A Shore Thing: Vietnam’s Coastal Hideaways for every kind of Traveller, with Realistic Asia
A quiet revolution has happened along Vietnam’s coastline, born of the slow rhythm of warm waves on untouched sand and the rise of luxury hideaways that offer a beach stay experience far deeper than a sunlounger and a cocktail menu.
We asked the brilliant Realistic Asia DMC to take us on a tour of this stunningly wild coastline - picking their favourites from Vietnam’s 3,000 km+ of hidden coves, protected marine parks and whisper-quiet islands, and highlighting stays at some of Southeast Asia’s most stylish beachfront retreats on the way.
Realistic Asia don’t just know Vietnam; they live and breathe it. With a boutique, community-focused approach and a love for the country’s off-the-beaten-track charm, their team curates journeys with a sense of place and purpose.
So what follows are four coastal destinations of beautiful barefoot luxe, rich culture and adventures of all shapes and sizes - with something for every wanderer, whether they’re dreaming of deserted island escapes, high-end wellness, family-friendly sands or beach bookends to a deeper journey through Vietnam’s cities, mountains and rice paddies.
And best of all? Thanks to its north-to-south geography, Vietnam is a year-round beach destination - meaning there’s always somewhere in season.
So if your clients are looking for a truly unforgettable coastal stay? Keep reading…
Phu Yen & Binh Dinh: The Quiet Coast
For clients craving the ultimate in authenticity alongside their coastal retreat, the central regions of Phu Yen and Binh Dinh are the real deal. Remote but reachable, these neighbouring provinces deliver cinematic landscapes and near-empty beaches, while in their capitals (Quy Nhon and Tuy Hoa respectively) you won’t find mega-resorts or bar crawls – instead think lush landscapes, quaint villages and the warmest of welcomes, plus plenty of history and tradition, from impressive Cham ruins to Binh Dinh’s fascinating martial arts heritage.
But we’re here to talk beaches, and those on this quiet coast are gentle yet spectacular. Visitors here stroll along white-sand crescents, where turquoise waves meet the shore framed by boulders and forested hills. In Binh Dinh, beaches like Ky Co deliver sugar-fine sand and water so clear it feels dreamlike. Nearby Bai Xep remains blissfully undeveloped – all stillness and space – while Hon Kho brings a wilder edge, perfect for those chasing that castaway feeling.
Cross into Phu Yen and the rhythm slows even further. Tuy Hoa, the most famous of Phu Yen’s sands, offers an idyllic setting of white sands fringed by a vibrant casuarina forest, while Bai Mon and Bai Bang are remote, soulful and have that feeling of being all-but empty apart but for the wind, the waves - and the occasional grazing buffalo.
What to do
A taster of experiences for your guests? They could…
Snorkel Hon Kho’s reef, taking a short boat ride from Quy Nhon’s coast to Hon Kho Island, where a vibrant reef teems with marine life. The crystal-clear waters make this the ideal spot for snorkelling, with butterflyfish, anemones and coral gardens just below the surface.
Step into Vietnam’s spiritual past at the Thap Doi Cham Towers, remnants of the ancient Champa Kingdom, which are beautifully preserved in the heart of Quy Nhon.
Those intrigued by the grace and power of Binh Dinh’s unique fighting style can visit a local martial arts school and see it being taught to the next generation.
Join a sunrise fishing trip from a local village, heading out in a traditional basket boat with local fishermen and witnessing the morning catch unfold - a rare chance to connect with daily life and hear stories from those who live by the sea.
Indulge with a private picnic on a secluded stretch of sand shaded by palms - just your guests, a picnic hamper and the sound of the waves.
Snorkel and dive a number of key sites in the area.
Add on a few days in Hoi An and/or Hanoi for contrast – taking time to wander the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, cycle through rice fields or sip egg coffee in a Hanoi alleyway. This contrast of energy and serenity is a brilliant way to make the coast feel even more magical.
Where to stay
Zannier Hotels Bai San Ho (Phu Yen) – One of the best hotels in Vietnam, this is a luxurious and serene escape on a private bay, with thatched villas which rise from the jungle to overlook the ocean. Intimate and immersive - think holistic spa rituals, exceptional Vietnamese flavours and authentic design steeped in local craft.
Anantara Quy Nhon Villas (Binh Dinh) – Classic, stunning Anantara; private plunge pools, ocean views and tailored wellness. Ideal for couples and honeymooners who want seclusion with service, their bespoke Dining by Design experience lets guests dine on a private beach under the stars. The resort also offers excellent wellness programmes, including yoga, meditation and detox treatments.
Avani Quy Nhon (Binh Dinh) – A relaxed, cliffside resort with 1 km of private beach and excellent spa treatments. Great for low-key luxury and longer stays, here guests can kayak from the shore, sip cocktails at the cliff top bar or book a Vietnamese cooking class to explore local flavours with a chef.
