10 Breathtaking Beaches in Vietnam You’ll Want to Escape To
With almost 3,000 kilometers of coastline, Vietnam is a beach lover's paradise. In the north, you'll find stunning seascapes like Halong Bay in the Gulf of Tonkin, while in the south, laid-back destinations like Phu Quoc Island in the Gulf of Thailand furnish mild waters and palm-lined beaches. Whether you want to relax on the beach, cool off in the sea, or simply discover what lies beneath the waves, Vietnam's coast has something for everyone—no matter where you go.
Written by Nhu PHAM (local expert)
Updated on Jun 10, 2025
2 comments
Nhu PHAM is a Saigon native with a passion for travel, adventure, the French and English language, and making discoveries as a digital nomad. She has already explored many Southeast Asian countries, including Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand. Originally from the South, she has a particular expertise in the South and the Mekong Delta. Currently based in Hanoi, she works for Kampá Tour and is the author of many highly appreciated articles on this blog. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them at the bottom of her articles so that she can answer you directly.
North Vietnam’s beaches are fewer compared to the South, but the region still offers stunning natural beauty, with Halong Bay and Cat Ba Island leading the way. It's important to note that the North experiences all four seasons, so beach visits are best from May to September.
The Beaches of Cat Ba
Located 50 kilometers east of Hai Phong city, Cat Ba Island is part of a UNESCO biosphere reserve. Known as the "Pearl of the Gulf of Tonkin," Cat Ba is ideal for both relaxation and adventure, with some of the best beaches in Northern Vietnam and a rich natural environment.
The main beaches - Cat Co 1, 2, and 3 - are small yet picturesque, with crystal-clear waters, soft white sands, and dramatic mountain views. These tranquil beaches offer an ideal escape from the city, especially after a cruise in Halong Bay.
Beyond the beaches, Cat Ba National Park is perfect for those seeking to explore Vietnam’s flora and fauna. Kayaking, hiking, and wildlife spotting are among the many activities that make Cat Ba one of the best beach destinations in Northern Vietnam.
1.2 Co To & Quan Lan island
Cô Tô and Quan Lạn are popular island retreats in Quang Ninh, northern Vietnam, known for their untouched beaches, pure air, and relaxed atmosphere. Both islands also serve great, fresh seafood, making the trip even more worthwhile for foodies.
Ca Chep islet in Co To
So if you're looking for a beach escape that's quieter and more peaceful than Cat Ba or Ha Long Bay, these islands are perfect just for you.
2. The Best Beaches in Central Vietnam
Central Vietnam offers some of the most scenic beach destinations in the country, combining natural beauty with cultural heritage.
2.1. Lang Co (Hue)
Located between the cities of Hue and Da Nang, Lang Co Beach is a stunning coastal stretch at the foot of the Hai Van Pass (Hai Van Pass), recognized by the World Bays Club as one of the most beautiful bays globally. With its soft white sands and beautiful waters, Lang Co offers a peaceful beach retreat amidst green mountains and nearby attractions like Bach Ma National Park and Lap An Lagoon.
For those planning Vietnam beach holidays, Lang Co is a perfect destination during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is ideal for enjoying one of the best beaches in Vietnam.
This is a perfect stopover within a large natural ensemble comprising Bach Ma National Park
From Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) or Hanoi, you must first reach the former imperial capital of Hue. Lang Co is easily accessible by train, car, or bus, also from Da Nang. From the Central Metropolis, you can admire the road winding through rugged mountains surrounded by lush tropical jungle to the Hai Van Pass.
You can stay in Lang Co for just one night in beautiful adjacent resorts, such as Banyan Tree or Laguna Lang Co.
Best time to visit: Between May and September.
You can stay in Lang Co for just one night in beautiful adjacent resorts, such as Banyan Tree or Laguna Lang Co.
2.2 Da Nang
It's no surprise that Google ranked Da Nang a top destination for 2025. The city has a unique combination of natural beauty, colorful food, and friendly residents. What actually distinguishes Da Nang is its magnificent coastline, which features a range of uniquely lovely beaches. Most travelers consider seeing these beaches to be the highlight of their trip, rather than just an option.
My Khe Beach, which is frequently ranked among Asia's best, is a favorite for good reason. If you're looking for something more low-key, Non Nuoc or Nam O are also excellent choices for avoiding crowds.
Do you know: Da Nang is Vietnam's Most Livable City?
The city offers a blend of culture and relaxation, with the Cham Museum and the iconic Golden Bridge in the Ba Na Hills, making it one of the top beach destinations in Central Vietnam.
Just 30 kilometers from Da Nang, Hoi An is known for its ancient port and charming old town. While the beaches here may not be as expansive as Da Nang’s, their charm and intimacy make them special. Cua Dai and An Bang beaches are popular for their peaceful atmosphere, and An Bang, in particular, retains its authenticity among Vietnam’s best beach getaways.
For adventure seekers, a boat trip to Cham Island offers excellent opportunities for diving and snorkeling. This UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve is a must-see for nature lovers during their Vietnam beach holidays.
