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 for a beach trip, but its coastline is quietly spectacular. Here, the sea meets jagged karst cliffs, forested hills, and fishing villages that still move with the rhythm of the tides. These beaches aren’t just for sunbathing. They offer a window into local life and landscapes shaped by centuries of culture.
Unlike the south’s tropical islands or central Vietnam’s long sandy stretches, beaches in the north are cooler in tone, both in temperature and mood. They’re perfect for kayaking, sunrise walks, and connecting with nature without the crowds. While resorts are limited, the focus here is on slow travel and meaningful moments. From the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay to the serene shores of Co To Island, northern Vietnam’s beaches reward travelers who take their time.
Ha Long Bay (Quang Ninh)
Ha Long Bay is one of the most iconic beach destinations in Vietnam. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the bay is famous for its towering limestone karsts, emerald waters, and quiet coves tucked between islands. While most visitors come for overnight cruises, Ha Long Bay also offers a few scenic beaches that add depth to the experience.
Ti Top Beach is a favorite stop. It has a clean crescent shoreline and a short hike to a viewpoint overlooking the bay. Soi Sim Island, quieter and shaded with trees, is great for swimming and snorkeling. For a more immersive trip, consider a small eco-cruise that visits floating villages and hidden lagoons. You can kayak through sea caves, meet local pearl divers, and dine on freshly caught seafood as the sun sets over the karsts.
Best time to visit: October to April for cool, dry weather. Avoid weekends and major holidays to skip the domestic travel rush.
Cat Ba Island (Lan Ha Bay)
Cat Ba Island offers a more rugged and relaxed alternative to Ha Long Bay. As the largest island in the Gulf of Tonkin and part of a UNESCO biosphere reserve, it blends limestone cliffs, jungle-covered hills, and peaceful beaches. The vibe here is more laid-back, perfect for travelers who want a mix of beach time and outdoor adventure.
Cat Co 1, 2, and 3 are the island’s main beaches, each with golden sand and gentle waves. Cat Co 1 is the most active, while Cat Co 2 and 3 are quieter and better for swimming or reading under shade trees. You can also kayak through Lan Ha Bay or explore Cat Ba National Park, home to the rare golden-headed langur. Seafood is a highlight, with grilled oysters, mantis shrimp, and local crab served at night markets and harborfront restaurants.
Best time to visit: April to June or September to November for mild weather and calm seas. Summer months can be hot but are also popular with local tourists.
Co To Island (Quang Ninh)
Co To Island is one of the most peaceful beach escapes in northern Vietnam. Located about 80 kilometers offshore from Van Don Port in Quang Ninh, the island is known for its clear waters, soft sand, and quiet atmosphere that feels far removed from the mainland. The journey by ferry may take a few hours, but the reward is well worth the effort.
Van Chay Beach is the most scenic, with wide open sands perfect for long walks and sunrise swims. For something more secluded, head to Hong Van Beach where calm waves and hammocks welcome a slower pace. You can also take a boat to Co To Con for snorkeling and untouched nature. Unlike busy beach towns, Co To retains its local rhythm, with homestays and seafood restaurants run by island families. Watching the sun dip behind fishing boats while grilling fresh squid is a memory that stays with you.
Best time to visit: April to May or September to October, when the seas are calm, skies are clear, and the island is less crowded.
Central Vietnam beaches and islands
Central Vietnam is where beach life blends beautifully with history, culture, and nature. This region offers a wide variety of coastal experiences, from the peaceful sands of An Bang to the volcanic cliffs of Ly Son. The beaches here are easier to reach than those in the far north or deep south, making them popular with both locals and international travelers. Many are close to ancient towns like Hoi An or vibrant hubs like Da Nang, giving you the chance to explore heritage sites between swims.
Unlike the tropical islands of the south, Central Vietnam beaches are often framed by forested mountains and fishing villages. You’ll find spots with boutique resorts and others with only a hammock and a bowl of fresh seafood. This mix of accessibility, scenery, and cultural depth makes Central Vietnam ideal for travelers looking to experience more than just sand and sea.
Let’s explore the best beach spots in this diverse region.
An Bang Beach & Cham Islands (Hoi An)
Just a few kilometers from Hoi An Ancient Town, An Bang Beach is a laid-back stretch of coastline with soft sand, gentle waves, and a calm, friendly vibe. It’s the kind of place where locals and travelers mix easily, sipping coconuts at thatched-roof bars or watching live acoustic sets as the sun goes down. An Bang has avoided the overdevelopment seen in nearby Cua Dai, keeping its charm intact. Boutique resorts and homestays are nestled among palms, offering cozy stays just steps from the sea.
