After visiting Ho Chi Minh City and sailing through the Mekong Delta, we headed north to spend a week exploring the central coast of Vietnam, a region that surprises with the beauty of its beaches, the warmth of its people, and a mix of tranquility and adventure.
First, we spent 2 days in a non-touristy place called Long Hai. Then, we moved on to more famous beaches like Mui Ne, where we spent 2 days between beaches and sand dunes. Finally, we arrived in Nha Trang, where we relaxed for 3 days, including a boat tour.
In this post, I’ll share our experiences in Long Hai, Mui Ne, and Nha Trang, three coastal destinations, each with a very different personality.
The Beaches of the Central Coast of Vietnam:
1. Visiting the beaches of Long Hai
Shortly after leaving the Mekong Delta, we took a bus heading north and made an short stop in Long Hai, a small coastal town little known to international tourists. It was a complete contrast to the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City.
What did we find in Long Hai?
- A quiet beach, with hardly any visitors, perfect for disconnecting.
- An authentic town, where the locals looked at us with curiosity and friendliness.
- An experience that, although brief and slightly disorienting, gave us a glimpse of a different side of Vietnam’s coastline.
Long Hai is ideal for those seeking rural tourism in Vietnam, without crowds. However, don’t expect many activities or tourist services. We’d only recommend it as a short stop to explore local life in Vietnam.
2. The spectacular dunes of Mui Ne
Mui Ne was a pleasant surprise. We arrived due to a transportation mishap but quickly decided to stay. This small coastal paradise is one of the most popular destinations for beach lovers, windsurfing, and dune excursions.
Things to Do in Mui Ne
- Red and White Sand Dunes: Surreal landscapes, perfect for sunrise photos.
- Fishing Village: Colorful and with a very authentic pace of life.
- Backpacker Vibe: Full of bars, restaurants, and budget accommodation.
- Peaceful Beaches and Water Sports: Great for relaxing or trying kitesurfing.
We stayed in a beachfront hotel with a pool for just €8 a night. In short, Mui Ne is perfect for those seeking a balance between rest and adventure. A must-stop along Vietnam’s Central Coast.
3. Tour around the beaches of Nha Trang
We took a 4-hour bus ride to reach Nha Trang. Nha Trang is the party capital of Vietnam’s coast and a key stop on any Vietnam itinerary of 15 days or more. We spent three and a half days here between beach time, nightlife, and boat excursions.
Highlights of Nha Trang
- Urban Beaches with Great Vibes: Perfect for daytime relaxation.
- Nightlife: Clubs, bars, and Halloween parties full of energy.
- Island Boat Tour: Cheap (€5) and fun, although a bit touristy.
Worth noting: the Vietnamese have a great sense of humor at parties. While Vietnam isn’t as party-focused as Thailand, when there’s a celebration, they go all out. Nha Trang is ideal for those looking to combine sun-and-sand tourism in Vietnam with fun and entertainment.
Next Destination: From Vietnam Central Coast to Hoi An
After a week exploring Vietnam’s central coast, enjoying its beaches, and especially being pleasantly surprised by Mui Ne and Nha Trang, we continued northward toward Hoi An.
Hoi An is known as one of the most beautiful cities in Asia, famous for its colonial architecture, lanterns, and magical atmosphere. If you’re planning a Vietnam itinerary, Hoi An should be at the top of your list.
Tips for Traveling Along the Coast of Vietnam
- Transport: Buses and trains connect the main coastal destinations. Sleeper buses are affordable and practical.
- Best Time to Visit: From December to April, when the weather is drier and sunnier.
- Budget: Vietnam is ideal for budget travelers. Beachfront hotels under €10, and hearty meals for €1–2.
- Safety: Traveling in Vietnam is quite safe, but always take basic precautions with your belongings.
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Is it worth exploring the Central Coast of Vietnam? If you have enough time, yes. This region offers a mix of quiet beaches, unique landscapes like Mui Ne’s dunes, and lively cities like Nha Trang. Perfect for those who want to explore Vietnam beyond the typical tourist trail.
By the way, if you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, you might also like:
- Our Vietnam Travel Tips List
- Top Places to See in Hanoi
- My Review of the Halong Bay Tour: Pros, Cons & Tips
I hope this post about the Central Coast of Vietnam was useful to you. If so, feel free to comment and/or share. Happy travels in Vietnam!
