When I saw rave reviews of Hua Hin Bike Tours – which has been awarded a Certificate of Excellence from Tripadvisor – I couldn’t resist getting in contact with them while we were holidaying in Thailand. We wanted to get out of the city and explore the surrounding areas without being stuck in the car all day and felt choosing Hua Hin bicycle tours would be the perfect way to do this.
Hua Hin Bike Tours
After speaking to helpful Chris in the office, he suggested that the most popular cycle tours Hua Hin is The Dolphin Bay and Kao Kalok Tour, would be the most suitable for us and, because we had Monkey, it would be a private tour with our own guide and support vehicle. We laughed and told him we weren’t that unfit, but he assured us this was standard.
Dolphin Bay Hua Hin
A few days later after an early pick up from The Centara Grand Beach Resort, we were introduced to our guide Yo and our smiling driver, who couldn’t speak a word of English, and scrambled into our minibus to travel 50 minutes out of the Hua Hin towards the start of our route in Dolphin Bay Thailand, situated near Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park – ready to being our Hua Hin tour.
Pulling up on a quiet road, the guys unloaded all the equipment and fitted us with our bikes and helmets – Monkey was provided with a trailer on the back of Daddy’s bike. Once we were all comfortable, we set off gently along a virtually traffic-free road. The weather was blisteringly hot even though it was still early morning.
Hua Hin Tours – The Route
Our route was approximately 15 miles in total, a gentle cycle mainly along the seafront – with sandy beaches stretching as far as the eye could see and barely a soul in sight. We even stopped off several times to enjoy the stunning landscape and given fresh fruits and ice-cold water courtesy of the support vehicle – which I hasten to add, is where Monkey decided he would much prefer to be because it was too hot for him.
We then cycled through several fishing villages and got off our bikes to take photos and to watch the men working and repairing their nets.
Our next stop was at a stunning Hindu Temple where Yo explained this was quite a rare sight in Thailand as Buddhism is the dominant faith. He also explained that all Thai boys must follow The Sangha and become Monks at some point in their lives. We never realised this. It was enjoyable just wandering around and watching some of the monks going about their daily duties.
Exploring Kha Kalok
We got back on our bikes again and finally reached Kha Kalok, where Yo gave us the option of trekking up a nature trail to a mountain view-point. It wasn’t ideal for Monkey, so while hubby volunteered to stay with him, I took up the challenge of this little hike. Luckily, it wasn’t too difficult, but the terrain was uneven and uphill, and I struggled in my flip flops – totally the wrong choice of footwear! Once I caught my breath, the view was pretty spectacular of Kha Kalok and its beach below.
After making our way back down to our bikes, we continued cycling along the coast towards Pranburi Beach where we stopped a small, nondescript beachfront restaurant. We left it up to Yo to order several dishes for us – and when I saw ‘grandma’ going into the kitchen to help cook, I knew we were in for a treat. It was delicious and spicy, and just what we needed after a morning of cycling. Our favourite was the fried red snapper and the stir-fried crab. Monkey’s favourite was the ice-lolly.
After lunch, we continued along another stretch of beautiful beach and passed by some luxurious hotel resorts. This didn’t take too long – and we were warned that we would be veering off the quieter roads in order to cycle through the busy town of Pak Nam Pran (Mouth of the Pranburi River). This was a little hair-raising as mopeds and cars were overtaking us.
Pranburi Mangrove Forest
Our Dolphin Bay Pranburi route was drawing to a close. But it was so worth it because our final destination, Pranburi Mangrove Forest – the largest Mangrove Forest in Thailand, was a really interesting and educational experience. It’s an ongoing environmental project to prevent flooding, but began after Her Majesty Sirikit of Thailand saw the devastating impact of a prawn plantation which left the land polluted and unusable. She spearheaded the Mangrove Forest project – mangrove trees can grow in coastal habitats – and planted the first one over 20 years ago. I could scarcely believe this once ravaged and desolate land is now a beautiful, natural wonder.
Following the nature trail through the mangroves trees meant we had some much-needed shade and, because it was low tide and the tree roots were exposed there was plenty for Monkey to look at. He adored trying to spot the mud-skippers and crabs.
