The best beaches in Vietnam

With more than 2000 miles of coastline, Vietnam is one of the cheapest places to travel for a beach holiday. It brims with secluded coves, white sands and waters fit for snorkelling. For days spent basking on sun-baked strands and evenings taking in the sunset, here are the best beaches in Vietnam.

1. Long Beach (Bai Truong)

Best beach in Vietnam for swimming
Location: Western Coast of Phu Quoc Island, Kien Giang Province, Vietnam
Best time to visit: November–March, when the skies are clear and the sea is calm, with water temperatures around 82°F (28°C)

Long Beach runs for about 20 kilometers along Phu Quoc’s western shore, with golden sand and calm, shallow water that stretches nearly 100 meters before getting deeper. It’s a great place to swim, whether you’re just wading in or going for a longer swim. Palm trees line the shore, making it easy to find some shade.

The beach has a lot of natural scenery and is convenient. There are coral reefs about 300 feet offshore for snorkeling and activities like jet-skiing and sunset sailing trips. Along the shore, seafood restaurants serve fresh fish and shellfish, and the Phu Quoc night market is just a short ride away. Sunsets here are particularly colorful.

Planning tip: Staying in the central section (between Duong Dong town and the airport) gives you easy access to both quiet areas and places with more activity.

How to get there

• Fly to Phu Quoc International Airport (2-hour flight from Ho Chi Minh City, from $50)
• Take a taxi to Long Beach (15–20 minutes, approximately 150,000 VND)

2. Star Beach (Bai Sao)

Best beach in Vietnam for snorkeling
Location: Southern Coast of Phu Quoc Island, Kien Giang Province, Vietnam
Best time to visit: December–March, when the water is calm and visibility reaches up to 15 meters, making it great for snorkeling

Star Beach is a 3.5 mile stretch of white sand that looks almost luminous in the sunlight. The water shifts from clear turquoise near the shore to a deeper blue further out, and the curved coconut palms make it a scenic place to spend the day. 

The real draw here is what’s underwater. Just 150 feet from shore, coral gardens are home to parrotfish, clownfish, and sometimes even sea turtles. The beach is quieter than Long Beach, so there’s more space to spread out. Local vendors rent snorkeling gear, and if you want to explore beyond the beach, nearby fish sauce factories and pearl farms give a glimpse into the island’s traditional industries. The calm water is also great for kayaking. 

Planning tip: Getting here before 9 AM helps you find a good spot in the shade and makes for the best snorkeling conditions.

How to get there

• Fly to Phu Quoc International Airport (2-hour flight from Ho Chi Minh City)
• Take a taxi (45 minutes, approximately 400,000 VND) or rent a motorbike (150,000 VND/day)

3. City Beach (Bai Bien Nha Trang)

Best beach in Vietnam for urban convenience

Location: Central Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province, Vietnam
Best time to visit: January-August, when the weather is dry and the city has plenty of festivals

This 6-kilometer beach runs along Tran Phu Boulevard, combining the energy of city life with a laid-back beach atmosphere. The sand is well-kept, and a wide promenade lined with gardens adds to the relaxed feel. The calm bay waters stay blue throughout the year, making it a reliable spot for swimming and lounging. 

City Beach is all about convenience. Restaurants, resorts, and shopping centers are just steps away, and there’s no shortage of water activities—jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding are all easy to find. The Tram Huong Tower stands as a city landmark, and the Hon Chong promontory has some of the best views around. Once the sun sets, the beachfront turns into a lively area with bars, restaurants, and street vendors.

Planning tip: If you're planning a trip to Vietnam, be sure to see our 14 day, 10 day, and 7 day Vietnam itineraries. These sample itineraries are made by local travel experts are are great inspiration for your next trip. 

How to get there

• Fly to Cam Ranh International Airport (1-hour flight from Ho Chi Minh City)
• Take the airport shuttle bus to the city center (45 minutes, 65,000 VND) or a taxi (40 minutes, 400,000 VND)

4. Hon Chong Beach

Best beach in Vietnam for unique rock formations

Location: Northern Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa Province, Vietnam
Best time to visit: February-September, when the weather is clear and ideal for exploring the rock formations

This small, half-a-mile beach is surrounded by massive granite boulders, creating a dramatic and photogenic coastline. The sand is clean and soft, and at high tide, the rocks form natural swimming pools. 

