MUAY THAI IN HUA HIN: WHERE TO TRAIN, STAY & EXPLORE
Fun times with Sitjaopho trainers - Photo by Cedrik (Cedrik’s Photography Portfolio here)
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Thinking About Training in Hua Hin?
Hua Hin might not be the first place people think of for Muay Thai training, but after living and training here for the past two years, we’ve discovered it has a lot to offer Muay Thai fans and fighters.
We’ve crafted a mini guide to help you decide if Hua Hin is the right destination for your Muay Thai Traincation!
CONTENTS
➜ Why come to Hua Hin for Muay Thai?
➜ Transport Options from Bangkok
➜ Accommodation Options for Every Budget
I 💖Hua Hin sign at Queens Park with deep purple sunrise background
The charming seaside town is about 3.5 hours south of Bangkok, with a laid-back vibe that makes it a favourite escape for both locals and tourists.
Known for its stunning resorts and lively local markets, this peaceful town also has beautiful mountains and landscapes. Making it perfect for nature lovers looking for a bit of exploration beyond the beaches.
WHY COME TO HUA HIN FOR MUAY THAI?
While smaller and quieter than destinations like Bangkok and Phuket, Hua Hin is a hidden gem for Muay Thai fans.
The town has a growing Muay Thai scene, with excellent gyms that offer more personalised training. There are also plenty of opportunities to test your skills and fight at the local stadiums.
🤩 Read on to see what our top picks for Muay Thai gyms in Hua Hin are
HUA HIN MUAY THAI GYMS
Hua Hin is a great place if you want to escape the busier destinations in Thailand.
Here, you can focus on improving your skills in a more laid-back, intimate setting, often with a stronger connection to trainers and other students.
If you're looking to combine high-quality Muay Thai training with seaside relaxation and scenic outdoor adventures, Hua Hin is the perfect place. Below are our favourite gyms to train at!
Sitjaopho Muay Thai Gym
We were so lucky to have met both Phet Ek (Kru O) on the far-left and Phet Tho (Kru F) on the far-right during our first visit to Sitjaopho Muay Thai Gym in 2023!
Sitjaopho Muay Thai was established in 2011 by twin brothers Phet-Ek (Kru O) and Phet-Tho (Kru F).
Both with impressive careers in Muay Thai having competed at the highest levels from an early age. They regularly fought in Lumpinee and Rajadamnern stadiums, two of the most prestigious arenas in Thailand.
Sitjaopho quickly gained international recognition through their early YouTube videos which showcased their exceptional Muay Femur style.
Their highly technical and playful sparring and pad work videos are a delight for any Muay Thai fan to watch and has attracted enthusiasts from around the globe to their gym.
While Kru O is now based in Sweden, Kru F remains fully involved in managing the gym.
What sets Sitjaopho apart is Kru F’s dedication—he is very present in the gym. You will often find him sparring with students, providing hands-on coaching and may hold pads too. His constant attention to students makes training at Sitjaopho a unique experience.
See what a private lesson with Kru F and Kru Hinphet at Sitjaopho Muay Thai looks like below:
Photos by Cedrik (Cedrik’s Photography Portfolio here)
Kru F is known for his warm, approachable, and lighthearted personality. He makes training sessions enjoyable by balancing serious, technical Muay Thai instruction with humour and a laid-back atmosphere.
At Sitjaopho, there is a focus on improving students’ rhythm, timing, defense, counter attacks and overall technique.
The gym’s welcoming atmosphere, combined with its focus on technical mastery, draws students of all backgrounds—from beginners looking to learn, to professionals honing their skills.
Meet Muay Thai fans from all over the world to train, learn and grow together. Build friendships that go beyond the gym
We often see students feel so connected to the gym that they return time and time again, treating Sitjaopho like a second home in Thailand.
We took it even further - having moved from Sydney, Australia to live and train here! There’s a special feeling at Sitjaopho; being part of a supportive community and growing together.
MrKnock Muay Thai Gym
Mr Knock Muay Thai Gym is a new addition to the Hua Hin Muay Thai scene, offering a friendly and energetic atmosphere with a fantastic training experience for everyone—from beginners to advanced fighters.
We were super lucky to have had the chance to do a private lesson with Mr. Knock in September before his gym officially opened.
His teaching style is not only engaging but also incredibly fun while still focusing on technical improvements.
Mr. Knock has a real talent for breaking down complicated techniques and fine-tuning your movements in a way that feels easy to understand. We learned so much from that session and had so much fun.
