Buzz
1. Cua Lo Beach
Located in Cua Lo Town, about 18 km northeast of Vinh City, Cua Lo is one of the finest beaches in Vietnam’s North Central region, offering beautiful scenery with crystal-clear waters. The Cua Lo coastline stretches for approximately 12 km, with 8.2 km of smooth, white sand and a gentle slope. The area is divided into three main beaches: Lan Chau, Xuan Huong, and Song Ngu. Some have compared Cua Lo to Nha Trang Beach, as it features a wide, scenic road called 'Binh Minh' running along the beach for miles, bustling with visitors from dawn until dusk. Lush pine groves and coconut trees provide shade and serve as a great walking spot.
Cua Lo is a promising eco-tourism destination, with the nearby Hon Ngu Island located just 4 km offshore. Not far from here are Cua Hoi and Bai Lu beaches, creating a beautiful landscape that combines rivers, beaches, forests, and hills. The tourist season at Cua Lo Beach generally starts around April 30th and May 1st, lasting until the end of September. The season kicks off with the 'Cua Lo Water Festival,' featuring various cultural activities and an impressive fireworks display.
The area is rich in marine life, with approximately 200 fish species and many local delicacies such as shrimp, squid, crab, sea snakes, and grouper. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood right on the beach or at local restaurants at surprisingly affordable prices. A special treat is the 'glowing squid,' a small type of squid unique to Cua Lo, known for its luminous spots. Adventurous visitors can join local fishermen on small boats to catch glowing squid just 50-100 meters from the shore. The squid, freshly caught, can be grilled or steamed on the boat, offering a uniquely sweet and delicious taste.
Address: Cua Lo Town, Nghe An Province.
2. Bai Mon Beach
Bai Mon Beach in Phu Yen, where the first rays of the morning sun break through, has long been a dream destination for those seeking tranquility. Nestled between two mountains, the beach forms a large, curved bay when viewed from afar. The waves crashing against the shore create swirling currents that may seem intimidating at first, but with caution, they are harmless.
The scenery at Bai Mon Beach is truly breathtaking, with a long, smooth, white sand beach curving along the coastline and crystal-clear waters reflecting the sky above. The area remains largely untouched, with few inhabitants and only fishing boats docked along the shore, preserving its natural beauty. Blessed with stunning landscapes, a pleasant climate, and fresh air, Bai Mon offers a perfect escape where you can relax in nature, swim in the cool, clear sea, and take unforgettable photos.
The beach is at its most magical during sunrise, around 5 a.m., when the first light of dawn illuminates the vast ocean, casting golden rays that reflect off the water and the endless sky. If you visit the beautiful Bai Mon Beach, don’t forget to check out the Dai Lanh Lighthouse at the easternmost point of Vietnam, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.
Address: Hoa Tam Commune, Dong Hoa District, Phu Yen Province.
3. Ly Son Island
Ly Son is the only island district of Quang Ngai, located to the northeast and about 15 nautical miles from the mainland. The island is the remnant of a volcanic eruption with five craters, formed around 25-30 million years ago. Ly Son consists of two main islands: Big Island (Ly Son, or Cu Lao Re) and Small Island (Cu Lao Bo Bai) to the north, as well as Mu Cu Island located to the east of the main island. Swimming here is more challenging than at other beach destinations due to numerous rocky areas and coral reefs under the water. However, there are four specific spots on the island where visitors can enjoy a good swim.
Hang Pagoda Beach is a popular location on Ly Son Island. The beach here is beautiful, though the presence of coral reefs at the bottom can make swimming difficult. Visitors in larger groups can rent a boat to venture out to deeper waters, where they can swim and snorkel among the vibrant coral reefs. The water at Hang Pagoda Beach is exceptionally clear, allowing for a perfect view of the underwater world filled with colorful fish and corals.
Another popular beach on Big Island Ly Son is located near Hang Cau. The clear, still waters in this area resemble a small lake, and swimmers can easily spot the marine life swimming below. A lesser-known spot is the beach near Chua Duc, where mainly locals visit. From the To Vo Gate, visitors can walk towards Chua Duc and, passing some local cafés, will reach the peaceful beach, perfect for a more secluded experience.
After Beach, Small Island Ly Son is one of the most striking beaches, ideal for both swimming and capturing the perfect photos. With its fine, white sand and crystal-clear water, it’s a paradise where you can see everything beneath the sea. Many visitors arrive at Small Island without intending to swim but are quickly drawn to the allure of After Beach and can't resist taking a dip.
Address: Ly Son Island District, Quang Ngai Province.
4. Cu Lao Cau
Cu Lao Cau is a recently discovered ‘paradise’ that is captivating tourists seeking adventure. The island is pristine, mysterious, and full of excitement, making it a must-visit for those who love exploring the beauty of the ocean and enjoy a thrill.
The small island Cu Lao Cau, also known as Cau Island, is located in Tuy Phong District, Binh Thuan Province, about 110 km northeast of Phan Thiet City. According to local fishermen, the island got its name because of the abundance of seaweed called “rau cau” found in the area. The island is approximately 10 km from the mainland, with a length of 1.5 km and a width of less than 800 meters at its widest point.
