Vietnam may not be the first destination that comes to mind for a beach holiday, but it should be. Stretching along the South China Sea, its coastline is far more diverse than many travellers expect. Some beaches sit beside lively cities with cafés and easy access, while others feel quieter and more untouched, with long stretches of sand and minimal development.
This contrast makes Vietnam especially rewarding. You can explore lantern-lit streets in Hoi An, drive along the central coast, or visit island beaches in the south within one trip. This guide covers the best beaches in Vietnam, along with when to visit, what each is best for, and how to get there.
Best Beaches in Vietnam by Region
To make planning easier, it helps to divide Vietnam’s coastline into broad regions.
- Central Vietnam: Home to well-known beaches are found like Da Nang, Hoi An, Lang Co and Quy Nhon.
- Southern Vietnam: Island escapes and resort destinations such as Phu Quoc, Ho Coc and Mui Ne.
- Hidden and Lesser-Known Coastal Spots: Areas like Phu Yen, Con Dao and some parts of Quy Nhon, ideal for quieter and less crowded experiences.
Which Is the Best Beach in Vietnam?
There is no single answer because the best beach depends on the kind of trip you want to have, but these stand out for different reasons:
- Best overall: My Khe Beach (Da Nang)
- Most beautiful beach in Vietnam: Bai Sao (Phu Quoc Island)
- Best for a quiet escape: Doc Let Beach
- Best for luxury stays: Phu Quoc Island
- Best for adventure and water sports: Mui Ne
- Best hidden gem: Bai Om, Phu Yen
- Best for scenic coastal views: Lang Co and Ky Co
Top Beaches in Vietnam: Let’s Dive In!
1. My Khe Beach, Da Nang
My Khe Beach is listed as one of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam, famed for its soft pale sand, clear water and long, clean shoreline. Located within Da Nang, it is easily accessible and ideal for you if you are seeking both convenience and beach time. Its biggest strength is how effortlessly it combines a relaxed coastal atmosphere with nearby restaurants, hotels and transport. It suits first-time visitors, families and active travellers alike, with swimming and surfing being most popular during the drier months.
Best Time to Visit: February to August
Best for: Swimming, Surfing; Accessible Beachfront Stays; Family-Friendly Beach Time
How to get to the beach: Located within Da Nang city, easily reachable by taxi, scooter or even on foot from many nearby hotels
Insider Tip: Early mornings feel calmer and more local, with people out exercising and the beach at its most relaxed.
2. An Bang Beach, Hoi An
An Bang Beach offers a relaxed alternative to the busier beaches of Da Nang and is ideal for travellers staying in Hoi An. Just 10–15 minutes away from the Ancient Town, it’s easy to visit while still feeling separate from the crowds. Quite popular for its soft sand, calm water and laid-back atmosphere, it’s perfect for chilling out after sightseeing. The beach has no dearth of casual cafés and restaurants, making it easy to settle in for lunch or stay through sunset. It strikes a good balance between comfort and a relaxed, unhurried coastal vibe.
Best Time to Visit: February to August
Best for: Relaxed Beach Cafes; Swimming; Sunset Views; A Slower Pace Than City Beaches
How to get to the beach: Around 10 to 15 minutes from Hoi An Old Town by bicycle, taxi or scooter
Insider Tip: Head a little further along the sand if you want a quieter stretch away from the main cluster of cafes and restaurants.
3. Doc Let Beach, Nha Trang
Doc Let Beach, beautifully nestled in the north of Nha Trang, ensures an evidently calmer and peaceful alternative to the city’s main coastline. Known for its wide sandy shoreline and shallow, gentle water, it has a relaxed and easy-going atmosphere that suits slow beach days. It’s perfect for you if you prefer peaceful surroundings without crowds or a busy nightlife scene. If you are visiting with your family, they will be amazed by its calm water, and quiet charm. Overall, it’s one of the top beaches in Vietnam for a more laid-back and uncrowded coastal experience.
