Have you ever dreamed of walking on pristine white sand with turquoise waters stretching to the horizon? Vietnam’s 3,260km coastline hides some of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful beaches, yet many travelers miss these coastal treasures.
From the dramatic limestone cliffs of Ha Long Bay to the tropical paradise of Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam offers beach experiences you simply can’t find elsewhere. Whether you’re seeking luxury resorts, family adventures, or untouched natural beauty, Vietnam’s diverse beaches have something special waiting for you.
Let me take you on a journey along Vietnam’s coast to discover beaches that will leave you breathless. I’ve explored these shores personally and gathered insights from locals to bring you the most authentic beach guide possible.
Understanding Vietnam’s Beach Regions
Vietnam’s long, narrow shape creates distinct coastal regions, each with unique characteristics. Knowing these differences will help you plan the perfect beach getaway.
Northern Vietnam Beaches (Ha Long Bay to Hue)
Northern beaches feature dramatic scenery with limestone karsts and cooler waters. The best time to visit is April to October when temperatures are warm and rainfall is minimal.
These beaches blend natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. Fishing villages dot the coastline, offering glimpses into traditional Vietnamese coastal life.
Central Vietnam Beaches (Da Nang to Nha Trang)
Central Vietnam boasts some of the country’s most developed beach destinations. The stunning Hai Van Pass separates the northern and central coastal regions, creating a climate boundary.
The best weather occurs between February and August. Central beaches offer excellent infrastructure with international resorts, water sports facilities, and easy access to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Hoi An.
Southern Vietnam Beaches (Mui Ne to Phu Quoc)
Southern beaches enjoy tropical weather year-round, making them perfect for winter escapes. The dry season from November to April offers sunny days and calm seas.
The south features both mainland beaches like Mui Ne with its famous red and white sand dunes, and island paradises like Phu Quoc with its palm-fringed shores and clear waters.
Top 15 Must-Visit Vietnam Beaches
Luxury Beach Experiences
1. Long Beach (Bai Truong), Phu Quoc Island
Long Beach stretches over 20km along Phu Quoc’s western coast, offering spectacular sunset views over the Gulf of Thailand.
Getting there: Fly directly to Phu Quoc International Airport, then take a 15-minute taxi ride to the beach.
Where to stay: The island offers accommodations for every budget, from luxury resorts like Vinpearl Resort & Spa ($150-300/night) to mid-range options like Cassia Cottage ($80-150/night) and hostels ($15-30/night).
What to do: Snorkel in crystal-clear waters, take a sunset cruise, or simply relax with a tropical cocktail on the beach. The pristine waters make it perfect for swimming year-round.
Best time to visit: November to April for dry, sunny days.
Local tip: Head to the southern section of Long Beach for fewer crowds and more authentic seafood restaurants where you’ll dine with your feet in the sand.
2. Non Nuoc Beach, Da Nang
This 5km stretch of white sand backed by luxury resorts has been named one of the world’s most beautiful beaches by Forbes magazine.
Getting there: Fly to Da Nang International Airport, then take a 15-minute taxi ride south.
Where to stay: Luxurious options include Hyatt Regency Danang ($150-300/night), while Pullman Danang Beach Resort ($120-250/night) offers excellent value.
What to do: Visit the nearby Marble Mountains, try surfing lessons, or indulge in spa treatments at beachfront resorts.
Best time to visit: February to August for optimal weather.
Local tip: The beach gets busy on weekends with local families. For a more peaceful experience, visit on weekdays or walk farther from the main access points.
3. Bai Dai Beach, Cam Ranh
This emerging luxury destination offers kilometers of pristine shoreline and developing high-end resorts.
Getting there: Fly to Cam Ranh International Airport, then drive 15 minutes south.
Where to stay: The Anam ($200-350/night) and Alma Resort ($180-300/night) offer luxury experiences with private beach access.
What to do: Enjoy water sports, boat excursions, or simply relax in uncrowded luxury.
Best time to visit: January to August for sunny skies and calm seas.
