Things To Do
in Kui Buri

Kui Buri is a quiet coastal district in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, known for its proximity to wild elephants and pristine Gulf of Thailand beaches. The area blends forested wetlands with salt-rimmed fishing communities and fresh seafood markets. Visitors can explore tranquil beaches, mangrove waterways, and nearby national parks, often encountering a laid-back, authentically Thai atmosphere.

It serves as a nature-focused getaway with easy access to larger destinations like Hua Hin and Pranburi for additional activities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Relaxation
morning
:

Arrive in Kui Buri and check into your cozy beachfront resort, where the sound of waves greets you. Enjoy a traditional Thai breakfast while overlooking the ocean, savoring the flavors of fresh tropical fruits and local delicacies. Take a few moments to unwind and breathe in the fresh sea breeze before heading out for exploration.

afternoon
:

After a relaxing morning, visit the Kui Buri National Park, home to majestic elephants and diverse wildlife. Engage in eco-friendly activities like elephant watching and guided nature walks, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the park. Capture stunning photographs of the lush surroundings and experience the tranquility of the untouched Thai wilderness.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a beachside dinner at a local restaurant, where you can indulge in fresh seafood while listening to the sound of the waves. Join a cultural dance performance that showcases traditional Thai art forms, enriching your understanding of the local heritage. End your evening with a peaceful walk on the beach, marveling at the starry sky.

day 2
Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the nearby local markets, where the vibrant colors and aromas fill the air. Experience the hustle and bustle of the markets while sampling delicious street food and unique handicrafts. Engage with friendly locals and learn about their daily lives amidst an authentic Thai atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Travel to the quaint village of Kui Buri and participate in a traditional cooking class, where you’ll learn to make popular Thai dishes from a local chef. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you savor your homemade meal in a picturesque setting. This experience provides a deeper connection to Thai cuisine and culture, offering insights into the ingredients and techniques used.

evening
:

Return to your resort for a relaxing spa treatment that integrates traditional Thai healing practices. Indulge in a massage that soothes your muscles and rejuvenates your spirit, surrounded by the calm ambiance of nature. Conclude your day with a quiet evening by the beach, listening to the gentle waves and reflecting on your experiences.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant$3-6
🥗Lunch at a mid-range place$6-12
🛏️Mid-range hotel per night$25-60
🚗Local taxi or ride-share (short ride)$2-10
Coffee or tea at cafe$1-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet coastal town with access to wildlife and nature
  • Fresh seafood and warm Thai hospitality
  • Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
  • Distances between sights can be long; transport needed
  • "Sawasdee ka" - Hello (female speaker)
  • "Khop Khun" - Thank you
  • "Sa-baai-dee mai?" - How are you?
  • "Ao nii roo jaak?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Khap khun ja" - You're welcome

Places to Visit in Kui Buri

Visit one of these nice places.

Kui Buri Beach at Sunrise

Golden light over the calm Gulf of Thailand and soft sands.

Mangrove Wetlands along the Coast

Intertwined roots and shallow waterways ideal for reflection shots.

Kui Buri National Park Viewing Areas

Open plains and grasslands favorable for wide-angle wildlife and landscape photography.

Wat Chomphu Viewpoints

Temple surroundings with ocean views and sunset backdrops.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kui Buri

Kui Buri and the Prachuap Khiri Khan coast showcase a seafood-forward Thai cuisine, with simple, flavorful dishes built on fresh catches, coconut, lime, and herbs. Expect plentiful grilled fish, spicy salads, and hearty soups, with options for both seafood lovers and vegetarian travelers.

Kui Buri Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tom Yum Goong

A hot and sour shrimp soup with lemongrass, lime, and chili, a staple across Thailand including Kui Buri.

Must-Try!

Pla Phao (Grilled Salted Fish)

Whole fish salted and grilled over charcoal, often served with sticky rice or herbs.

Som Tum

Green papaya salad with lime, chilies, garlic, and peanuts; widely available in markets and eateries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kui Buri Local Market

Daily market offering fresh seafood, vegetables, fruit, and ready-to-eat dishes.

Coastal Street Stalls

Frontline stalls along beachfront roads serving grilled seafood, curries, and fried snacks.

Nearby Pranburi Night Market

Market with snacks, crafts, and casual dining a short drive away.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate is tropical with distinct wet and dry seasons; hot temperatures most of the year with humidity near the coast; monsoon rains typically from May to October.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a wai (hands pressed together) and a slight bow; use polite language.

Temple Etiquette

Dress modestly, remove shoes, and avoid loud behavior at sacred sites.

Respect for Wildlife

Do not approach elephants or feed wildlife; maintain a safe distance.

Safety Guide

Safety

Be mindful of wildlife, especially elephants in Kui Buri National Park. Use daylight hours for wildlife viewing, keep distances, and follow park rules. Street traffic can be limited; watch for motorcycles and local buses.

Tipping in Kui Buri

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; round up or leave modest tips for good service in restaurants and with guides.

Payment Methods

Most places accept cash (Thai Baht); many tourist spots accept credit/debit cards; keep small bills for markets and tips.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (Mar-May)

Hot and humid; carry water, use sunscreen, and plan early morning activities.

Rainy season (Jun-Oct)

Frequent rain showers; carry ponchos, roads can be slick; wildlife viewing can still be rewarding.

Cool season (Nov-Feb)

Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity; ideal for outdoor activities and photography.

Nightlife Guide

Kui Buri at Night

Kui Buri has a very relaxed nightlife scene, mainly centered on beachside bars and local eateries; Hua Hin and Pranburi nearby offer larger options, while Kui Buri itself is quiet after sunset.

Hiking in Kui Buri

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park Trails

Coastal cliffs and sea caves; a short drive from Kui Buri with scenic hikes.

Local Coastal Walks

Paved and dirt tracks along the shoreline suitable for easy hikes and sunsets.

Airports

How to reach Kui Buri by plane.

Hua Hin Airport (HHQ)

Small domestic airport with flights to Bangkok and other domestic destinations; about 1.5-2 hours by road to Kui Buri.

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)

Major international hub; wide flight options; 2.5-4 hours by road to Kui Buri depending on traffic.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kui Buri town is walkable in the central area with routes along the beachfront and market streets, but most attractions require a vehicle or bike; plan for driving times of 15-60 minutes between sites.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Thai Residents

Predominantly Thai with local fishing communities; Buddhist culture at the core of daily life.

Tourists

Domestic and international visitors seeking nature, beaches, and wildlife.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Muay Thai

Thailand’s national sport; widely practiced and watched in nearby towns.

Fishing

Coastal communities sport fishing along the Gulf of Thailand.

Stand-up Paddleboarding

Calm bays and mangroves suitable for SUP near the coast.

Transportation

Traffic

Roads are generally calm; main access is via Highway 4 (Phetkasem Road). Public transport is limited locally; taxis, rental cars, and motorbike taxis are common for getting around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kui Buri.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Ask for vegetarian dishes without fish sauce or shrimp paste; many Thai curries can be made without meat; look for pad pak (stir-fried vegetables) and som tam without fish sauce.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic clinics are available in Kui Buri; for more comprehensive care, Prachuap Khiri Khan Hospital or Hua Hin Hospital can be reached by car in about 1-2 hours.

Discover Thailand

Read more in our Thailand 2025 Travel Guide.

Thailand Travel Guide