When travelers think of Southeast Asian beaches, Thailand often comes to mind. But Vietnam’s coastline offers something quieter, more varied, and deeply local. With over 3,000 kilometers of coast, Vietnam is home to dramatic limestone bays, golden tropical islands, and quiet fishing villages where life still follows the rhythm of the sea.
This 2025 local guide brings together the best Vietnam beaches and islands. It’s not just about where to swim, but where to find stories, scenery, and a sense of connection. Whether you’re snorkeling off a volcanic island, watching squid boats light up the night, or enjoying a seafood feast steps from the sand, these places leave a lasting impression.
The guide is organized by region: North, Central, South, and a final section on hidden gems. You’ll find practical travel tips throughout, a few resort options for comfort seekers, and local insights to help you plan well. Vietnam’s beaches are more than just beautiful. They are woven into everyday life, food, and culture. Let’s explore them, one wave at a time.
Northern Vietnam beaches and islands
Northern Vietnam may not be the first place that comes to mind when searching for the best Vietnam beaches, but this region rewards travelers who look beyond the obvious. From karst cliffs and misty bays to quiet coves, northern Vietnam beaches offer a cooler, more atmospheric coastal experience that feels deeply connected to local rhythms.
While the southern coast is known for its tropical vibe, beaches in northern Vietnam carry a different kind of beauty. Fishing villages hug forested shores, and island landscapes showcase a quieter side of the country. These are not your typical resort zones or beach clubs. Instead, you’ll find calm waters, peaceful stretches of sand, and some of the top beaches near Hanoi Vietnam that remain uncrowded even during peak season.
If you’re exploring the north, these Vietnam beaches should be high on your list. They offer more than just scenery. They give you a deeper connection to the land, the sea, and the communities that live between them.
Ha Long Bay (Quang Ninh)
Ha Long Bay is one of the most iconic Vietnam beach destinations. Known for its emerald waters and limestone pillars, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is more than just a place for cruises. It also offers some of the best beaches in northern Vietnam. These shores are perfect for travelers starting their coastal journey from Hanoi.
Ti Top Beach is a favorite stop, with soft white sand and a viewpoint that rewards a short hike with sweeping bay views. Soi Sim Island offers a more peaceful option, shaded by forest and great for swimming or snorkeling. While most visitors come for day trips or overnight cruises, smaller eco-tours take you deeper, through floating villages and into quiet lagoons by kayak. You can visit pearl farms, enjoy seafood caught just hours earlier, and watch the karsts glow gold at sunset.
Best time to visit: October to April, when the weather is dry and cool. Avoid weekends and local holidays for a more tranquil experience.
Cat Ba Island (Lan Ha Bay)
Cat Ba Island offers one of the best beach getaways near Hanoi, blending outdoor adventure with slow island life. As the largest island in the Gulf of Tonkin and part of a UNESCO biosphere reserve, it is a favorite among both nature lovers and travelers looking for a relaxed Vietnam beach escape.
The main beaches: Cat Co 1, 2, and 3, each offer their own vibe. Cat Co 1 is livelier and closer to town, while Cat Co 2 and 3 are quieter, ideal for reading under the trees or swimming in calm waves. Beyond the beach, you can kayak through the karst-studded Lan Ha Bay or trek in Cat Ba National Park to spot golden-headed langurs. Seafood here is a highlight, especially grilled oysters, mantis shrimp, and hotpots served by the harbor.
Best time to visit: April to June and September to November offer pleasant weather and calm seas, with fewer crowds than in peak summer.
Co To Island (Quang Ninh)
Co To Island is one of the most peaceful and scenic beach destinations in northern Vietnam. Located about 80 kilometers off the coast of Quang Ninh Province, this island offers soft sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, and a laid-back rhythm that feels far removed from the city bustle. It’s a great choice if you’re searching for uncrowded beaches near Hanoi Vietnam.