Local tip: This area is still developing, offering the rare chance to experience luxury accommodations on relatively uncrowded beaches – a combination that’s becoming harder to find in Vietnam.
Family-Friendly Beach Destinations
4. Cua Dai Beach, Hoi An
This family-friendly beach combines golden sands with proximity to the cultural wonders of Hoi An Ancient Town.
Getting there: Fly to Da Nang, then take a 30-minute taxi to Hoi An. The beach is 5km from the old town.
Where to stay: Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort ($100-200/night) offers family rooms and kid-friendly amenities, while Hoi An Beach Resort ($80-150/night) provides great value.
What to do: Build sandcastles, take cooking classes, or enjoy bicycle rides between the beach and Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets.
Best time to visit: February to July for optimal beach conditions.
Local tip: Cua Dai has faced erosion issues in recent years. For better beach conditions, walk north toward An Bang Beach or take day trips to the Cham Islands.
After enjoying the beach, why not explore the cultural heart of Vietnam? Our Hanoi Old Quarter Tour offers the perfect complement to your beach vacation with insights into Vietnam’s rich heritage.
5. Doc Let Beach, Nha Trang
This 18km white sand beach offers shallow, calm waters perfect for families with young children.
Getting there: Fly to Cam Ranh International Airport, then drive 50 minutes north.
Where to stay: MerPerle Hon Tam Resort ($120-250/night) is great for families, while Paradise Resort Doc Let ($60-120/night) offers good value with family bungalows.
What to do: Visit nearby salt fields, enjoy safe swimming in shallow waters, or take boat trips to nearby islands.
Best time to visit: January to August for clear skies and calm seas.
Local tip: Visit the local fishing village early in the morning to see the colorful boats return with the day’s catch. Kids will love seeing the variety of sea creatures before they reach the market.
6. My Khe Beach, Da Nang
Made famous during the American War as “China Beach,” this urban beach combines convenience with beauty.
Getting there: Fly to Da Nang International Airport, then take a 10-minute taxi ride.
Where to stay: A La Carte Da Nang Beach ($80-150/night) offers family apartments with kitchens, while Holiday Beach Danang Hotel & Resort ($60-120/night) provides good value.
What to do: Try beginner surfing lessons, build sandcastles, or visit the nearby Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture.
Best time to visit: February to August for sunny days and gentle waves.
Local tip: Early mornings (5:00-6:30 AM) offer a glimpse into local life as residents exercise and swim before work. It’s a wonderful cultural experience for children to see how beaches are part of daily Vietnamese life.
Unspoiled Natural Beaches
7. Bai Xep Beach, Quy Nhon
This hidden fishing village beach offers a glimpse of authentic coastal life untouched by mass tourism.
Getting there: Fly to Phu Cat Airport, then drive 30 minutes south to Quy Nhon and another 15 minutes to Bai Xep.
Where to stay: Life’s A Beach Backpackers ($15-30/night) offers budget-friendly bungalows, while Haven Vietnam ($30-60/night) provides comfortable beachfront accommodations.
What to do: Kayak through fishing village waters, hike nearby hills for stunning views, or learn traditional fishing methods from locals.
Best time to visit: February to September for clear weather.
Local tip: Wake up early to see fishermen bringing in their morning catch. Some guesthouses can arrange for you to join a fishing expedition for an authentic experience.
8. Bai Dai Beach, Phu Quoc
Not to be confused with Cam Ranh’s beach of the same name, this Phu Quoc gem remains largely undeveloped.
Getting there: Fly to Phu Quoc, then take a 30-minute taxi ride to the island’s northern section.
Where to stay: Peppercorn Beach Resort ($50-100/night) and Bamboo Cottages ($40-80/night) offer eco-friendly accommodations.
What to do: Snorkel in pristine waters, watch spectacular sunsets, or explore nearby pepper farms.
Best time to visit: November to April for ideal conditions.
Local tip: Bring supplies as services are limited. The trade-off is having stretches of pristine beach almost entirely to yourself.
