Imperial Hua Hin Beach Resort

The Imperial Hua Hin Beach Resort looks more modern from the outside than it actually is, which creates a bit of a mangled impression at this hotel. The gleaming white, geometric exterior would lead one to think that this is a sharp, contemporary property. Inside, though, things are less inspiring. The lobby is quite plain -- it's a low-ceilinged room that is minimalist and off-modern. Elephant statues and other figurines placed between the entrance and the lobby add a bit of character. Clean white tiling gleams on the floor and generic leaf-print art hangs on the walls, for a more up-to-date touch, but the rattan chairs and couches have seen better days, with nicks and sagging cushions. The lobby isn't really a social gathering place, and most folks only check in here and then move on to the other parts of the hotel, like the pool and restaurant, which are out by the beach. The hotel attracts a mix of domestic and international travelers, many on weekend getaways from Bangkok, and couples and families are the majority of guests.

Imperial Hua Hin Beach Resort is located in the northern part of Hua Hin, about a five- to 10-minute drive from the center of town depending on the destination. The resort lies down a quiet side road to the beach, and other than the local immigration office, there isn't much around beyond the water and other hotels, making it feel quiet and peaceful. The king's summer palace is just south of here, so there isn't too much buildup in that direction either. There isn't much of interest within an easy walk, but so long as one uses the hotel shuttle or has one's own transport, it's easy to get around and find restaurants and shops. The Hua Hin Night Market is a 10-minute drive from the hotel, while the artsy weekend Cicada Market is a 25-minute drive south. Chopsticks Hill -- with its hilltop temple and packs of monkeys -- is also a 25-minute drive from the hotel. The closest airports are all the way back in Bangkok, which takes two-and-a-half hours to reach by car without traffic, but drive times skyrocket at peak times.

There are 124 rooms at the Imperial Hua Hin Beach Resort, and while they are pleasant enough, there are more contemporary options in town. Rooms are a bit worn -- we saw lots of scrapes in the cheap wood-veneer furniture -- but modern elements include laminated wood floors, colorful throw pillows, and off-white or soft gray walls. All rooms are spacious, though in some cases this makes them feel empty due to the minimal furnishings, and walls are sparingly hung with abstract framed prints. 

Standard features include free Wi-Fi, safes, desks, minibars, flat-screen TVs with cable, and electric hot water kettles for making free tea and coffee The majority of rooms have furnished balconies; some overlook the swimming pool. A drying rack is a handy extra for those who have used the pool. The entry-level Superior Rooms don't have great views. The Deluxe Rooms overlook the swimming pool and are a bit more spacious, with the addition of a table and chairs set along with the same amenities found in the Superior Rooms. Studios come with a separate living room, although the layout ends up leaving the bedroom area a bit cramped for space. Suites with multiple bedrooms are also available. Bathrooms include a single sink set in a large vanity and a glass-walled shower. 

The Imperial Hua Hin Beach Resort has a wide selection of facilities that make for a mostly complete seaside escape. The beach is usable during low tide, and the hotel has an area set up on the sand for those wanting to sunbathe. The free-form swimming pool takes up most of the space in the center of the property, with a kids' pool at one end, and an open area with sun loungers toward the beach at the other end. There's a bridge across the pool and a swim-up bar. Other facilities at the resort include a small fitness room with modern LifeFitness cardio equipment plus a spa with foot massage services, Thai massages, and private treatment rooms. It also includes a sauna.

The Montalay restaurant is found near the pool, but it overlooks the sea as well and is quite atmospheric. There's a regular dining area and an outdoor section, as well as a VIP room off to one side. The restaurant serves free breakfast buffets which include a large number of local options. Thai cuisine and international dishes are also served for both lunch and dinner, plus an ample selection of Hua Hin's noted fresh seafood.

Kids can play outdoors on a cute playground with swings and climbing equipment. There are meeting rooms for functions and events for any business travelers, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. A small gift shop sells sundries and snacks. Finally, the resort has a free shuttle bus that runs quite frequently to and from the center of Hua Hin, at least five times a day, which is far more than most hotels in the area.