From the mainland, Cu Lao Cau resembles a giant ship anchored in the sea, with its bow facing east. The island remains untouched, with crystal-clear blue waters and surrounded by thousands of unique, colorful rocks that change their appearance depending on the light of the day. Freshwater on the island is sourced from the Gia Long well and rainwater, making the island suitable only for nature lovers, thrill-seekers, and those eager to explore.
Address: Tuy Phong District, Binh Thuan Province.
5. Robinson Island
Robinson Island, Nha Trang is a hidden gem that retains its pristine charm, free from commercial services, making it the perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers. You can dive into crystal-clear waters, walk along the endless stretch of soft white sand, or climb the rugged, jagged rocks that line the coast.
Here, you can engage in activities like snorkeling, fishing with local fishermen, and savoring the freshest seafood on the island. The island is particularly famous for its lobsters and seafood cakes, all offered at incredibly reasonable prices. Accommodations are simple, built by the locals, with eco-friendly bamboo huts facing the ocean. You can either stay in these huts or set up camp on the beach for a more rustic experience.
Robinson Island is a small, isolated island surrounded by vast oceans, making it an ideal place for a “disconnect-to-reconnect” journey. On this “deserted island,” you'll find only the sea, mountains, and rocks, with very few modern amenities, allowing you to truly disconnect from the hectic world. It’s a place to reconnect with nature and each other, where everything is authentic and serene. Hidden away in Cam Ranh Bay, this paradise is calling. Grab your friends and head out to explore Robinson Island now!
Address: Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province.
6. Chi Linh Beach
Visiting Chi Linh Tourist Village, one of the first things you'll notice is the serene Chi Linh beach. It’s a quiet, local beach, not yet overrun by tourists, yet just as beautiful as the famous beaches of Vung Tau. The beach here features traditional tile-roofed houses right by the shore, nestled between hills, with amenities like umbrellas, tables, chairs, and souvenir shops offering flotation devices and swimsuits. The beach has soft white sand, clear blue water, and a gentle breeze from the East Sea. Located far from the city, it remains unspoiled by pollution.
Here, you can immerse yourself in the refreshing waters, play in the waves, and enjoy the harmonious chorus of birds greeting the day. In the mornings and afternoons, you can relax in a hammock under the shade of trees for a peaceful nap. The area is safe at night, so you can take leisurely strolls on the beach under the stars, listening to the soothing sound of the waves and allowing your mind to unwind.
Besides its alluring coastline and cool sea breeze, another unforgettable experience here is walking barefoot in the soft sand, exploring seaside huts, and snapping beautiful photos against the backdrop of lush green hills.
Address: Vung Tau City, Ba Ria - Vung Tau Province.
Vung Tau tourism is all about the sea, and its natural beauty that remains both simple and spectacular, lovingly preserved by the locals to this day. Anyone who visits can't help but remember Vung Tau with its long stretches of white sandy beaches, towering rows of pine trees, and familiar rocky shores. But perhaps the place that captures the heart most is Ho Coc Beach.
Famous as a “paradise,” Ho Coc is a popular photo spot for both locals and tourists, and it’s impossible to visit the beach city without seeing it. Just 175 km from Ho Chi Minh City, around a 3-hour drive, Ho Coc is a perfect getaway, drawing visitors from near and far with its pristine beauty, offering a peaceful and almost ethereal atmosphere far from the bustling city life.
Located in Buu Riang Commune, Xuyen Moc District, Ba Ria - Vung Tau, the area is surrounded by mountains and forests, providing a cool, refreshing climate. As it’s still in the early stages of development for tourism, the scenery here retains its untouched charm, with clear blue waters, soft white sand, and lush trees—characteristics often seen in Vung Tau's beaches.
People come to Ho Coc not only to swim but also to listen—to hear the waves crashing on the shore, the rustling of the pine trees as the breeze passes, and the occasional birdsong in the distance. This natural harmony creates a peaceful, soothing melody that calms the soul.
Address: Buu Riang Commune, Xuyen Moc District, Ba Ria - Vung Tau.
8. Con Dao
When people mention Con Dao, they often think of a dark past tied to its infamous prisons, a historical site marked by the painful history of the nation. However, in recent years, as island and beach tourism has gained popularity, people have discovered a different side of Con Dao—one of crystal-clear blue waters, fine white sand, and a cool, breezy atmosphere, making it an increasingly attractive destination for both local and international travelers.
Con Dao, also known as Con Lon or Con Son, is a group of islands in Ba Ria - Vung Tau province. Just about an hour’s flight from Ho Chi Minh City, Con Dao spans roughly 76 square kilometers and includes 16 islands, with a population of only around 6,000 people. Con Dao has captivated many with its long, pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and untouched beauty. The most compelling aspect of this place is its marine biodiversity, with rare species like the endangered dugong occasionally spotted, as well as the chance to visit Vich Island to see sea turtles nesting or to observe wild monkeys roaming the cliffs and hunting for crabs along the roadsides.