9. Bai Mon Beach, Phu Yen
This secluded beach beneath the historic Mui Dien Lighthouse offers some of Vietnam’s most dramatic coastal scenery.
Getting there: Fly to Tuy Hoa Airport, then drive 50 minutes to Mui Dien Lighthouse, followed by a 20-minute hike down to the beach.
Where to stay: Limited accommodations are available in nearby Song Cau town. Most visitors come as a day trip from Tuy Hoa city.
What to do: Hike to the 100-year-old lighthouse, swim in crystal-clear waters, or simply marvel at the untouched beauty.
Best time to visit: February to September for optimal hiking and swimming conditions.
Local tip: The effort required to reach this beach keeps crowds away. Pack a picnic, wear good hiking shoes, and bring plenty of water for the journey down and back up.
Hidden Gem Beaches
10. Star Beach (Bai Sao), Phu Quoc
Despite its growing fame, Bai Sao remains one of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches with powder-white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water.
Getting there: Fly to Phu Quoc, then drive 25 minutes to the southeast coast.
Where to stay: My Lan Guest House ($30-60/night) and Phu Quoc Bungalow ($40-80/night) offer simple beachfront accommodations.
What to do: Swim in the shallow, clear waters, try fresh seafood at beachside restaurants, or take Instagram-worthy photos of the iconic swings in the water.
Best time to visit: November to April for stunning water clarity.
Local tip: Arrive early (before 9 AM) or late (after 4 PM) to avoid tour groups that visit during mid-day.
11. Co To Island Beaches
This archipelago in the north offers pristine beaches without the crowds found at better-known destinations.
Getting there: Take a bus from Hanoi to Van Don, then a 1.5-hour ferry to Co To Island.
Where to stay: Co To Hotel ($30-60/night) and Ocean View Homestay ($20-40/night) provide comfortable lodging.
What to do: Explore multiple beaches on motorbike, hike to the lighthouse for panoramic views, or enjoy fresh seafood barbecues on the beach.
Best time to visit: April to October for access (the island can be closed during winter storms).
Local tip: Hong Van Beach on the island’s eastern side offers the most beautiful sunrise views, while Van Chay Beach is perfect for sunset enthusiasts.
12. Nam Du Islands
This remote archipelago of 21 islands offers an authentic glimpse into island life with minimal tourism development.
Getting there: Take a bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Rach Gia, then a 2.5-hour speedboat to Nam Du.
Where to stay: Nam Du Homestay ($15-30/night) and Humiso Nam Du ($25-50/night) offer simple island accommodations.
What to do: Island-hop via local boats, snorkel in clear waters, or hike to viewpoints for spectacular photographs.
Best time to visit: December to April for calm seas and boat access.
Local tip: Try the local specialty of sea urchin porridge and fresh squid at island restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.
For travelers seeking unique experiences beyond the beaches, consider our Stories from Vietnam War Tour to gain deeper insights into the country’s fascinating history.
Cultural Beach Experiences
13. Mui Ne Beach
Famous for its unique red and white sand dunes, Mui Ne combines beach life with cultural experiences.
Getting there: Take a 4-5 hour bus or train from Ho Chi Minh City to Mui Ne.
Where to stay: Bamboo Village Beach Resort ($70-150/night) incorporates traditional architecture, while Mia Resort Mui Ne ($80-180/night) offers cultural activities.
What to do: Visit the fishing harbor at sunrise, explore sand dunes, or learn about the Cham culture at nearby Po Shanu Towers.
Best time to visit: November to April for dry, sunny conditions.
Local tip: The fishing harbor is most active between 5:00-7:00 AM when colorful boats return with the night’s catch. This offers an authentic glimpse into the traditional fishing culture that has sustained coastal communities for generations.
14. Lang Co Beach, Hue
This picturesque bay near the imperial city of Hue offers a perfect blend of beach relaxation and cultural exploration.
Getting there: Fly to Hue or Da Nang, then drive 30-60 minutes to Lang Co.
Where to stay: Banyan Tree Lang Co ($200-400/night) for luxury, or Lang Co Beach Resort ($60-120/night) for good value.
