With a 3,000-plus kilometer coastline, Vietnam is clearly a destination for beach-lovers. There are plenty of scenic shores in this country, so make sure you set aside enough time to visit at least a few of them. But how can you possibly decide when each destination boasts something lovelier than the next? It’s not easy, but if you follow our best beach guide then you shouldn’t find yourself disappointed. From the famous waters of Halong Bay to the windsurfing capital of the country – here are your can’t-miss beaches in Vietnam:

Ba Trai Dao Beach, Halong Bay

White wild beach on uninhabited tropical island in the Halong Bay – Ba Trai Dao Beach

No trip to Vietnam is complete without a tour of Halong Bay. Yes, you will encounter piles of other tourists who are also determined to experience Vietnam’s most iconic bay, BUT it’s totally and completely worth it. Especially if you make your way to the pristine shores of Ba Trai Dao. This island claims three whimsical beaches nestled amongst the famous limestone karsts which have made Halong Bay famous. The rounded rock formations surrounding the small stretches of sand are said to look like peaches from afar, earning it the nickname Three Peaches. The crescent-shaped shores are located 22 kilometers from the main Halong Bay departure pier of Bai Chay Wharf, but the romantic landscape, secluded waters, and breathtaking scenery make it worth the journey.

Good to know: the beaches are only accessible for lounging and swimming at low tide as the sand completely disappears during the high tide.

Non Nuoc Beach, Da Nang

Non Nuoc Beach in Da Nang city

Just 30-minutes north of Hoi An, Da Nang is a coastal resort city with plenty of beach options. However, it’s Non Nuoc Beach that steals the show with its soft white sand, clean water, gentle waves, and sprawling size. Catering more to the affluent traveler, the 5-kilometer long beach is lined with oceanfront seafood restaurants and luxury resorts –there are even a few nearby Michelin-star restaurants. Taking the wealthy vibe one step further are the nearby golf courses and spas. But don’t worry, even if you’re a budget backpacker you can still enjoy Non Nuoc. It’s an excellent place for surfing and stand-up paddle boarding. It’s okay if you’ve never tried it before – you can take lessons from the surf shops on the beach!

Cua Dai Beach, Hoi An

Cabana on Cua Dai Beach, Hoi An, Vietnam

Add gorgeous white-sand beaches to the list of reasons to visit Hoi An. From Hoi An’s Old City, to its famous tailors, to the idyllic shores, we can’t find anything unappealing about this city Tourists flock to Hoi An to experience the charms of the UNESCO-declared heritage city, but this fishing village has so much more to offer outside its largest tourist attraction. The serene vibes emanating off of Cua Dai Beach – just 5 kilometers from the Old City – are felt immediately upon arrival. Despite its popularity with both locals and tourists, this beach has managed to avoid over-development. The powder-soft white sand, gently-lapping waves, and swaying palm trees create the most tranquil of settings. This is one beach you could easily lounge on all day. And you should.

Mui Ne Beach, Mui Ne

A tourist performing yoga on the beach of Vietnam (Mui Ne Beach)

Mui Ne has become out of the most popular coastal resort towns in Vietnam thanks to its 15 kilometers of sandy shoreline. It’s also an interesting place because the coast is split between traditional fishing villages where the locals practice their trade and the upscale beachfront resorts further south. Visitors love Mui Ne for its diversity of things to do and see. It also happens to have one of the best beaches in Vietnam. Mui Ne Beach is a kitesurfing, windsurfing, and sailing haven and one of the best places in all of Southeast Asia to catch the wind. There are surfing schools right on the beach that will gladly rent equipment to experienced surfers or teach the basics to beginners – just make sure you have a few days to complete the course and choose a reputable school. Even if you’re not into these water sports, just posting up on the sand and watching the tricks and acrobats from the advanced surfers provides hours of entertainment.

Doc Let Beach, Nha Trang

Tropical white sand beach Doc Let, nha trang, Vietnam

While Nha Trang undoubtedly boasts some of the most popular beaches in Vietnam, it’s a known fact that they can also become quite crowded. Beat the heat and the hoards of people by sneaking an hour or so north up the coast to Doc Let Beach. The 18-kilometer stretch of silky white sand is second to none and the fact that the beach is largely bypassed by tourists makes it a real gem. A day at this beach – with clear turquoise waters in front and lush evergreens behind – and you’ll be convinced you’ve found your own personal piece of Vietnamese paradise. Don’t wait to visit – although the beach is less developed than those of Nha Trang and Da Nang, the secret’s out on this tranquil hideaway. Unfortunately, construction and overdevelopment looms.

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Did you know Vietnam was the land of clear waters and white sandy beaches? It may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Vietnam, but that’s only because the country has so much fascinating historic and cultural significance that the beaches are sometimes overlooked. Now you know Vietnam’s secret – it’s a total beach bum’s paradise and a clear highlight of any trip to Vietnam!