Van Chay Beach is the island’s most stunning stretch, ideal for sunrise walks and long swims. For something more secluded, head to Hong Van Beach where calm waters and hammocks invite you to stay awhile. The nearby islet of Co To Con offers coral snorkeling and untouched scenery. Accommodations are mostly homestays and small lodges run by islanders, giving visitors a more personal experience. Seafood here is fresh, simple, and best enjoyed by the shore.
Best time to visit: April to May and September to October, when the weather is clear, ferries run reliably, and the island is at its most tranquil.
Central Vietnam beaches and islands
Central Vietnam strikes a perfect balance between coastal charm, cultural richness, and natural beauty. From the calm waves of An Bang to the volcanic cliffs of Ly Son, this region is home to some of the best beaches in Vietnam. Whether you’re planning a relaxing beach break or a deeper cultural journey, the central coast offers something for every kind of traveler.
What makes beaches in central Vietnam unique is their variety. Some are close to ancient towns like Hoi An, letting you pair heritage walks with sunset swims. Others sit offshore on remote islands, where snorkeling and homestays offer a closer look at daily life. The central coast is also home to some of the best beach resorts in Vietnam, with both luxurious and laid-back options by the sea.
From white-sand lagoons to fishing villages with only a few guesthouses, the central region is one of the best places in Vietnam for a beach holiday that blends comfort with authenticity.
An Bang Beach and the Cham Islands (Hoi An)
An Bang Beach is one of the best beaches in central Vietnam for travelers seeking calm waves, laid-back charm, and easy access to Hoi An. Just 10 minutes from the Ancient Town, An Bang has soft sand, relaxed seafood shacks, and live music cafés where both locals and visitors gather for sunset drinks. Unlike Cua Dai Beach, which has suffered erosion, An Bang has retained its natural beauty and friendly vibe.
For those craving island adventure, the Cham Islands lie just 15 kilometers offshore. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is made up of eight small islands with coral reefs, fishing villages, and clear turquoise water. Most visitors join a snorkeling day trip, but you can also stay overnight in Bai Huong village for a quiet escape. Cham Islands are especially memorable during local sea worship festivals that celebrate the islanders’ deep connection to the ocean.
Best time to visit: March to August, when the sea is calm and visibility for snorkeling is best.
Planning a trip to Hoi An? Check out our local guide to the best things to do around Hoi An and tips on the best time to visit Hoi An.
My Khe Beach (Da Nang)
My Khe Beach is one of the top beaches in Vietnam for travelers who want a mix of city access and coastal beauty. Stretching more than 10 kilometers along Da Nang’s eastern edge, My Khe features white sand, gentle surf, and clear water that makes it ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and early morning walks. Locals gather at sunrise for tai chi and beach volleyball, while cafes nearby serve up fresh coconut juice and grilled seafood.
The beach is just a short drive from Da Nang’s major attractions, including the Marble Mountains and the Son Tra Peninsula. You’ll also find a range of accommodations, from international beach resorts to boutique stays with ocean views. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family, My Khe offers a safe, vibrant, and well-kept coastal experience that balances natural beauty with modern comfort.
Best time to visit: March to September, when the weather is sunny and seas are calm.
Want to explore more nearby? Don’t miss our local picks for the best things to do in Da Nang.
Doc Let Beach (Khanh Hoa)
About 50 kilometers north of Nha Trang, Doc Let Beach is a quiet stretch of powdery sand and shallow turquoise water that feels like a true escape. The beach is long and wide, lined with coconut palms and far fewer crowds than the city beaches nearby. It’s especially loved by families thanks to its calm, gradual shoreline that’s safe for kids and relaxing for adults.
What makes Doc Let special is its connection to everyday coastal life. In the mornings, you’ll see fishing boats return with fresh catches, and small roadside grills start serving seafood right on the sand. You can explore nearby salt fields, go kayaking, or simply unwind at a local homestay. One French-designed beachfront villa offers comfort without losing the charm of a low-key fishing village.
Best time to visit: February to September for dry, sunny days and warm, clear water.