What to do: Combine beach days with visits to nearby Hue imperial sites, take a boat through the lagoon to visit fishing villages, or drive the spectacular Hai Van Pass.
Best time to visit: February to July for ideal beach conditions.
Local tip: The area is known for its oysters and other seafood. Look for small family restaurants where you can select live seafood from tanks for the freshest possible meal.
15. An Bang Beach, Hoi An
This laid-back beach offers a perfect complement to the cultural experiences of nearby Hoi An Ancient Town.
Getting there: Fly to Da Nang, then take a 30-minute taxi to Hoi An. The beach is 4km from the old town.
Where to stay: Under The Coconut Tree Homestay ($30-60/night) and An Bang Seaside Village ($40-80/night) offer charming accommodations.
What to do: Alternate between exploring Hoi An’s cultural sites and relaxing on the beach, take cooking classes featuring seafood specialties, or join sunrise yoga sessions on the sand.
Best time to visit: February to July for optimal beach conditions.
Local tip: Rent a bicycle to travel between An Bang Beach and Hoi An Ancient Town. The flat 4km ride takes you through rice fields and offers a glimpse into rural Vietnamese life.
Practical Beach Travel Guide for Vietnam
When to Visit: Seasonal Considerations
Vietnam’s elongated geography creates distinct weather patterns for each coastal region:
Northern beaches (Ha Long Bay to Hue): Best from May to October
- Avoid winter months (December-February) when temperatures can drop below 20°C
- June-August brings the warmest water temperatures
Central beaches (Da Nang to Nha Trang): Best from February to August
- September-December can bring heavy rainfall and potential flooding
- January-August offers sunny days with moderate rainfall
Southern beaches (Mui Ne to Phu Quoc): Best from November to April
- May-October brings monsoon rains, especially in southern islands
- December-February offers perfect beach weather with minimal rain
Transportation to Vietnam’s Beaches
By Air:
Major airports serving beach destinations include:
- Da Nang International Airport (for Central beaches)
- Cam Ranh International Airport (for Nha Trang)
- Phu Quoc International Airport
- Con Dao Airport
- Tuy Hoa Airport (for Phu Yen beaches)
By Land:
- Sleeper buses connect major cities to beach towns (tickets: $10-20)
- Trains run along Vietnam’s coast from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
- Motorcycle rentals offer freedom to explore (costs: $5-10/day)
By Sea:
- Ferries connect mainland ports to islands like Phu Quoc, Con Dao, and Co To
- Speedboats serve closer islands like Cham Islands (from Hoi An) and Ly Son
Local tip: Book transportation to islands well in advance during Vietnamese holidays, especially Tet (Lunar New Year) and summer vacation periods.
Beach Safety & Etiquette
Safety Considerations:
- Most popular beaches have flag systems (red = dangerous, yellow = caution, green = safe)
- Box jellyfish can appear during summer months, especially in central Vietnam
- Strong currents can occur even at seemingly calm beaches
Cultural Etiquette:
- Vietnamese beaches are generally conservative – modest swimwear is appropriate
- Topless sunbathing is not culturally acceptable
- Cover up when leaving the beach area and entering shops or restaurants
Environmental Responsibility:
- Bring reusable water bottles to reduce plastic waste
- Use reef-safe sunscreen when snorkeling or diving
- Support beach clean-up initiatives that operate at many popular beaches
Want to explore more of Vietnam’s rich culture? Our French Quarter Tour in Hanoi showcases the country’s fascinating colonial architecture and history.