Best time to visit: April to September.
Cua Dai is particularly appreciated by lounging lovers
2h30 from Cua Dai port by boat is Cham Island (Cu Lao Cham), recognized by UNESCO as a world biosphere reserve. This destination is especially for scuba diving or snorkeling enthusiasts. It is an archipelago also home to small fishing villages such as Bai Lang and Bai Huong and magnificent beaches that are worth the detour.
Cham Island (Cu Lao Cham)
Nature or culture lovers can find many other attractions in Hoi An. Cycling through its peaceful surrounding countryside is a must, as is a day trip to explore the ruins of the ancient Cham sanctuary.
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3. The Best Beaches in Central South Vietnam
3.1 Dream Beaches in Quy Nhon
Quy Nhon, located in Binh Dinh province, is a hidden gem among Vietnam's beaches. Ky Co Beach, located between rocky hills, boasts brilliant blue water that is ideal for snorkeling. Not far away, Eo Gio is the type of place where you can relax with a picnic and enjoy the coastal breeze.
Ky Co Beach
For those searching for family-friendly beaches in Vietnam, Quy Nhon is an excellent choice, with its calm waters and untouched surroundings.
Best time to visit: January to June.
3.2 Paradisiacal Beaches in Nha Trang
The Nha Trang region is one of the most beautiful, appreciated for its paradisiacal beaches and its sumptuous bays dotted with virgin islands.
Ninh Van Bay and Whale Island offer secluded spots for diving and snorkeling, while luxury resorts like Six Senses Ninh Van Bay and An Lam Retreats provide the ultimate in relaxation.
Ninh Van Bay - Photo: Adrian Anh Tuan
Nha Trang is also ideal for those planning beach holidays in Vietnam, with its vibrant city life and easy access to quieter bays like Van Phong. This makes it one of the top destinations for both relaxation and adventure on Vietnam’s coast.
Best time to visit: March to October.
Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, one of the best resorts in Vietnam
The Dam Mon Peninsula, located just north of Nha Trang, is a peaceful retreat with golden sands and pure blue sea. Whale Island, nestled in Van Phong Bay, is a tranquil retreat complete with bamboo cabins. Moreover, the Doc Let Peninsula has broad, sandy beaches, delicious seafood, and abundance of beachfront accommodations.
An Lam Retreats Ninh Van Bay
3.3 Mui Ne Beach (Phan Thiet)
Located more than 200 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, Mui Ne is famous for its long stretches of golden sand and spectacular sand dunes, making it one of the best beaches in Vietnam for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and other water sports. Mui Ne is particularly known for its red sand dunes and white sand dunes, offering a desert-like landscape that contrasts with Vietnam’s typical lush green scenery. The area’s consistent winds make it a popular destination for surfing enthusiasts.
In addition to beach activities, you may explore the adjacent Ke Ga Cape, which features beautiful scenery, blue oceans, and distinctive stone formations.
Best time to visit: November to March, during the dry season when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities.
Ke Ga Cape is featured by pristine scenery, pure blue water, weird-shaped stones
4. The Best Beaches in South Vietnam
4.1 Con Dao Archipelago
If you want to escape the beaten path, mass tourism, or even the slightest presence of vacationers, you must go to the Con Dao archipelago, which is a true Martinique in the middle of the Eastern Sea. One hour by plane from Ho Chi Minh City, you will land on a small airfield that strangely resembles the one at the foot of the sea on Saint-Martin Island.
The beach at Con Dao - Photo: Six Senses Con Dao
Con Dao is a real gem that has nothing to envy its big sister Phu Quoc and is well on its way to being a beautiful alternative, particularly with Bay Canh Island (Turtle Island), where you can see turtles evolving in their natural habitat. March to late September is the best time to visit Con Dao.
Located in the Gulf of Thailand, in the extreme southwest of Vietnam (off Cambodia), Phu Quoc is the largest and among the most beautiful islands in the country. It is known as the "pearl" of Vietnamese tourism due to its extensive national park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It also features immaculate beaches with sublime emerald-green waters; those of Khem, Dai, and Sao are among the most captivating.
Phu Quoc is the largest and among the most beautiful islands in the country.
Phu Quoc also offers an attractive base for numerous cultural activities. Discovering pearl oyster farms, fish sauce factories, and pepper plantations – or tropical and exotic myrtaceae – leaves visitors with unforgettable memories. History enthusiasts will not miss visiting the remnants of Phu Quoc Prison, which recall emotional events from the war or colonial past.
Other more adventurous and sporty activities attract flora and fauna enthusiasts to Phu Quoc. They can practice jet-skiing, water skiing, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
Diving/Snorkeling are some must-do acitivities when you're in Phu Quoc
Best time to visit: October to April
Several means of transport are available to get to Phu Quoc: by plane from Ho Chi Minh City, Can Tho, Hanoi, and Hai Phong; by fast boat from Rach Gia (Mekong Delta) and Ha Tien (Kien Giang).
Let's explore our exclusive Vietnam ebook gift for this summer!