Ly Son & Be Islands (Quang Ngai)
Ly Son Island is a volcanic gem off the coast of Quang Ngai, known for its lava cliffs, garlic fields, and rugged beauty. Ride a motorbike along the crater rim, hike to the top of Thoi Loi Mountain, or catch sunrise through the rock-framed To Vo Gate. The island feels raw and spacious, perfect for those who prefer scenic rides and peaceful coastlines over crowds.
A short boat ride away, Be Island (Đảo Bé) offers quiet charm with its clear waters, coral reefs, and small homestays run by local families. There are no big resorts here, only the sound of waves and the scent of grilled seafood at simple beach huts. This duo of islands invites slow travel and rewards those who value authenticity.
Best time to visit: April to August, when the sea is calm for boat transfers and snorkeling conditions are at their best.
Lang Co Beach (Hue Province)
Lang Co Beach sits quietly between Hue and Da Nang, where a crescent bay meets forested hills and the dramatic curves of the Hai Van Pass. It’s one of the most scenic beaches in central Vietnam, offering a peaceful retreat between two of the country’s most historic cities. The beach is known for its long white sand, calm waters, and views that shift from ocean to lagoon to mountain in a single glance.
This area feels less crowded than Da Nang or Hoi An. On one side, you can swim in the open sea or stroll the shore at sunset. On the other, explore the Lang Co Lagoon, where floating restaurants serve freshly grilled oysters and steamed fish straight from the water. A few high-end resorts, like Banyan Tree Lang Co, provide quiet luxury, but you’ll still find small local eateries and fishermen going about their daily lives nearby.
Best time to visit: April to August, when the skies are clear and both the sea and lagoon are at their best.
Want to explore more nearby? Check out our local guide to the best things to do in Hue.
Tuy Hoa Beach (Phu Yen)
Tuy Hoa Beach stretches along the central coast of Phu Yen with gentle golden sand and calm, shallow waters that make it ideal for a quiet, scenic escape. Unlike its tourist-heavy neighbors, Tuy Hoa remains blissfully under the radar, with long, empty stretches perfect for sunrise walks, kitesurfing, or simply floating in the warm sea. The waves are mild most of the year, making it safe for families and beginner swimmers.
Beyond the beach, Tuy Hoa offers a glimpse into local life. In the early morning, you can catch fishermen pulling nets ashore or visit the nearby seafood market for the day’s fresh catch. A short ride away are Phu Yen’s signature attractions: Ganh Da Dia’s volcanic rock formations, Mui Dien Cape’s dramatic cliffs, and the peaceful Mang Lang Church. Accommodation options range from family-run guesthouses to upscale stays like Stelia Beach Resort, tucked just steps from the shore.
Best time to visit: January to August, when the skies are clear and the sea is calm. September to November brings some rain, but fewer visitors and a moody coastal charm.
Southern Vietnam beaches and islands
Southern Vietnam is where the country’s coastline turns tropical. Think swaying palm trees, coral reefs, and warm turquoise water that’s swimmable year-round. This region is home to some of the top beaches in Vietnam, including Phu Quoc, Mui Ne, and the Con Dao archipelago, but it also shelters lesser-known gems like Nam Du and Hon Son that feel worlds away from city life.
What sets beaches in Vietnam’s south apart is their variety. Some are dotted with beach resorts and seafood restaurants, others are pure stretches of sand where fishermen mend nets at dawn. You can island-hop in the Gulf of Thailand, watch sea turtles nest in remote coves, or simply nap in a hammock with the sound of the waves nearby. Whether you’re chasing underwater adventures or searching for the best place in Vietnam for a beach holiday, the southern coast offers comfort, culture, and quiet escapes in equal measure.
Nha Trang & Hon Tre
Nha Trang is one of the best beaches in Vietnam for travelers who want city energy and beach comfort in one place. The long stretch of Tran Phu Beach runs along the city’s vibrant core, lined with palm trees, seafood stalls, and beachfront cafés. The water is warm and gentle, perfect for swimming, jet skiing, or paddleboarding. As the sun sets, locals gather for beach volleyball or simply watch the sky turn orange over the bay.
