Vietnam is the perfect country for explorers – whether you’re looking to treat your tastebuds with new and delicious food, glide through floating markets, or explore modern architecture in ancient cities, you’ll find something new to discover around every corner. Of course, that makes Vietnam a hugely popular destination for gap-year travellers, backpackers, and any other traveller looking to get the most out of their next trip!
One of the best parts about visiting Vietnam is, of course, the beaches. Due to its position on the South China Sea, Vietnam is home to long stretches of coast that make for amazing beach vacations. If you’re looking for some seaside relaxation on your next trip, you need to put these beach cities on your radar!
Our Favourite Vietnamese Beach Cities
1. Mui Ne
- Population: 25,000
- Known for: windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sailing
Mui Ne, located in Southeast Vietnam, enjoys steady winds in the dry season that make for some fantastic watersport opportunities! Once an isolated area where only a few travellers would set up camp, Mui Ne is now home to dozens of beach resorts. However, don’t expect to see an urban sprawl: most of the resorts are low-rise and tucked into seaside gardens. This beach town is a perfect destination for travellers on a mid-range budget: while you’ll find some luxury resorts and a handful of hostels and guesthouses, the average accommodation will be found in those seaside resorts. Check out the Fairy Spring – follow a stream that trickles from the sea up to this small body of water for an enchanting walk.
2. Nha Trang
- Population: 535,000
- Known for: diving, island-hopping, and nightlife
Nha Trang, one of the most popular beach destinations in Vietnam, is filled to the brim with vibrant nightlife, endless stretches of beach, friendly locals, and serene nature. Head out into the bay to explore the nearby tropical islands, where travellers can go diving to see some amazing aquatic life up-close and personal. Tired after a long day of beach exploration? Head to the city centre and relax with a drink (or two) in one of the many cosmopolitan bars or laid-back beach clubs. You’ll never run out of ways to spend a day in Nha Trang, whether you’re looking for world-class dining and shopping, incredible natural beauty, or, yes, that perfect beach vacation.
3. Da Nang
- Population: 1.215 million
- Known for: interesting history and an emerging tourism scene
Once used as a French colonial port, Da Nang enjoys fantastic beaches thanks to its position along Da Nang Bay. Travellers are treated to views of the Marble Mountains – 5 limestone mountains where you’ll find Buddhist shrines and other hidden treasures. Da Nang may not be for you if you’re looking for traditional sightseeing – you’ll only find one museum, though it’s fantastic – but for travellers who want to spend some quality time on the beach, it’s perfect. Da Nang is also home to a bustling street-food scene, along with some great nightlife.
4. Hoi An
- Population: 152,160
- Known for: Colonial architecture in an amazing Old Town and natural beauty
Hoi An is a city with a complicated history – and an incredible future. Another city that was once used as a major French port, travellers love Hoi An because it’s a destination where they can truly leave their troubles behind. Here, you’ll find open spaces, fresh air, and a lack of traffic that serves as a welcome break from city life. In the Old Town, discover ancient tea warehouses intermingled with modern lounges, bars, and hotels, and, if you still aren’t convinced, there are also countless opportunities for cycling, beachside strolls, boat trips, and even motorcycle tours! Regardless of what brings you here, Hoi An is a Vietnamese city every traveller should have on their list.
5. Vung Tau
- Population: 527,025
- Known for: beachside relaxation
Travellers interested in living like the locals, rejoice: Vung Tau is one of the only beach cities where you’ll find tourists and locals alike relaxing on the sand. Located on an ocean peninsula, there are three shores to this city, which means travellers don’t often struggle to find a place to set up camp for the day (pro tip: the beaches are much less crowded during the week, as on weekends you often have to contend with tourists as well as locals). While Vung Tau does have a reputation as a more expensive destination, most travellers agree that it’s worth the visit.
6. Phu Quoc
- Population: 103,000
- Known for: white sand beaches and an amazing national park
The island of Phu Quoc is exactly what traveller imagine when they dream of visiting Vietnam for a beach getaway! More than half of the island is part of Phu Quoc National Park, which means that, alongside the gorgeous white sand beaches and towering palm trees you’ll enjoy on your endless beachy afternoons, travellers will also have the opportunity to hike through tropical jungles and up mountains! If you’re looking for a beach vacation with a side of outdoor adventure, Phu Quoc needs to be at the very top of your list.
The best part of these beach cities is that they’re so much more than sandy shores – you’ll have the opportunity to embrace a new culture, eat new food, and learn about a complicated history that stretches back thousands of years!
Which of these beach cities are you dreaming of visiting?
