Beach Guide: Vietnam

Over the past two decades, the beaches of Vietnam have grown in popularity to become some of the best-loved destinations in south-east Asia. With crystalline tropical water and gorgeous stretches of uninterrupted sand, Vietnam’s coastline has earned a well-deserved place in the hearts of beach-lovers everywhere. Vietnam has something for everyone, with luxury sea-side villas, ramshackle beach-huts, and everything in between.

The quintessential Vietnamese beach-experience is to be found at Nha Trang. A long sandy bay stretches for miles against a backdrop of dramatic mountains, with tiny islands dotted along the shore. It’s the perfect place to lie back in the sun and soak up the view. Nha Trang is a bustling, sleepless town, with a fun nightlife that can get a little seedy in some areas. Further down the shore, the big tourist resorts have taken over – this means the beach is very clean and there’s a little more space, but it can feel commercial and dull. Island-hopping and snorkeling are popular activities, but most people come to Nha Trang just to sunbathe and unwind.

Exploring Vietnam’s China Beach

No visit to Vietnam is complete without checking out China Beach. The northern section of this pristine length of sand is known locally as My Khe, while the southern half is called Cua Dai. The name “China Beach” is a leftover from the war days, when it was a popular R&R spot for American soldiers. There are countless resorts, hostels, guesthouses and bars scattered across this endless beach-front. You’ll also be close to the hectic sea-side city of Da Nang, which has a vibrant – if somewhat sleazy – nightlife. Diving is generally good around China Beach, and it’s also a great place to try out your surfing skills in the warm South China Sea.

If the crowded tourist spots are too much for you, escape to Phu Quoc Island in the Gulf of Thailand. The island has managed to avoid excessive development, but there are still some stylish five-star resorts dotted along its beaches. The majority of the island is a protected habitat, so there are plenty of gorgeous, untouched beaches to discover. Try your hand at diving, snorkeling or sea-kayaking, and make sure you taste the island’s excellent Vietnamese seafood. And for the ultimate beach getaway, rent a cabin on the remote Con Dao archipelago – a haven for divers, where you’re likely to see beautiful wild sea-turtles and mysterious dugongs.