The owner and head trainer, Thepnimit, known as Mr Knock, brings a wealth of knowledge with his expertise as a respected former fighter who specialises in the aggressive Muay Mat style.
His career is highlighted by brutal knockouts, showcasing his powerful punches and bone-crushing low kicks.
Today, Mr Knock shares his hard-hitting style with his students in Hua Hin, helping them develop their power and precision.
Whether you're hitting pads, sparring, or working on your clinch, you’ll receive personalised attention to refine your skills.
With on-site accommodation and food prepared (vegan friendly also available), the gym fosters a strong sense of community allowing students to train, eat and rest together.
Mr Knock is an ideal spot for anyone looking to enhance their skills while becoming part of a close-knit Muay Thai family.
For more information or to contact them, please check out Mr Knock Muay Thai Gym’s website and Instagram !
🚌 Ready to visit Hua Hin? Let’s help you choose the best way to get here, that suits your needs and budget.
TRANSPORT OPTIONS FROM BANGKOK
Since most visitors to Thailand arrive in Bangkok, we’ve put together a few transport options to help you get to Hua Hin from the capital.
Whether you're on a budget or looking for comfort, we’ve included options for your return trip, so you’ll have a smooth journey both ways.
TIP: The transport links below work for any starting point! Just enter your ‘pick up’ and ‘drop off’ locations😊
Shared Coach - $
Pictured below are inside and outside photos of the shared coach used to travel to and from Suvarnanhumi Airport and Hua Hin.
We highly recommend coaches from the Roong Reuang Coach company as pictured below. Vehicle will vary based on what you book.
Ideal for solo travelers or couples, the shared coach is our preferred method of travel when we need to get to and from the airport as it offers a comfortable, affordable and enjoyable journey. You will need to organise a way from the RRC Bus Station to your accommodation in Hua Hin.
Please keep in mind that we've only experienced the coach bus shown in the pictures. There are other buses available, so the conditions and experience will vary depending on the vehichle you choose
Travel time: Approximately 4 hours, arriving at Hua Hin Bus Station.
Book your seat on a shared coach here
TIP: You can book a seat on shared buses, vans and trains with the link above, depending on your preference
Private taxi- $$
Pictured below are inside and outside photos of a private SUV taxi (1-4 people capacity) and Van (1-9 people capacity) from Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok - Vehicle will vary
For those who value convenience, hiring a private taxi is the way to go. Great for small to large groups, you can choose from these vehicle types based on your needs.
With these options, you’ll enjoy a convenient, more personal and direct ride straight to your accommodation in Hua Hin.
Travel time: Approximately 3.5 hours.
Book your private airport transfer here
Rent a car - $$$
Explore Thailand with ease, convenience and comfort in your own car!
Hiring a rental car to travel from Bangkok to Hua Hin is not only practical but is also a scenic and fun journey.
Ideal for those who want the freedom to explore at your own pace. You can make detours to interesting landmarks along the way or take in the sights without being restricted by bus schedules.
In Hua Hin, having a car gives easy access to local attractions, remote beaches or hidden gems that might be tricky to reach via public transport or Grab.
Travel time: Approximately 3-4 hours
Find the perfect car rental for your adventure here
🏨With your transport options covered, let’s find the perfect place to stay.
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS FOR EVERY BUDGET
If you’re training with Mr. Knock, you have the option to stay right on gym grounds for a fully immersive experience.
For those training at Sitjaopho or just looking for something closer to the action in town, we’ve put together a range of accommodations near the gyms.
From convenient spots with access to shops and restaurants to stunning beachfront resorts where you can unwind after training, Hua Hin has something for every preference. Take a look at our notes to help you pick your perfect stay.
