A country rich in history with over 3400 kilometres of coastline. Here everyone will find his or her perfect corner. Forget templated images: a beach holiday in Vietnam is a unique combination of the turquoise South China Sea, authentic culture, modern infrastructure and amazing nature, from tropical islands to lively city promenades. It has everything for an unforgettable holiday: warm seas all year round in the south, delicious cuisine, a variety of resorts and excellent value for money.
Where to go: an overview of key beach destinations in Vietnam
The coastline stretches 3,444 kilometres from Quang Ninh Province to the Mekong Delta. A beach holiday in Vietnam requires no filter: most coastal areas are as good as Mediterranean resorts, but win in the details.
Phu Quoc: an island without the noise
Located in the south-west of the country, Phu Quoc is often referred to as the ‘pearl island’. It is the perfect destination for those looking for a relaxing tropical-style beach holiday in Vietnam. With a coastline of about 150 km, the island offers both secluded lagoons (Bai Sao with white sand, Ganh Zau) and developed areas with hotels to suit every taste – from luxury villas to cosy bungalows in palm groves. The water here is consistently warm (+28-30°C), and the atmosphere favours complete relaxation away from the noise. In addition to relaxing on the beaches, Phu Quoc offers snorkelling and diving off the southern islands of An Toi, visits to pearl farms and black pepper plantations, and a colourful night market in Zuong Dong.
Da Nang and Hoi An: elegance and culture by the sea
Da Nang is the third largest city in Vietnam, offering a modern beach holiday with the magnificent beaches of Mai Khe and Non Nuoc (often included in lists of the best in Asia). Wide sandy strips, high-class hotels (including 5*), proximity to the airport and iconic sights (Marble Mountains, Hai Van Pass) make it a convenient choice. Nearby, the charming ancient city of Hoi An with its beaches (An Bang, Cua Dai) offers a more chamber-like atmosphere and cultural immersion. In the evenings, Hoi An is transformed by hundreds of silk lanterns, creating a unique romantic atmosphere. From Da Nang, it is also convenient to visit the Marble Mountains or the famous Golden Bridge in Ba Na Hills Park. This region is ideal for couples, comfort lovers and those who want to combine the beach with sightseeing.
Nha Trang: the capital of sand madness
This resort is the complete opposite of Fukuok. Nha Trang is a vibrant city with a 6-kilometre sandy beach that never sleeps. There’s a bustling nightlife, street food (especially fresh seafood) beckons with flavours, and dozens of hotels offer sea views. The beach is perfect for families with children, thanks to its gentle entrance and calm sea. If you are looking for active holidays, entertainment and developed infrastructure, this is the place to go.
Mui Ne (Phan Thiet): wind, waves and sand dunes
The resort area of Mui Ne, located near Phan Thiet City, is a mecca for kite and windsurfing enthusiasts due to its stable winds (especially from autumn to spring). The atmosphere here is more relaxed than Nha Trang, with plenty of gesthouses and rustic-style resorts. Besides water sports, Mui Ne attracts with its unique red and white sand dunes and colourful fishing harbours. A great choice for active young people and those looking for a budget holiday without the hassle.
How to choose the perfect resort for a beach holiday in Vietnam?
The choice depends on your priorities. The season is important: Southern resorts (Phu Quoc, Mui Ne, Nha Trang) are ideal for holidays in winter (from December to April), central resorts (Da Nang, Hoi An) – in spring and summer. Northern beaches are better to visit in summer.
Recreational style is also important:
- Families with children will find Nha Trang and Da Nang with their infrastructure, calm sea and family-friendly hotels, as well as the quiet beaches of Fukuoka;
- For romance and seclusion, look to Fukuoka, the remote beaches of Phan Thiet or islands like Condao;
- For outdoor activities and sports, choose Mui Ne (kite/windsurfing) or Nha Trang (diving, water activities);
- Nightlife and entertainment: Nha Trang is the clear leader;
- Culture + beach: Da Nang and Hoi An.
Practical Aspects:
- Flight: The main international airports are Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Nha Trang (Cam Ranh), Phu Quoc. Check for direct flights or convenient connections from your city.
- Movements: Domestic flights between resorts are quick and inexpensive. Bus and train services are also well developed.
- Accommodation: Vietnam offers a huge range of accommodation from budget guesthouses to luxury global chains and secluded villas. In recent years, boutique hotels and eco-formats have been actively developing.
- Cuisine: Vietnamese cuisine is a separate reason to go. Fresh seafood, pho bo, spring rolls, exotic fruits are all affordable, tasty and safe.
Beach holidays in Vietnam: conclusions
A beach holiday in Vietnam is a kaleidoscope of experiences. From the white-washed bounty beaches of Fukuoka and the golden sands of Da Nang to the red dunes of Mui Ne and the bustling coastline of Nha Trang, the country offers an amazing variety of landscapes and atmospheres. Add to this warm seas, delicious food, hospitality, developing infrastructure and affordable prices, and you have the perfect holiday destination to satisfy the needs of any traveller. All that remains is to choose your perfect Vietnamese beach!