The coastline of Hoi An is not the one that bombards you with crystal-blue water that looks like postcards every minute, and that is precisely what makes it interesting. The beaches in Hoi An extend between Da Nang and the mouth of the Thu Bon River, in one continuous, developing stretch of sand, interrupted by segments like Cua Dai, An Bang, and a few smaller pockets in between.
Some areas are smooth and vibrant with cafes and sun loungers, and areas that are rough, silent, and still influenced by the local fishing lifestyle. The coast is not perfect either; there is erosion, unfinished projects, and the debris that reminds you that this is not a well-maintained resort area (at least not yet anyway). However, when you know where to turn, some places will provide you with precisely what you desire, be it solitude, good food, or a relaxed day at the beach.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to all of the beaches in Hoi An (there are only 7 in total) and teach you everything there is to know about them to help you make the most out of your upcoming trip in the region.
But first, let’s cover some basics…
Helpful Tips For Visiting Vietnam
For cheap flights to Vietnam, Qatar Airways has some of the most affordable flights in the region, and you can get an additional 10-15% off on all flights to Vietnam with this link.
For budget accommodation options in Vietnam, our Booking affiliate link will get you 15% off on all properties across the country.
To save on all bus, train, or ferry rides in Vietnam, you can use this 12goasia link and save up to 15% (for more info, check out our honest 12go Asia review here).
Travel insurance in Vietnam is not mandatory, but it sure can be handy. You might have your luggage lost, have one of your flights delayed, or come across other inconveniences in addition to other health problems. Fortunately, there are travel insurance providers like SafetyWing that offer protection in all of these cases (and more) for as low as $45 per month (the price is even lower for fewer days). It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Last but not least, don’t forget to sort out your visa before traveling to Vietnam. You can obtain one through Ivisa for only $75 USD. I’ve used their services in the past, and the process is very smooth, quick, and hassle-free, and I warmly recommend them.
Check out this guide if you’re looking to buy some souvenirs in Vietnam. If you’re visiting Vietnam in June, you’ll surely find this guide useful. And before you choose to visit Hoi An, you should know what the worst time to visit Vietnam is and what some of the best cities to visit in Vietnam are.
Now that we covered some basics, let’s get to the most beautiful beaches in Hoi An, starting with…
Cua Dai Beach
Cua Dai is the most southern part of the Hoi An coast, and it is much more relaxed compared to the other beaches. Although it was previously regarded as the best beach in the area, erosion and storm damage have redefined parts of the beach, offering a mix of rebuilt areas and less-developed and quieter areas. With that said, the beach still offers a peaceful, sandy getaway, serene landscapes, and less traffic than An Bang.
The atmosphere here is more of slow travel- taking long walks, observing fishermen in their basket boats, and a beach that is not trying to be so entertaining. It is also among the best locations to unwind a notch, particularly when you are in a resort with a separate area. Simple seafood restaurants, mini markets, and cafes are located nearby, a little bit inland.
Things to do: beach walks toward An Bang (about 3 km), seafood dining, cycling back to Old Town, and sunset photography.
Where to stay:
- Hoi An Beach Resort (private beach feel, river + sea views)
- Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa (quiet, classic resort vibe)
Hidden Beach Hoi An
Hidden Beach is located between Cua Dai and An Bang, and it really is hidden; this is where the pace slows down. It is no longer a totally secret, but compared to its neighbors, it remains a low-profile getaway. A small rocky swell encloses the beach, which you will observe by strolling along the shore, and this natural barrier serves to keep the crowds thinner.
The environment here is also perfect for tourists who desire a more relaxed environment without going fully off-grid. There’s a small cluster of beach bars and restaurants, and basic facilities. The water is usually still, and the location is the perfect place to unwind, read a good book, tan, or simply relax and listen to the waves. It is not ideal; some parts often have trash, but tranquility usually prevails over that not-so-pleasant sight.
Things to do: relax away from crowds, beach bar hopping, short coastal walks, and photography.
