“A strategically important pier designed to connect Hua Hin and Pattaya across the Gulf of Thailand, significantly reducing travel time. Though the ferry service is currently inactive, the pier remains a great spot for sea views and accessing Khao Takiab attractions.”
Khao Takiab Pier is located at Hua Don Beach, near Khao Takiab on the southern end of Hua Hin. This pier was specifically developed to accommodate the cross-Gulf of Thailand ferry project on the Hua Hin – Pattaya route. The service was officially launched in early 2017, aiming to drastically reduce the travel time between these two major resort towns from the usual 4-5 hours by land to only approximately 2 to 2.5 hours by sea. This offered a time-saving and unique travel experience for passengers.
It is important to note that the passenger ferry service between Hua Hin and Pattaya (operated by Royal Passenger Liner) has officially ceased operations since 2020 due to factors including the lack of passengers post-COVID-19 and other operational challenges. Despite the service termination, the pier remains a significant piece of infrastructure in the Khao Takiab area. The terminal building contains designated areas for ticket sales and passenger lounges, ready to support full-scale sea travel should the service be revived or a new operator take over in the future.
Physically, the pier is a large structure that extends noticeably into the sea. This provides visitors with the opportunity to stroll around the pier area and enjoy the panoramic views of the Hua Hin bay and Hua Don Beach. This location offers a particularly clear view of Khao Takiab (Chopstick Mountain) with its large standing Buddha statue, as well as being a docking point for local fishing boats and small tour vessels, retaining a coastal community atmosphere.
Khao Takiab Pier is therefore not just a boarding point; it is an important landmark reflecting Thailand's past efforts to enhance regional marine connectivity. Furthermore, a visit to the pier allows travelers to explore Hua Don Beach, a quieter extension of the main Hua Hin Beach, and observe the daily life of the fishing community in Khao Takiab.
Even with the ferry service currently suspended, visiting the pier still offers a rewarding experience to take in the expansive views of the Gulf of Thailand and explore the charming, less-developed southern area of Hua Hin that retains its local, natural feel.
How to Get There
Private Car:
- Drive towards Khao Takiab. The pier is situated at Hua Don Beach, near Soi Takiab Bay 1 Alley. On-site parking is available near the pier entrance.
Local Songthaew (Green Taxi):
- Take the green Songthaew (Hua Hin - Khao Takiab route). Inform the driver to drop you off at the Khao Takiab terminus, from where you can walk or take a motorcycle taxi to the pier.
Taxi/Grab:
- Use a taxi or ride-hailing application, setting the destination as "Khao Takiab Pier"
Travel Tips
Service Status:
- Please be aware that the Hua Hin-Pattaya ferry service is officially canceled/suspended. Always verify the latest sailing information directly with transport authorities if planning future sea travel.
Best Time to Visit:
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the views and avoid the strong midday sun.
Photography:
- The pier and its surroundings offer excellent spots for capturing wide-angle sea views with Khao Takiab as a prominent backdrop.
Explore Nearby:
- While in the area, be sure to visit Khao Krailart Temple and Khao Takiab Temple for worship and panoramic views from the hilltops.
Safety Note:
- As this is still an active pier for fishing and smaller boats, please exercise caution when walking on the jetties.
Admission Fee
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Free Admission to the pier area.
Opening Hours:
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24 Hours (for external access to the pier area)
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Ticket Office/Check-in Terminal: Closed or operating according to potential future boat schedules.