Just offshore, Hon Tre Island offers a more relaxed vibe. While part of the island hosts VinWonders theme park, Bai Tru Beach remains scenic and peaceful. For snorkeling, head to Hon Mun Marine Reserve, known for some of the richest coral reefs in southern Vietnam. Boat trips are easy to arrange and make for a great day trip. If you’re after south Vietnam beach resorts, Nha Trang has a full range, from high-rise hotels to boutique villas with sea views.
Best time to visit: January to August for dry skies and calm seas ideal for water sports and boat excursions.
Mui Ne (Phan Thiet)
Mui Ne is one of the top beaches in Vietnam for travelers who want a mix of relaxation and adventure. Its golden stretch of coast is known for steady winds that make it a hotspot for kitesurfing and windsurfing. The beach is wide and breezy, with resorts, local eateries, and gear rental shops lining the shore. You can join a morning kitesurf class, then cool off with fresh coconut juice while watching colorful sails zip across the water.
Beyond the beach, Mui Ne’s red and white sand dunes offer surreal landscapes that feel more like a desert than the coast. Sunrise jeep rides to the dunes are a local favorite. For something quieter, walk the shallow Fairy Stream where soft water flows between red cliffs and bamboo groves. The town still maintains its fishing roots. Early risers can catch the buzz of the morning seafood market near the harbor. From boutique resorts to beachside bungalows, Mui Ne is among the best beach holiday destinations in Vietnam.
Best time to visit: November to April, during the dry season when skies are clear and winds are perfect for water sports.
Phu Quoc Island
Phu Quoc is one of the most iconic beach destinations in Vietnam, offering everything from white sand beaches to national parks and bustling night markets. Long Beach (Bai Truong) on the west coast is a favorite for sunset views, beach bars, and resort stays. It’s where most south Vietnam beach resorts are located, with options ranging from stylish eco-lodges to five-star villas.
To escape the crowds, head north to Rach Vem, where stilt houses stretch over shallow, starfish-filled waters. The eastern coast has a more local feel with places like Ham Ninh Fishing Village, known for its pier views and fresh crab lunches. Inland, Phu Quoc National Park offers jungle hikes, waterfalls, and wildlife encounters. You can also tour pepper farms or visit one of the island’s famous fish sauce distilleries. Whether you want luxury or local life, Phu Quoc delivers both with ease.
Best time to visit: November to April, when skies are blue, the sea is calm, and dry weather makes it ideal for beach holidays and boat trips.
For more local tips and must-try experiences, see our full guide to 25 best things to do in Phu Quoc.
Con Dao Archipelago
The Con Dao Islands are a rare mix of untouched beauty and historical depth. Located off the southern coast of Vietnam, this archipelago offers some of the most pristine beaches in the country, backed by forested hills and crystal-clear waters. Dam Trau Beach, just north of the small airport on Con Son Island, is often ranked among the best beaches in Vietnam. Its golden sand, turquoise sea, and relaxed atmosphere make it perfect for a quiet beach holiday.
But Con Dao isn’t just about the scenery. These islands once held French colonial prisons, now preserved as solemn heritage sites that tell powerful stories. Offshore, Hon Cau and Hon Bay Canh offer incredible snorkeling, while the surrounding marine park protects coral reefs and endangered sea turtles. If you’re seeking the best place in Vietnam for a beach holiday that combines nature and meaning, Con Dao stands out.
Best time to visit: March to September for calm seas, sunny skies, and turtle nesting season.
Nam Du Islands (Kien Giang)
Hidden in the Gulf of Thailand, the Nam Du Islands are a quiet answer to the busier Vietnam beach destinations like Phu Quoc or Nha Trang. This 21-island archipelago belongs to Kien Giang Province and offers a raw, local alternative for travelers chasing the best beaches in Vietnam without the crowds. The journey here takes time, a ferry from Rach Gia followed by winding motorbike roads, but the reward is pure island simplicity.