Best Time to Visit: January to August
Best for: Calm Shallow Waters; Peaceful Swimming; It is Nha Trang’s Quiet Escape
How to get to the beach: Around 45 to 60 minutes from Nha Trang by taxi or motorbike
Insider Tip: Weekdays are the best time to visit if you want the beach at its quietest.
4. Mui Ne Beach
Mui Ne stands out for being Vietnam’s most distinctive coastal destinations, offering more than just a beach. Known for its long sandy shoreline, steady sea breeze and strong reputation for kitesurfing and windsurfing, it has a more active feel than many other beaches in Vietnam. The nearby red and white sand dunes add a unique landscape, setting it apart from typical coastal scenery. Perfect for you if you are looking forward to experiencing the mix of beach time, water sports and exploration, with plenty of accommodation and dining options to support a well-rounded stay.
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Best for: Kitesurfing; Windsurfing; Sand Dunes; Scenic Coastal Drives; Budget Resorts
How to get to the beach: Around 4 to 5 hours by road from Ho Chi Minh City, or by train to Phan Thiet followed by a taxi
Insider Tip: Visit the sand dunes at sunrise if you want cooler temperatures and better light for photos.
5. Ky Co Beach, Quy Nhon
Ky Co Beach is one of the most visually striking beaches in Vietnam, known for its clear water and bright, tropical setting. Reached by boat, it feels more exclusive than easily accessible beaches, with the journey adding to the experience. Framed by rocky cliffs and backed by dramatic coastal scenery, it stands out from flatter shorelines. The calm, clear water makes it ideal for swimming and light snorkelling, while its scenic setting suits photography. It’s best visited as part of a wider stay in Quy Nhon.
Best Time to Visit: March to September
Best for: Snorkelling; Boat Trips; Photograph; Unique Coastal Scenery
How to get to the beach: By speedboat or wooden boat from Quy Nhon pier or Eo Gio, usually around 20 to 30 minutes
Insider Tip: Pair a visit to Ky Co with Eo Gio for some of the best ocean viewpoints in the area.
6. Lang Co Beach, Hue
Lang Co Beach, located just north of the Hai Van Pass, is one of the most scenic beaches in Vietnam. Its crescent-shaped shoreline, mountain backdrop and nearby lagoon create a layered, stunning view. Quieter than Da Nang and less developed than resort-heavy areas, it suits travellers looking for a slower, more relaxed coastal experience. It also fits naturally into a central Vietnam itinerary, especially between Hue and Da Nang. The drive via the Hai Van Pass adds to the experience, making the journey as memorable as the destination.
Best Time to Visit: February to August
Best for: Seclusion; Mountain Views; Lagoon Scenery; Relaxed Stays; Luxury Resorts in Proximity
How to get to the beach: Around 1 to 1.5 hours by car or private transfer from Hue or Da Nang
Insider Tip: If you are driving via the Hai Van Pass, build in time to stop for viewpoints along the way.
7. Ho Coc Beach
Ho Coc Beach is among the easiest quiet beach escapes from Ho Chi Minh City, offering a more natural and less crowded setting than many nearby coastal spots. Surrounded by coastal forest, it has a peaceful atmosphere while still providing enough resort options for a comfortable stay. It is a perfect destination for you if you are interested in a short beach break without flights or long transfers. Overall, Ho Coc suits those who prefer a relaxed, low-key coastal experience away from busy tourist scenes or simply just wants to avoid the crowds.
Best Time to Visit: December to April
Best for: Camping & Picnics, Nature Lovers; Photography; Light Water Sports
How to get to the beach: Around 2.5 to 3 hours from Ho Chi Minh City by car or private transfer
Insider Tip: Combine Ho Coc with nearby Ho Tram if you want a wider choice of resorts and restaurants.
