Hua Hin steps up accessibility for wheelchair users and disabled visitors
Hua Hin is stepping up accessibility for wheelchair users and disabled visitors, with local authorities and industry representatives outlining new and ongoing measures to improve access across the city and wider province.
The initiative was discussed at a meeting held on 22 April at the Best Western Plus Carapace Hua Hin in Prachuap Khiri Khan. The meeting, chaired by Kritsana Lalai, president of the Friendly Design Foundation, brought together officials from government agencies, local administration, tourism organisations and the private sector.
Attendees included Hua Hin District Chief Supachai Krutdam, Prachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Administrative Organisation president Sarawut Limarunrak, Hua Hin City Municipality Deputy Mayor Sanphop Uengrasamee, as well as representatives from the tourism and business sectors.
The discussions focused on advancing universal design in both health tourism and inclusive tourism, with the aim of improving quality of life for older people and those with disabilities while supporting Hua Hin’s development as an accessible destination.
Accessibility improvements across public spaces and services
Officials said a range of infrastructure upgrades are being introduced in line with ministerial standards to improve access for wheelchair users and people with disabilities. These include accessible toilets measuring 2 by 2.5 metres, appropriately designed ramps, and improved access to public transport and services.
The measures are intended to benefit a wide group of users, including older people, patients, pregnant women and families with young children, by making public areas safer and easier to navigate.
Sanphop said Hua Hin City Municipality has continued to apply universal design principles across its facilities and services to support people of all ages and physical conditions. He said the improvements also help strengthen Hua Hin’s reputation as a destination that is accessible to all visitors.
Upgrades have already been carried out at the municipal office, where facilities for wheelchair users now include ramps, handrails, designated turning spaces and passenger lifts.
Accessibility improvements have also been piloted at public tourist sites, including Queen Sirikit Park, also known as Rai 19. Enhancements there include ramps, accessible toilets and designated parking areas.
In addition, the municipality has introduced vans equipped with electric wheelchair lifts to assist people with mobility needs.
Three emergency SOS points have also been installed at key locations, including outside Hua Hin Railway Station, at Hua Hin Night Market and at beach access points. The units operate 24 hours a day and are linked to the Smart Safety Zone system at Hua Hin Police Station, allowing for rapid reporting and response in emergency situations.
Officials said the combined measures reflect a coordinated approach to making Hua Hin more accessible, while supporting its long-term development as a health-focused and inclusive tourism destination.