But the best part of our walk was climbing a four-storey observation tower, which gave us a birds-eye view of the whole forest. The cool breeze was also welcome and we spent a while up there just taking in our surroundings. Yo asked if wanted to continue cycling another 15km as an extension to our day trip, but we politely declined. After all, it was late afternoon and, even though we had plenty of breaks along the way, we were pretty shattered from our excursion. It was time to head back to the hotel and enjoy a beer and a swim. 
Final thoughts on Hua Hin Bike Tours
We couldn’t have been more impressed with our Thailand cycling tour. Yo really looked after us, made sure Monkey was okay and was a great guide, who shared funny and interesting stories. I also liked how we didn’t have to worry about pick-ups, equipment, drinks or food – they were all included in the price.
But best of all about Hua Hin cycling was seeing the wonderful landscapes and natural environment along the way – and just spending a few hours like we were the only people on the planet.
*Cost of the private tour inclusive of bikes, equipment, drinks, food and pick-ups was £53 per adult and £39 per child. See here for more details or for other bike hire Hua Hin options
We always try and rent bikes wherever we go and fit in a cycle ride of some description. Never been lucky enough to have a support vehicle though – incredible!! The whole ride sounds amazing, so much of interest to see although I have to admit I would probably have been freaked out riding through the town.
I know, we felt like Team GB or something with a support vehicle! Although it was good in the end, as Monkey got to enjoy the air con and be out of the sun!
I quite like biking tours but I’m really bad at it !!! I think you can see more when you do a biking tour than a regular one.
I think that sounds like an amazing way to spend your holiday time. I love mangroves and great views so sounds like a perfect trip.
It was a great end to a really lovely trip. Just so nice to get out of the norm of the hotel swimming pool and see some sights.
The Mother says – What a gorgeous experience. Now that Lucas is a little bit older, we’ve discussed hiring bikes whilst on holiday and you were so lucky to have Yo look after you. Great value for money too 🙂 #MondayEscapades
Oh you should! It’s good fun! We thought it was worth the money too.
Great tips and travel inspiration to do when in Thailand! I will certainly take a look at Hua Hin Bike Tours – I love cycling!
It was definitely a great, gentle cycle ride! The heat made it harder though!
That sounds amazing – I do love exploring by bike and you get to see such a different side of the country. And I definitely fancy the idea of a support vehicle (and proper Thai food) on all my cycle rides from now on! #MondayEscapes
I loved the support vehicle! Wish we could have one every time. Cycling is a great way of seeing sights though. I’m glad we did it.
How fun!!!! I love the temple’s picture and that view over the forest is stunning, wow!!
Great idea to rent bikes, I find it an awesome way to discover places… I love this post 😀
I agree! It’s definitely the best way of getting out and about. The mangrove forest was truly amazing! That was a surprise as we didn’t realise we were going there!
Stunning pictures! I know biking is a great way to get around, but I have been so out of practice for several years that I’m a bit worried about not being able to control it well.Nevertheless, have a great time! and enjoy the food:)
Ha ha! Once you know how to ride a bike you can do it again!
That looks like a perfect way to get away from the crowds and see some authentic villages, and made so luxurious with the support vehicle with ice cold drinks. How wonderful!
Oh gosh, I actually think we stopped more to have drinks and fruit than we did cycle!
What a great way to explore the area and great there was an option for taking children too. Your photos are great – so much colour! Would love to visit one day.
Thanks so much. Hope you get to go someday it’s a wonderful country
Great pics and what a fab way to see Thailand! I’m really keen to take my kids to Thailand, I just need to convince them! #MoneyEscapes
Ha ha! Tell them it’s an amazing place with lots to do! The tuks tuks go really fast
What a fantastic way to see so much on your holiday and what a forest. I do love trees.
These mangrove trees are magnificent and so interesting how they can survive in salt water
That looks like a fab bike trip. So well organised. Beautiful pics and great you got a quiet road for your ride. I’ve not been cycling with Mrs T but would like to at some point. Very impressed you got a support car. Think we’d be pretty thankful of that – especially if she got a bit bored. And also good to have a guide as I know we’d just get lost. Your food sounds and looks amazing too. Love that part of the world – want to go there now ! #mondayescapes
It really was a great day out from start to finish. The support was brilliant, particularly for Monkey. He stayed in it all day with the non English speaking driver but he loved the guy! Just shows language isn’t a barrier when you’re a child!
