DESTINATION OF THE DAY
Pranburi

Escape the crowds of Hua Hin and discover Pranburi—a serene seaside retreat just 30 minutes south, where golden beaches meet lush mangrove forests. This tranquil haven offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, whether you're kayaking through winding rivers, cycling past salt farms, or simply soaking up the sun on pristine shores. With boutique resorts ranging from luxurious to budget-friendly, Pranburi caters to every traveler seeking an authentic Thai coastal experience without the tourist bustle.

Beyond its natural beauty, Pranburi serves as a gateway to stunning national parks like Sam Roi Yot and Pranburi Forest Park, where boardwalks weave through vibrant mangroves. Foodies will love the fresh seafood shacks along the pier, while culture enthusiasts can explore the area’s rich history as a former Ayutthayan trading hub. For those craving both peace and adventure, Pranburi is quickly becoming a must-visit destination.

A Glimpse into the History

Pranburi’s roots trace back to the Ayutthaya Kingdom, where it thrived as Mueang Pran, a key southern city. In 1906, King Rama V merged it with neighboring towns to form Mueang Pran Buri, establishing its administrative center near modern-day Prachuap Khiri Khan. The town’s strategic coastal location made it a vital trade and cultural link for centuries.

The name Pranburi survived despite a 1915 royal decree by King Rama VI that renamed the province Prachuap Khiri Khan to avoid confusion. This preserved the identity of the Pran Buri River and the town’s unique heritage. Today, remnants of its storied past blend seamlessly with its emerging reputation as a peaceful getaway—a testament to its enduring charm.

Things To Do In Pranburi

Walk Among Mangrove Giants

Sunbathe on Secluded Golden Sands

Cycle Across Scenic Waterscapes

Seek Blessings at the Golden Temple by the Sea

Taste Thailand’s Night Market Delights

Other Attractions To Visit

• Located on Pak Nam Pran’s pristine sandy beach, Go Kite Asia offers ideal conditions for kitesurfing and wingfoiling, with shallow lagoons and hazard-free waters perfect for beginners and freeriders alike. The school thrives from mid-February to early May, when steady thermic winds and sunny skies create optimal riding conditions. Whether you’re learning your first jumps or mastering wave rides, this spot combines safety, stunning scenery, and world-class instruction.

• Khao Chao Mae Thapthim Thong offers breathtaking panoramic views of Pran Buri River, Pak Nam Pran village, and lush mangrove forests from its sacred hilltop shrine. This spiritual site honors Chao Mae Thapthim Thong, a revered Chinese weather goddess, and was built 200 years ago after a treasure hunter discovered hidden riches on the mountain. Visitors can either pray at the golden shrine or hike 30 minutes to the summit for an even more spectacular vista stretching to Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park.

• Fullmoon Massage Spa offers expert Thai massage therapy to melt away tension and soothe chronic pain with skilled hands and traditional techniques. Their therapists enhance relaxation with therapeutic tools like hot stones, tailored to target specific areas of discomfort. Designed for deep rejuvenation, this spa provides a serene escape where every treatment is crafted to restore balance and vitality.

Best Places To Eat & Drink In Pranburi

1. Aleenta Restaurant

   

   Aleenta Restaurant offers a culinary journey blending traditional Thai flavors with modern international dishes, all crafted from fresh ingredients sourced from their organic garden. Guests can enjoy meals from sunrise to sunset, starting with wellness-focused breakfasts, transitioning to Thai-inspired pizzas and salads for lunch, and ending with elegant seafood dinners under the stars. Each dish highlights the resort’s coastal charm, from fragrant curries to grilled catches of the day, ensuring a memorable dining experience by the sea.

   📍183 Moo 4 Aleenta Hua Hin Resort & Spa, Pak Nam Pran, Pranburi

2. Luna La Pran

Luna La Pran at Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas celebrates Pranburi’s coastal bounty with a menu crafted from hyper-local seafood and farm-fresh ingredients, sourced daily from nearby fishermen and growers. The restaurant reimagines traditional recipes with modern flair—think grilled prawns with tamarind glaze or crab curry infused with garden-picked herbs—all served against a backdrop of ocean views. It’s a culinary love letter to Pranburi’s heritage, where every dish tells a story of the sea and soil.

📍9/22 Moo 5 Pak Nam Pran Subdistrict, Pranburi

3. Palm Springs Cafe

Palm Springs Cafe brings California desert chic to Pranburi with its Instagram-perfect white decor, swaying palm trees, and cactus gardens. This photogenic spot serves refreshing drinks and decadent desserts in a breezy outdoor setting ideal for lazy afternoons. Don’t miss their signature iced coffees and mango sticky rice waffles—perfect for pairing with that golden-hour selfie.

📍127/9 Pak Nam Pran Rd, Pak Nam Pran, Pran Buri District, Prachuap Khiri Khan

4. Very Good Restaurant

This beloved local eatery lives up to its name, serving generous portions of flavorful Thai dishes (with spice levels to match) alongside Western comfort classics like burgers and grilled meats. The laid-back, unpretentious vibe makes it perfect for casual meals any time of day. With its diverse menu and reliable quality, it’s been a go-to spot for both travelers and residents seeking satisfying meals without fuss.

📍Khao Takon Soi 22 Panya Kart Circle, Right Male, Left Hand, Enter Right By Octopus Around 800 M. 22 At The Mouth Of Soi Nam Pran, Pak Nam Pran, Pranburi

5. SCHNITZELWIRTIN

Schnitzelwirtin brings authentic German comfort food to Thailand, serving up crispy wiener schnitzels, hearty potato salads, and flavorful sausages in a cozy garden setting. Guests rave about the friendly service and selection of imported beers, making it ideal for a relaxed evening with friends or a romantic dinner under soft lighting. Whether craving European flavors or curious about German-Thai fusion dishes, this spot delivers generous portions and a welcoming vibe.

📍Baan Nong Bua 458/4 Pak Nam Pran, Pranburi

Classifieds

Robin Hood, Pattaya - Enjoy the best food & drink Pattaya has to offer at the fully airconditioned restaurant on the 2nd road - View the Robin Hood HERE

Scruffy Murphys, Bangkok - A traditional Irish pub in the center of Bangkok, yes please, there’s always a warm welcome, great food & a fantastic menu. Take a look at Scruffy Murphys HERE 

Amber Sauna, Koh Samui - There’s something steamy going on just on the outskirts of Chaweng, enjoy a red hot sauna, healthy steam room or take the plubge in their ice plunge. PS did we mention their delicious menu? See what you’re missing out on HERE

DID YOU KNOW?
You can get your Thai eSim card before you arrive…

Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving you access to 200+ eSIMs (digital SIM cards) globally at affordable prices. You can grab your esim on the go before you arrive to Thailand to save expensive mistakes upon your arrival.