Closest Beaches to Ho Chi Minh City (Day Trips – Under 2.5 Hours)
1. Can Gio – Wild Nature & Mangrove Magic
- Location: Long Hoa Commune, Can Gio District, Ho Chi Minh City
- Distance: ~50 km | ~1.5 hours from District 1
Perhaps only Can Gio can offer a truly ‘wild’ and different kind of Ho Chi Minh beach experience, black sand stretching into a wide mangrove world. You will walk on idyllic beaches, visit the famous Monkey Island, and eat at Hang Duong Market, a seafood paradise where you can feast on grilled squid and crab hotpot, Mom-style. It’s one of the closest beaches near Ho Chi Minh that makes for a great short day near nature.
Tip: Don’t forget to visit the Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-listed sanctuary home to a wealth of wildlife.
Can Gio Beach (Source: vexere)
2. Vung Tau – The All-Rounder Classic
- Location: Vung Tau City, Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province
- Distance: ~96 km | ~2 hours from Ho Chi Minh City
Welcome to Vung Tau, the mythical southern Vietnamese beach escape. A popular escape for Saigonese for generations, it should come as no surprise that this bustling location would rank as one of the best beaches near Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you’re strolling the waterfront promenade, exploring the colonial era, or sipping cocktails at a beachside café, Vung Tau caters to the traveler in all of us.
- Front Beach (Bai Truoc): Tran Phu Street, Ward 1, Vung Tau.
- Back Beach (Bai Sau): Thuy Van Street, Ward 2, Vung Tau.
- Pineapple Beach (Bai Dua): Ha Long Street, Ward 2, Vung Tau.
Tip: Come during the week for a more peaceful experience and crystalline views down to the sea.
Vung Tau Beach (Source: mia)
3. Long Hai – A Peaceful Beach with Local Soul
- Location: Long Hai Town, Long Dien District, Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province
- Distance: ~100 km | ~2h15m from Ho Chi Minh City
Searching for a more peaceful alternative to Vung Tau? If that sounds a little stressful, head east to Long Hai Beach, where life slows and the sea glitters over golden sand. This low-key coastal town rewards those who prefer to let life’s little treasures come to them, luring visitors with local charm, spiritual sites (such as the Dinh Co Temple (Duong Dinh Co, thi tran Long Hai), and the friendly hubbub of early-morning seafood markets.
Local Insight: Book a beach-front homestay and drowse to the sound of the waves, and rise early to watch the sunrise over soft, golden dunes – it is mystical!
Long Hai Beach (Source: tinviettravel)
Secluded Getaways (2.5-4 Hours) – More Adventure, More Charm with beaches near Ho Chi Minh
4. Ho Tram – Chic Meets Chill
- Location: Phuoc Thuan Commune, Xuyen Moc District, Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province
- Distance: ~113 km | ~2.5 hours from Ho Chi Minh City
The name has been on everyone’s lips when it comes to those who love luxury and glampers alike, it’s Ho Tram Beach! It is a picturesque escape just outside Long Hai that has the right mix of relaxation and trend, and has caught the eyes of people for being one of the best beaches near Ho Chi Minh City.
The spectacular The Grand Ho Tram Strip sits on a beautiful beach and boasts casinos, spa retreats, and fantastic dining. But go outside, and nature welcomes you as well! Go on a trek through the nearby Binh Chau forest, take a dip in the mineral-rich hot springs, or walk along the uninterrupted terrain of pure white sand beaches.
- Best For: Couples, weekend getaways, wellness retreats.
- Travel Tip: Come before sunset – the sky here is not of this world!
Ho Tram Beach (Source: vinagrouptravel)
5. Ho Coc – Raw Beauty with Rugged Rocks
- Location: Phuoc Buu Townlet, Xuyen Moc District, Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province
- Distance: ~120 km | ~3 hours from Ho Chi Minh City
For anyone in pursuit of unadorned natural beauty, Ho Coc Beach is the belle. One of the more beautiful beaches in Vietnam, known for impressive rock formations, a serene atmosphere, and the lack of mass tourism – yes, you can find some beach space here!
With a pristine beach stretching 5 kilometers, Ho Coc beach is perfect for sunrise pictures, beach camping, or just forgetting all your worries with the help of the sea breeze. It’s less touristy than nearby Ho Tram, but equally breathtaking.
Note: The sea can be choppy here, so it’s better for adults and strong swimmers.