Offshore, the Cham Islands bring a whole new level of adventure. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is known for its coral reefs, eco-conscious tourism, and local traditions. Snorkeling trips depart from Cua Dai port, and you can even stay overnight at Bai Huong, a fishing village where island life remains unchanged. Seasonal festivals honor the sea gods, connecting visitors with the cultural roots of this coastal community.
Best time to visit: March to August, when waters are clear and ferries run reliably.
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)
Often listed among the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam, My Khe in Da Nang offers the perfect blend of city convenience and natural charm. The beach stretches for over 10 kilometers, with soft white sand and warm, gentle waves. Early mornings bring locals out for tai chi and sea swims, while afternoons are great for paddleboarding or just relaxing under an umbrella with fresh seafood nearby.
Beyond the beach, Da Nang has plenty to explore. Visit the Marble Mountains, hike on the Son Tra Peninsula, or snap photos of Dragon Bridge lit up at night. My Khe is family friendly, but also ideal for solo travelers and couples. You’ll find a range of places to stay, from large beachfront resorts like Four Points by Sheraton to smaller boutique hotels that offer sea views without the price tag.
Best time to visit: March to September, when the weather is dry, the sea is calm, and the coast comes alive with activity.
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 between Da Nang and Hue, where white sand curves along a quiet bay backed by the green peaks of the Hai Van Pass. It is one of Central Vietnam’s most scenic beach stops, perfect for travelers driving along the coast between two historic cities. The view alone, where mountains meet the sea, makes it a memorable place to pause.
On one side is the open ocean, calm enough for swimming and sunbathing. On the other is a peaceful lagoon dotted with oyster farms and floating seafood restaurants. You can kayak through the lagoon in the morning, then enjoy grilled clams or steamed fish at a waterside eatery in the afternoon. Lang Co remains mostly local, with a few upscale stays such as Banyan Tree Lang Co for those seeking comfort.
Best time to visit: April to August, when skies are clear and both the bay and lagoon are ideal for outdoor activities.
Want to explore more nearby? Check out our local guide to the best things to do in Hue.
Bai Xep Beach (Phu Yen)
Bai Xep in Phu Yen is one of Central Vietnam’s most poetic beach escapes. Set between Quy Nhon and Tuy Hoa, this small cove combines golden grass hills, black volcanic rocks, and a calm blue sea. It was a filming location for Yellow Flowers on the Green Grass, and when you walk the narrow trail past cactus-covered slopes down to the water, it’s easy to see why.
There are no beach clubs or major resorts here. Just simple seafood shacks, a few hammock cafés, and locals casting fishing lines from the rocks. The beach feels quiet even in peak season, with kids playing football on the sand and fishermen mending nets nearby. If you’re looking for peaceful beauty and a true sense of place, Bai Xep is one of the most rewarding Vietnam beaches for a slow, local experience.
Best time to visit: February to August, when the skies are blue, the hills glow golden, and the water is clear and calm.
Southern Vietnam beaches and islands
Southern Vietnam is where the coastline turns tropical. The sand feels warmer, the water stays swimmable year-round, and the pace slows down. This region is home to Vietnam’s most famous island getaways, like Phu Quoc and Con Dao, but also lesser-known gems like Nam Du and Hon Son. With palm trees swaying along turquoise shores and coral reefs just offshore, this is the perfect region for both comfort seekers and off-the-grid explorers.
You’ll find a mix of experiences here. Some beaches are ideal for diving, others are best for hammock days and grilled seafood by the sea. Beach resorts are more common in the south, but local life still thrives in fishing villages and market towns. Whether you’re planning a winter escape or a summer adventure, the south offers some of the most versatile and scenic Vietnam beach destinations.
Nha Trang & Hon Tre
Nha Trang is one of Vietnam’s most iconic beach cities, known for its long golden shoreline, warm waves, and energetic vibe. The beach runs alongside Tran Phu Street, where palm trees line the coast and beach bars buzz with activity. It’s a great spot for sunbathing, jet skiing, or taking a sunset walk while locals play volleyball nearby.
