We travelled from Bangkok to Hua Hin by Train. The journey was supposed to take 4 hours it took 6 and a half and was very drawn out by siding stops to allow other trains coming in the other direction to pass us.
The scenery was nice and at least you can get up and walk around. However if you have had a long day as we did with 24 hours travelling then I would recommend using a bus to get there, or better still if you have the funds a private hire car.

We stayed at the Veranda Hotel located about 20 minutes out of town. The taxi drivers wanted to charge us $600 BHT to get there trying to tell us it was 20 ks out of town. Not true it is roughly 10 ks but who is counting. We paid $400 BHT to get there and we were not disappointed in terms of its location and seclusion.
It backs onto the beach which is relatively private and quiet, the pool and most rooms look out over the beach and or pool. The food was good as was the service, rooms and staff assistance.
There are no real small shops nearby so if you want to stock up an anything then you need to do this is Hua Hin. The hotel has a shuttle service at a cost of $100 BHT per person into Hua Hin and return, they run at various hours and so you are able to explore the markets and shops in Hua Hin.
Loved the peaceful quiet location, out of the rat race and would highly recommend it if you are looking for a getaway.

It is my 5th time staying here. Staff is very friendly and helpful. Even it is small hotel, you will never feel it as landscape is full of tropical garden and each room looks private. External Decoration is great as it has a big water pond middle of hotel moving slowly to free form swimming pool. Along the walking path is full of trees. Swimming pool is great as it has waterfall as an icon of this hotel. There is a sand beside pool for kids to play including slider. Kid club also provided. I have almost meals in the hotel during 3 days stay. Only 2 restaurants are available. Each dish is very big till can't have it alone. Kid menu is provided at almost half price. Room is easily to adjust between single and twin bed. It is good to stay in hotel.