PUBLISHED May 14th, 2025 06:25 am | UPDATED June 3rd, 2025 08:07 pm
There’s something unmistakably otherworldly about arriving at So Sofitel Hua Hin. Tucked away in the quieter coastal village of Cha Am, about 40 minutes from downtown Hua Hin, this resort feels like a self-contained universe where design, gastronomy, and relaxation collide in delightful, and sometimes surreal, ways. From pyramid-like entrances to whimsical rabbit sculptures and unexpectedly serene spa pods, SO Sofitel Hua Hin isn’t just a place to stay, it’s a playful plunge into imaginative luxury. Here’s our full breakdown of what to expect.
Design & Stay: Alice in Wonderland Meets Contemporary Thai Chic
Upon arrival, guests ascend a dramatic stairway that resembles a stepped ziggurat, leading into a reception space that sets the tone for a resort themed around “Alice in Wonderland”, rabbits, regal figures, and surreal landscapes abound. But the whimsy is balanced by an elegant minimalism that carries through to the rooms and villas.
Our stay in the One-Bedroom Pool Villa, a sprawling 215 sqm sanctuary, was the epitome of private indulgence. Framed by tropical greenery and fronting its own pool, the villa offered airy interiors with floor-to-ceiling windows, separate air conditioning zones, a spacious living area, and thoughtful touches like bath salts, candles, and yoga mats. Without a kitchen, one might think it lacking, but with the resort’s strong dining options, it felt more like a blessing.
Beyond the villa, SO Sofitel Hua Hin offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit different types of travellers. There are a total of ten room categories, ranging from the stylish SO Comfy and SO Studio rooms to the expansive SO Pool Villa and the family-friendly SO Family suite with bunk beds for the little ones. Whether you’re a couple, a family with kids in tow, or travelling with pets, there’s a space thoughtfully crafted for your needs, including pet-friendly rooms and designated areas designed for furry companions to feel right at home.
Dining: Beach Society, White Oven & SO Sundae
Dining at So Sofitel Hua Hin is both a global and local affair. Beach Society, located right by the beach, celebrates European coastal fare with a modern twist. The tuna tartare was elevated with a caper-studded panzanella and tomato salad, while the grass-fed tenderloin from New Zealand was grilled to perfection and served with bok choy and mashed potatoes. Sweet potato fries with herb aioli made for the perfect gluten-free starter, and the staff were exceptionally mindful of dietary restrictions throughout our stay. For those craving sea air and seared seafood, Beach Society is the resort’s breezy gastronomic gem, with an extensive menu that also includes pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and inventive cocktails.
White Oven, the resort’s Thai dining concept, is more grounded in local flavours. Breakfast here is a vibrant affair with everything from vitamin shots to tropical fruit and classic Western dishes. We returned for lunch and braved the seafood spaghetti, deliciously fresh but blisteringly spicy with local green peppercorns. The soft shell crab curry rice offered a more balanced, comforting heat. Our favourite dinner? The resort’s signature Moo Kra Ta. Set under the stars in the alfresco area, it’s a refined take on the Thai BBQ experience with premium meat, seafood, and sauces. All without leaving you smelling like the grill.
For something lighter and sweeter, SO Sundae is the perfect pit stop. Located poolside, this charming venue dishes out ice cream, milkshakes, and thirst-quenching refreshments; a welcome treat for both kids and adults after a sunny afternoon swim.
Amenities & Experiences: From Spa Rituals to Family Adventures
Wellness here is elevated at SO Spa, a sanctuary inspired by nature and Thai elegance. The spa’s architecture draws on organic forms, rounded walls, soft lighting, and natural wood accents evoke a serene cocoon-like retreat from the tropical heat.
Our couple’s treatment began with a refreshing welcome drink of butterfly pea tea and a salt-based foot scrub, leading into a blissful blend of Thai massage and oil therapy in a curved suite designed for deep relaxation. Therapists were attentive and tuned in, ensuring every stretch and stroke matched our comfort level. Afterward, we retreated into a dimly lit, igloo-shaped relaxation pod scattered with star-like lights overhead, ginger tea in hand, cocooned in stillness and ready for the world again.
The floating breakfast was a delightful surprise. Served as a morning experience in our private pool, it elevated the typical resort breakfast into something leisurely and luxurious. Elsewhere, the signature pool featured an inflatable obstacle course known as the Wibit Adventure Float, affirming So Sofitel Hua Hin’s reputation as a family-friendly destination.
One standout adventure was the visit to Nayang Bat Cave. A truly off-the-beaten-path experience that offers a glimpse into the wild rhythm of Hua Hin’s natural world. Just ten minutes from the resort, you’ll arrive at a humble private residence, where a two-storey terrace has been cleverly outfitted to serve as a sunset viewing deck. The mountain beyond is home to a bat colony of astonishing scale, millions of them stream out in swirling waves just after sundown. What makes this even more charming is the homegrown hospitality: a small convenience store run by the family stocks local snacks and chilled beers, which you can enjoy while waiting for the nocturnal spectacle to begin. With binoculars in hand and the golden hour unfolding, it’s nature’s version of a blockbuster. Intimate, humbling, and utterly unforgettable.
But the offerings don’t stop there. The resort is a haven for active travellers and families looking to stay engaged. Guests can explore the property’s scenic cycling tracks, challenge each other on the tennis, pickleball, or basketball courts, or putt their way through a whimsical 18-hole mini golf course. There’s also an indoor kids’ zone, and bicycles and scooters available for rent to explore the tranquil surroundings.
Final Thoughts
So Sofitel Hua Hin is a coastal dream wrapped in creativity. Perfect for couples, families, and pet-lovers seeking downtime with a twist, the resort manages to feel indulgent without being over the top. It’s a destination where Hua Hin’s sun-drenched charm is met with smart design, culinary excellence, and playful surprises. And with every playful rabbit sculpture or perfectly grilled prawn, you’ll be reminded that here, luxury is as much about imagination as it is about indulgence.