Addera Residence - $
Pictured below: Addera garden and their Deluxe room with Garden view. Images from Agoda
4 mins drive to Sitjaopho, 8 minutes to Mr Knock
Book your your room at Addera Residence here
Tandeaw View Hotel -$
Pictured below: Front of Tandeaw View Hotel and their Superior Double room. Images from Agoda
8 mins drive to Sitjaopho, 10 minutes to Mr Knock
Book your room at Tandeaw View Hotel here
Stardust Boutique Hotel - $/$$
Pictured below: Stardust Boutique Hotel’s bunk bed in the Mixed Dorm room and the Deluxe Balcony room. Images from Agoda
13 mins drive to Sitjaopho, 16 minutes to Mr Knock
Book your room at Stardust Boutique Hotel here
Bike Loft Hotel - $$
Pictured below: Bike Loft pool and their Standard Pool View room. Images from Agoda
6 mins drive to Sitjaopho, 7 minutes to Mr Knock
Book your room at Bike Loft Hotel here
Triple Z Hotel - $$
Pictured below: Triple Z pool and their Standard King room. Images from Agoda
5 mins drive to Sitjaopho, 7 minutes to Mr Knock
Book your room at Triple Z Hotel here
Treepana Boutique Hotel - $$
Pictured below: Treepana Boutique pool and their Superior King room. Images from Agoda
8 minutes to Sitjaopho, 12 minutes to Mr Knock
Book your room at Treepana Boutique Hotel here
G Hua Hin Resort & Mall - $$$
Pictured below: G Hua Hin pool and their Deluxe Pool View room. Images from Agoda
14 minutes to Sitjaopho, 13 minutes to Mr Knock
Book your room at G Hua Hin Resort & Mall here
The Standard - $$$
Pictured below: The Standard pool with direct beach access and their Standard King room. Images from Agoda
13 minutes to Sitjaopho and Mr Knock
Book your room at The Standard here
If these accommodation options aren’t the perfect place for your trip, use the widget below to find more great options in Hua Hin!
MUAY THAI SCENE IN HUA HIN
Hua Hin has a small but active Muay Thai scene, with several local stadiums hosting regular fight nights throughout the week. While it’s not as large or commercialised as Bangkok or Phuket, it offers a way to experience authentic Thai boxing at up close!
Many fighters training at local gyms will have the opportunity to compete at one of the town’s stadiums, making it easy to support teammates or experience a live fight night during your stay. Each stadium offers its own unique vibe. Here are some of them below:
Hua Hin Stadium on Soi 102
Fighter performing his Wai Kru Ram Muay at Hua Hin Stadium on soi 102 - Photo by Cedrik (Cedrik’s Photography Portfolio here)
This stadium has an open-air setting with a simple yet lively atmosphere. The Muay Thai ring sits under a shelter with seating for spectators. The crowd is usually a mix of both local Thais and foreigners.
With fighters preparing for their fights just steps away and the echo of ‘Owee!’ shouts from the crowd, the energy can be quite exciting.
Antza Stadium
Sitjoapho fighter, Justin Tran (red gloves) tests his skills, strength and stamina at Antza Stadium - Photo by Belen (Belen’s Instagram here)
Antza Stadium has a slightly different experience with its indoor layout and more bar-style setting. It tends to attract a larger expat and tourist crowd, with seating arranged around the ring where you can enjoy burgers and drinks while watching the fights.
Chomjan Stadium
Sitjaopho’s Kristen (blue gloves) stepping into the ring against Marie Ruumet (red gloves) at the very first fight night at Chomjan Stadium. Such a thrilling fight!
One of the newer additions to Hua Hin’s fight scene, Chomdan Stadium brings a more modern feel while still maintaining the traditional structure of local fight nights. As the Muay Thai scene in Hua Hin continues to grow, venues like Chomjan provide additional opportunities for local and visiting fighters to compete.
Tickets are typically around ฿1,000 at Hua Hin Stadium (Soi 102) and Antza, and around ฿1,500 at Chomjan. If you’re training at a local gym, you may be able to get a small discount by purchasing tickets through your coach.
Overall, Hua Hin offers a more intimate and relaxed fight scene compared to Thailand’s larger cities. It’s especially memorable if you’ve been training with someone at your gym and then get to watch them step into the ring at a local stadium. Supporting a friend on fight night adds a personal and rewarding feeling to the experience, and it’s often a highlight of a Muay Thai traincation in Hua Hin.
👕 Now that you know where to watch the action, let's help you get fully equipped to jump into training yourself!
MUAY THAI GEAR
Support your gym!
A small selection of the merch we have collected from our time training at Sitjaopho Muay Thai
When packing for your Muay Thai adventure, don’t forget to leave a little extra space in your luggage.
Many gyms offer awesome merch like shirts, shorts and other gear that you can bring home as a reminder of your training experience. It’s a great way to support the gym and take home a meaningful souvenir.
So, save some room for those Muay Thai goodies!
Hua Hin Fight Gear
At Hua Hin Fightgear, you can buy stylish and high-quality gloves, shinpads, shorts and accessories. Or even better, treat yourself to custom gear 😉
TIP: Reach out a few weeks before your arrival to have your order ready to wear!
You can contact them through their Instagram to create your order.
