We Love Vietnam's Beaches!
Here in the UK we are enjoying a fine summer, but it's likely that the British sun will go back into hiding before too long. With that in mind I thought I would jot some notes on where you can find year round sunshine, and a seemingly endless ribbon of white sandy beaches. So if you are looking for your next beach fix let me recommend some options.
We know that Vietnam is rich in culture, has some of the finest food in the world, is full to the brim with national parks, minority communities and villages, mighty rivers, fruit orchards & rice fields and has a limitless supply of temples, markets and monasteries - but having a few days on the beach during your trip really is the cherry on top. So if your after culture & relaxation, here are some suggestions as to where you should go for white sand beaches, clear blue warm waters and a spot of sun worship.
Danang & Hoi An
Vietnam's central beaches are good to visit between late March and early September. 45km of white sand stretches between just north of Danang & just south of Hoi An offering a huge range of accommodation options, from the beach shack basic to the beyond beautiful and catering to every budget in between. Cua Dai is the closest beach to Hoi An and is the perfect base for exploring the ancient trading port of Hoi An with a beach stay.
Cham islands - Undeveloped & Unspoiled
Although there are no hotels on the islands the Cham islands offers excellent snorkeling between April - August and is a nice day trip from your base in Hoi An.
Nha Trang
Arguably Vietnam's most famous beach destination Nha Trang, is large city overlooking the bay. Good to visit pretty much year round, but with a chance of rain during October & November. Nha Trang offers city center beach hotels, secluded resorts accessible only by speedboat and a number of quality hotels dotting the shore up and down the beach. If you're looking for a more commercial center - Nha Trang won't disappoint.
Mue Ne & Phan Thiet
Mui Ne is a popular beachside destination for those wanting to escape Ho Chi Minh, with a three-hour train ride from the city making it an easy and accessible option. This small town is full to the brim with beach goers, resorts and cafes and it the epitome of a beachside town. Just further out of town you will find some emptier stretches of beach perfect for more secluded relaxing.
During the rainy season in the central regions (October - December), Mui Ne enjoys warmer and drier climates making it a good beach option for those traveling during these months. Due to the protective sand-dunes between Mui Ne and Phan Thiet, Mui Ne's rainy season is considerably lighter.
Southern Islands; Con Dao & Phu Quoc
Good to visit between October and May these islands offer some of the finest beach stays in Vietnam, and are just a short flight from the mainland. Fresh seafood & cocktails aplenty these islands offer my favorite choices of beaches in Vietnam - secluded, luxurious resorts and wonderful scenery - utter bliss.
Whatever time of year you are thinking of heading to Vietnam you will find a beautiful beach to relax on. Which beach you visit will depend on the time of year you travel - let us know if we can help you decide which is the best for you!
