Things to Do in Hua Hin in November
November weather, activities, events & insider tips
November Weather in Hua Hin
Is November Right for You?
Advantages
- Post-monsoon transition means you're catching Hua Hin at its most comfortable - daytime temps around 30°C (86°F) without the punishing April-May heat, and the Gulf of Thailand has calmed down considerably from October's rough seas. The water clarity improves week by week as sediment settles.
- Shoulder season pricing is genuinely significant - accommodation runs 30-40% cheaper than December-February peak, and you'll actually get tables at beachfront restaurants without booking days ahead. The Cicada Market and night markets feel relaxed rather than sardine-packed.
- The Thai royal family typically spends time at Klai Kangwon Palace during November, which means the town gets extra attention - streets are immaculately maintained, security is discreet but thorough, and there's a palpable sense of civic pride. You might catch glimpses of ceremonial events.
- Loy Krathong usually falls in November (dates shift with the lunar calendar), and Hua Hin's version along the beach is substantially less touristy than Bangkok or Chiang Mai. You'll see Thai families from Bangkok coming down for the long weekend, which gives you an authentic window into how locals celebrate.
Considerations
- November sits right in that unpredictable transition zone - you might get five perfect days followed by two with afternoon downpours. The rain isn't the multi-day monsoon stuff from September, but it's enough to disrupt beach plans. About 10 days this month will see some precipitation, typically 20-40 minute bursts between 2-5pm.
- The Gulf is still recovering from monsoon season, so while it's swimmable, you'll occasionally get murky water and seaweed buildup on certain beaches. Hua Hin Beach itself tends to have brownish water year-round due to its proximity to the river mouth, but November can make it particularly uninviting on certain days.
- You're caught between seasons for crowds - not quiet enough to have places to yourself, but busy enough on weekends when Bangkok residents flood down (it's only a 2.5-hour drive). Friday-Sunday sees a noticeable uptick in traffic and restaurant waits, while Monday-Thursday can feel almost sleepy.
Best Activities in November
Kiteboarding and Windsurfing Sessions
November marks the start of wind season on Hua Hin's beaches, with consistent 12-18 knot breezes developing as the northeast monsoon establishes itself. The conditions are actually ideal for beginners - strong enough to get up on a board but not the intimidating gusts you'll see in January-February. Water temps around 28°C (82°F) mean you don't need a wetsuit. Most schools operate from Hua Hin Beach's southern end near Soi 75, where the beach widens and there's more space.
Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park Hiking
Located 45 km (28 miles) south of Hua Hin, November offers the sweet spot for hiking here - the trails have dried out from monsoon season but temps haven't hit the brutal highs of March-April. Phraya Nakhon Cave, with its famous royal pavilion, involves a steep 430m (1,410 ft) climb that's genuinely challenging in full sun. The cave's light beams are most dramatic between 10-11am when sunlight angles through the roof opening. You'll also find lotus marshes in full bloom this month, attracting migratory birds.
Night Market Food Circuits
November's slightly cooler evenings make the night market experience substantially more pleasant than the sweaty summer months. The main Hua Hin Night Market (Chatchai Market) runs every night from 5pm-11pm, but locals know that Tuesday and Thursday nights see the freshest seafood deliveries. November is peak season for pla thu (short-bodied mackerel) and you'll find it grilled, fried, and in curries. The Cicada Market operates Friday-Sunday and has evolved into a proper artisan scene - less touristy than it was five years ago.
Cycling Through Fishing Villages
The coastal road south toward Khao Takiab and beyond to Khao Tao offers relatively flat cycling through working fishing communities that haven't been sanitized for tourists. November's humidity is still noticeable at 70%, but morning rides (6:30-9am) catch the coolest part of the day and you'll see the fishing boats returning with overnight catches. The 15 km (9.3 mile) loop from central Hua Hin to Khao Tao Beach and back takes 2-3 hours with stops. You'll pass temples, seafood processing operations, and local markets.
Hua Hin Hills Vineyard Visits
Thailand's wine industry is admittedly unusual, but the Hua Hin Hills Vineyard 40 km (25 miles) west of town makes for an interesting half-day trip, particularly in November when the vines are in their growing season. The elevation at 300m (984 ft) provides marginally cooler temps and valley views. The wines themselves are improving - the Shiraz is actually decent - but you're really going for the novelty and the air-conditioned tasting room when you need a break from beach humidity.
Sunset Horse Riding on the Beach
Hua Hin has a long tradition of beach horse riding dating back to royal family visits in the 1920s. November offers comfortable evening temps around 26°C (79°F) for sunset rides, typically 5-6pm as the day cools. The horses are accustomed to tourists and generally well-treated compared to some Southeast Asian operations. Rides run along the beach from Hua Hin toward Khao Takiab, and low tide (check daily tide tables) provides firmer, wider sand.
November Events & Festivals
Loy Krathong Festival
This lunar calendar festival typically falls in November and involves floating decorated baskets (krathongs) on water to pay respects to the water goddess and symbolically float away bad luck. Hua Hin's celebration happens along the beach and at Hua Hin Lake, with significantly fewer tourists than Bangkok's Chao Phraya River spectacle. You'll see elaborate krathongs made from banana leaves, flowers, and incense. Many Thai families make a weekend trip from Bangkok for this, so expect higher hotel rates and restaurant waits on the festival weekend. The atmosphere is genuinely lovely - lanterns, traditional music, and a rare chance to participate in something that isn't staged for tourists.
King's Cup Elephant Polo Tournament
While this event has moved around in recent years and animal welfare concerns have modified its format, some version typically occurs in Hua Hin during November. It's evolved from actual polo to more of an elephant conservation fundraiser with demonstrations rather than competitive matches. Worth checking current status closer to your travel dates, as the format and even occurrence isn't guaranteed year to year. When it does happen, it's at the Anantara Resort grounds.