Hon Chong’s main draw is its unusual rock formations. The most famous, "Husband Rock," is a towering 36 foot boulder tied to a local legend about a fisherman turned to stone while waiting for his wife. The elevated rocks have sweeping views of Nha Trang Bay and its islands. Nearby, traditional temples such as the Hon Chong Promontory Pagoda add a cultural touch. If you visit at sunrise, you might catch local fishermen casting their nets the old-fashioned way.

Planning tip: Late afternoon is the best time to visit—great lighting and a stunning sunset from the rocks.

How to get there

• Fly to Cam Ranh International Airport and head to Nha Trang city center
• From the city center, take a taxi (10 minutes, 60,000 VND) or local bus route 4 (7,000 VND)

5. Doc Let Beach

Best beach in Vietnam for white sand

Location: Hon Khoi Peninsula, Khanh Hoa Province, Vietnam
Best time to visit: January-August, when the skies are clear, and the sand is at its brightest

Doc Let Beach stretches for 9 miles with some of the softest, whitest sand in Vietnam. It’s fine enough to squeak underfoot, and the shoreline is about 300 feet wide, backed by casuarina trees for a bit of natural shade. The shallow waters shift between shades of turquoise and deep blue, creating a striking contrast with the bright sand.

What makes Doc Let stand out is its quiet, undeveloped feel. The sand’s high quartz content gives it a distinctive brightness. Nearby, the traditional salt fields of Hon Khoi are an interesting detour. Fishing villages along the coast serve fresh seafood in simple, beachfront settings. The beach’s gentle slope makes it great for long walks, and the calm water is perfect for paddleboarding. If you’re up for an early start, the salt fields at sunrise create an incredible scene.

Planning tip: Visit on a weekday, and you might have long stretches of beach to yourself. Many local resorts can arrange transportation.

How to get there

• Take a bus from Nha Trang city (1.5 hours, 60,000 VND)
• From Doc Let village, take a taxi to the beach area (10 minutes, 100,000 VND)

6. Ho Coc Beach

Best beach in Vietnam for weekend getaways
Location: Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, Vietnam
Best time to visit: December-May, when the weather is clear and breezy, making it a great time for a weekend trip 

Ho Coc Beach is a 2.5 mile stretch of golden sand backed by sand dunes and coastal forest. The beach is about 150 feet wide, with natural rock formations at both ends creating calm swimming spots. 

It’s an easy trip from Ho Chi Minh City but still feels peaceful. Just a short walk inland, you’ll find natural hot springs—great for soaking in the evening. Beachside seafood shacks serve up fresh fish and shellfish, while mobile vendors bring around tropical fruit and snacks. The sand dunes are a great place to watch the sunrise, and if you're in the mood for more relaxation, Binh Chau Hot Springs isn’t far away.

Planning tip: If you're heading here on a weekend, book accommodations in advance. Leaving Ho Chi Minh City early helps beat the traffic and grab a good spot on the beach.

How to get there

• Bus from Ho Chi Minh City (3 hours, 150,000 VND)
• Local taxi to the beach (15 minutes, 120,000 VND)

7. Dai Lanh Beach

Best beach in Vietnam for sunrise views
Location: Hon Ghom Peninsula, Phu Yen Province, Vietnam
Best time to visit: March-September, when skies are clear and mornings are crisp

If you're up for an early start, Dai Lanh Beach is one of the first places in Vietnam to see the sunrise. This half-mile stretch of sand faces directly east, framed by rocky headlands with hills rising behind it. The water is calm and clear, and great for a morning swim. 

Because of its location, the sunrise here is something special. After watching the sun come up, you can check out nearby fishing villages, hike coastal trails, or snorkel around the reefs. Local restaurants serve fresh seafood straight from the boats, and the nearby lighthouse has panoramic views worth the climb.

Planning tip: Beachfront stays are limited, so it’s better to find a place in Tuy Hoa city, about 8 miles away.

How to get there

• Fly to Tuy Hoa Airport or take a train to Tuy Hoa Railway Station
• Taxi to the beach (around 300,000 VND) or motorbike taxi (150,000 VND) for the 30-minute ride

8. My Khe, Da Nang

Best beach in Vietnam for surfing
Location: Da Nang, Vietnam
Best time to visit: September-April, when the waves are most consistent

My Khe is one of the go-to spots for surfing in Vietnam. The sandy beach stretches for 4.5 miles, with plenty of space for both beginners and experienced surfers. Surf schools and board rentals are easy to find, and when you're done in the water, there are beachside cafés where you can grab fresh seafood or a strong Vietnamese coffee. For many, a surfing session is one of the best things to do in Vietnam. 

Planning tip: Mornings tend to be the best time for surfing since the wind picks up later in the day.

