Saphan Pla is Hua Hin’s main fishing pier. It has now been developed as a promenade
for a very pleasant evening stroll out to sea for a taste of market food, entertainment,
to enjoy cool breezes and over-the-ocean vistas of the coastline.
The pier is now welcoming visitors every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening from sunset. However as a real working facility for the Hua Hin fishing industry, there will be occasions when a large fishing boat needing to offload a catch will restrict access. Another disruption will follow should there be severe weather as visitor safety is of prime importance. Market stalls follow the length of the pier with smiling owners cooking fresh morsels for passersby. There’s plenty of room for everyone with one side reserved for wooden seating or some visitors just squat on the raised concrete side.
Take care of the drop to waters below; perhaps some strategically placed floatation devices would be worth having on hand just in case! Don’t be deterred if you find Thai food a little daunting with a smattering of stalls catering for western tastes with burgers, kebabs and barbecue options available. However this is the best place to try authentic Thai food that’s a bit unusual and of course sea food galore. A portion is likely to cost only 30 – 50 THB.
At the end of the pier you may prefer to sit at a table or even a deck chair to relax and enjoy the entertainment from a musical ensemble or a Thai dancing troupe; but not karaoke! Small fishing boats are on hand for visitors to experience a short trip on calm seas. The fishermen are all trying to make a good impression with their boats cleanedup and proudly flying brand new Thailand flags. Life jackets are compulsory with the supervision of marine authorities to ensure a safe cruise. Saphan Pla presents the best of what Hua Hin has to offer.
It’s about the ocean and beach with a laid back ambience for all the family and last but not least sensational food. Taking a ‘walk on water’ along the pier is now a ‘must do’ for every weekend visitor as a most authentic Hua Hin experience.
Where: Near the ocean end of Soi 55 in central Hua Hin. Parking, especially for cars, is limited. It may be best to park elsewhere and take a tuk tuk.
When: Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 5 PM to 10 PM.
Recommended for: Visit the pier as an evening family excursion or a romantic alternative for couples escaping the hustle and bustle of downtown Hua Hin.
Cost: No entry costs with many food options at market prices. A 30 minute fishing boat ride is around 300 THB.
Comments: This venue is non-smoking and alcohol free; but unfortunately not plastic free. Rubbish disposal must be in the bins provided; plastic bags and polystyrene containers are in abundance; please don’t let them end up in the ocean.
