I wish I could give you a straightforward answer. What with the stunning shorelines of Halong Bay in the North to the rolling sand dunes of Mui Ne in the South, and a collection of pristine islands off the coast.  There is certainly no shortage of options when planning your Vietnam beach holidays.

What’s great about Vietnam, is that you’re never more than a day-trip away from a beautiful beach.  You’ll even find some of the best cities in Vietnam dotted along the tremendous 3000 km coastline. If you are short on time, this is the perfect way to kill two birds with one stone.  Conversely, if you are looking for idyllic beach locations away from the crowds, they also are easy to come by.

In this article, we will guide you through 10 of the best beaches in Vietnam.  Whether you’re looking for water sport adventures, world-class diving, relaxing beach time, great places for photos, or the best beach resorts in Vietnam, we have got you covered.

The North of Vietnam is famed for its awe-inspiring rural landscapes;  however, you can also find some of the country’s best beaches here. Here are our picks in the north for the best Vietm

Halong Bay

While not a beach per se, Halong Bay deserves a spot on this list for several reasons.  Most importantly, encompassed by the South China Sea, the Unesco World Heritage Site is an archipelago of 1900 islands.  Many of these islands boast remote beaches of their own and are accessible via a Halong Bay cruise or boat tour.

More commonly known for its rugged limestone karsts and otherworldly landscapes, Halong Bay is often considered to be a new wonder of the world.  With several tours catering to all budgets and time constraints, Halong Bay is an essential addition to your Vietnam itinerary. 

How To Get There

Arguably the most famous tourist attraction in Vietnam, Halong Bay is easily accessed from anywhere in the country.  That said, you would find it most convenient to travel from Hanoi, where the bus journey is approximately 3 and a half hours.

Where to Stay

Luxury – Vinpearl Resort & Spa – The 5-star Vinpearl Ha Long Bay Resort offers world-class service on the private Reu Island. As well as a private beach area, guests can enjoy a relaxing spa, outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, and fine dining options.

Mid-Range – Novotel Ha Long Bay – Overlooking the UNESCO Heritage Site Halong Bay, this 4-star hotel offers luxury comfort at an unbeatable price.  The hotel boasts an outdoor pool, open-air pool deck and an on-site restaurant.

Cat Ba Beach, Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba is the largest island amidst the Ha Long Bay archipelago.  One of the only inhabited islands in the area, it is a favourite among nature lovers due to the diverse and majestic landscapes.  Verdant forest, mysterious caves, rolling hills, and oceanic beauty adorn the vast landmass of the island.

What makes Cat Ba one of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam, is the unrivalled view over Ha Long Bay.  Here you can find the perfect spot to relax and immerse in the tranquillity such conditions provide.  Conversely, for those who prefer to be active, there are some incredible hikes and cycle trails on the island.

How to Get There

Naturally, the easiest way to get to Cat Ba Island is to travel there following your Ha Long Bay tour.  The cheapest way is to take the Cat Ba Ferry from Tuan Chau Ferry Terminal. Alternatively, you can organise connecting transport from Hanoi.

Where to Stay

Mid-Range – Cat Ba Island Resort & Spa – While you won’t find many luxury hotels in Cat Ba, this 4* hotel offers divine comfort.  The resort boasts 2 outdoor swimming pools, an on-site dining option and a private beach area. 

Budget – Catba Central Hotel 2 – There are many budget accommodation options in Cat Ba;  however, Central Hotels is arguably one of the best. The rooms are spotless, and guests can enjoy a beautiful view of the water.

Minh Chau Beach,  Quan Lan Island

Located on the outskirts of Halong Bay, Quan Lan Island is a relatively unknown destination in Vietnam.  With this in mind, if your ideal Vietnam holiday is a beach location away from the hustle & bustle, you need to look no further. 

The main attraction of Quan Lan Island is the magnificent untouched beaches.  While there are many, Minh Chau Beach is one of the nicest beaches in Vietnam. Here you can enjoy a 1.5 mile-long stretch of azure waters, golden sand, and tropical vibes – not to mention the surfing and kayaking opportunities.

The rest of your time on the island can be spent enjoying the local culture and cuisine.  A selection of restaurants lay nestled on the beachfront serving delectable seafood and cheap beer!  

How to Get There

Again, it would be convenient to travel to Quan Lan Island following your Ha Long Bay cruise or tour.  You can catch either a slow wooden boat or speedboat from Hon Gai Pier in Ha Long City.

