In late June, the travel guide publisher Lonely Planet named Vietnam's 10 most beautiful beaches for the summer season. The picks were based on experiences from its editors and contributors.
Nha Trang Beach (Khanh Hoa Province)
Nha Trang Beach curves along the coast for about 6 km, making it one of Vietnam's most famous seaside getaways. Certain stretches are reserved for swimming, keeping visitors clear of boats and water sports activities.
Visitors to Nha Trang can also join island-hopping tours or go snorkeling among the coral reefs.
Photo by Bui Toan
Mui Ne Beach (Lam Dong Province)
Mui Ne is known for its coastline and resorts. Visitors can relax by the sea during the day and enjoy the area's nightlife after dark.
Mui Ne is also one of Asia's top kitesurfing spots. From late October to April, steady winds create ideal conditions for both beginners and professional athletes. During this period, the area's surf schools also attract large numbers of visitors from Vietnam and abroad.
Photo courtesy of Vietnam Tourism
Phu Quoc beaches (An Giang Province)
Phu Quoc has won major awards and stands as a leading seaside resort destination both domestically and internationally. Its white sand is set against a backdrop of tropical forest that covers much of the island.
Sao Beach is especially well known for its white sand and clear water. Travelers willing to venture farther can find spots that feel almost entirely their own.
Another experience not to be missed is the roughly 8-km Hon Thom cable car, which departs from An Thoi Station at the island's southern tip.
Photo courtesy of An Giang Portal
My Khe Beach (Da Nang)
My Khe is Da Nang's most famous beach. In the early morning and evening, it is filled with locals practicing exercise, while tourists tend to head to the shore during the day to sunbathe.
My Khe's waters are clear and its sand fine, though dangerous rip currents can appear in winter. For active travelers, My Khe is an ideal spot to try water sports such as stand up paddleboarding, surfing, and jet skiing.
Photo courtesy of Da Nang Tourism Promotion Center
Ho Coc Beach (HCMC)
Located about 2.5 hours from downtown Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Coc is a stop for a short getaway. The beach stretches nearly 10 km north of Ho Tram.
Unlike many beaches, Ho Coc has kept its natural beauty, with clear water suited to swimming, walking, or relaxing. The beach is drawing growing numbers of visitors from HCMC, especially on weekends and holidays. Travelers seeking a quieter experience should visit on weekdays.
Photo courtesy of VNA
An Bang Beach (Da Nang City)
An Bang is about 3 km north of Hoi An's ancient town. Its long stretch of white sand erodes less than nearby Cua Dai Beach, and offers views out to Cham Island.
An Bang offers a full range of tourist services. Cafes, bars, and seafood restaurants line the beach. Travelers seeking a more restful trip should stay at homestays in An Bang and visit Hoi An's ancient town during the day, avoiding its crowds.
Photo courtesy of Tripadvisor
Con Son Beach (Con Dao, HCMC)
Once known as a place where prisoners were held for decades, Con Dao today draws visitors with its scenery, beaches, and ecosystem. Vietnamese travelers tend to know Con Dao for its historical significance, while international visitors remain relatively few, making it a choice for those seeking tranquility.
Con Son is the largest island in a cluster of 15 islands and islets, ringed by white sand beaches, coral reefs, and bays. Much of the island remains covered in tropical forest.
Photo by Manh Cuong
Cat Ba Beach (Hai Phong City)
Cat Ba is a familiar stop on tours around Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay, an area recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site. The three Cat Co beaches on Cat Ba Island, about 10 minutes from the town center, are among its best-known attractions, with limestone cliffs framing the shore.
In summer, Cat Ba grows crowded, hotel prices rise, and the journey from Hanoi takes considerable time. For a more relaxed experience, October and November are the ideal months to visit.
Photo by Hai Le Cao
Doc Let Beach (Khanh Hoa Province)
Stretching about 18 km, Doc Let Beach stands out for its turquoise water. Its gentle and shallow waves make it well suited for families with children and travelers seeking a relaxing swim.
In recent years, new tourism projects have attracted more visitors, making the beach busier during the summer peak season. Beyond swimming, visitors to Doc Let should also try the seafood and experience the daily life of residents.
Photo by Linh Huynh
My Khe Beach (Quang Ngai Province)
Not to be confused with My Khe in Da Nang, this My Khe stretches along a narrow sandbar lined with casuarina trees. Behind it lies the Kinh Giang River, creating a landscape where the river meets the sea.
The seabed here slopes gently, with shallow water near the shore that makes it safe for children and inexperienced swimmers. The waves stay calm for most of the year. It's best to avoid visiting on weekends or holidays.
Photo courtesy of MIA