Address: Con Dao District, Ba Ria - Vung Tau.
9. Nam Du
Nam Du is the farthest archipelago of Kien Giang, located over 80 km from Rach Gia and 250 km from Ho Chi Minh City by road. It consists of two main island communes, An Son and Nam Du. To reach this dreamy destination, one must first travel to Rach Gia and then take a two-hour boat ride across the sea.
The Nam Du Archipelago is a stunning group of 21 islands of various sizes situated in the Gulf of Thailand. The largest island is Cu Tron, with others such as Dau, Ong, Ngang, and Mau creating a picturesque and serene landscape. What draws visitors to this archipelago is its untouched beauty, with no significant tourist infrastructure in place. Nam Du can be visited year-round, but the best time to go is between December and March when the sea is calm, the weather is pleasant, and the experience is most enjoyable.
While some islands in the Nam Du Archipelago, like Cu Tron, Ngang, and Mau, are more populated, many others, such as Nom, Dau, and Dung, are either uninhabited or only have a few local families living on them. Most of the islanders rely on fishing and aquaculture as their main livelihoods.
Address: Nam Du Archipelago, Kien Giang Province.
10. Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay is a picturesque bay located along the western shore of the Gulf of Tonkin in northeastern Vietnam. It encompasses the waters and islands of Ha Long City, Cam Pha City, and parts of Van Don District in Quang Ninh Province. Ha Long Bay has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its stunning natural beauty, featuring thousands of islands shaped by nature's creative forces. The bay is a major draw for tourists both from within Vietnam and abroad.
This bay is a truly unique heritage, with geological and historical significance. It is the cradle of ancient Vietnamese civilization and serves as a masterpiece of natural artistry, filled with islands of every shape and size, along with fascinating caves that create a mysterious, dynamic world. Ha Long Bay is also a hotspot for biodiversity, home to numerous ecosystems and thousands of plant and animal species. It is deeply linked to the rich cultural and historical heritage of Vietnam.
Ha Long Bay is renowned for its captivating limestone islands and caves. The islands come in two types: limestone and shale, and are mainly found in the southeastern area of Bai Tu Long Bay and the southwestern part of Ha Long Bay. These islands are some of the oldest geological formations, dating back 250 to 280 million years, shaped by shifts in the earth's crust and processes of erosion, resulting in this extraordinary landscape.
Among the hundreds of islands, each one has its own distinct shape, such as the Human Head Island, Dragon Island, La Vong Island, Sail Island, Fighting Rooster Island, and Incense Burner Island. Hidden within these islands are beautiful caves, each with its own legendary tale, such as Thien Cung Cave, Dau Go Cave, Sung Sot Cave, Trinh Nu Cave, and Tam Cung Cave. These caves are like castles of nature, offering a mystical and enchanting experience. The famous Vietnamese poet Nguyen Trai once called Ha Long Bay 'a wonder of the earth, suspended in the sky.'
Location: Ha Long City, Cam Pha City, and Van Don District, Quang Ninh Province.
Do Son Beach has long been a favorite destination for both domestic and international tourists. It's particularly popular among families looking to spend quality time together during the summer. Visitors can enjoy swimming, participate in fun activities and festivals, and marvel at the beautiful scenery, all while savoring the delicious local seafood specialties of Hai Phong.
Do Son is often compared to a dragon stretching out into the East Sea, with its hills and beaches intertwining. The winding path of the dragon creates a stunning landscape, with a beach forming at each bend. Do Son Beach is divided into three main areas, connected by a smooth paved road that runs along the coastline, linking areas 1, 2, and 3. The water here may not be as clear as other beaches due to its location between two river mouths, but its slightly salty waters prevent sunburn even when swimming during the midday heat.
A visit to Do Son Beach is also an opportunity to sample a variety of fresh seafood, such as shrimp, crabs, fish, squid, oysters, jellyfish salad, and grilled mackerel. Another local delicacy to try is 'gia be' (sea bean sprouts), a popular snack with a delightful mix of sweet, spicy, and crunchy flavors.
Location: Do Son District, Hai Phong City.
12. Dong Chau Beach
Dong Chau Beach is located in Tien Hai District, about 35km from Thai Binh City, accessible via the provincial road leading to Kien Xuong and Tien Hai. Visitors to Dong Chau Beach are greeted with the refreshing air of the sea and the constant breeze that makes the beach an ideal spot for a relaxing getaway. The first thing you’ll notice is the opportunity to swim in the clear, cool waters, which, while not as famous for their beauty as other beaches, offer a unique charm that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.
Beyond the beach, Dong Chau offers a chance to experience the local culture, particularly by waking up early to witness the stunning sunrise. A particularly fascinating experience is joining the local fishermen in digging for clams at dawn. For those who enjoy local delicacies, the region is known for dishes like 'goi nhech' (a type of salad made with local fish), salted jellyfish, and 'nom sua' (jellyfish salad).
Location: Tien Hai District, Thai Binh Province.
