Hua Hin is easy to reach from Bangkok and so it is a popular place for a weekend jaunt, both for locals and expats. Although many locals pile down at the weekend to Cha Am just north. It is also seen as more genteel than Pattaya, hence all the pool-villa gated communities and the golf courses. The long 5 km beach gets covered at high tide and the sea isn't as inviting as at the beaches down south. But, you've got Cicada market and you are good for donkey rides, so not all bad! 

Cicada night market for arts and crafts and food on the go. Definitely worth a visit.