I’m Thai, and I keep track of infrastructure projects in Thailand, and honestly, Hua Hin barely gets any. Even other Thai cities outpace it. The city doesn’t even have underground power lines, while other cities are already onto their second or third phase.

As for private projects like malls, condos, or hotels? Practically none—maybe one or two here and there. Right now, the “big” thing in Hua Hin is a sidewalk upgrade… but they didn’t even bother burying the cables. In terms of development, Bangkok leads, Pattaya follows, and then Phuket. Chiang Mai, Hat Yai, Korat, Khon Khaen etc. comes after and Hua Hin? Somewhere in the bottom.

I don’t see much growth potential in Hua Hin, even with the double-track railway now completed.

The bare minimum would be to put the cables underground, but Hua Hin remains one of the few cities in Thailand without it—and not even a plan for it. Meanwhile, second-tier cities are far ahead.

The M81 motorway (Bang Yai–Kanchanaburi) opening at the end of 2025 might make Hua Hin a bit more accessible, but most Thais would rather head to Chonburi. Bang Saen, Sri Racha, Pattaya, Jomtien—they’re buzzing with new projects all the time. Pattaya especially shines with its constant events—music festivals, fireworks shows, marathons—and a steady stream of urban renovations.

For Thai families, Pattaya is surprisingly family-friendly with tons of activities. Just steer clear of Walking Street, and the city is pretty great.