8. Bai Om, Phu Yen
Bai Om is one of the lesser-known beaches in Vietnam, which is exactly what makes it stand out. Nestled in Phu Yen Province, it sits well away from the main tourist location, offering a more spacious coastal experience. The scenery is peaceful and largely untouched, with very little development compared to popular destinations like Da Nang or Phu Quoc. It’s not a place for nightlife or polished resorts, but rather for calm surroundings, natural beauty and a slower pace that feels increasingly rare along Vietnam’s coastline..
Best Time to Visit: January to August
Best for: Off-the-beaten-path Travel; Unspoiled & Wild Nature; Secluded Atmosphere; Coral-Reefs & Diving
How to get to the beach: Fly to Tuy Hoa Airport, then take a 20 to 30 minute drive
Insider Tip: Bring what you need for the day, as facilities around quieter beaches in this region can be limited.
9. Bai Sao, Phu Quoc
Bai Sao, also known as Star Beach, is one of the most photographed beaches in Vietnam and often considered the most beautiful in the country. Known for its bright white sand and clear turquoise water, it offers a classic tropical island setting that stands apart from mainland beaches. Located in Phu Quoc, it remains a must-visit despite its popularity due to its striking scenery. It’s ideal for couples, island travellers and anyone looking for a relaxed beach day with warm water and postcard-style views.
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Best for: Stunning Scenery; The Sand & Water; Peaceful Atmosphere; Relaxed Island Days
How to get to the beach: Around 30 to 40 minutes from Phu Quoc Airport by taxi or scooter
Insider Tip: Visit earlier in the day if you want a calmer atmosphere before more people arrive.
10. Non Nuoc Beach, Da Nang
Non Nuoc Beach, located south of My Khe, offers a quieter and more refined coastal experience in Da Nang. With its long stretch of soft sand and calmer atmosphere, it feels more relaxed, partly due to its association with nearby beachfront resorts rather than day-trip crowds. Its location near the Marble Mountains also makes it easy to combine beach time with sightseeing. Overall, it’s a great option for travellers who want the convenience of Da Nang but prefer a more peaceful and less crowded stretch of coastline.
Best Time to Visit: February to August
Best for: Quiet resort stays, long beach walks, a calmer alternative to My Khe
How to get to the beach: Around 15 to 20 minutes from Da Nang city centre by taxi or scooter
Insider Tip: The stretch near the Marble Mountains often feels especially scenic and less busy.
11. Long Beach, Phu Quoc
Long Beach, or Bai Truong, is one of the main beach areas in Phu Quoc, best known for its sunsets and lively atmosphere. Unlike the more picture-perfect Bai Sao, it offers a mix of resorts, restaurants and beach bars, making it ideal for travellers who want both relaxation and evening activity. It’s also one of the most convenient places to stay on the island, with plenty of hotels and easy transport access. Overall, it’s a great choice if you want comfort, variety and a vibrant coastal setting without losing the island feel.
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Best for: Sunsets; Beachfront Dining, Resort Stays, Couples’ Holidays
How to get to the beach: Around 10 to 15 minutes from Phu Quoc Airport by taxi
Insider Tip: Plan at least one evening around sunset here, as that is when the beach looks its best.
12. Dam Trau Beach, Con Dao
Dam Trau Beach is one of the highlights of the Con Dao Islands, known for its peaceful atmosphere, clear water and largely untouched surroundings. Con Dao feels quieter and more remote than many of Vietnam’s mainstream beach destinations, and Dam Trau reflects that slower pace well. It’s ideal for travellers who value calm over convenience, with minimal development and a more natural setting. The beach works best as part of a relaxed island stay, offering a simple, unhurried coastal experience away from busy tourist scenes.
Best Time to Visit: March to September
Best for: Swimming & Relaxation; Unique Plane Spotting; Peaceful Atmosphere
How to get to the beach: Around 15 minutes from Con Dao Airport by taxi
Insider Tip: Con Dao works best for travellers who embrace the slower pace rather than expecting a busy resort scene.