Just offshore, Hon Tre Island offers a quieter escape. While parts of the island host theme parks, Bai Tru Beach remains calm and scenic. For snorkeling and marine life, head to Hon Mun Marine Reserve. The coral reefs here are among the best in Vietnam. Day tours are easy to book, and boat rides only take around 30 minutes. After a day in the water, you can relax with Nha Trang’s signature seafood hotpot or visit the local night market.
Best time to visit: January to August, when skies are clear and the sea is calm for water activities.
Mui Ne (Phan Thiet)
Mui Ne blends natural wonder with beachside energy, making it one of the most dynamic coastal destinations in Vietnam. The long stretch of sand attracts both laid-back travelers and thrill-seekers. With steady winds year-round, it’s a hub for windsurfing and kitesurfing. But beyond the surfboards, there’s plenty to explore.
Don’t miss the Red and White Sand Dunes just outside town. Sunrise jeep rides offer surreal views, and you can try sandboarding down the soft slopes. Nearby, the Fairy Stream (Suối Tiên) provides a quiet walk through shallow waters and sandstone cliffs. Mui Ne also has a rich fishing culture. Early morning visits to the harbor reveal colorful boats unloading the day’s catch, which you’ll likely see later grilled at beachfront eateries. Whether you stay in a simple homestay or a resort like Anantara, Mui Ne offers a vibrant slice of southern coastal life.
Best time to visit: November to April, when the dry season brings sunny skies and ideal wind conditions for water sports.
Phu Quoc Island
Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island, is a tropical favorite with something for every kind of traveler. On the west coast, Long Beach stretches for kilometers with calm water, palm trees, and fiery sunsets. This is where you’ll find many resorts, from simple bungalows to eco-luxury stays like Mango Bay and Fusion Resort.
For a quieter escape, head north to Rach Vem, where wooden piers extend over clear waters full of starfish. The east coast offers local flavor at Ham Ninh fishing village, known for its seafood shacks and peaceful views. Inland, the island hides pepper farms, waterfalls, and the dense Phu Quoc National Park. You can also visit a fish sauce factory or take a boat to nearby islets for snorkeling. Whether you stay in a beachfront villa or a family-run homestay, Phu Quoc balances comfort and authenticity.
Best time to visit: November to April, when the dry season ensures sunny days, calm seas, and clear skies across the island.
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 offer a powerful mix of history and natural beauty. Centered around Con Son Island, this 16-island archipelago was once home to colonial prisons, now preserved as haunting reminders of Vietnam’s past. Today, it draws visitors for quiet beaches, marine life, and meaningful cultural experiences.
Dam Trau is the island’s most beautiful beach, with soft golden sand and turquoise water framed by jungle hills. It’s perfect for swimming and relaxing, with just a few beachfront cafés nearby. Nature lovers can snorkel in coral-rich waters around Hon Cau or hike through Con Dao National Park. Between May and October, you may even spot sea turtles nesting. For accommodations, options range from guesthouses to the luxurious Six Senses Con Dao, offering barefoot luxury in a secluded bay.
Best time to visit: March to September, when the sea is calm and the weather is ideal for swimming, hiking, and turtle-watching.
Nam Du Islands (Kien Giang)
Tucked in the Gulf of Thailand, the Nam Du Islands are a cluster of 21 islets offering some of the most unspoiled beach scenery in southern Vietnam. Far less developed than Phu Quoc, Nam Du is ideal for travelers who enjoy simple pleasures: riding motorbikes along palm-lined roads, snorkeling off quiet beaches, and eating seafood grilled fresh by the sea.
Hon Lon is the main island, where you can stay in family-run guesthouses or hammock-strewn homestays. Bai Men Beach is a standout with its crystal-clear shallows and postcard-perfect palm trees. From here, you can take boat trips to smaller islands like Hon Mau or Hon Ngang, where local life moves slowly and the sea is your constant soundtrack.
Best time to visit: December to March, when seas are calm and skies are clear. Ferries run more reliably and snorkeling conditions are at their best.
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 coastal getaway. Ho Tram features long, golden sand, shallow waters, and a relaxed feel that attracts both locals and weekenders. Boutique resorts line the beach, and rustic seafood stalls serve grilled scallops and steamed crab right by the water.
Ho Coc, slightly further north, is even quieter. The beach is backed by forest and often feels secluded, especially in the early morning. You can combine your beach trip with a soak at Binh Chau Hot Springs or a short nature trek nearby. These beaches offer a comfortable break from city life without needing to hop on a flight.
