Outstanding
Phu Quoc is home to some of Vietnam's best beaches
If you're in Hanoi, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a quick, and totally worth-it day trip that takes roughly four hours each way by bus. Though known primarily for its world-famous limestone outcroppings, Ha Long Bay boasts a number of its own number of beaches, the most obvious being Bai Chay, the artificial setup that lures in most tourists. For the full experience, opt for a boat tour that'll take you to Ti Top Island, an island in the center of the bay with its own beach. And, if you've got the time to make an overnight affair of your visit, visit the less-trodden, white-sand-laden Ban Chan beach.
Though typically spoken of as one island, Con Dao is actually an archipelago of 16 islands on the southern coast of Vietnam. Once the site of brutal French prisons, Con Dao is now known for its coral reefs, diverse marine life, and soft sandy beaches. On the main island, Con Son, you'll find local home stays, budget hotels, and a few high-end resorts, most notably the Six Senses Con Dao, which offers access to the beautiful Dat Doc Beach. North of Con Son town (and bordered by no hotels) lays the tranquil Lo Voi Beach. And beyond the main island, nature lovers head to the beaches of the nearby Bay Canh island to witness the annual releasing of baby sea turtles.
Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand a stone's throw from Cambodia, Phu Quoc is Vietnam's largest and westernmost island. While over half of the teardrop-shaped island comprises Phu Quoc National Park, a dense tropical jungle draped around scenic mountains, its many beaches remain the main attraction. Most notable of these are Khem Beach (or "Cream Beach"), recognized as one of the world's best beaches, and Sao Beach, both sitting in on the southern end of the island and offering palm trees, white sand, and stunning views.
If you're looking for cheap accommodations and a social, tourist-heavy atmosphere, head to North Long Beach, which can be accessed from the majority of the island's hotels. In recent years, Phu Quoc has been increasingly threatened by over-tourism and development, so plan a visit soon to enjoy its natural beauty.
Views
Mix urban thrills with serious beach time at My Khe beach in Danang
With a remote location off the central coast of Vietnam, the lesser-known Ly Son Island is a cluster of volcanic craters that's not yet well-known among tourists. There aren't as many palm trees and beach resorts on the two main islands, known as Dao Lon and Dao Be; instead, find many fascinating geological formations as well as over 50 temples and shrines and world-famous garlic and seafood. Much of the Dao Lon is taken up by the garlic farms, which can be smelled from miles away, but the acclaimed To Vo arch (pictured above) opens up to clear blue waters and fossil reefs.
Dating back to the 15th century, Hoi An is a tourist-loved city in Central Vietnam, whose well-preserved architecture speaks to its history as a trading port influenced by the French, Chinese, and Japanese. Nearby, find ancient ruins of the Islamic Champa kingdom that once occupied the region.
After checking out the Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, carve out some time to hit the nearby Cua Dai Beach, where three major rivers converge before reaching the sea. The calm and crystal blue water have traditionally attracted those seeking an escape, but recent resort developments have attracted larger crowds and an array of dining and drinking options.
Hoi An's underrated gem, however, is the Cham Islands, a group of eight pristine islands lying along the coast. UNESCO has recognized the Cham Islands as one of the world's biosphere reserves for its stunning variety of plants and marine life, which includes over 200 varieties of fish. On the main island, Hon Lao, swim at Chong Beach head up to Bac Beach to enjoy natural caves.