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When people think of Vietnam, bustling cities and delicious food often come to mind. But most miss the stunning azure waters at these pristine Vietnamese beaches.
While many travelers flock to over-populated islands like Koh Phi Phi, Vietnam offers some of the most amazing beaches in Southeast Asia. For a summer vacation, central-coast beaches (Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue, Quy Nhon) are recommended from March to August or May to August. Schedule your trip to Nha Trang between the months of February and May. To fully enjoy the clear water beaches of Phu Quoc, time your visit between November and April. For this reason, it's best to schedule your trip during the dry season between November and February. Schedule your trip to the Vietnam beaches here from March to September instead. The dry season usually runs from November to April, with December and January being the coldest months. Consider a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy for comparison if you are planning a longer Southeast Asia trip.
Relax and Unwind in Nha Trang
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©Photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh from Pixabay[/caption]
Known as the Riviera of the South China Sea, Nha Trang is a coastal city overflowing with high-rise hotels and beach resorts. Famous for its fine and golden sand, Nha Trang beach is recognized as one of the best beaches in Vietnam. Hence, if you're looking for the epitome of beachside urban living, this is the place to be.
Nha Trang Beach
The star attraction of Nha Trang is the eponymous beach that stretches along Tran Phu Street. One of the Vietnam beaches characterized by golden sand and sparkling blue water against the backdrop of a modern city, Nha Trang Beach is truly a sight to behold.
When in Nha Trang, you can bet you won't run out of things to do. Ride a jet ski and experience the thrill of a lifetime. Swim in the designated safe areas until your fingers start to wrinkle. Explore the rest of Nha Trang by going on a bicycle tour. Relax with a mud bath after a long day.
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©Photo by Trung Pham Quoc on Unsplash[/caption]
Go snorkeling or scuba diving to witness the elegance of the fish that swim below the water. Don't forget to bring the best underwater camera to capture the moment!
Take a stroll along the promenade where a sundry of restaurants await. Visit the ancient Po Nagar Cham Towers and learn about the city's history. Rub elbows with locals at the Nha Trang Market where you can shop for clothes, souvenirs, and even fresh produce. At night, watch this coastal city turn into a party lover's haven. The nightlife here is anything but boring.
Vietnam's weather in May is fairly warm with little to no rain. If you're planning to soak up the warm sun, here's your chance. Not to mention, during these months, the blue sky makes this beach appears to be even more inviting.
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©Photo by Nguyễn Hòa on Unsplash[/caption]
Island Hopping around Nha Trang
Island hopping is a popular activity in Nha Trang. Countless tour operators offer packages to suit your budget. Travelers particularly enjoy The Funky Monkey tour, a booze cruise costing VND 200,000 (around $9) that includes a floating bar and live entertainment.
Opt for other Vietnam islands like Mun Island, Mot Island, Tam Island, and Mieu Island, which are relatively close to Nha Trang. These tours typically include snorkeling gear rentals, hotel transfers, and lunch. Entrance fees apply: Tranh Mini-Beach (VND 30,000 or $1.30), Mun Island (VND 22,000 or $1), and Tri Nguyen Aquarium (VND 90,000 or $4).
Nha Trang Hotels
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©Photo by Official Six Senses Homepage[/caption]
There are countless hotels around this area from budget to luxury resorts. However, it's essential for travelers to consider the location since transporting from one place to another in Nha Trang is not as easy due to its geographical constraints. If you seek a beachside accommodation, we recommend Sheraton Nha Trang and MerPerle Hon Tam Resort.
While if you're ready to splurge on a luxury resort in Vietnam, Evason Ana Mandara Nha Trang and Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, also offers amazing beach access and beachfront front views for most of the rooms. Don't worry if you're on a tight budget, there are plenty of cheap hotels around too.
2.
Enjoy The Laid Back Vibe In Phu Quoc Island
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©Photo by Anton Shuvalov on Unsplash[/caption]
The island of Phu Quoc in southern Vietnam offers lush vegetation and pristine beaches. Note that this island is less ideal for a summer getaway; for a summer vacation, consider central-coast beaches such as Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue, or Quy Nhon, best visited from March–August or May–August. For a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy, see our related article.