Where to Stay

Luxury – Minh Chau Pearl Hotel & Spa – With limited tourist infrastructure on Quan Lan, you will struggle to find any corporate hotels here.  Which is a good thing! That said, Minh Chau Pearl Hotel & Spa is a stunning luxury option on the island. Facilities include a private beach area, on-site spa, and a rooftop pool.

Budget – Quan Lan Nam Phong Hotel – A beachfront property in Quan Lan, Quan Lan Nam Phong Hotel features a garden, a shared lounge and kitchen facilities.  The rooms are modest but comfortable and come equipped with air-conditioning.

Central Vietnam boasts some of the countries most beloved beach cities in Vietnam.  At the same time, a series of pristine beaches adorn the coastline.  Here are our thoughts on some of the nicest beaches in Vietnam from this region.

An Bang Beach, Hoi An

Located just 2.5 miles from the Unesco World Heritage town of Hoi An, An Bang Beach is the perfect spot to take a break from sightseeing.  While Hoi An is one of the most fascinating cities in South East Asia, it can also be intense, particularly in peak tourist season when people flock in the thousands.

We would never have expected to find some of the best beaches in Vietnam located amidst a bustling city; however, An Bang Beach did not fail to impress and Cua Dai beach was right up there as well and might be our pick for Vietnam’s best beach, given the location. With a selection of bars, restaurants, water sports, and beach resorts, this beach caters to every kind of traveller. 

Other than spending time on the beach, do not forget to check out the old town of Hoi An.  It is an enchanting place bursting with culture and history. One of the highlights in Hoi An is the sunset boat tour on the river.  Cruising along as locals release mini lanterns into the water is a truly magical experience.

How to Get There

Hoi An is convenient to get to from anywhere in the country.  The nearest airport is Da Nang, located some 40 km away. And has a domestic connection to all of Vietnam’s international airports.  Alternatively, you can take advantage of the cheap and reliable bus network in Vietnam.

Where to Stay

Luxury – La Siesta Hoi An – Prepare to be spoilt at this 5-star resort in the heart of Hoi An.  Guests can enjoy 2 outdoor swimming pools, a beautiful garden area, and traditional decor throughout the property.  Furthermore, don’t forget to pamper yourself in the hotel spa. 

Mid-Range – Hoi An Beach Resort – Looking for added comfort without breaking the bank? Hoi An Beach Resort is one of the best Vietnam beach resorts for budget-friendly luxury.  This gorgeous establishment boasts 2 outdoor pools, a fitness room, and top-notch amenities. 

Da Nang Beach – Da Nang

Boasting a vast stretch of beautiful coastline, Da Nang isn’t only one of the best beaches in Vietnam, but arguably, one of the best beaches in all of South-East Asia. If you are seeking a beach getaway with an abundance of facilities and things to do, then this is the perfect spot for you. 

To put it into perspective, the Danang beach area claims around 92 km of coast, so you’ve got your pick of Vietnam beaches here.  The beaches in the North are the quietest, and arguably the most beautiful; however, accommodation and restaurants are lacking in this area.  Conversely, the beaches in the South are bursting with facilities and attractions. All the while hosting some of the best beach resorts in Vietnam, including those on the Non Nuoc beach area.

Often considered the best scuba-diving spot in Vietnam, both beginner and experienced divers can enjoy the flourishing underwater world here.  Or if you prefer to stay on land, you can consider taking a day trip to Marble Mountain or the Unesco World Heritage Site of Myson.

How to Get There

Da Nang is convenient to reach from anywhere in the country.  The nearest airport is Da Nang, which has a domestic connection to all of Vietnam’s International airports.  Alternatively, you can take advantage of the cheap and reliable bus network in Vietnam.

Where to Stay

Luxury – Sheraton Grand Danang Resort – This luxury 5-star resort is undoubtedly one of the best beach resorts in Vietnam.  Guests can enjoy superstar treatment at this property, as well as a private beach, a stunning pool area, and international dining options.

Mid-Range – Diamond Sea Hotel – Located by My Khe Beach, Diamond Sea Hotel features modern and comfortable accommodation with unrivalled sea views.   Facilities include an outdoor rooftop pool, fitness centre, and spa. And the best part, it won’t burn a hole in your pocket. 

Con Dao Islands, Con Dao Archipelago

The Con Dao Islands are a small archipelago consisting of 15 relatively untouched islands.  Again, this is the perfect spot if you wish to spend your Vietnam holidays away from the typical tourist trail. 

Despite the islands perfect beaches, world-class dive sites, and picturesque landscapes, many tourists are unaware of their existence.  This is primarily due to the lack of transportation to the islands; however, do not let that deter you. The islands provide an imperturbable tranquillity that can be difficult to find elsewhere in Vietnam.

