Ten best beaches to visit in Vietnam
Jan 03,2025 | Milo
Table of contents
1. My Khe Beach – The "China Beach"
2. Cua Dai Beach – A Gateway to Hoi An
3. Ha Long Bay – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
4. Sao Beach – The Hidden Gem of Phu Quoc
5. Rach Vem Beach – Starfish Haven
6. An Bang Beach – A Peaceful Retreat
7. Nha Trang – The Coastal Hub
8. Long Beach – The Crown Jewel of Phu Quoc
9. Doc Let Beach – A Quiet Getaway
10. Ly Son Island – Off the Beaten Path
Stay Connected During Your Vietnam Trip
While Vietnam might not hold the same reputation for beaches as some of its Southeast Asian neighbors, its 2,030 miles (3,260 kilometers) of coastline ensure an abundance of breathtaking coves and sun-kissed shores. If you're looking for a sunny day by the sea, rest assured, Vietnam has plenty to offer. Here’s a guide to 10 of the country’s finest beaches and how to locate them.
1. My Khe Beach – The "China Beach"
If staying close to city life is your preference, My Khe Beach could be your ideal destination. Situated on the eastern side of Da Nang in central Vietnam, the beach offers a striking contrast between the city’s towering skyscrapers and the verdant hills that frame the backdrop.
Beyond lounging on its soft sands and soaking up the sun, My Khe is renowned for its water activities, including surfing, jet skiing, and snorkeling. While restaurants and bars are conveniently nearby, the atmosphere remains tranquil and serene, perfect for a relaxing escape.
2. Cua Dai Beach – A Gateway to Hoi An
Cua Dai Beach provides an exceptionally tranquil retreat. Although it is among Vietnam's more frequented beaches, it has managed to avoid an overabundance of mass tourism developments like luxury hotels, preserving its calm and soothing ambiance with pristine white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Located just 4 kilometers from Hội An’s town center, the beach is easily accessible by a short bus ride. However, the area faces a significant erosion problem, so consider visiting soon to appreciate its breathtaking charm before it is further affected by the encroaching sea.
3. Ha Long Bay – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Ha Long Bay, situated in northern Vietnam, is a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its majestic limestone formations. While sandy beaches are relatively scarce, the bay’s allure lies in its countless secluded coves, almost one for every island in this stunning archipelago.
Among these islands, Cat Ba stands out as the largest. This island is home to a bustling town where visitors can find accommodations just a short stroll away from the renowned Cat Co Cove. Additionally, it serves as a hub for boat tours, offering convenient access to explore the surrounding isles.
4. Sao Beach – The Hidden Gem of Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc Island, situated in southern Vietnam, boasts an abundance of stunning beaches, but if you can only visit one, make it Sao Beach. This crescent-shaped gem, located at the island’s southern tip, features pristine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a serene atmosphere unspoiled by large-scale tourist developments.
Even not in Sao Beach, Phu Quoc offers plenty to explore, from scenic hiking trails and verdant mountains to diverse wildlife. The convenience of Phu Quoc International Airport ensures hassle-free travel to and from the island, making it an ideal destination for your Vietnamese getaway.
5. Rach Vem Beach – Starfish Haven
Rach Vem, often referred to as Starfish Beach, is another treasure on Phu Quoc Island. Situated along the island's northern coastline near the Rach Vem fishing village, this expansive beach stretches over 5 kilometers. Take your time to find the perfect spot—some areas buzz with activity near beach bars, while others offer a more peaceful and secluded atmosphere.
The beach’s nickname is no coincidence. Rach Vem is home to Vietnam’s largest population of starfish. As you wander along the shore, be mindful of your steps and take in the captivating sight of these unique marine creatures.
6. An Bang Beach – A Peaceful Retreat
An Bang Beach has risen to prominence as one of Vietnam’s premier seaside getaways, especially as the neighboring Cua Dai Beach faces increasing erosion issues. Beyond its vast expanse of soft sand, An Bang is renowned for showcasing some of the most breathtaking sunsets imaginable.
Just a short distance away lies the historic town of Hoi An, which dates back to the 15th century and is a must-visit. This charming town boasts architecture influenced by French, Chinese, and Japanese styles, alongside ancient relics from the Islamic Champa kingdom. Additionally, Hoi An hosts various Vietnamese festivals throughout the year, so be sure to check the event schedule before planning your trip.
7. Nha Trang – The Coastal Hub
Nha Trang city and its famous beach are among the most sought-after destinations in Vietnam. Situated conveniently close to the city, visitors can easily access street food vendors and cocktail bars, making it an ideal place to unwind.
For those looking for a more active experience, snorkeling tours or island explorations provide the perfect opportunity to immerse in the natural beauty of the area.
8. Long Beach – The Crown Jewel of Phu Quoc
If you're planning to spend an extended time on Phu Quoc island, Long Beach is a must-see. Situated at the outskirts of Duong Dong city, this beach boasts warm waters and lush, scenic surroundings. With the city's vibrant night market just a short distance away, you can easily transition from sunbathing to exploring local culture.
As a popular resort area in Vietnam, parts of Long Beach are reserved for private seaside resorts, but there are numerous public access points where anyone can enjoy the coastline. The accommodations in this area are affordable, so if you're on the hunt for a resort, consider staying near Long Beach for both convenience and a great atmosphere.
9. Doc Let Beach – A Quiet Getaway
Situated roughly an hour's drive from Nha Trang, Doc Let boasts an impressive 18-kilometer stretch of coastline, divided into three distinct areas.
The northern section is the most popular with visitors, featuring a picturesque bay and powdery white sands accompanied by numerous bars and upscale resorts. The central area, meanwhile, houses the Hyundai shipyard; although the beach itself is visually appealing, it experiences significant boat traffic. Finally, the southern portion, often referred to as Jungle Beach, is nestled amidst quaint fishing villages and small family-run shops, offering a more rustic charm.
10. Ly Son Island – Off the Beaten Path
Ly Son Island is an ideal destination for those seeking a retreat from the mainland and more tranquil surroundings. Situated off the coast of Central Vietnam, the island is accessible via ferry from Da Nang or a speedboat departing from Sa Ky port. It remains relatively undiscovered by mass tourism, offering budget-friendly lodging and authentic local cuisine.
Unlike typical beach destinations, Ly Son is characterized by volcanic craters, rugged cliffs, and hidden coves instead of dense forests and luxury resorts. While sandy beaches can still be found amid the rocky terrain, the island's dramatic scenery sets it apart from other locations on this list. In addition to soaking up the sun, visitors can enjoy snorkeling around the reefs or exploring the island’s unique landscapes.
Stay Connected During Your Vietnam Trip
Having access to mobile internet is essential during your trip to Vietnam. Whether you need to share your beach photos with friends, navigate using map apps, or communicate with locals through a translation app, staying connected is crucial.
Though local SIM cards and pocket WiFi are options, eSIMs stand out as the most convenient solution. They are cost-effective, simple to set up, and provide a stable connection throughout the country. By opting for an eSIM plan in Vietnam, you can get online within minutes, without the hassle of dealing with physical SIM cards or extra devices.
Plans that may interest you
Comment