5. Must-try Water Activities in Vietnam
5.1. Kayaking, Jet Skiing 🛶
Top spots: Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, Ba Be Lake, Phong Nha Ke Bang, Lap An Lagoon (Hue), Ca Mau mangrove forest, Phu Quoc island, Con Dao island.
If you want to feel the ocean without having to swim much, kayaking in Vietnam is an excellent choice. You can paddle softly along quiet rivers, bays, and lakes while admiring fish, coral, and other aquatic life beneath the surface—a simple and serene way to appreciate Vietnam's natural beauty.
Don't miss out the kayaking in Halong Bay!
5.2. Snorkeling & Scuba Diving 🤿
Top spots: Cham Islands (Hoi An), Hon Mun (Nha Trang), Nam Du, Phu Quoc, Con Dao.
Vietnam is endowed with gorgeous coasts and bays, each home to rich fauna and stunning coral reefs. As a result, discovering the water through scuba diving is one of the most exciting experiences for visitors.
Top spots: My Khe Beach (Da Nang), Mui Ne (Phan Thiet), Vung Tau, Nha Trang.
Vietnam has over 3,000 kilometers of coastline and various beaches, making it a great surfing destination. The best time to surf in Vietnam is between November and March, when the winds generate ideal wave conditions, particularly in the central and southern regions.
Vietnam has over 3,000 kilometers of coastline and various beaches, making it a great surfing destination.
5.4. Night Squid Fishing & Local Fishing Trips
Top spots: Phu Quoc, Con Dao, Halong Bay, Nha Trang, Da Nang, Cat Ba.
Night squid fishing and local fishing trips are popular in Vietnam, particularly around the coastline. Squid fishing is often done at night, with fisherman employing strong lights to entice the squid to the surface. Local fishing tours will allow you to try traditional fishing tactics in the calm waters of rivers and coastal areas.
5.5. Overnight Cruises
Top spots: Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, Nha Trang Bay, Cat ba Islands and Mekong River.
If you're looking for a lavish and romantic getaway, a cruise can be the best option. Vietnam offers some wonderful cruise experiences, ranging from the breathtaking Halong Bay to the tranquil Lan Ha Bay and the pristine beauty of Phu Quoc. You will love lounging on deck, enjoying delicious dinners, kayaking, and taking in the gorgeous sunsets at sea.
TIA Wellness Resort in Da Nang is a retreat focused on relaxation and rejuvenation. Located on a pristine beach, the resort provides wellness programs like detox, yoga, and spa treatments. It’s a peaceful destination for those seeking tranquility and healing.
TIA Wellness Resort in Da Nang is a retreat focused on relaxation and rejuvenation.
Located on the quiet shores of Con Dao, The Secret Con Dao offers private villas with ocean views. This eco-friendly resort provides an exclusive and peaceful experience, with stunning natural surroundings and luxurious facilities, including a pool and fine dining.
Located on the quiet shores of Con Dao, The Secret Con Dao offers private villas with ocean views.
Set on Ông Lang Beach in Phu Quoc, Ocean Bay Resort and Spa offers a tranquil coastal experience. The resort features luxurious rooms, a large outdoor pool, and a relaxing atmosphere, with easy access to nearby attractions like the Dinh Ba Temple and Night Market.
From the Gulf of Tonkin to the Gulf of Thailand, Vietnam offers a multitude of dream beaches. You can relax in crystal-clear waters, savor delicious cuisine, and enjoy vibrant nightlife. Whether you are looking for relaxation or adventure, the best beaches in Vietnam are the perfect place for you. So, put on your swimsuit and get ready to live an unforgettable experience on the most spectacular beaches in Southeast Asia!
>>> See more about things to do in Vietnam by month:
Hello! We are a family traveling with kids and a nanny. Our main purpose of travel is to enjoy a resort and its amenities with sightseeing.
Which place has better beach resorts? Da Nang or Hoi An? And for example, stay in Da Nang and just do a day trip to Hoi An, and vice versa?
Hoping for your great recommendations! Thank you!
0Reply
Nhu Pham06 Jun 2025
Hi!
If I were you, I’d pick Da Nang for the beach resorts since there are plenty of big, family-friendly places with great amenities. The beaches are spacious and easy to enjoy with kids.
Hoi An is wonderful too, but it’s more about the old town charm and quiet beaches. Resorts there are smaller and more relaxed.
A good plan is to stay in Da Nang and do day trips to Hoi An for sightseeing and local culture.
If you want to explore more of Vietnam beyond the beach, you might be interested in some tours like these:
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Hi!
If I were you, I’d pick Da Nang for the beach resorts since there are plenty of big, family-friendly places with great amenities. The beaches are spacious and easy to enjoy with kids.
Hoi An is wonderful too, but it’s more about the old town charm and quiet beaches. Resorts there are smaller and more relaxed.
A good plan is to stay in Da Nang and do day trips to Hoi An for sightseeing and local culture.
If you want to explore more of Vietnam beyond the beach, you might be interested in some tours like these:
Also, don’t miss visiting the Golden Bridge in Da Nang — it’s a great spot for photos and views!