Ho Coc Beach (Source: huongphonghococbeachresort)
6. Suoi O – Where Two Waters Meet
- Location: Binh Chau Commune, Xuyen Moc District, Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province
- Distance: ~120 km | ~3 hours from Ho Chi Minh City
Welcome to one of the last untouched coastlines in Vietnam! Suoi O Beach (also called Suoi Nuoc Ngot) is the place where freshwater and saltwater come in contact, divided only by an incredible sandy path that feels like it’s from some sort of dream.
Great for a picnic or a quiet stroll, this undiscovered gem is perfect for travellers wanting to escape the world. Suoi O is particularly popular among photographers, couples, and the off-the-beaten-path seeking youngsters of Vietnam.
Experience Tip: Head there in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewest crowds.
Suoi O Beach (Source: mia)
Beaches near Ho Chi Minh For the Dedicated Beach Lover (4+ Hours or Flight Required)
7. Cam Binh – Young, Vibrant, Perfect for Camping
- Location: Tan Phuoc Ward, La Gi Town, Binh Thuan Province
- Distance: ~150 km | ~4 hours from Ho Chi Minh City
Located on the enchanting coastline between Phan Thiet and Vung Tau is Cam Binh Beach, one of the most bustling yet affordable beaches close to Ho Chi Minh. With its rollicking energy and wild, golden swath of sand, it has always been a favorite of student groups, backpackers, and pretty much anyone who fancies beach games, barbecue, and a bit of an ocean breeze.
At sunset, you’ll find locals playing volleyball here, families grilling fresh clams over coals in the sand, and pop-up tents glowing in the shade under the stars. Bring your gear or rent a tent on-site. Cam Binh is an open invitation to unwind, reconnect, and breathe in the sea air.
Pro Tip: Searching for fresh local seafood and hometown snacks? Hop on a whistle-stop tour to La Gi Town, where grilled squid, banh can, and seafood hotpot at night markets beat the unaffordable price.
Cam Binh Beach (Source: 52hz)
8. Con Dao – Island of History & Hidden Shores
- Location: Con Dao District, Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province
- Access: ~1-hour flight from Ho Chi Minh City or boat from Vung Tau / Soc Trang
A jewel among the beaches in Vietnam, the Con Dao Islands are teeming with an exciting mix of history, nature, and unspoiled beaches. A French colonial prison which, known for its brutal treatment of those it held, had earned Con Dao an infamous reputation, today it is a place of peace, blessed with a marine national park, holy memorials.
Tourists visit for a history fix at the old Phu Hai Prison and stay for the secluded bays, white sand beaches, and snorkeling in colorful coral reefs. And if you come between May and September, you may see green sea turtles coming ashore to nest along the beaches, a rare and heart-tugging sight.
Best For: History buffs, nature enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a genuine retreat from the mainland.
Travel Tip: Hit Dam Trau Beach and Dat Doc Beach, both are postcard-perfect and near Con Dao Airport.
Con Dao Islands (Source: vietnamcoracle)
Conclusion
Noisy Ho Chi Minh City buzzing below, but paradise is a few hours away. Whether it’s tranquil beaches, adventurous islands, or bustling beach towns, these beaches around Ho Chi Minh City offer an escape for every type of traveler. The coast is calling, from Ho Tram Beach to the raw, unspoiled secret of the Con Dao Islands.
Which will be your first beach to visit? And don’t forget to check out the highlights Ho Chi Minh City before heading to the sand. Your perfect trip starts in the city and ends on the water.
FAQ about beaches near Ho Chi Minh
1. What is the closest beach to Ho Chi Minh City?
The nearest beach to Ho Chi Minh City is Can Gio Beach is 50km away from the city. This black-sand beach in Can Gio District is a retreat to nature, mangrove forests, and local seafood, the ideal short day trip.
2. Are there any quiet beaches near Ho Chi Minh City?
Yes! For a serene getaway, drive down Long Hai Beach, Ho Coc Beach, and Suoi O Beach. The crowds here on these beaches near Ho Chi Minh are significantly smaller, the white, golden sand shorelines are more beautiful, making it perfect for relaxation or photo taking, or simply to be alone.
3. Does Ho Chi Minh City have a beach?
Although Ho Chi Minh City isn’t exactly located on the coast, there are several beaches close at hand. Destinations such as Can Gio, Vung Tau, and Ho Tram Beach are located within the extended Ho Chi Minh beach experience and can be reached in 1-3 hours.