Fairtex Store
Fairtex Pro Shop located on the first floor of Market Village
The Fairtex Pro Shop in Hua Hin stocks a full range of premium Muay Thai gear, apparel and equipment from the globally respected Fairtex brand. Whether you need new gloves, shorts, hand wraps or training bag, it’s a reliable spot for high-quality gear.
🤩 Let’s see what you can explore when you’re not training!
BEYOND THE GYM: WHAT TO DO IN HUA HIN
Training may be the main focus of your trip, but Hua Hin offers plenty to enjoy between sessions. From lively markets and modern malls to recovery spots and great food, there’s plenty to explore beyond the gym.
Markets and Malls
With the variety of local artist stalls, Cicada Market is a perfect place for fun and interesting souvenir shopping for loved ones.
Cicada Market is one of Hua Hin’s most well-known night markets. You’ll find local art, handmade goods, clothing and some food stalls. Live music and performances often add to the atmosphere, making it a popular evening spot for both visitors and locals.
Just a short walk away is Tamarind Market, known for its wide range of local and international dishes and laid-back vibe. With live music and plenty of communal seating, it’s an easy place to spend a relaxed evening refuelling after training.
(From left to right) Live singers setting a cozy vibe, variety of delicious local and international dishes and large tamarind trees over the many stalls at Tamarind Market.
For a more local experience, Pae Mai Market runs on Tuesday evenings and offers a glimpse into everyday Thai life. Here you’ll find everything from clothing and household goods to street food and fresh produce. It’s typically busier and more local in feel than the weekend markets.
If you’re looking for air-conditioning and a more modern setting, Market Village and Bluport are Hua Hin’s main shopping malls. Both offer supermarkets, retail stores, cinemas and diverse food courts — making them convenient options for errands, rest days or escaping the heat.
TIP: There is a good currency exchange booth, “Twelve Victory Exchange” in both Market Village and Bluport for you to use
Recovery & Wellbeing in Hua Hin
Training in Thailand can be intense and physically demanding, making rest and recovery an essential part of your experience. Fortunately, Hua Hin has a range of options of spa facilities, massage therapies and reliable medical care to help you train confidently. Here are just a few worth checking out!
Located close to Sitjaopho Gym, Mojo Spa & Retreat is a popular spot for post-training recovery. With facilities such as cold plunges, saunas, steam rooms and relaxation areas overlooking the lake, it offers a calm environment to reset both physically and mentally. Massage treatments are also available for deeper muscle recovery
Ruen Boran Thai Massage is a welcoming and relaxing space known for its traditional Thai massage therapies. Guests are treated to a refreshing mango drink on arrival. After your massage, the treats continue with some hot tea and delicious mango sticky rice, adding a special touch to the end of your visit. The atmosphere is calm and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a rejuvenating break.
Be Well Medical Clinic provides modern healthcare services in a professional and international-friendly setting. With English-speaking staff and access to physiotherapy, it’s a reliable option for general check-ups, minor injuries or specialist consultations during your stay. For more serious training-related injuries, Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin offers comprehensive medical services and emergency care. While costs can be higher than smaller clinics, it provides advanced facilities and specialist support if needed.
Bangkok Hospital offers modern and clean facilities
TIP: Whether it is for a general doctor or a specialist appointment, be sure to collect receipts and medical certificates to claim back on insurance! You’ll also need to bring your passport for the first visit.
We personally use SafetyWing insurance, and it has genuinely saved us thousands in unexpected medical expenses. Knowing we’re covered allows us to enjoy travelling without worrying about “what if” scenarios. If you’re planning a trip, having proper insurance is something we highly recommend!
Cafés & Restaurants
Hua Hin has something for every taste and occasion — from relaxed beachfront cafés to lively local eateries and a wide range of international restaurants. Whether you’re craving authentic Thai flavours, Western comfort food, fresh seafood or a quality coffee between training sessions, you’ll have so many options!
Gallery Drip Coffee is a great place to start your day! With coffee options to suit every caffeine lover, it’s hard to go wrong, especially when paired with their satisfying bacon and cheese toasted sandwich. You can relax in a cosy indoor nook, sit outside in the garden
Double U Coffee is a favourite among the Sitjaopho Gym community thanks to its super convenient location just a one minute minute ride away. Known for its high-quality brews, friendly service and laid-back atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to refuel after training, catch up with friends or simply enjoy a quiet coffee close to the gym.
Esan Ban Suan is a great choice, especially if you’re dining with a big group. The spacious setting and live music create a fun atmosphere for a night out. The menu is extensive, offering everything from local Thai favourites to international dishes, so there’s truly something for everyone.