Where to stay:
- Hidden Beach Bungalows
- Sea’lavie Boutique Resort & Spa (nearby, stylish and quiet)
An Bang Beach (including Tan Thanh)
The center of the beach life of Hoi An is An Bang, where it all takes place. Imagine long expanses of soft sand, blue water, and a bustling strip of beach bars, cafes, and restaurants that are busy all day long, from morning coffee to sunset cocktails. The northern end, Tan Thanh, has a little less of the same experience, the same facilities, but with fewer people. This is the area where digital nomads and long-stayers usually find their home, as beachfront cafes have Wi-Fi, power points, and a less serious crowd.
Things to do: surfing, paddleboarding, café hopping, beach lounging, sunset drinks, and nearby cycling routes.
Where to stay:
- La Rocca An Bang Beach (right on the beach vibe)
- Aira Boutique (great value, close to the beach)
Coconut Beach
Coconut Beach is in the middle of Cua Dai and An Bang in the Cam An area, yet it is much more raw and local than both. The first thing to notice is the iconic round basket boats that are spread across the sand, some parked and others in motion, with fishermen either checking their nets or going out to the sea. It is not a beach that is designed, but rather a working coastline, which makes it very authentic.
There are only a few facilities here, just a small beach bar, a few loungers, and that is all. That’s part of the appeal. There will be no crowds or loud music, only the waves and some fishing. It is somewhat restricted in access and, therefore, is not as noisy as most.
Things to do: watch local fishing life, photography, quick stop on coastal walks, visit nearby Coconut Village (basket boat rides).
Where to stay:
- An Bang Beach Hideaway Homestay (close and budget-friendly)
- Hoi An Golden Bamboo An Bang Beach Villa (quiet villa feel)
Ha My Beach
Ha My is one of the beaches in Hoi An where you can go and have practically no one around. This is a beach in the north of An Bang leading to Da Nang, and it is wide, clean, and almost always empty. It does not attempt to impress with facilities; there are very few restaurants, no large beach clubs, and minimal development, but that is what makes it unique.
The experience here is straightforward: pack your own snacks, spread a towel, and have a continuous ocean view. It is perfect on long and silent mornings, personal picnics, or even small parties in case you are on a journey with friends. During a sunny day, the water is excellent to swim in, and because there is no noise, it is ideal to forget about your problems.
Things to do: picnics, sunrise walks, swimming, and relaxing with zero distractions.
Where to stay:
- Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai (luxury, right on the beach)
- Le Belhamy Beach Resort & Spa (more affordable beachfront option)
Binh Minh Beach
The Binh Minh Beach is the escape within the escape. It is situated approximately 30 minutes south of Hoi An and close to Tam Ky, and that is precisely why it is so successful. It is an extensive, underdeveloped strip of coast, where the locals have their way, and tourism seems almost non-existent. The beach itself is clean, spacious, and supported by small fishing communities as opposed to resorts.
You will find early-morning fishing, people assembling on the beach, and very few foreigners. It is not a convenient place; there are not many cafes or structured places, but in case you want something pure and natural, this is where you can find it.
Things to do: explore local villages, sunrise watching, photography, and a day trip to escape from Hoi An.
Where to stay:
- Muong Thanh Grand Quang Nam (best nearby option)
- Tam Thanh Beach Resort & Spa (quiet, coastal stay)
Cham Islands (Cu Lao Cham)
Last but not least, we conclude this guide to beaches in Hoi An with the Cham Islands. When the mainland beaches in Hoi An are a bit underwhelming at some point, the Cham Islands bring them to the same level. This small cluster of islands is approximately 15 minutes by speedboat and has much clearer and bluer water and a more tropical atmosphere in general.
It has several beaches, the main and more advanced being Bai Ong, Bai Xep, and Bai Chong (smaller and prettier). This is the place where you get real water activities as opposed to the mainland. The best part is snorkeling, where one can see the coral and marine life, diving, island hopping, and seafood lunches at the water. It is a day trip rather than a base, but it is by all means one of the best beach experiences in the area.
Things to do: snorkeling, diving, island hopping, seafood dining, and boat tours.
Where to stay:
- Cham Island Homestay (basic but authentic)
- Bai Huong Homestays (local island experience)
How did you like this guide to the beaches in Hoi An? Did you ever visit any of them? Feel free to share your experiences in the comments below.
Like it? Pin it.
