4 of Vietnam’s best beaches

Phu Quoc island

Make Vietnam your next beach getaway destination at one of these top destinations.

As the tourist sector grows many are coming to Vietnam for the beaches as well as the culture, history and food. If you fancy hitting some of Vietnam’s best beaches, then why not consider one of these four spots. Each picked for their own individual qualities meaning that there is something suited to whatever the pace you wish to set.

1. Mui Ne.

Just over 200 kilometres east of Ho Chi Minh City is Mui Ne. A favoured beach getaway for city folk, Mui Ne has grown up significantly from its humble beginnings as a fishing village. Its roots still remain today but it has now become a mecca for kitesurfers who dot along the beach making the most of the ripe conditions. Everything is spread along the beach and development has remained low rise. Over the years Mui Ne has started to become more exclusive with a higher tier of restaurants and shops but there is still a relaxed atmosphere along this stretch of sandy shores.

2. Phu Quoc.

Geographically Phu Quoc island sits off the coast of Cambodia in the Gulf of Thailand but is still a part of Vietnam. Phu Quoc has firmly been on the agendas of beach worshippers for sometime but the tides are turning from the once backpacker tourist trail stop to the place to holiday. Its popularity has brought with it resorts that now line the golden sandy shores of Long Beach, but that is not to say the island is overdeveloped as 90 percent of the island is a national park. There is still a lot to explore on Phu Quoc from the thick jungle to the underwater reefs. With its relaxing persona and some of the best beaches in Vietnam, it is no wonder that this is one of the country’s leading beach getaways.

3. Hoi An.

Think of Hoi An and you’ll probably think of the quaintness of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and not its beaches. But visit Hoi An and you can make the best of embracing the local culture and relaxing on one of its nearby beaches without having to travel far. As most that visit Hoi An come to explore this ancient town, they bypass the beaches meaning it is likely that you will have your pick of the beach. An Bang Beach is four kilometres from Hoi An and has the right balance for an ideal beach spot with stunning scenery, local bars and sun loungers to kick back on. If you have time be sure to head to Cham Island. A group of eight islands that is just two hours’ away from Hoi An by public boat. A scenic spot with white sand beaches with turquoise waters, snorkelling and diving.

4. Ca Ba Island.

Head northwards and there is no doubt that Halong Bay will be somewhere you are considering to visit. Many visit Ca Ba Island as part of a bigger tour of Halong Bay but it is well worth making a stop in itself. Ideal for those seeking a bit a beach time alongside some exploration, that national park that makes up Ca Ba is a great place to trek, kayak and rock climb. For those wanting to learn more about history then visit Hospital Cave on the mainland which played a role in the Vietnam war. Cat Ba Island mixes beach life with culture, with even some luxury thrown thanks to the choice in beach side accommodation.