Best Beaches in Vietnam by Regions: From North to South

Vietnam, a premier Southeast Asian destination, features 3000 kilometers of stunning coastline filled with idyllic beaches and islands. From the captivating bays of the Gulf of Tonkin in the North, including the renowned Halong Bay, to the picturesque beaches of the Gulf of Thailand in the South, such as Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam offers ideal getaways for memorable holidays. Be it relaxing on sun-kissed sands, swimming in turquoise waters, or exploring unique flora and fauna, Vietnam's best beaches in North, Central, and South regions promise to fulfill all your beach dreams.

Written by Nhu PHAM (local expert)Updated on 05-11-2024

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1. The Best Beaches in North Vietnam

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.

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.

>>> Learn more about: Cat Ba Island and its must-see activities  

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.

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.

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.

>>>> Read more: 

• Hue Train Tours proffer Breathtaking Views of Lang Co Bay - Da Nang
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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.

2.2 Da Nang

Da Nang is famous for its breathtaking beaches and cultural experiences. My Khe Beach, one of Asia’s finest, is among the best beaches in Vietnam, offering a long stretch of soft, white sand and clear waters. For quieter alternatives, Non Nuoc and Nam O Beaches are excellent options for travelers seeking less crowded beaches in Vietnam.

>>> Read more about this city here: Da Nang: 7 questions before visiting

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.

Best time to visit: April to September.

2.3. Hoi An

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.

>>> Vietnam in 2 Weeks! 🏝️ Discover cultural gems and unwind on beautiful beaches. 🌅🌺

Cham Island (Cu Lao Cham)

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.

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.

3. The Best Beaches in Central South Vietnam

3.1. Dream Beaches in Quy Nhon

Located in Binh Dinh province, Quy Nhon is an underrated destination with some of the best hidden beaches in Vietnam. Ky Co Beach, nestled between mountains, offers azure waters perfect for snorkeling, while Eo Gio Beach invites picnics with its fresh sea breeze.

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.

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.

North of Nha Trang, the Dam Mon Peninsula offers tranquil golden sands and turquoise waters. Whale Island, nestled in Van Phong Bay, features bamboo bungalows and is renowned for diving and snorkeling. Nearby, Doc Let Peninsula boasts expansive beaches and fresh seafood, with several waterfront accommodations for a relaxing getaway

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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 can visit the nearby Ke Ga Cape, where you’ll find pristine scenery, turquoise waters, and unique stone formations. Mui Ne offers both relaxation and adventure, catering to travelers who seek both beach pleasures and exploration.

• Best time to visit: November to March, during the dry season when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities.

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.

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. 

• Best time to visit: November to April

>>>>> For more information, please read: Con Dao Island Travel Guide

4.2 Phu Quoc Island

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.

>>>> Discover: 7 Useful Phu Quoc Island Travel Tips For First-Time Visitors!

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.

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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.

• 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).

>>>> Explore: Best Time to Visit Vietnam: The Ultimate Weather Guide

Our Final Words

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!

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