Officials have reinforced the smoking ban on Hua Hin Beach by installing and refurbishing signs at ten designated smoking areas, as part of ongoing efforts to maintain public health and cleanliness along the shoreline.
On 25 June, the Office of Marine and Coastal Resources 3 (Phetchaburi), working through its Marine Resources Conservation Division, collaborated with the Marine Protection Volunteer Network and the Hua Hin Fisheries Association to carry out on-site work along Hua Hin Beach. The initiative involved both repairing existing signs and upgrading the landscaping around the designated smoking zones.
During the activity, the team also engaged with beach chair operators, vendors, and beachgoers to raise awareness of the rules and encourage people to smoke only in the designated areas. Officials said they received strong cooperation from local businesses and members of the public.
Smoking on Hua Hin Beach and nearby Khao Takiab Beach has been banned since 1 February 2018, when Thailand introduced strict regulations prohibiting smoking or discarding cigarette butts on 24 popular beaches across the country.
Under the current regulations, those found smoking outside designated zones face a maximum fine of up to 100,000 baht, and/or up to one year in prison. While authorities initially focused on issuing warnings to raise awareness, enforcement has become more rigorous in recent years, particularly in major tourist areas.
The list of beaches subject to the ban includes well-known destinations such as Patong in Phuket, Cha-am, Koh Samui, Koh Tao, and Pattaya, in addition to Hua Hin and Khao Takiab.
The designated smoking areas aim to provide an alternative for smokers while reducing litter and minimising health risks associated with second-hand smoke. Authorities say they will continue to monitor compliance and encourage beach users to follow the rules to help maintain a clean and safe environment.