Best time to visit: November to April, during the dry season when the weather is ideal for swimming, seafood feasts, and peaceful walks along the shore.
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 invi te you to experience Vietnam’s coastline at its most personal.
Son Tra Peninsula (Da Nang)
Just a short ride from Da Nang’s city center, the Son Tra Peninsula feels like a secret world of its own. Winding jungle roads lead to quiet coves, forested peaks, and coastal views that stretch for miles. Hidden beaches like Bai Da Den and Bai Nam are perfect for peaceful swims or sunset picnics, often with no one else around.
But Son Tra is more than a scenic escape. It’s home to the endangered red-shanked douc langur, one of the world’s rarest primates. Early morning visits offer your best chance to spot them along the forest trails near the summit of Ban Co Peak. The steep climbs are worth it for panoramic views of Da Nang Bay. Seafood shacks and small temples dot the route, adding local flavor to your adventure.
Best time to visit: March to September for dry skies, clear sea, and safe jungle hikes. Early mornings are best for both wildlife and cooler temperatures.
Binh Lap Peninsula (Cam Ranh)
Often called the “mini Maldives” of Vietnam, Binh Lap Peninsula remains surprisingly under the radar. Tucked along the coast of Cam Ranh Bay, it’s a peaceful stretch of clean beaches, glassy water, and gentle hills. Bai Binh Chau and Bai Lao are the main highlights, where soft white sand meets clear turquoise sea. Even during peak season, the beaches here feel quiet and personal.
There are no large resorts or beach clubs. Instead, visitors stay in family-run guesthouses or simple beachfront bungalows where fresh seafood is grilled just steps from the sea. Spend your day swimming, snorkeling, or napping in a hammock beneath the casuarina trees. The laid-back pace, combined with local hospitality, makes Binh Lap one of the most peaceful coastal spots in central Vietnam.
Best time to visit: March to August, when the weather is sunny and the sea is calm for swimming and boat rides. Avoid October to December, when rains are more frequent along the central coast.
Hai Tac Islands (Kien Giang)
The name Hai Tac means “Pirate Islands,” and while there’s no buried treasure, these islands offer one of Vietnam’s most off-the-beaten-path coastal escapes. Located off the coast of Ha Tien near the Cambodian border, the 18-island cluster is ideal for travelers looking for raw nature and quiet beaches far from the tourist trail.
Hon Doc is the main island, home to a small fishing village and a handful of local homestays. Visitors come for coral snorkeling, lazy beach walks, and grilled seafood cooked right by the water. Some locals even share playful treasure maps to explain the islands’ name and seafaring legends. There are no resorts or fancy restaurants here, just hammocks, starlit skies, and the sound of waves hitting the shore.
Best time to visit: December to April, when the sea is calm, skies are clear, and boats run more reliably from Ha Tien.
Phu Quy Island (Binh Thuan)
Phu Quy Island sits quietly off the coast of Phan Thiet, offering a remote beach experience that feels worlds away from the mainland. This volcanic island is lined with cliffs, temples, and quiet coves where locals fish and children play by the shore. It’s a favorite among Vietnamese travelers who value authenticity over luxury.
You can circle the island by motorbike, stopping at spots like Cao Cat Mountain for sweeping sea views or Hon Tranh for coral snorkeling. The seafood here is excellent, with fresh sea urchin and grilled squid served at family-run eateries. There are no high-end resorts, just simple guesthouses, homestays, and plenty of space to enjoy the island’s calm rhythm.
Best time to visit: December to May, when seas are calm and ferry services are most reliable. Weather is dry and ideal for beach activities and snorkeling.
Cu Lao Cau Island (Binh Thuan)
Cu Lao Cau, also known as Hon Cau, is one of Vietnam’s most untouched islands. Located about 10 kilometers off the coast of Tuy Phong District, this uninhabited island is surrounded by coral reefs and dramatic stone formations. It’s a rare escape where nature takes center stage and human presence is minimal.
To get here, you need to hire a boat from ports like Lien Huong or Phan Ri Cua. Once on the island, it’s all about simplicity: snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, climbing over wave-worn boulders, or just lying on the beach with no Wi-Fi or noise. There are no resorts, shops, or restaurants here, only a ranger station and the quiet rhythm of the sea. It’s a perfect day trip for nature lovers and those looking to truly unplug.
Best time to visit: March to August, when the sea is calm and conditions are ideal for boat trips, swimming, and snorkeling. Avoid the monsoon season from September to November.
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.