How to get there

• Train to Quang Ngai Railway Station or fly to Chu Lai International Airport
• Local taxi (200,000 VND) or motorbike rental (100,000 VND/day) for the 15-minute journey

9. An Bang Beach

Best beach in Vietnam for families
Location: Hoi An, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam
Best time to visit: February-July, when the water is calm and the weather is steady

An Bang Beach has 2 miles of soft sand and shallow water. It is an easy spot for kids to play, and is a great place to go in Vietnam for families. Palm-thatched umbrellas line the shore, and the Cham Islands in the distance add to the view. Even though it's only 2.5 miles from Hoi An’s old town, it still feels relaxed and local. 

Families like An Bang because the water deepens gradually, lifeguards keep an eye on things, and there’s plenty to do. Some beach clubs have activities for kids, and the gentle waves make it a nice place for beginner swimmers. Restaurants along the shore serve both Vietnamese dishes and familiar options for picky eaters.

Planning tip: If you want a shaded spot for the day, rent a sun lounger early (around 50,000 VND) at one of the beach clubs. 

How to get there

• Fly to Da Nang International Airport
• Taxi from Hoi An Ancient Town (80,000 VND) or bicycle rental (30,000 VND/day)

10. Binh Ba Island

Best beach in Vietnam for lobster dining
Location: Cam Ranh Bay, Khanh Hoa Province, Vietnam
Best time to visit: March–September (lobster season and calmest waters)

Binh Ba is a small island with about a mile of coastline, each stretch of sand feeling a little different. Nom Beach is the busiest, with clear water that’s good for snorkeling, while tucked-away coves give you quieter spots to swim and relax.

Lobster farming is what makes Binh Ba stand out. More than 300 families raise lobsters in underwater cages, and visitors can take a closer look at floating farms before sitting down to fresh seafood right on the beach. The island still has a low-key fishing village feel, with no big resorts, just simple guesthouses and local restaurants.  

Planning tip: Guesthouses often arrange lobster lunches (300,000–500,000 VND) with the freshest catch. Booking through them can be easier and cheaper than ordering at a restaurant.

How to get there

• Fly to Cam Ranh International Airport
• Take a taxi to Cam Ranh port (100,000 VND)
• Ferry to the island (60,000 VND round-trip)

11. Con Son Island

Best beach in Vietnam for nature and quiet beaches
Location: Con Dao Archipelago, Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, Vietnam
Best time to visit: March–September (turtle nesting season)

Con Son has long, quiet beaches lined with old mahogany trees and soft, white sand. The water stays warm in the summer, reaching around 82°F (28°C), and marine life is abundant. The beaches here still feel wild, with few crowds and no big developments. It's one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam.

The island is part of a national marine park and serves as a nesting site for green sea turtles, with hundreds of nests recorded between May and September. You can snorkel with dugongs and reef sharks, hike through the coastal forests, or explore the remains of old French colonial buildings. The Con Dao Prison complex is also nearby for those interested in the island’s history. 

Planning tip: If you’re hoping to see turtles during nesting season, book a tour in advance through the Con Dao National Park office. These fill up quickly. 

How to get there

• Fly to Con Dao Airport from Ho Chi Minh City (45 minutes)
• Take a taxi to the beach area (150,000 VND, 15 minutes)

12. Ca Na

Best beach in Vietnam for kitesurfing
Location: Ninh Thuan Province, South Central Coast, Vietnam
Best time to visit: December–April (steady 15–25 knot winds, minimal rainfall)

Ca Na is a 2.5 mile beach along Vietnam’s southeastern coast, with golden sand, palm trees, and rocky outcrops. The water stays relatively shallow, which makes it a good spot for kitesurfing at any level. 

Steady thermal winds and open beach space make this one of the most reliable kitesurfing spots in Vietnam. The fishing village nearby adds to the atmosphere, with seafood stalls and a laid-back vibe. Those looking to explore can check out the salt fields or visit the ancient Cham towers about 15 kilometers away. The beach remains fairly undeveloped, so it doesn’t get too crowded, even during peak season.

Planning tip: Kitesurfing schools tend to book up quickly between December and February, so it’s best to arrange lessons in advance.

How to get there

• Take the train from Ho Chi Minh City to Ca Na station (6 hours, ~400,000 VND)
• Motorbike taxi to beach resorts (10 minutes, 50,000 VND)

13. Ninh Chu Beach

Best beach in Vietnam for year-round sun
Location: Phan Rang-Thap Cham, Ninh Thuan Province, South Central Coast, Vietnam
Best time to visit: Anytime—expect over 300 days of sunshine and steady weather.