Budget Considerations
Beach Access:
- Most public beaches are free
- Some beaches near resorts charge small entrance fees ($1-3)
- Chair rentals typically cost $1-5 per day
Accommodation Costs:
- Budget homestays/hostels: $10-30/night
- Mid-range hotels: $30-80/night
- Luxury resorts: $100-300+/night
Money-Saving Tips:
- Visit during shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October)
- Book accommodation directly rather than through international platforms
- Eat at local restaurants rather than tourist establishments
- Rent motorbikes for transportation rather than taking taxis
Beyond Sunbathing: Beach Activities in Vietnam
Water Sports & Activities
Surfing & Kitesurfing:
- Mui Ne: Vietnam’s kitesurfing capital (best December-April)
- My Khe Beach, Da Nang: Consistent waves for beginner surfers
- Nha Trang: Windsurfing and sailing opportunities
Snorkeling & Diving:
- Phu Quoc: Excellent visibility year-round with diverse marine life
- Cham Islands: Marine protected area with vibrant coral (best May-August)
- Con Dao: Vietnam’s premier diving destination with healthy reefs and sea turtles
- Whale Island (near Nha Trang): Surprise encounters with various marine species
Boat Excursions:
- Island-hopping tours around Phu Quoc ($20-40)
- Basket boat experiences in Hoi An ($15-25)
- Sunset cruises in Nha Trang ($25-50)
Culinary Beach Experiences
Must-Try Coastal Dishes:
- Fresh spring rolls with just-caught seafood
- Bánh xèo (crispy pancakes) with shrimp and squid
- Grilled fish in banana leaf (cá nướng lá chuối)
- Sea urchin porridge (cháo nhum biển) in southern islands
Seafood Markets:
- Phu Quoc Night Market for fresh seafood stalls
- Mui Ne fishing village for early morning seafood auctions
- Nha Trang Dam Market for the largest variety of seafood
Beach Dining Tips:
- Look for restaurants where locals eat
- Fresh seafood should be selected live from tanks
- Prices should be agreed upon by weight before cooking
- Beachfront barbecue setups often offer the freshest experience
After enjoying Vietnam’s coastal cuisine, why not explore the country’s street food culture? Our Hanoi Street Food Tour takes you through hidden paths to sample authentic flavors.
Beach Wellness & Relaxation
Yoga & Meditation:
- An Bang Beach (Hoi An) offers sunrise yoga classes
- Mui Ne features several yoga retreats along the beach
- Phu Quoc’s Long Beach has wellness-focused resorts
Natural Spa Experiences:
- Mud baths in Nha Trang ($10-30)
- Hot springs near Binh Chau Beach
- Coconut milk baths in Phu Quoc spas
Wellness Resorts:
- TIA Wellness Resort, Da Nang: Pioneering wellness programs
- Fusion Maia, Da Nang: All-inclusive spa treatments
- Alma Resort, Cam Ranh: Comprehensive wellness facilities
Environmental Concerns & Sustainable Beach Tourism
Vietnam’s beaches face growing environmental challenges:
- Plastic pollution affects even remote beaches
- Coral reef degradation threatens marine ecosystems
- Rapid development puts pressure on coastal environments
Sustainable Initiatives:
- Green Viet in Da Nang organizes beach clean-ups
- WWF Vietnam works on marine conservation in Phu Quoc
- ReefWatch Vietnam monitors coral health around Con Dao
Eco-Friendly Accommodations:
- Bamboo Cottages, Phu Quoc: Solar-powered beach bungalows
- An Lam Retreats, Ninh Van Bay: Sustainable luxury
- Mango Bay Resort, Phu Quoc: Eco-conscious design and operations
How You Can Help:
- Participate in beach clean-ups (check with your hotel for information)
- Choose accommodations with environmental certifications
- Reduce single-use plastics during your beach vacation
- Support local conservation efforts through donations or volunteerism
Comparison: Vietnam’s Beaches vs. Other Southeast Asian Beaches
Vietnam vs. Thailand:
- Vietnam offers lower prices for similar quality
- Fewer crowds than popular Thai destinations
- More authentic local experiences
- Less developed nightlife scene
Vietnam vs. Philippines:
- Vietnam provides easier transportation between beach destinations
- Better infrastructure in developed beach areas
- More cultural attractions near beaches
- Less island-hopping required
Vietnam vs. Indonesia:
- More affordable luxury accommodations
- Fewer language barriers with higher English proficiency
- Easier visa process for most nationalities
- More varied coastal landscapes in a smaller geographical area
What Makes Vietnam’s Beaches Unique:
- Dramatic limestone karst landscapes in northern beaches
- Rich cultural experiences within easy reach of beaches
- Diverse coastal cuisines reflecting regional specialties
- Relatively undiscovered beaches offer peaceful experiences
Families traveling with children might appreciate our Kids Friendly Hanoi Old Quarter Tour to balance beach time with cultural exploration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Vietnam’s beaches safe for swimming?
