A major pain point for Hua Hin is the road connection to Bangkok. While the town is only 2.5 hours from Bangkok in case of little traffic, road travel time can double in weekends or around public holidays. The good news: Thailand’s transport minister, Suriya Jeungroongruangkit, has vowed to speed up the construction of the Nakhon Pathom to Cha-am expressway.
The 109-kilometer expressway is set to significantly ease traffic congestion at two bottlenecks: Rama II Road and Phetkasem Road. The M8 will thereby significantly reduce travel times between Bangkok and Hua Hin.
Minister Jeungroongruangkit has detailed the ministry’s strategy to advance these projects, aligning with the government’s ‘Quick Win’ policy. The government initiative is aimed at achieving tangible results within a short timeframe, primarily focusing on boosting the economy and improving people’s lives. Launched in 2023 under the Pheu Thai Party, the policy encompasses the M8 highway as well as a variety of other infrastructure articles.
Nevertheless, motorists have to wait until (at least) 2032 before the new highway will be completed.
Read more about the M8 highway in this Hua Hin Good Life article.