Panday is a must-visit! They serve a variety of Thai-style desserts such as bread topped with delicious options like custard, ice cream, fresh fruit, and chocolate. We especially recommend choosing the thicker, slightly caramelised toast. It’s extra satisfying and takes the whole dessert to the next level! They also offer a great range of refreshing drinks to pair with your sweet treat.
Sight Seeing & Attractions
Hua Hin isn’t just another beach town — it’s a place rich in history and culture. In the 1920s, King Rama VII transformed Hua Hin into a royal retreat, escaping Bangkok’s intense summer heat. Since then, it has remained a favourite getaway for both locals and visitors, offering a relaxed seaside atmosphere with a unique blend of tradition and charm. Here are a few places worth checking out during your stay.
Khao Hin Lek Fai (Monkey Mountain) has some of the best panoramic views over Hua Hin. It’s a local favourite for a steep hill run. Perfect if you’re looking for an extra conditioning challenge! If you’re looking to relax, you can also drive to the top and explore the different viewpoints. Just keep an eye out for the cheeky monkeys, especially around your bike if you have bags of food and drinks. They’re quick and very curious!
Hua Hin Artist Village is a peaceful creative space showcasing local art and craftsmanship. Wander through small galleries featuring paintings, sculptures, mixed media pieces and handmade crafts. You may even catch artists working in their studios. The atmosphere is calm and inspiring, with shaded walkways and quiet corners to explore.
Wat Huay Mongkol is a well-known temple famous for its giant statue of Luang Phor Thuad, one of Thailand’s most respected monks. The enormous seated statue is the main highlight and many locals visit to pray for protection, luck and safe travels. A great place to enjoy a cultural stop on your rest day. You’ll often see visitors offering flowers or walking beneath the large wooden elephants for good fortune. Please remember to dress modestly when visiting temples.
🏍️ With local gems to explore, read on to see how you'll get around Hua Hin.
HOW TO GET AROUND HUA HIN
Grab is the go-to ride app in Hua Hin, making it super easy to book a car or bike with just a few taps. No haggling, upfront pricing and you can even pay with cash or card.
Please keep in mind a few things; if you're taking a Grab bike, the driver may not always have an extra helmet, so be prepared. Also, during peak hours or busy times, drivers might cancel on you, so it’s good to have a backup plan.
Hop on a songthaew for an authentic and budget-friendly way to get around Hua Hin. These shared taxis make every ride feel like a local adventure.
Songthaews (pickup trucks converted into shared taxis) are a good choice for budget-friendly travellers. They're the cheapest way to get around, typically costing ฿15 per ride.
The route to and from Khao Takiab and Hua Hin Airport travels along Phetkasem Road, passing popular spots like Cicada Market, BluPort Mall, and Hua Hin Beach.
You can hail one by flagging it down with a wave and press the buzzer inside to signal your stop.
For a unique experience or more flexibility, you can hire a private songthaew or a tuk-tuk. Tuk-tuks, the iconic three-wheeled vehicles, are more of a tourist attraction, perfect for short distances or sightseeing.
Prices range from ฿100–300, depending on the distance and your bargaining skills. Always agree on the fare before starting your ride.
Reliable, well-maintained and stylish bike from Paul at S.P. Motorbike Rental Hua Hin
Motorbike rental gives you flexibility to explore Hua Hin and get to and from training. However, it’s important to keep safety and legality in mind so you can have a smooth experience.
First off, you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) with motorbike license to legally ride a motorbike in Thailand. Without one, you risk a fine if stopped by the police, and any insurance you might have won’t cover accidents.
This could leave you responsible for costly medical bills and damages if anything happens.
You'll likely run into some of the tricky challenges on Thailand’s roads —sand, oil, sudden wet patches, and more.
TIP: Always wearing a helmet and protective clothing to prevent the dreaded “Thailand tattoo” (road rash from a fall).
Injuries can range from minor scrapes to life-threatening situations that can impact your training or even cut your trip short.
All of our hidden gems in Thailand conveniently saved in one custom Google Map to make your travel and training experience easier!
If you’ve enjoyed the tips and recommendations in this guide, you’ll love our custom Google Map of Hua Hin — coming soon!
It brings together all of our favourite spots to eat, rest, recover and explore in one easy-to-use map. Each saved location includes insider tips, photos and helpful details you won’t find anywhere else.
Subscribe to be the first to know when it launches and get access to exclusive early-bird discounts!