and 5 — these two are the highlight. They're an easy walk and have the most open views, with the town and sea spread out in front of you. This is where people gather to watch the sun come up over the water.
- Viewpoint 2 — the spot a lot of people prefer for the last light at sunset, since it faces the mountains to the west.
- Viewpoint 6 — looks out over the range behind the town, good for shots with the mountains as a backdrop.
- King Rama VII Monument — built by the people of Hua Hin to commemorate his visits to the town. It's on the summit and a place where visitors stop to pay their respects.
Sunrise or sunset?
The sea here is to the east, so the sun rises straight out of the water — that view is clearer and prettier. If you come for sunset, the light drops behind the mountains west of the town, which gives a completely different mood. The sky changes colour beautifully at both times, but if you specifically want the sun lifting clean off the water, come in the pre-dawn hours.
Want more out of Hua Hin? Book tours & activities
Booking online ahead on Klook or GetYourGuide is usually cheaper than the gate and skips the queue. Pick only the experiences you actually want — prices and availability are shown live on each site.
Hours, entry fee, and getting there
- Opening hours: daily 6am–8pm (the gate closes at 8pm, so head down before then)
- Entry fee: free, no charge
- Distance: about 3–5 km from central Hua Hin, a 10–15 minute drive
- Route: turn in at Hua Hin Soi 70 (Chomsin Road) off Phetkasem Road, then drive straight up the hill to the top. Signs point the way the whole route.
- Parking: there's a car park at the summit for both cars and motorbikes
Straight talk
Parts of the road up are steep and narrow, so if you're in a regular car or on a motorbike, use a low gear and take it slow. On long weekends and Saturdays–Sundays the top car park fills up fast — come early, or arrive about half an hour before sunset, and you'll have an easier time finding a spot. The summit is windy and there aren't many shops, so bring your own water.
A half-day plan around Khao Hin Lek Fai
Khao Hin Lek Fai is close to town, so it's easy to pair with other sights in the same day. Here are two versions depending on whether you're chasing morning or evening light.
Early start for sunrise
Evening for the last light
More to see nearby
Khao Takiab
A small seaside hill south of town with a temple on top and bay views — but loads of monkeys, so keep food and glasses well out of reach.
In townHua Hin Railway Station
A historic Thai-style wooden station with the King Rama VI royal pavilion — a classic photo spot in town.
SeasideHua Hin Beach
A long sandy beach right in town, good for walking all day — but the wind and surf pick up at times, so check the warning flags before you swim.
Plan your whole Hua Hin trip in one place
See the Hua Hin travel guide →