Hon Lon is the main hub, where family-run guesthouses and hammock-laced homestays hug the shoreline. Bai Men Beach is the crown jewel, with soft sand, coconut palms, and clear shallows ideal for swimming. You can island-hop to Hon Mau or Hon Ngang, where coral reefs bloom and seafood grills sizzle by the water. Nam Du has no large resorts, but its charm lies in slow mornings, local smiles, and the sense that you’ve found a part of Vietnam that still breathes to the rhythm of the sea.
Best time to visit: December to March, when ferry schedules are steady and skies are clear.
Ho Tram & Ho Coc (Vung Tau area)
Just a few hours from Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Tram and Ho Coc are two of the best beaches near Saigon for a quick and peaceful escape. Located in Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province, these southern Vietnam beaches offer soft sand, gentle waves, and easy road access, making them ideal for weekend trips or beach holidays without a flight.
Ho Tram is slightly more developed, home to south Vietnam beach resorts like Melia and The Grand, along with casual seafood shacks serving grilled squid and scallops. Early risers can watch local fishermen haul in nets, while sunset brings a peaceful vibe under swaying trees. Just north, Ho Coc Beach feels more untouched. Backed by protected forest, its shallow, clean waters offer a refreshing dip in nature. For travelers seeking Vietnam beaches close to Ho Chi Minh City, this coastal pair offers both comfort and calm.
Best time to visit: November to April for dry skies, warm seas, and fewer crowds.
Hidden beaches and islands in Vietnam
Beyond the well-known coastlines, Vietnam hides a world of quiet beaches and island getaways that remain untouched by mass tourism. These places are beloved by locals, and many travelers only discover them by chance or word of mouth. They offer fewer crowds, deeper cultural immersion, and scenery that often feels surreal. If you’re seeking raw beauty and genuine connection, this is where you’ll find it.
Some of these beaches have no resorts at all. Others are home to small family-run guesthouses and seafood stalls by the shore. What ties them together is the sense that time moves more slowly here. Whether you’re swinging in a hammock under coconut trees or snorkeling in coral shallows with no one else around, these hidden gems invite you to experience Vietnam’s coastline at its most personal.
Son Tra Peninsula (Da Nang)
For those seeking quiet Vietnam beaches near a major city, the Son Tra Peninsula in Da Nang offers a rare blend of seclusion and biodiversity. Just a short motorbike ride from the city center, this forested headland is known for its jungle trails, scenic viewpoints, and peaceful coves like Bai Da Den and Bai Nam. These small, rocky beaches are often empty and perfect for a private swim or a picnic with ocean views.
What sets Son Tra apart from other beaches in Central Vietnam is its wildlife. The peninsula is home to the red-shanked douc langur, one of the world’s rarest primates. Hike early to Ban Co Peak for a chance to spot them and enjoy sweeping views of the coast. With no crowds or resorts, Son Tra offers one of the most peaceful beach escapes in Vietnam, where nature and culture remain deeply intertwined.
Best time to visit: March to September for dry weather and clear sea conditions.
Vinh Hy Bay (Ninh Thuan)
Tucked between Nha Trang and Phan Rang, Vinh Hy Bay is one of Vietnam’s most underrated beach escapes. Surrounded by the Nui Chua Biosphere Reserve on three sides and the sea on the other, this coastal gem blends jungle-covered cliffs, calm turquoise waters, and coral-rich coves. Unlike many popular beaches, Vinh Hy remains rooted in its fishing village culture. Early mornings bring the scent of salt air and grilled seafood from wooden homes that line the shore.
Visitors can kayak across calm turquoise waters, snorkel vibrant coral reefs, or take a glass-bottom boat to admire marine life. Inland, trekking routes lead to Raglai villages like Cau Gay, offering insight into local cultures and landscapes. The bay is perfect for those seeking a quieter alternative to more touristy Vietnam beaches.
Best time to visit: February to October for dry weather, clear seas, and outdoor adventures. Avoid November to January due to rougher seas.
