Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, a city where thousands of years of culture and history are preserved, where ancient streets are persistently filled with energy. Yet, despite all its charm, Hanoi lacks a coastline. On hot summer days or long weekends, locals and international tourists seek out beaches near Hanoi to escape the bustling streets, breathe in the fresh ocean air, and immerse themselves in the refreshment of Mother Nature.
Fortunately, within just one to four hours of travel, you can put all of the burdens of city life aside for the vast expanse of the ocean. Whether you’re looking for a modern artificial beach in Hanoi, a high-spirited resort, or a private island paradise, there’s always a perfect destination for every traveler – make it a luxurious getaway or an adventurous retreat.
Here are some of the most beautiful and convenient beaches near Hanoi for a quick coastal escape:
Bai Chay – Quang Ninh
Co To Island – Quang Ninh
Cat Ba Island – Hai Phong
Do Son Beach – Hai Phong
Hai Tien Beach – Thanh Hoa
Sam Son Beach – Thanh Hoa
Tra Co Beach – Quang Ninh
Vinhomes Ocean Park Artificial Beach – Hanoi
Now, let’s dive deeper into each destination!
1. Bai Chay – A Lively Getaway by Ha Long Bay
Located near the UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay, Bai Chay Beach is one of the most popular beaches near Hanoi, offering a vibrant coastal escape packed with entertainment.
Location: Ha Long City, Quang Ninh, 150 km from Hanoi.
Highlights:
A 500-meter-long sandy beach with clear blue waters.
Adjoining the Sun World Halong Complex, a massive amusement park featuring thrilling rides, a water park, and the famous Queen Cable Car.
Activities:
Swimming and relaxing on the beach.
Exploring Ha Long Bay by luxury yacht.
Taking in panoramic views from the Queen Cable Car.
Best Time to Visit: April to October (warm and pleasant weather).
How to Get There:
By car or bus: 2.5 – 3 hours from Hanoi.
By train: 6 hours from Hanoi (scenic but slower option).
Nearby Amenities:
Diverse accommodations: Choose from luxury resorts like Vinpearl Ha Long or affordable hotels and homestays.
Seafood dining: Experience fresh, locally caught seafood at renowned restaurants like Hong Hanh Seafood.
2. Co To Island – A Hidden Gem in the Middle of the Ocean
For those who love tranquility, unspoiled beaches, and crystal-clear water, Co To Island is an ideal place to avoid the crowded life of big cities.
Location: Co To District, Quang Ninh, 200 km from Hanoi.
Highlights:
Home to breathtaking beaches like Hong Van and Van Chay, known for their powdery white sand and turquoise waters.
Cau My Rock Beach, where majestic rock formations meet crashing waves, making it perfect for artistic photography.
Activities:
Camping, snorkeling, and kayaking.
Visiting the Co To Lighthouse for breathtaking panoramic views.
Best Time to Visit: April to September (avoid typhoon season from October to March).
How to Get There:
Bus from Hanoi to Cai Rong Port (Van Don), then a 90-minute speedboat ride to the island.
Nearby Amenities:
Cozy stays: Stay at eco-lodges and boutique hotels such as Co To Eco Lodge for an authentic island experience.
Island exploration: Rent a motorbike to explore hidden beaches, scenic coastal roads, and fishing villages.
3. Cat Ba Island – The Emerald Gem of the Gulf of Tonkin
A paradise blending stunning beaches, tremendous limestone mountains, and lush national parks, Cat Ba Island is perfect for both relaxation and exploration.
Location: Cat Hai District, Hai Phong, 150 km from Hanoi.
Highlights:
Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, with a diverse ecosystem of marine and jungle wildlife.
Several beautiful beaches, including Cat Co 1, Cat Co 2, and Cat Co 3, each with its own unique charm.
Activities:
Swimming and sunbathing at Cat Co beaches.
Kayaking through Lan Ha Bay, often described as a less crowded alternative to Ha Long Bay.
Trekking in Cat Ba National Park to discover rare wildlife.
Best Time to Visit: April to October, avoiding typhoon season (November – February).
How to Get There:
Take a bus or private car to Hai Phong (2 hours), then a ferry or speedboat to the island.
Nearby Amenities:
Seaside accommodations: Options range from budget-friendly hostels to luxury beachfront resorts like Perle d’Orient Cat Ba.
Adventure services: Book kayaking, rock climbing, or boat tours to explore Lan Ha Bay and nearby islands.
4. Do Son Beach – A Classic Coastal Retreat with a Touch of History
Once a French colonial retreat, Do Son Beach is now a popular getaway known for its soothing beaches, lush green spaces, and cultural significance.
Location: Do Son District, Hai Phong, 120 km from Hanoi.
Highlights:
Divided into three main beach areas, each offering a distinct coastal experience.
Home to Bao Dai Villa, the former summer palace of Vietnam’s last emperor.
Famous for the Do Son Buffalo Fighting Festival, held in August (lunar calendar), attracting thousands of visitors.
Activities:
Swimming and sunbathing at beach areas I, II, and III.
