Khao Tao

Khao Tao is a charming village best known for a wonderful secluded beach, which is seperately named Hat Sai Noi. Do not confuse it with the diving island of Koh Tao which is some way south of Hua Hin and off Chumphon.
You will find this idyllic location some 20 km south of Hua Hin, not too far off the main highway to Pranburi. Simply follow the signs to Khao Tao and then Sai Noi beach. The road goes around a reservoir and is easy to find. Although small - probably no more than 1km long - the beach is generally quiet, except on weekends and public holidays. There are a number of beach restaurants that serve up delicious local food, seafood and drinks and they all have sun loungers and umbrellas. As opposed to Hua Hin and Khao Takiab beaches, Had Sai Noi drops-off quickly, making it ideal for swimming. You will have to keep a close watch on any children though.

Had Sai Noi development 2007
We are sad to hear the news that Had Sai Noi will soon be lost to a housing development called Turtle Hill. The housing estate is right up on the beach so this quiet bay will be subject to building noise for many months before the properties are complete. Then it will simply become another walled village with its associated environmental impacts, we suggest getting down to Had Sai Noi as soon as possible to enjoy it while it lasts.
During 2008, the above development was halted and so this pristine beach remains unspoilt, but for how long remains an open question.

Khao Tao temple

Whilst here, it is worth seeing the large temple complex in Khao Tao. Contained within it are several caves with a multitude of Buddha statues and shrines. There are also a couple of impressive look-out points, a fishing village and freshwater lake.
It's possible to get there by motorcycle, but it'll be far safer to book a taxi. A round trip should cost about 400 baht and it's perfectly acceptable to tell the driver to come back to collect you at a predetermined time (rather then have him wait) and pay upon your return to Hua Hin. Khao Tao and Sai Noi beach make for a great day away from Hua Hin, but try to go during the week.