Clear Water Beaches On Phu Quoc
There are numerous Vietnam beaches in Phu Quoc alone. Long Beach, one of the most visited beaches on the island, offers a blend of tropical living and contemporary amenities. A bevy of hotels and restaurants dot the often crowded place.
Head over to Sao Beach to witness an oasis. Hailed as one of the best beaches in Vietnam, the soft white sand and crystal turquoise water make for a picturesque view. Due to its popularity, expect to see a lot of people in the area.
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©Photo by Ryan Christodoulou on Unsplash[/caption]
If you're looking for a less crowded beach, then Ganh Dau Beach is the answer. Not secluded enough? Enjoy some alone time at Thom Beach and Bai Khem beach. A secluded escape that offers peace and serenity, though it requires a good deal of effort to get to. Apart from a few establishments, you won't find a lot of businesses here. Finally, if you prefer staying in luxury resorts in Vietnam, there are a bunch of them on Bai Dai Beach.
It's at this time the weather is pleasantly warm and best for water activities. For a summer beach vacation, consider the central-coast beaches of Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue, or Quy Nhon, best visited from March to August. For planning other travel, you might consult a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy.
Fun Activities In Phu Quoc
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©Photo by Quang Le from Pixabay[/caption]
Apart from visiting the Vietnam beaches on Phu Quoc, tourists have many options in terms of activities. Street markets are great shopping destinations. Grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants on the island. Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting temples and the Ham Ninh Fishing Village. Additionally, the Phu Quoc Prison offers a chance to learn about the island's tumultuous history.
After a day of swimming, watch the sunset and witness the island transform. Take part in the active local nightlife. Phu Quoc is filled with beachfront bars, lounges, and nightclubs. Then, get up early in the morning and gaze at the colorful sunrise.
Phu Quoc Hotels
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©Photo by Official JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay[/caption]
Due to a large number of tourists, Phu Quoc has become one of the premier island destinations for luxury resorts and hotels. Of course, that doesn't mean there aren't any places to stay for those looking for a good deal. You'd be happy to know there are many budget-friendly hotels on the island.
However, if money is no issue, the more expensive hotels and resorts in the area offer lavish accommodations and amenities. Out of all the luxury resorts Vietnam has to offer, The Shells Resort & Spa Phu Quoc is certainly worth mentioning, as well as Richis Beach Resort Phu Quoc. If you fancy something unusual, check out the university themed resort — JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort.
3.
Take A Step Back From The Bustling City To Con Dao Islands
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©Photo by VanLap Hoàng from Flickr[/caption]
When talking about Vietnam islands, it's hard to leave out Con Dao. A group of 16 islets, the Con Dao Islands are every solitary soul's dream vacation. Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, these islands boast breathtaking Vietnam beaches, stunning views, and abundant flora.
Island Destinations Of Con Dao
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©Photo by Sketyl none from Flickr[/caption]
The main island of the Con Dao archipelago is Con Son, the only one with inhabitants. It features Vietnam beaches such as Bai An Hai Beach, Mui Ca Map (Shark Cape), and Nhat Beach. Visit Con Son Town to view derelict prisons and the notorious tiger cages.
Go on a boat for island hopping among the 15 other islets. Sail to Hon Bay Canh Island to witness turtles laying eggs; visit this breeding ground between June and September to increase your chances. Other marine life includes barracudas, moray eels, stingrays, and dugongs.
It's hard to appreciate the Con Dao Islands during the rainy season.
Where To Stay In Con Dao
With Con Son being the only inhabited island, accommodations are limited to this islet. Luckily, you won't have trouble looking for a place to stay. There are a number of options fit for every budget. However, a crowd favorite is Six Senses Con Dao, a luxury resort with an assortment of grand villas.
