The Barai Spa Expands to Full Hotel in Hua Hin

Announced April 22, 2026, Thailand's coastal town of Hua Hin, a historic royal retreat, is home to numerous luxury hotels, but The Barai stands apart due to its exceptional spa. Designed by Thai architect Lek Bunnag, its 18 treatment rooms are centered around a striking ochre and burgundy arrival area that has impressed guests for almost two decades.

Previously, The Barai offered eight suites for guests seeking an immersive wellness experience, while leveraging the full hospitality services of the adjacent Hyatt Regency. General Manager Marco Avitabile describes it as "a hotel within a hotel," acknowledging that many guests were unaware of these exclusive suites, as Monocle reports.

The same Bangkok-based family owns both beachfront properties. The Barai is now expanding into a full hotel. An additional 90 rooms are nearing completion, designed to complement the original aesthetic and low-rise architecture. A new check-in area, mirroring the spa's courtyard, is set to open this summer. Dining options include McFarland House, a grill housed in a 19th-century beachfront pavilion overlooking the Gulf of Thailand, and the forthcoming White Cottage, a fish restaurant in a renovated building.

Hua Hin is a prominent winter destination for Europeans and a year-round escape for affluent Thais, often a tradition passed down through generations. Monocle notes that The Barai is recognized as one of Thailand's most iconic hotels. The publication also points to The Narai, an early luxury Bangkok stay, which is slated to reopen in 2028 after a redesign by UK firm Heatherwick Studio. Thailand has seen significant hotel developments this decade, with more in the pipeline.

Our take: A spa-first property transitioning to a full hotel suggests a savvy recognition of market demand for comprehensive wellness experiences integrated into luxury accommodations. This move by The Barai solidifies its position not just as a wellness destination, but as a holistic resort offering a distinctive stay in a competitive market.