The last time I rode a bicycle when I was in high school! I wonder if I would remember?? LOL..I must try to go on bicycle rides (if there are opportunities) when I’m travelling – many people have shared the experience is very different and fun. Thanks for sharing this post, Ting, I enjoyed it 🙂
I think you would definitely remember but you might be a bit wobbly at first
What a wonderful way to see Thailand – we have been so unadventurous beyond visiting the beach and the night markets! I was 6 months pregnant on my last trip but seeing your little bike trailer no excuses now!
Ahh, you know what? Apart from this we didn’t get far from the beach and pools either! It was great fun!
Wow this looks like a fantastic experience and I would never think to hire bikes when we go away. I would imagine you got to see sights that you would not normally see. The temple is absolutely stunning as our the beaches x
Oh it’s brilliant fun and you can cover so much more than foot and go off the beaten path! The Hindu temple was beautiful x
Wow you are so brave taking on this tour but it looked so worth it, the Hindu Temple looked breathtaking I would have loved to visit it x
It was great fun and we’re not very athletic at all! So it was pretty easy, just the heat was challenging. Thank god for the support vehicle! xx
Amazing photos – I would love to go to Thailand – maybe when my little monkey is a bit older and I love the idea of a cycle tour 😀 thank you for hosting #MondayEscapes
Pleasure and lovely to have you. Thailand is such a wonderful country and well with a visit.
I’m not a fan of bike rides (Mr TB is the cyclist in our family) but what a fantastic way to sightsee. It sounds like it was well worth having the guide and support. Cycling in that heat must have been exhausting. I hope you enjoyed a cocktail or two at the end of the day 🙂 x
We definitely enjoyed happy hour on our return! xx
I’ve hear that Thailand has wonderful views and your photos prove it! What a great way to see the sights, too.
It was such a great way to explore. Thailand is beautiful
I love your son’s trailer! I think I have to get one for my daughter!
Looks like you guys had fun!
It was great fun! The trailer was awesome and looked comfortable!
That sounds so fun. Very interesting about Thai boys, I had no idea. I love unique tours like these.
Me neither! It was a memorable experience
Oooh what an amazing adventure! Such a beautiful location!
It was such a great day out!
Those mangroves are gorgeous!! What awesome photos!!
Thank you so much. They were stunning and lovely to walk under!
What a great way to tour around – and that snapper looks delicious! Lovely photos from you as always lovely, really want to visit Thailand and adding this to my must-do list when we finally go x
Oh gosh the snapper was delicious and really spicy! x
What a fantastic idea, we will definitely have to try this! And gorgeous! Love it.
It was great fun! Well worth it even in the heat
Lovely place that reminds me of home! #mondayescapes
What a stunning cycle route – beaches, forests, temples, villages – it sounds amazing! SOmething we would definitely enjoy as a family. Thanks for sharing, we will be sure to look this up when we are travelling in this part of Thailand. Hopefully end of next year 🙂
Oh yes, definitely get in touch if you get to visit Hua Hin. It was a fantastic and interesting day out for us all!
Good to know, if I make it to Thailand some day 🙂
Yes, a great tour company!
Gorgeous photos. I’d really love to go to Thailand but would never have thought of going on a cycling trail there. Looks fab! Thanks for linking up to #CheckOutThatView
It was definitely something different but fun!
This looks like a great way to get out and about exploring, even in the blistering sunshine. I love cycling and don’t usually get to do it as much on holiday but this looks like the perfect way to spend time as a family, learn about the local culture and get off the beaten track for a while, and you definitely saw some beautiful scenes on your trip. Thanks for linking up with Country Kids.
It was a brilliant way to see the real Thailand, away from the tourist traps. The mangrove forest really was a highlight.
Wow, what a wonderful way to get around. I am so jealous, I would love to go to Thailand. Also, your photography is beautiful . #countrykids
Thanks Sophie, that’s very kind. I do hope you get to go one day
I love this post as it reminds me of home. The landscape in Thailand is of course so much like the Philippines where I am from. Such a lovely place and trip! #countrykids
I’m glad I could remind you of home