Exploring K15 Wharf, a historically significant site from wartime Vietnam.
Enjoying a picnic amongst the Do Son pine forests, a peaceful retreat from the crowded city.
Trying your luck at Do Son Casino, one of the few legal casinos in Vietnam.
Best Time to Visit: April to September, though Do Son remains pleasant year-round thanks to its cozy climate.
How to Get There:
By car or bus: A 2-hour drive from Hanoi.
By train: Take the Hanoi-Hai Phong train, then a 30-minute taxi ride to Do Son.
Nearby Amenities:
Comfortable accommodations: Choose from coastline resorts and budget-friendly hotels overlooking the ocean.
Local cuisine: Enjoy fresh seafood specialties at famous beachfront restaurants.
5. Hai Tien Beach – A Hidden Gem of North Central Vietnam
For those who are seeking a quieter, less touristy beach, Hai Tien Beach is an ideal alternative to the more crowded coastal destinations near Hanoi.
Location: Hoang Hoa District, Thanh Hoa, 150 km from Hanoi.
Highlights:
A newly developed yet unspoiled beach, known for its long, clean coastline and calming atmosphere.
Less commercialized than Sam Son Beach, making it perfect for those who appreciate tranquility.
Activities:
Swimming and sunbathing on the endless golden sand beaches.
Visiting traditional fishing villages to experience authentic local life.
Enjoying regional delicacies such as eel salad, stone crab, and fresh seafood.
Best Time to Visit: April to September, when the sea is at its clearest.
How to Get There:
By car or bus: Around 3 hours from Hanoi.
By train: Take the Hanoi-Thanh Hoa train, then take a short taxi ride to the beach.
Nearby Amenities:
Relaxing stays: Stay at solitary beachfront resorts or mid-range hotels offering peaceful ocean views.
Authentic experiences: Visit traditional fishing villages and sample local delicacies like eel salad and stone crab.
6. Sam Son Beach – Northern Vietnam’s Most Popular Beach Destination
With golden sand, rolling waves, and a buoyant resort scene, Sam Son Beach is one of the most visited beaches near Hanoi, particularly during the summer months.
Location: Sam Son City, Thanh Hoa, 170 km from Hanoi.
Highlights:
A long-established beach destination, first developed as a resort town during the French colonial period.
A long and wide sandy beach, perfect for families and large groups.
Activities:
Swimming and enjoying water sports like jet skiing and paragliding.
Exploring Hon Trong Mai, a unique rock formation tied to local legends.
Visiting Doc Cuoc Temple and Co Tien Pagoda, spiritual sites with historical significance.
Best Time to Visit: May to August, with peak crowds during summer holidays.
How to Get There:
By car or bus: A 3.5-hour drive from Hanoi.
By train: Take the Hanoi-Thanh Hoa train, then take a short taxi ride to the beach.
Nearby Amenities:
Wide accommodation choices: From budget hotels to 5-star beachfront resorts, there’s an option for every traveler.
Seafood delights: Savor regional specialties like fish salad, shrimp rolls, and stuffed squid at well-known restaurants.
7. Vinhomes Ocean Park Artificial Beach – The Ocean in the Heart of Hanoi
Why do you have to travel far to enjoy a beach when there is a coastal-like paradise located right in the heart of Hanoi? Vinhomes Ocean Park Artificial Beach brings the ocean to the city, offering an idyllic seaside experience without leaving town.
Location: Vinhomes Ocean Park, Gia Lam District, Hanoi.
Highlights:
The largest artificial beach in Vietnam, covering 6.1 hectares, featuring crystal-clear water and fine white sand imported from Nha Trang.
A Maldives-inspired setting, complete with swaying palm trees, beach loungers, and picturesque wooden boardwalks, perfect for stunning Instagram snaps.
Activities:
Swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Taking a leisurely stroll along the wooden bridge while enjoying breathtaking sunset views.
Enjoying a beachfront BBQ, ideal for family bonding or friend outings.
Best Time to Visit: May to September (summer months), though the beach is open year-round.
How to Get There:
Only 30-40 minutes from Hanoi’s city center by car, motorbike, or taxi.
Free Vinhomes shuttle buses operate from various points in the city.
Nearby Amenities:
Luxury accommodations: Stay in high-end serviced apartments and beachfront villas within the Vinhomes Ocean Park complex.
Dining & Shopping: Enjoy a variety of restaurants, cafés, and shopping options at Vincom Mega Mall Ocean Park.
FROM OCEAN BREEZES TO ELEGANT STYLE – A PERFECT CONNECTION
After an exciting seaside getaway, why not let these beautiful moments fashionably accompany you? Whether you’re dressing up for a yacht party, a fine dining experience, or a formal event, a well-tailored suit is the key to effortless sophistication.
If you’re looking for the perfect fit, visit Tailor Bros, a delicate tailor shop right in Hanoi – where expert craftsmanship meets timeless style. With meticulousness in every needlework, Tailor Bros guarantees to give you a high-end look, helping you become more stylish and elegant in all circumstances. Just as the ocean offers freedom, Tailor Bros brings confidence and elegance.