13. Cat Co Beaches, Cat Ba Island
The Cat Co beaches on Cat Ba Island offer a different coastal experience from the rest of Vietnam. Instead of wide open stretches of sand, these smaller beaches are set between limestone cliffs, creating a more dramatic and distinctive setting. While not the largest beaches in the country, their scenery makes them stand out. Cat Co 1, 2 and 3 are often visited as part of a stay on Cat Ba, especially when combined with Ha Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay cruises, making them ideal for travellers adding beach time to a broader scenic itinerary.
Best Time to Visit: April to October, though peak summer storms can affect travel in July and August
Best for: Scenic Views; Combining Beaches with Bay Cruises; Kayaking; Short Beach Breaks
How to get to the beach: Ferry or speedboat from Hai Phong or Ha Long, followed by a short taxi ride on Cat Ba Island
Insider Tip: Cat Co 2 often feels slightly quieter than the others if you prefer a calmer stop.
Best Beach Destinations in Vietnam
Sometimes the best choice isn’t just about one beach, but the overall destination.
- Nha Trang: A lively coastal city ideal for water sports and island hopping.
Best beaches: Tran Phu, Doc Let, Nhu Tien, Hon Chong
Best time: July to August - Hoi An: Combines culture with easy beach access, perfect for a balanced trip.
Best beaches: An Bang, Cua Dai, Ha My, Tan Thanh
Best time: February to August - Da Nang: Clean, accessible city beaches with a modern coastal feel.
Best beaches: My Khe, Non Nuoc, Bac My An
Best time: February to August - Phu Quoc: Vietnam’s top island destination for resorts, sunsets and snorkelling.
Best beaches: Bai Sao, Long Beach, Ong Lang, Khem Beach
Best time: November to April - Con Dao: Quiet, remote islands ideal for nature, diving and tranquillity.
Best beaches: Dam Trau, An Hai, Lo Voi
Best time: March to September - Cat Ba Island: Best for combining beaches with Ha Long Bay scenery and kayaking.
Best beaches: Cat Co 1, Cat Co 2, Cat Co 3
Best time: April to October
Best Beaches in Vietnam for Different Travellers
Choosing the right beach often comes down to the kind of trip you want.
- Best for families: My Khe Beach, Doc Let Beach, An Bang Beach
- Best for couples: Bai Sao, Long Beach, Lang Co, Con Dao
- Best for luxury stays: Phu Quoc, Lang Co, parts of Da Nang
- Best for water sports: Mui Ne, My Khe Beach
- Best for hidden gems: Bai Om, Ky Co, Doc Let Beach
- Best for scenery: Lang Co, Ky Co, Cat Ba Island
- Best for a quiet escape: Ho Coc, Bai Om, Dam Trau Beach
Where to Stay Near Vietnam’s Best Beaches
Where you stay can shape the feel of your beach holiday as much as the beach itself.
- Da Nang: Best for a wide choice of beachfront hotels and easy airport access
- Hoi An: Best for boutique stays that combine beach time with old town charm
- Phu Quoc: Best for luxury resorts, island-style relaxation and sunset-facing stays
- Mui Ne: Best for affordable beachfront resorts and sports-focused holidays
- Con Dao: Best for travellers who prefer a quieter, more exclusive feel
- Nha Trang: Best for a lively beach city with lots of accommodation options
Final Thoughts
The best beaches in Vietnam are not all trying to offer the same thing, which is exactly why the country stands out. From lively coastal cities to quiet, lesser-known shores, each destination offers a different kind of experience. For travellers from the UK, Vietnam is especially rewarding as it combines culture and coastline in one seamless trip. With thoughtfully planned Vietnam holidays through Luxtripper, you can experience the right mix of beaches, destinations and travel pace, making your journey feel personalised rather than one-size-fits-all.