This 6 mile beach is easily one of the best beaches in Vietnam. It has soft white sand and clear, calm water stays peaceful year-round, thanks to its sheltered, north-facing location and surrounding mountains. The reliable weather makes it one of Vietnam’s most consistent beach destinations—great for swimming, relaxing, and catching incredible sunrises over the distant mountains.

Beyond the beach, you’ll find rolling vineyards in the countryside and traditional fishing boats dotting the horizon at dawn. The town itself is still under the radar, with a growing café scene and a thriving seafood market that keeps things local and authentic—without overwhelming crowds.

Planning tip: Stay on the eastern end of the beach for the best sunrise views and easy access to the nearby fishing village.

How to get there

• Fly to Cam Ranh International Airport, then drive north (1.5 hours, ~800,000 VND by taxi).
• Take a local bus from Phan Rang city center to the beach (15 minutes, 20,000 VND).

14. My Khe

Best beach in Vietnam for water sports
Location: Da Nang City Center, Central Vietnam
Best time to visit: May-August for ideal water conditions and minimal rain.

This soft white sand beach has warm, swimmable waters and modern beachfront facilities, earning it a spot on Forbes’ list of best beaches. With designated water sports zones, a palm-lined promenade, and a lively yet polished vibe, My Khe is a good spot for active travelers headed to Vietnam.

Whether you’re into surfing, paddleboarding, jet skiing, or parasailing, My Khe has plenty of options with reliable waves and well-maintained rental shops. Lifeguards and certified instructors make it beginner-friendly, and the backdrop of Da Nang’s luxury resorts, Dragon Bridge, and Marble Mountains adds an urban edge to the experience.

Planning tip: Book water sports activities early in the morning (before 10 AM) to beat the afternoon winds and crowds. 

How to get there

• Fly directly to Da Nang International Airport.
• Take a taxi from the city center to the beach (10 minutes, ~80,000 VND).

15. Quy Nhon

Best beach in Vietnam for local culture
Location: Quy Nhon City, Binh Dinh Province, Central Vietnam
Best time to visit: January-September for dry weather and festival season.

Quy Nhon’s stretch of golden sand blends beach life with local traditions. It’s a working beach where fishermen still launch their round bamboo boats at dawn, while families gather later in the day to enjoy fresh seafood at casual beachside eateries. The water is clear, the slope is gentle, and the city’s laid-back energy makes it a great spot for travelers looking for an authentic Vietnamese coastal experience. 

Beyond the beach, you can explore Cham towers, bustling fish markets, and even catch a glimpse of traditional martial arts training. Unlike more tourist-heavy beach towns, Quy Nhon still moves at its own pace, keeping its everyday rhythms intact alongside its natural beauty.

Planning tip: Time your visit during local festivals (especially March-April) to see traditional boat races and fishing ceremonies.

How to get there

• Take the train from Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi to Quy Nhon station (12-14 hours from either).
• Grab a local taxi to the beachfront (15 minutes, ~100,000 VND).

16. Non Nuoc Beach

Best beach in Vietnam for photography
Location: Da Nang City, Central Vietnam
Best time to visit: February-August (clear skies and great lighting for photos)

Non Nuoc Beach runs for 2.5 miles along the base of the Marble Mountains, with soft white sand and calm blue waters, and is one of the best beaches in Vietnam for photography. It’s a great place to relax, swim, or take a walk along the shore. Palm trees create shade throughout the day, making it comfortable even when the sun is strong.

The real draw here is the Marble Mountains rising behind the beach. Photographers come for the golden hour light that highlights the limestone peaks. You can take a traditional basket boat ride, eat fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants, or explore the nearby temples and caves. The Da Nang Beach cultural park is just a mile away.

Planning tip: Arrive early (5:30-7:00 AM) for the best light and fewer crowds.

How to get there

• Fly into Da Nang International Airport.
• Take a taxi (about 150,000 VND / $6 USD) for a quick 15-minute ride to the beach.

17. Cat Co 1, 2 & 3 Beaches

Best beaches in Vietnam for island hopping
Location: Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong Province, Northern Vietnam
Best time to visit: April-October (calm seas and clear skies for sailing)

These three beaches sit side by side on Cat Ba Island, connected by short hiking trails and framed by limestone cliffs, and are some of the best beaches in Vietnam. Each one has its own character—Cat Co 1 is lively with water activities, Cat Co 2 is more laid-back, and Cat Co 3 is good for snorkeling. The water is clear and a shade of emerald green that makes it great for swimming and kayaking.

