5 best Vietnam beach resorts
Vietnam’s extensive South China Sea shoreline encompasses a multitude of beaches, with most of the finest found on the country’s central and southern coasts. Here is our guide to the best of Vietnam beach resorts.
1. Hoi An
The laid-back city of Hoi An on the central coast boasts a well-preserved Old Town with a rich architectural fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese and European influences dating back to the 16th century. Around 5km (3 miles) away from central Hoi An lie the wide expanses of Cua Dai Beach. Lined with a number of fine beachside establishments, this stretch of sand is home to one of Vietnam’s most expensive hotels, the wonderfully luxurious Four Seasons Resort the Nam Hai. This expansive low-rise resort is laid out across acres of premium beachfront land. Its minimalist chic villas are furnished and decorated in accordance with Feng Shui principles, and many come with their own private swimming pools. Palm-fringed Cua Dai beach is ideal for visitors who would like to combine the delights of sunshine and surf with the dining and sightseeing opportunities available in Hoi An.
2. Quy Nhon
The compact seaport of Quy Nhon lies on Vietnam’s central coast in Binh Dinh province. Despite being blessed with abundant natural beauty, Quy Nhon does not feature on the popular tourist trail, adding to its charm. This relaxed town is a great place to escape the crowds of Nha Trang to the south and experience authentic Vietnamese culture. A short drive to the south of the town, Quy Hoa Beach offers golden sands and clear emerald green waters. A few beach shacks selling cool drinks are dotted under a grove of palm trees.
A 30-minute drive from Quy Nhon takes you to unspoilt Ky Co beach. Its gently curving stretch of pristine white sand make it one of the most spectacular wild beaches in Vietnam. With a backdrop of the foothills of the Phuong Mai mountains, rocky cliffs enclose the cove and its crystal clear turquoise waters are peppered with rocky outcrops.
Ky Co beach in Quy Nhon, Vietnam. Photo: Shutterstock
3. Nha Trang
On Vietnam’s southern coast, the resort city of Nha Trang overlooking the South China Sea, is a top beach destination. In a stunning location, backed by mountains, the city benefits from an expansive stretch of palm-fringed, white sand beach. Abundant activities are available on the beach: there is an amusement park, jet-skiing, sailing, windsurfing, surfing and parasailing. Bars and restaurants line the beachfront and the also town offers a lively nightlife scene.
The main reason to visit Nha Trang, however, lies out in the bay. Divers and snorkellers head offshore to enjoy close-up views of some of the country’s finest coral reefs – largely encompassed by the Hon Mun Marine Protected Area, which includes nine offshore islands. With its easy-going atmosphere, Nha Trang is the perfect destination to break up a journey, relax and soak up the sun. Ideally placed in the middle of Insight Guides' Vietnam and Cambodia by Rail trip, our carefully planned itinerary ensures you can do exactly that.
4. Phu Quoc
Situated in the Gulf of Thailand, off the southern coast of Vietnam, the country’s largest island, Phu Quoc is a mountainous retreat with 150km (90 miles) of sandy coastline. Locals will tell you that Sao Beach (Bai Sao), also known as Star Beach, Khem Beach (Bai Khem), or Cream Beach are the island’s most beautiful stretches of sand. They are correct. Super-fine white sand and crystal waters await those who make the journey there. You can discover the deep south of Vietnam as part of Insight Guides' Southern Vietnam Explored trip.
Fishing boats at sunset, Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam. Photo: Shutterstock
5. Mui Ne
Formerly a sleepy backwater on the southern coast ignored by both domestic and international tourists, Mui Ne has developed rapidly in the 21st century and now features a 10km stretch of beach resorts. Benefitting from a laid-back atmosphere, the town is something of a tourist enclave, separated as it is from any Vietnamese community. However, if what you are seeking is unadulterated beachside relaxation, it is the perfect destination. Strong winds and surf tend to reduce the width of the palm-fringed beach between August and December, but good stretches of soft golden sand can always be found after a little exploration.
Mui Ne beach, Vietnam. Photo: Shutterstock
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