Take An Excursion To Cham Islands
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©Photo by Minh Duc Ly from Flickr[/caption]
Just off the coast of Hoi An sits a chain of eight small islets called the Cham Islands. Here, you'll find golden sand Vietnam beaches with crystal azure waters. Many tourists flock to this idyllic place to do some island hopping, participate in water activities, or simply relax on a sandy shore.
Vietnam Beaches On Cham Islands
With so many incredible Vietnam beaches to choose from, the Cham Islands are truly a beachgoer's paradise. There are four popular beaches and a fishing village on Hon Lao Island alone. Bai Cong Beach provides a vast beachfront where visitors can work on their tan. Other beaches on the island are Bai Ong Beach, Bai Xep, and Bai Bac Beach.
Scuba diving and snorkeling are among the chief attractions of Cu Lao Cham Marine Park, thanks to a vibrant coral reef system. Looking for something else to do? Give kayaking or jet skiing a shot.
Due to the monsoon, traveling to the Cham Islands is impossible from October to February. If scuba diving and snorkeling are on your itinerary, June and August make for the best experience.
Cham Islands Hotels
There are several accommodations on the Cham Islands, such as the Island Smiles Homestay and the Sunbay Homestay. Alternatively, you can make reservations at hotels and resorts in Hoi An and plan a day trip to Cu Lao Cham Marine Park. The island destinations are accessible via a 30-minute boat ride from Chua Dai Beach. The trip costs roughly $10 per person.
Beach Getaway To Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh
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©Photo by Kiên Trịnh from Pixabay[/caption]
If you ever find yourself in Ho Chi Minh City, consider journeying to Vung Tau for a quick and easy beach getaway. Just a mere two hours away, take a break from the fast-paced city life and travel to this Vietnam coastal destination.
Vietnam Beaches in Vung Tau
Although the beaches in Vung Tau aren't exactly the most beautiful in the country, they remain a great place to unwind on the shoreline. The beaches here are calm and quiet. So if you're itching to spend some time alone, you'll definitely satisfy that need here.
Bai Sau, also known as Back Beach, lies on the east side of town. Meanwhile, Bai Dua (Roches Noire Beach), found about 2 km south of the town, is a great place to watch the striking sunset. You can also plan a picnic in Bai Truoc (Front Beach) or take a lovely beachside stroll on Bai Dau (Mulberry Beach).
Alternatively, many tourists prefer to head to Long Hai where a variety of resorts are located. Long Hai is a local seaside town known for its slower pace of life.
Rainfall can be heavy from May to October, so time your visit wisely. If you don't like scorching hot weather, stay away from Vung Tau between the end of April to May.
Other Attractions in Vung Tau
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©Photo by harryruhr from Pixabay[/caption]
Apart from the Vietnam beaches in Vung Tau, tourists can visit the Christ of Vung Tau. Found on Vung Tau's Small Mountain, this 105-foot-tall statue is reminiscent of Rio de Janeiro's Christ the Redeemer. Learn about local history with a trip to the French ruins, home to old military garrisons and a mansion intended for the French governor that dates back to the 20th century.
At night, this port city transforms into a beautifully lit scene. Unlike big cities like Ho Chi Minh or Hanoi, the bar scene isn't very active. However, take a walk and behold the city lights. Try local street food or go shopping at Vung Tau Night Market. Dine at a restaurant and sample their specialties.
No trip to Vung Tau is complete without trying local cuisine. The Vietnamese dish Banh Khot was first created in Vung Tau. Try it at its birthplace.
Vung Tau Hotels
Vung Tau offers an assortment of different hotels and resorts to choose from. If you're looking for beachfront accommodations with stylish decor, try Ho Tram Beach Boutique Resort & Spa or Anoasis Resort Long Hai. As another option, The Imperial Hotel also boasts elegant decor with a view of the beach. If you want something located at the heart of Vung Tau, the Malibu Hotel allows you to appreciate the cityscape.
What Are You Waiting For?
It doesn't take a genius to realize that Vietnam is truly a gem among stones. Travelers from all walks of life will find something special in this small but proud country. Take your pick from the diverse array of Vietnam beaches and islands available. If you do, your next summer vacation may be your best yet.