Since they’re part of the Cat Ba Archipelago, the beaches make a good starting point for boat trips through the limestone karsts. Nearby, you can check out Cat Ba National Park, the historic Hospital Cave, and seafood restaurants serving the day’s catch. 

Planning tip: Get a combination ticket (about 200,000 VND) for all three beaches to save money and make a full day of it.

How to get there

• Take a bus and boat combination from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island (4 hours, about 250,000 VND).
• From Cat Ba Town, grab a taxi or rent a motorbike (50,000 VND, 10-minute ride).

18. Doi Duong Beach

Best beach in Vietnam for a quiet getaway
Location: Phan Thiet, Binh Thuan Province, South Central Vietnam
Best time to visit: November-April (minimal rain, great sunsets)

Doi Duong Beach is found on Phan Thiet’s coast, with soft white sand and calm, clear waters. The curved shoreline creates small pockets of space, and coconut palms provide plenty of shade. It’s a peaceful spot, good for long walks or just unwinding by the water.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy the area, from beachside picnics to sunset boat rides. Restaurants along the shore serve fresh seafood, and nearby you’ll find beachside spas, walking paths, and a local market. If you want to explore, the Red Sand Dunes, Po Shanu Cham Towers, and Phan Thiet Lighthouse are all a short drive away.

Planning tip: Stay at a beachfront resort on the northern end for more privacy and the best sunset views.

How to get there

• Take a train or bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Phan Thiet (4-5 hours).
• Take a local taxi to the beach (about 70,000 VND, 10 minutes).

19. Quan Lan Beach

Best beach in Vietnam for seclusion
Location: Bai Tu Long Bay, Quang Ninh Province, Northern Vietnam
Best time to visit: April–October (good weather and calmer seas)

Quan Lan Beach stretches along the eastern coast of Quan Lan Island, a quiet stretch of white sand and clear water that feels far from Vietnam’s more built-up coastal areas. The beach is lined with natural dunes and wild vegetation, keeping it feeling untouched and peaceful - a great alternative to Ha Long Bay.

What makes this place stand out is how quiet it is. There aren’t any big resorts or crowds, just open sand, gentle waves, and plenty of space to unwind. It’s great for swimming, beachcombing, and taking in the surroundings. Inland, you’ll find ancient temples and traditional fishing villages that give a glimpse into the island’s history. If you’re up for an experience, you can head out on a small-boat fishing trip with local fishermen. 

Planning tip: Accommodation is limited, so book in advance. Bring essentials, as shops on the island are few and far between.

How to get there

• Take a ferry from Cai Rong Port to Quan Lan Island (2 hours, 150,000 VND)
• Rent a motorbike taxi or bicycle to reach the beach (30,000 VND, 15 minutes)

20. Ha Long Bay Beaches

Best beach in Vietnam for scenic beauty
Location: Quang Ninh Province, Northern Vietnam
Best time to visit: March–April & September–November (clear skies and good visibility)

Ha Long Bay is known for its dramatic limestone islands, but it’s also home to hidden beaches. Scattered across the bay, these sandy stretches range from small, tucked-away coves to longer beaches surrounded by towering rock formations and calm, green water. 

Some beaches can only be reached by boat, making them a great spot for a quiet swim. Others, like Ti Top Island, have a livelier atmosphere, with a sandy beach and a trail leading to a mountain viewpoint. If you’re looking for something less busy, Soi Sim and Ban Chan beaches are good alternatives. Beyond the beaches, you can kayak through caves, visit floating fishing villages, or stop by a pearl farm.

Planning tip: To experience Ha Long Bay’s quieter beaches, consider a 2-day cruise rather than a day trip—it’ll give you more time away from the crowds.

How to get there

• Take a bus from Hanoi to Ha Long City (4 hours, 300,000 VND)
• Join a cruise tour (prices vary, starting from $150 USD for 2 days)

Plan a trip with Rough Guides

Although Vietnam is a very attractive beach destination, it has so much more to offer. First-timer to Vietnam? Read our rundown of Vietnamese cities to have on your travel radar

Before planning your trip, you might also want to find out Vietnam travel tips, and get The Rough Guide to Vietnam. You can also follow our Vietnam trip planning guide and start planning your perfect trip today.

Or, forget the hassle of planning and browse our customizable Vietnam itineraries, with a  Vietnam local travel expert on hand to advise and take care of booking an unforgettable tailor-made trip.