Beyond Vietnam’s bustling beach hubs like Da Nang, Nha Trang, or Phu Quoc lies a more tranquil side of the country—one defined by untouched stretches of sand, crystal-clear waters, and local charm. For those craving serenity, authenticity, and natural beauty, these lesser-known coastal gems are calling.
Kỳ Co – The Untamed Beauty of Quy Nhơn
Tucked away on the Phương Mai Peninsula, just 25 kilometers from the center of Quy Nhơn, Kỳ Co is often dubbed the “Maldives of Vietnam”—and for good reason. The beach stuns with its powdery white sand, vivid turquoise waters, and surrounding limestone cliffs that create a cinematic backdrop. Accessed by canoe or a scenic motorbike ride over hills and through fishing villages, Kỳ Co remains delightfully off the tourist radar.
Visitors can snorkel around coral reefs, cliff-jumping, or savoring fresh grilled seafood from local vendors. The best time to visit is from March to September, when the sea is calm and the weather ideal for sunbathing and exploring.
Bãi Xếp – Cinematic Simplicity Meets Coastal Serenity
Located just 20 minutes south of Quy Nhơn city, Bãi Xếp might be small in size, but it offers immense charm. It gained national attention through the acclaimed Vietnamese film “I See Yellow Flowers on Green Grass”, which captured its poetic beauty. The beach is flanked by green hills, cactus-covered slopes, and rustic fishing boats bobbing on the horizon.
Unlike commercial beach spots, Bãi Xếp remains raw and authentic. You’ll find eco-lodges, bamboo bungalows, and locally-owned guest houses blending into the landscape. It’s an ideal destination for slow travelers, digital nomads, or couples seeking a peaceful getaway.
Bình Lập – Cam Ranh’s Secret Peninsula
Part of the lesser-known “Tứ Bình” (Four Bình) cluster, Bình Lập sits quietly on Cam Ranh Bay, sheltered from the bustle of nearby tourist areas. With its mirror-like waters, vibrant coral ecosystems, and unspoiled beaches like Bình Châu and Tình Yêu, Bình Lập offers a dreamy setting for nature lovers.
Accommodations here range from charming beachfront cottages to high-end eco-resorts like Villa Đảo Hoa Vàng. Activities include kayaking, snorkeling, exploring nearby floating villages, or simply lounging on the sand as the fishing boats drift by. The slow, easy rhythm of life in Bình Lập is perfect for those looking to unplug and unwind.
Hải Hòa – A Gentle Breeze in Thanh Hóa
Located in Tĩnh Gia District, Thanh Hóa Province, Hải Hòa Beach spans more than 4 kilometers of smooth, fine sand and gentle waves. What sets Hải Hòa apart is its peaceful ambiance and the genuine hospitality of the local fishing community. Lined with casuarina trees and small seafood restaurants run by local families, the beach offers a serene retreat far from the madding crowd.
Visitors can enjoy early morning walks along the shoreline, observe fishermen casting their nets, or take part in beachside barbecues with freshly caught squid and shrimp. It’s a fantastic stop for those exploring Northern and North Central Vietnam by road.
Hòn Sơn – An Island Lost in Time
Halfway between Rạch Giá and the popular Nam Du archipelago lies Hòn Sơn Island—a true hidden treasure of the Mekong Delta. Untouched by mass tourism, Hòn Sơn captivates visitors with its dramatic rock formations, coconut-lined beaches, and lush jungle trails. Beaches such as Bãi Bàng and Bãi Xếp (not to be confused with the one in Quy Nhơn) are almost deserted, offering postcard-perfect tranquility.
Hiking to Ma Thiên Lãnh Peak rewards travelers with panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand, while the surrounding coral reefs are ideal for snorkeling. With limited Wi-Fi and no major resorts, Hòn Sơn is the definition of an off-the-grid escape.
Why Hidden Beaches Matter
Traveling to these lesser-known beaches offers more than just isolation—they provide a chance to engage with local culture, preserve sustainable tourism practices, and explore Vietnam’s rich ecological diversity. From early morning fish markets to starlit seafood dinners on the sand, these coastal escapes offer an experience that’s as memorable as it is meaningful.
Plan Your Escape with Vietnamtourism-Hanoi
At Vietnamtourism-Hanoi, we specialize in crafting personalized journeys that go beyond the ordinary. Whether you're drawn to the wild shores of Kỳ Co, the peaceful sands of Hải Hòa, or the island life on Hòn Sơn, our curated itineraries ensure an unforgettable experience off the beaten path.
Let us help you discover Vietnam’s coastal treasures—before the world does.
