Vietnam might not have the reputation of its Southeast Asian neighbours when it comes to pretty palms and stunning turquoise waters, but its 3,400km stretch of coastline is home to a number of beautiful beaches. Whether you’re looking for a picturesque place to spend a few hours lounging on the sand, or a high-octane seaside experience, you’ll find it in Vietnam.
So, which of the country’s golden sands should you be looking to visit when planning a Vietnam tour? We take a closer look at the top five beach destinations to enjoy Vietnam’s surf, sun, and sand.
Ban Chan in Ha Long Bay
Here we have a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reachable via a lengthy coach trip from Hanoi. There are a number of incredible beaches to consider here, so book in a boat tour and let them take you around some of the finest Ha Long Bay has to offer. Perhaps the very best is Ban Chan, whose white sands are rarely crowded – but you’ll need to stay the night in the area to get the best from it.
My Khe in Da Nang
Da Nang is the third largest city in the country, and it’s crammed with amazing beaches. If you’re willing to drive a little way from the centre of town, you’ll find some of the more secluded and impressive spots. My Khe is very accessible, and a haven for jet-skiers. Also in the area is Son Doong, which is the biggest single cave in the world. It forms part of the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Doc Let in Nha Trang
This is a beach that stretches for around eleven miles. The most popular stretch is at the northern end, where you’ll find most of the luxury five-star hotels and resorts. At the south is a cluster of fishing villages, which are great if you want to experience an authentic slice of rural Vietnamese culture.
Ly Son in Quang Ngai
This is an island that sits just off the central coast. It’s formed from a bunch of tightly-packed volcanic craters, and provides a home to dozens of little temples and shrines. There are offshore coral reefs to explore here, and you can take a trip to neighbouring islands with the help of a ferry service.
Ca Na in Ninh Thuan
This remote beach boasts incredibly clear water, through which you’ll be able to see marvellous coral formations. There are boats moored along the waterfront, via which you’ll be able to take a trip out to the coral. The nightlife here is fairly rowdy, and it’s a favourite with Vietnamese tourists. Don’t forget to pick up some of the delicious seafood while you’re in the area.
The bottom line
With over 2,000 miles of coastline, Vietnam is one of the best countries to travel for a relaxing beach holiday. It brims with secluded coves, white soft sands and crystal clear waters fit for swimming and snorkelling. Enjoy days spent basking on sun-baked strands and evenings taking in the stunning sunset.
