Top 6 Beautiful Vietnam Beaches Near Hanoi

Northern Vietnam has many beautiful beaches that are ideal for anyone interested in going for beach vacations instead of a busy city lifestyle. If you would like to go sightseeing in Hanoi and would also like to visit the best beaches in the area, it will be good news for you. From the golden triangle of Quang Ninh to the peaceful shores of Nam Dinh, here’s your guide to the most beautiful beaches near Hanoi.

I. Beaches in Quang Ninh

Ha Long Bay is located in Quang Ninh; the province boasts excellent beach facilities for tourists. The region has clean sandy beaches, clear running water, and well-developed facilities. If you prefer a quiet time or packed schedule of fun activities and turquoise sea, Quang Ninh will not let you down.

1. Ti Top Beach

Ti Top island is one of the most beautiful places where the sea touches the rocks and the cliffs among the islands of Ha Long Bay at Ti Top Island. Named after the Russian astronaut Gherman Titov who came there in 1962, the quiet sea with tender water is suitable for both swimming and sunbathing. You can also reach the top of Ti Top Mountain for the birds eye view of the bay many people embrace.

Pro Tip: For a far less crowded experience, they recommend visiting during an off-peak period since this spot becomes fairly crowded during high tourist season.

2. Quan Lan Beach

Another beach close to Hanoi is Quan Lan Beach on Quan Lan Island in Bai Tu Long Bay region. Palm-fringed shore with an abundance of fine yellow sand is perfect for travelers who want peace and safety. The gentle waters are perfect for swimming and kayaking.

Insider Tip: Quan Lan Island also has beautiful homestays and seafood eateries where you can taste seafood caught by fishermen.

3. Tra Co Beach – The Vietnam’s Longest Beach Near Hanoi

Stretching over 17 kilometers in Mong Cai, Tra Co Beach impresses with its powdery white sand and calm, shallow waters. So it is a perfect place to relax. In spite of the development, it has an authentic atmosphere and its atmosphere is less commercialized. The visitors can take in the fresh sea breeze; take fresh seafood and enjoy the beautiful sceneries of the neighboring fishing villages.

Must-Do Activity: Cycle leisurely along the fabulous coastline for a memorable experience or to visit the Tra Co Church on the coast.

4. Tuan Chau Island

Location: Quang Ninh Province, 160 kilometers from Hanoi

Looking for a luxurious experience? Come to Tuan Chau Beach located in Tuan Chau island! Tuan Chau Beach is a featured beach in the Tuan Chau entertainment complex, another beach near one of the 7 natural wonders, Ha Long Bay. The water here is claimed to be very clear and calm.

The most outstanding ones are dolphin and seal performances, laser light shows, martial art shows and film screenings. The shows are operated daily with a capacity of more than 3000, in a stage designed in sail-shape. 

II. Hai Phong: Popular Beaches Near Hanoi

Hai Phong, with many attractions as a developed city with numerous population increases and an important seaport, is only 100 km far from Hanoi and has several fine beaches in the area. For the tourists taking Hanoi as their base, it is one of the easiest places to venture for a weekend break by the sea.

1. Beaches in Cat Ba Island

Location: Quang Ninh Province, 160 kilometers from Hanoi

Known as the pearl of the Northern Gulf, Cat Ba Island attracts almost every tourist who comes to Hai Phong. The beaches of Cat Co One and Cat Co Three are great for daytime trolls, while Cat Co Two is packed with bungalows and chalets for an overnight stay. Tourist places are all around: hotels, restaurants and bars with the marvelous ocean views.

For a more exhilarating experience, you might opt for a boat ride to Lan Ha Bay or Trung Trang cave. The seafood found in these more deserted places are relatively cheaper than that on Cat Ba Island. 

2. Do Son Beach

Known as one of the prime places for beach lovers close to Hanoi, Do Son Beach is a tourists’ favorite. Being one of the most beautiful cities with a wonderful coastline and numerous entertainments, Do Son is visited both by the Vietnamese people and foreign travelers. 

Once a favorite among French colonials, today it features modern hotels, resorts, and seafood restaurants. The beach is divided into three zones:

• Family Zone: Perfect for quiet walks
• Fun and Sun Zone: Bustling with restaurants and bars
• Adventure Zone: Ideal for water activities

Cultural Note: The buffalo fights take place in September or October annually and it is a cultural must-see event.

3. Van Boi Beach

If you are searching for a quiet and peaceful beach then the Van Boi Beach will suit your demands. One of the best beaches is Cat Co beach situated in Cat Ba Island.

It is an excellent beach where tourists can engage themselves in swimming, kayaking and also can spend some time on the shore. This place has lovely views with green hills in the natural backdrop and clean water suitable for water sports.

Recommended: One of the most important suggestions to follow is to visit Van Boi Beach especially in the dry season since during this time no crowds are allowed.

III. Beaches in Thai Binh

Thai Binh is situated southeast of Hanoi and although it contains several beaches, they are not crowded and visited by a lot of tourists.

1. Dong Chau Beach

Dong Chau Beach is a pure beauty for tourists who are seeking for places that are not crowded. This secluded beach has golden sand, the sea breeze, excellent conditions for swimming, and a unique, quiet atmosphere for vacation in nature. Tourists have a chance to visit several fishing villages to get acquainted with life and people from close.

Tip: Dong Chau is less popular, which means that it still remains a budget-friendly for tourists from Hanoi.

2. Con Den Beach

Situated in the Thuy Xuan commune, Con Den Beach stands out with its expansive sandy shores and moderately rough seas. Even though it will scarcely be recognized by most of the tourists, it is one of the best places for tourists who would love to be in an environment peace and tranqil.

Pro Tip: Local resources are scarce and do not include food and water so always make sure to pack some for the day you choose to spend at the beach.

IV. Beaches in Nam Dinh

Located very near Hanoi, the Nam Dinh province has several quiet and picturesque beaches that provide a good seaside relaxation.

1. Quat Lam Beach

Among Nam Dinh’s attractions, Quat Lam Beach distinguishes itself with unique black sand, wide shorelines, and shallow waters. This beach is free from many people, making this ideal for relaxation. Quat Lam Beach is perfect for swimming, barbecuing, and tasting seafood which are sold nearby.

Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather conditions and fewer tourists.

2. Thinh Long Beach

Situated close to the Quat Lam Beach, Thinh Long Beach is another quiet place. This is a calm beach with clear water hence suitable for anyone looking for a relaxed away from the normal bustle of the city. Its nearby fishing villages also contribute to the beauty of this destination as visitors get a feel of countryside fishermans’ paradise.

Must-Try: Local dishes especially the fish and any type of seafood are recommended because the fish and seafood are freshly caught from the fishing boats.

Hitting the beach has always been one of the most exciting options for a vacation. We hope that you have found useful information to plan your next beach trip in Vietnam. Vietnamese beaches have so much to offer and you won’t regret visiting any of the aforementioned beaches.