Above: The resort is located on a five-kilometer stretch of beach around three hours drive from the Thai capital.

Hua Hin Al Fresco Resort (83/188 Soi Talay 12, Khaotakieb-Hua Hin Rd.; 66-3/253-6888) has put the finishing touches on a four-month renovation project. Much of the focus has been placed on the way in which the property is lit—returning guests will see the resort’s noted canal-style swimming pool in a new light, while both public spaces and individual guest rooms have been given added luster. A new fitness center has been installed as part of the upgrade, as have sound-proofed treatment tents at the resort’s Gaia Spa. True to its name, the hotel has introduced new alfresco dining by candlelight, where guests can have dinner on the rooftop of the Moon Deck Suites. The region may not have the glitzy draw of Pataya or Phuket, but Hua Hin has long been known as a royal retreat (King Rama VII built his summer palace here—which is still frequented by today’s monarch) and it is awash with world-class golf courses—eight within 30 minutes’ drive.