While the azure waters boast some of the countries most unique marine life, such as the sea turtle, land activities include hiking, cycling, and trekking. 

How to Get There

Now, here comes the challenge.  To get to the islands, you have two options.  The first is to fly from Ho Chi Minh Airport using Vasco Airlines.  However, it is recommended to book well in advance as seats tend to sell out quickly.

The second option is to take the ferry from Vung Tau on the mainland;  although, this does not come recommended. The journey is said to be horrendous, and often the boats are cancelled for weeks on end. 

Ever heard the quote ‘the most difficult roads lead to the most beautiful destinations’?  Pretty relevant in this case, wouldn’t you say!

Where to Stay?

Luxury – Six Senses Con Dao – If you are looking for a Vietnam beach resort in paradise, then Six Senses Con Dao is the choice for you.  Guests can expect their own private villa at the 5* property. All the while enjoying a private beach, a selection of swimming pools, and delicious cuisine.

Budget – Lighthouse Boutique Hotel – On the opposite end of the scale, we have the modest yet charming Lighthouse Boutique Hotel.  Located nearby An Hai Beach, the property features clean and comfortable rooms with air conditioning. 

As we move South of the country, we find some of Vietnam’s most diverse beaches.  From intrepid water sporting, world-class diving spots, and a series of unique islands, here are our favourites.

Mui Ne, Phan Thiet

Mui Ne is a charming beach town amid the fishing district of Phan Thiet.  Until recent years, the town attracted mostly backpackers looking to soak in the tranquil vibes.  However, with the latest developments of several beach resorts, Mui Ne is attracting a variety of travellers and holiday-makers.

A major drawcard for many visiting Mui Ne is the water-sporting opportunities.  Due to consistent winds hitting the shoreline, it’s a fantastic spot for windsurfing, surfing, and sailing.  You’ll often find global competitions being held here, which can be great fun to watch.

Furthermore, as a result of Mui Ne bordering the Binh Thuan Desert Dunes, you can enjoy some pretty unusual landscapes here.  Many are surprised to learn that Vietnam has sand dunes; however, 20 minutes from Mui Ne town, you will find beautifully wind-sculpted dunes.  The white dunes are a must-visit during your time in Mui Ne. 

How to Get There

With the closest airport to Mui Ne set some 200km away, the easiest way to get there is to travel from Ho Chi Minh City.  From here, you can take a 5-hour bus journey directly into Mui Ne. Alternatively, there is a train that will take you to Phan Thiet, followed by a 1-hour bus journey to Mui Ne.

Where to Stay

Mid-Range – Mui Ne Bay Resort – Located a stone’s throw from the ocean, this Vietnam Beach Resort is excellent value for money.  The property features spacious rooms with private balconies, an outdoor pool with a tranquil garden, and a complete health & fitness centre.

Budget – Nam Chau Boutique Resort – For all the comfort of a luxury hotel at a fraction of the price, this boutique resort is an unrivalled choice.  Guests can enjoy rustic living in the wood/bamboo villas, along with an outdoor swimming pool and beautiful garden area.

Nha Trang Beach – Nha Trang

A bustling seaside city, Nha Trang is a popular choice for tourists planning their Vietnam holidays.  While the 8 km coastline brags some of the best beaches in Vietnam, the cosmopolitan city is rich in culture.  You are guaranteed to get the very best of both worlds here and this is likely the most famous beach in Vietnam to tourists.

The picturesque beaches in Nha Trang are often considered some of the best in the world.  Not only are the turquoise waters crystal clear, providing excellent conditions for watersports such as scuba diving and sailing.  But, the stunning view of neighbouring islands is a sight to behold. From the sands of Hon Khoi peninsula to Star Beach, you are in the midst of some of the best beaches in all of Southeast Asia.

If you find yourself tired of soaking up the sun and water sport activities, you need not fear.  There are many other activities to enjoy in and around Nha Trang, including another great beach and one that is a bit less crowded, that being Quy Nhon up the coast a bit. Why not visit Ba Ho Waterfall or some of the cities religious sites?  And for the night owls, you will relish the vibrant nightlife scene.

How to Get There

Nha Trang is convenient to reach from anywhere in the country.  The nearest airport is Cam Ranh International Airport located 30 km outside of the city and has a domestic connection to all of Vietnam’s International airports.  Alternatively, you can take advantage of the cheap and reliable bus network in Vietnam.

Where to Stay

Luxury – Mia Resort Nha Trang – If you have your heart set on divine comfort, this 5-star Vietnam beach resort has got you covered.  Featuring luxurious villas, complete with ocean views and private pools, Mia Resort is a top pick in Nha Trang.