Most popular beaches are safe for swimming during their respective high seasons. Always check flag warnings and ask locals about current conditions. Some beaches have seasonal jellyfish or strong currents that require caution.
Which Vietnam beaches are best for families with children?
My Khe Beach (Da Nang), Doc Let Beach (Nha Trang), and Long Beach (Phu Quoc) offer gentle slopes, calm waters, and good facilities for families. These beaches also have numerous family-friendly resorts nearby.
What’s the best time of year to visit Vietnam’s beaches?
It depends on the region: Northern beaches (May-October), Central beaches (February-August), Southern beaches (November-April). Visiting during these periods will give you the best chance of sunny skies and calm seas.
How do I get to Vietnam’s island beaches?
Major islands like Phu Quoc have international airports. Smaller islands like Con Dao, Co To, and Ly Son are accessible by ferry or domestic flights. Always check transportation schedules in advance as services can be limited or canceled during bad weather.
Are there nude or topless beaches in Vietnam?
No. Vietnam is culturally conservative, and nudity or topless sunbathing is not acceptable on public beaches. Always respect local customs by wearing appropriate swimwear.
What should I pack for a Vietnam beach vacation?
Essentials include reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, lightweight clothing for cover-ups, water shoes for rocky beaches, and a reusable water bottle. Also bring modest attire for visiting nearby cultural sites or local villages.
How expensive are beach resorts in Vietnam?
Vietnam offers excellent value compared to other Southeast Asian destinations. Budget accommodations start around $15-30/night, mid-range hotels range from $30-80/night, while luxury resorts typically cost $100-300+/night depending on location and season.
Conclusion: Creating Your Perfect Vietnam Beach Itinerary
Vietnam’s diverse coastline offers something for every type of beach lover. Here are some suggested itineraries to help you plan:
1-Week Beach Itinerary:
- Central Coast Focus: 3 days in Da Nang (My Khe Beach), 4 days in Hoi An (An Bang Beach)
- Southern Island Escape: 7 days exploring different beaches on Phu Quoc Island
- Northern Adventure: 3 days in Ha Long Bay, 4 days on Co To Island
2-Week Coastal Route:
- North to Central: Ha Long Bay (3 days) → Lang Co Beach (3 days) → Hoi An (4 days) → Da Nang (4 days)
- Central to South: Da Nang (3 days) → Nha Trang (3 days) → Mui Ne (3 days) → Phu Quoc (5 days)
- Island Hopping: Phu Quoc (5 days) → Con Dao (4 days) → Nam Du (3 days) → Whale Island (2 days)
Combining Beach and Culture:
For the perfect balance, pair beach time with nearby cultural attractions:
- An Bang Beach with Hoi An Ancient Town
- Lang Co Beach with Hue Imperial City
- Mui Ne Beach with Cham Towers
- Long Beach with Phu Quoc fish sauce factories and pepper farms
Vietnam’s beaches offer the perfect combination of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and authentic interactions with local life. Whether you’re seeking luxury relaxation, family adventures, or off-the-beaten-path discoveries, Vietnam’s coastline promises unforgettable experiences.
The country’s beaches remain less crowded than many other Southeast Asian destinations, offering you the rare chance to find your own slice of paradise. So pack your swimsuit, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to discover why Vietnam’s beaches deserve a top spot on your travel bucket list.
Want to explore more of Vietnam beyond its beaches? Visit One Trip With Local to discover authentic experiences throughout this beautiful country.
Have you visited any of Vietnam’s beaches? Which ones were your favorites? Share your experiences in the comments below!