Hai Tac Islands (Kien Giang)
Known as the “Pirate Islands,” the Hai Tac archipelago is one of the most remote and intriguing Vietnam beach destinations. Located off Ha Tien in Kien Giang Province, this 18-island group feels like a quiet time capsule. There are no resorts or tourist bars, only turquoise waters, coral reefs, and small fishing families living simply by the sea.
Hon Doc is the main island, where travelers can stay in humble homestays and eat fresh seafood caught that morning. Snorkeling is possible right off the beach, and boat trips between islands offer a deeper glimpse into this lesser-known corner of Vietnam. Though locals like to tell stories of pirates and treasure, the real reward here is peace and authenticity.
For travelers seeking the best beaches in southern Vietnam without the crowds, Hai Tac is one of the most underrated hidden beaches in Vietnam.
Best time to visit: December to April, when ferry service is reliable and seas are calm.
Phu Quy Island (Binh Thuan)
Phu Quy Island is one of the most underrated Vietnam beaches, tucked off the coast of Binh Thuan Province. This volcanic island offers raw coastal beauty, a slow island rhythm, and strong local character. Unlike tourist-heavy destinations, Phu Quy stays quiet, with windswept cliffs, sacred temples, and peaceful shores waiting to be explored. The best way to get around is by motorbike after taking the ferry from Phan Thiet.
Bai Nho and Trieu Duong are among the best beaches in southern Vietnam for a swim or snorkel, with clear water and few crowds. A hike to Cao Cat Mountain reveals panoramic sea views, while a short boat ride to Hon Tranh rewards visitors with vibrant coral reefs. Stay at a local homestay, dine on grilled sea urchin and squid hotpot, and soak in the authenticity. Phu Quy is a top choice for travelers seeking the best beach holiday destinations in Vietnam.
Best time to visit: December to May for calm seas and sunny skies.
Cu Lao Cau Island (Binh Thuan)
Cu Lao Cau, also called Hon Cau, is one of the most untouched Vietnam beaches. Just 10 kilometers off the coast of Tuy Phong District in Binh Thuan Province, this island is a dream for nature lovers looking to disconnect. With no hotels or restaurants, only a ranger station and a few shaded coves, Cu Lao Cau feels wild and serene. You can reach it by boat from Lien Huong or Phan Ri Cua, perfect for a raw day trip away from crowds.
This remote spot is one of the best hidden beaches in Vietnam, where coral reefs thrive and wind-sculpted rocks invite quiet exploration. There’s nothing to do here but snorkel, sunbathe, and soak up the sound of the sea. Bring your own water and supplies, and take nothing but photos. Cu Lao Cau is ideal for those who want to experience the natural side of Vietnam beaches at their most untouched.
Best time to visit: March to August, when the water is calm and crystal clear. Avoid visiting during monsoon season.
Where Vietnam beaches end, the journey continues
Exploring Vietnam beaches means more than ticking off scenic stops on a map. It is watching the sun melt behind a fishing boat in Phu Quoc or hearing temple bells echo across the Son Tra Peninsula while you rest on a quiet shore. These beaches hold stories shaped by salt, wind, and the people who call them home. You may arrive looking for a place to swim but leave remembering the smoky scent of grilled squid, the laughter from a hammock café, or the silence of waves meeting rocks on Cu Lao Cau.
If you feel drawn to that kind of connection, there is more waiting beyond the coastline. Our team at Jackfruit Adventure continues the spirit of discovery through meaningful outdoor experiences across Vietnam. Take a look at our deeper guides to adventure-filled things to do in Vietnam, uncover local experiences from north to south, or explore great outdoor activities in Saigon.
If you’re staying in Ho Chi Minh City and looking for a way to experience local life from a fresh angle, join us on the Pedal & Paddle: Saigon’s Sunset Adventure. This half-day experience blends a bike ride through quiet alleys with a relaxing kayak journey through hidden canals. It is the kind of tour that lets you feel the city breathe — not from the sidelines, but right at water level and on two wheels.