Mid-Range – Rosaka Nha Trang Hotel – For all the comfort without the hefty price tag, Rosaka Hotel is an excellent choice in the heart of Nha Trang.  Features of the hotel include an infinity pool, spacious rooms, a bar, and a fitness centre.

Sao Beach – Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc Island is up there as one of Vietnam’s top holiday destinations.  And with the white sand beaches alluding the epitome of paradise, it’s easy to see why.  Until recently, the island was a favourite among budget backpackers looking to escape the grid.  However, recent developments of beach resorts, along with international flights landing directly into Phu Quoc, has resulted in an influx of tourists.

While the days of remote paradise may be over for Phu Qhoc, that doesn’t mean it isn’t worthy of your time.  You can still find some of the best beaches in Vietnam here, featuring crystal clear waters, invigorating ocean air, and a realm of water sport activities. 

What’s more, there are a ton of activities to be enjoyed on the island.  You can island hop among the Phu Quoc district, go trekking in the islands National Park, and scuba dive among unique marine life.  It’s also an island steeped in history, which you can explore in the Phu Quoc Prison Museum.

How to Get There

With Phu Quoc hosting its own international airport, it’s never been easier to reach the island.  Or if you’re already in Vietnam, it’s just a 1-hour flight from Ho Chi Minh Airport.

Where to Stay

Luxury – Fusion Resort Phu Quoc – For the ultimate beach getaway, Fusion Resort is arguably one of the best beach resorts in Vietnam.  Guests of this 5* property can enjoy luxury villa accommodation, a private pool, and complimentary spa treatments.

Mid-Range – Mango Bay Resort – For all the perks of a luxury beach resort, at a fraction of the price Mango Bay resort is a winner.  This eco-friendly resort flaunts a private sandy beach and 20 hectares of natural greenery, creating a calm and peaceful environment.

Nam Du Island – Nam Du Archipelago

I guess you could say I have saved the best to last.  As, out of all of the destinations on this list, the Nam Du Archipelago is probably the one I’m most excited to talk about out.   Tourism here is still very much in its infancy, with the islands only opening their doors to visitors in the past 4-years. As a result, a beach getaway here feels like an off-the-beaten-path retreat.

Akin to other islands in Vietnam, the beaches here are out of this world.  It’s a delight to see areas where the lack of tourist infrastructure has such a positive effect on the environment.  Many of the beaches here are flawless and unspoiled; however, with plans for development in the pipeline, it’s uncertain how long this will last.

Another highlight of the unknown islands is their raw and rugged landscapes.  Renting a scooter and driving the coastal road will allow you the perfect view of nature’s ubiquitous beauty. 

How to Get There

To get to the Nam Du Islands, you must take either a speedboat or ferry from Rach Gia Ferry Wharf.  The easiest way to get here is to take a flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Rach Gia Airport, and then take a bus or taxi to the pier. 

Where to Stay

As expected from such a remote spot, accommodation options are limited on the island.  While there are dozens of no-frill hotels in Bai Tret, the main port village, you may struggle to book many of them online. 

Recommended guest houses include Nam Du View Guesthouse and Thuy Kiep Guest House, but you may find you need to call to make a reservation.  Alternatively, for the more adventurous, camping on Bai Cay Men Beach is also an option.

When to visit Vietnam Beaches?

The climate in Vietnam is great year-round, so you don’t particularly need to worry about temperatures in making your decision of when to visit the top beaches in Vietnam.

That said, for the northern beaches, you might find it a little chilly for a true beach vacation from December to March. Summer lasts from May to October when it is hot and humid and this part of Vietnam experiences its highest rainfall. July to September are usually the wettest months of the year. During these months severe weather can prevent junks sailing in Halong Bay although such weather is rare.

In Central Vietnam, you will find hot and dry weather from mid-January to late August, with temperatures often reaching the 90s. During the winter months, there is more rainfall increases peaking usually in October and November.

In Southern Vietnam, temperatures remain fairly constant year round, so the climate is split into two seasons, wet and dry. The dry season begins in November and ends in early May with late February to May being slightly hotter and more humid. The wet season lasts from May until early November. June, July, and August have the highest rainfall. During the wet season rainfall is generally heavy but it doesn’t last that long, often occurring in a mid-afternoon heavy downpour.

Author Bio

Charlotte and Natalie are explorers and adventurers.  You will often find them wandering off the beaten path, immersed in nature, or enjoying authentic cultural experiences.  The rest of the time, you will find them eating. Follow their journey on their blog – Our Taste for Life or Instagram.

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