Brian Jeffrey
Just a short drive of 4 to 5 hours from Hanoi, you’ll find several unspoiled beaches featuring calm, turquoise waters, soft golden sands, and peaceful surroundings—ideal for a quick summer escape away from the crowds.
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Dong Beach, situated on the Nghi Son Peninsula, is roughly 60 km south of Thanh Hoa City and over 200 km from Hanoi. In recent years, it’s gained popularity among travelers for its natural charm, tranquil atmosphere, crystal-clear water, easy accessibility, fresh seafood options, and budget-friendly offerings.
Encircled by mountains and rugged cliffs, Dong Beach boasts an extensive sandy coast. From rocky outcroppings along the shore, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of both sunrise and sunset, often likened to the stunning scenes found in Ly Son or Phu Quoc.
Guests can immerse themselves in the serene fishing village, check out a local church and lighthouse, try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), experience nighttime squid fishing, or partake in a two-day, one-night excursion to Me Island. Travel from Hanoi typically takes about 3.5 to 4 hours in a private vehicle or limousine bus.
Located roughly 230 km from Hanoi—about a 3.5-hour drive—Quynh Lap Beach can be found in Quynh Lap Commune, Hoang Mai Town, Nghe An Province. It’s famous for its untouched, natural beauty.
The beach stretches 12 kilometers with its gentle curve, featuring emerald waters and soft waves perfect for summertime enjoyment. The sandy shore is adorned with towering casuarina trees and rolling hills.
Many liken the landscape here to that of Nha Trang. Visitors often start their day early to witness breathtaking sunrises, explore the nearby Quynh Lap fishing port, hike along forest trails leading to hidden beaches, or paddle SUP. Because tourism remains relatively undeveloped in this area, it retains a peaceful and uncrowded vibe.
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Lu Beach is located in Nghi Loc District, Nghe An Province, approximately 260 km from Hanoi, which translates to about a 4.5 to 5-hour drive.
In contrast to the lively Cua Lo, Lu Beach showcases tranquil, natural aesthetics. It’s often referred to as “Da Lat by the sea” due to its vast pine forests reaching toward the shoreline.
The beach’s crescent-shaped coastline features aquamarine waters all year round and fine golden sands. The gentle waves make it an excellent place for a relaxing getaway.
Those with extra time can hike up Mount Lu to enjoy panoramic views of nearby islands such as Song Ngu and Mat, along with peaks like Rong, Lo, Co, and Kiem Mountains.
Ky Xuan Beach (Ha Tinh)
Ky Xuan Beach extends for about 13 km in a crescent shape across the villages of Thang Loi, Nguyen Hue, and Xuan Phu in Ky Xuan Commune, Ky Anh District, Ha Tinh Province. Situated roughly 5.5 hours from Hanoi, it’s celebrated for its unspoiled beauty, clear turquoise waters, pristine white sands, and intriguing natural rock formations.
Still largely unaffected by tourism, Ky Xuan retains its peaceful atmosphere even during busy holidays and peak summer seasons. Often referred to as the “sleeping paradise” or “emerald gem of Ha Tinh,” it offers a tranquility that can be hard to find elsewhere.
The beach is suitable for camping and various outdoor activities, with lush trees providing shade and a refreshing ambiance. Early risers can enjoy a leisurely walk along the shore, taking in sunrises and watching fishing boats return to the quaint coastal village.
Linh Trang