Ninh Van Bay: Where the Jungle Meets the Sea
Cradled between sea and steep green hills just north of Nha Trang, Ninh Van Bay is the ultimate reset button.
Accessible only by boat, this is a place for solitude seekers, wellness travellers and romantics alike - arriving here feels like stepping into another rhythm, one slower, softer and more deeply rooted in nature. With its dramatic topography - granite boulders tumbling into aquamarine water, jungle-thick hills rising behind – it’s one of Vietnam’s most visually striking coastal enclaves. There’s no town here and no distractions; this is the slow, sensory Vietnam and your guests’ only agenda is to unplug. Time spent here is all floating breakfasts, herbal steams, blissful swims and long-languid days spent moving between room and restaurant, beach and ocean - kayaking through hidden coves, stretching into sunrise yoga and moving to the natural rhythm of the bay.
What to do
Outside of the hotels, guests could…
Hike to Bai Nho Beach or the water Reservoir, wandering through dense forest trails that lead to this secluded beach and lookout point. Langurs are often spotted in the morning, which just adds to the magic.
Spend a day island hopping with a private chef-prepared lunch, gliding between the bay’s outlying islands by speedboat and pausing to snorkel, explore or swim, before stopping for a gourmet lunch served barefoot on the sand.
Indulge in a moonlit massage or morning yoga overlooking the bay – wellness here is woven into the landscape, whether it's sunrise vinyasas facing the sea or evening massages under the stars accompanied with just the sound of the waves to lull guests into a blissful state.
Where to stay
Six Senses Ninh Van Bay is Vietnam’s original barefoot-luxury icon. Set dramatically between jungle-cloaked mountains and the aquamarine sea, its beautiful villas are built into the cliffs, on stilts above the water or tucked away in the greenery - each with private pools and panoramic views. Inside, the design is raw and refined; think natural timber, billowing linens and open-plan spaces that seamlessly merge indoors and out. The spa is a sanctuary of healing and wellness, with treatments covering everything from Vietnamese cupping to sound therapy, while the Earth Lab gives guests a glimpse into the resort’s impressive sustainability efforts. Days here are shaped by wellness, nature and curated experiences – from private snorkelling trips and hikes to hidden beaches to learning to cook local dishes with organic ingredients from the garden.
An Lam Retreats – Rustic-luxe and deeply private, An Lam is a true back-to-nature retreat that balances refined simplicity with raw beauty. Wooden villas nestled in the forest or fronting the water are peaceful hideouts with open-plan living, outdoor bathtubs and a strong eco-ethos. Guests can trek to panoramic viewpoints, enjoy spa treatments in the jungle or take a catamaran out for sunset. It’s adult-only, quiet and designed for deep, detoxing relaxation – the kind of place where you’ll happily leave the phone in the drawer.
L’Alya Ninh Van Bay – Tucked between the jungle and the sea, a stay at L’Alya is a refined escape with a soulful edge. The villas here are spacious and earthy, made from natural materials with thoughtful touches like plunge pools, outdoor showers and shady daybeds. And again, wellness is integral – daily tai chi, yoga sessions and delicious, nourishing Vietnamese dishes are all on the menu. Otherwise, it’s all about slowing down and staying present - from slow, kayak explorations of the mangrove-lined waters to sipping coffee on the veranda or wandering to the spa barefoot.
Island Seclusion with Soul in Con Dao
For those seeking a proper escape – something secluded, soulful and story-rich – Con Dao delivers in spades.
Floating off Vietnam’s southern coast, this remote archipelago of 16 islands feels worlds away from the mainland bustle - with its wild jungle meeting powdery sands and a pace of life that’s slow and tranquil. Nature lovers will feel instantly at home here - the waters are part of a marine protected area, home to rare dugongs, sea turtles and thriving coral reefs, and the island’s interior is no less compelling, with tropical forests, winding trails and wildlife that ranges from macaques to monitor lizards.
Despite its current status as a hideaway for in-the-know travellers, Con Dao carries a weighty history. Once a notorious prison island during French and American occupations, it’s now a place of reverence and renewal – with war memorials, spiritual sites and a strong sense of healing in the air. And there’s no doubt that today, for all its wild beauty and history, the island is deeply refined, with luxury resorts offering all the comforts (and then some) for a long, restorative stay.
What to do
There’s lots to do and see on Con Dao, but it would be remiss of us not to focus on the chance to see one of nature’s most moving moments - the release of baby sea turtles.
The Six Senses Con Dao runs a protected incubation centre on its beach in partnership with the local national park, giving endangered green turtles a safe start - and, between April and December, guests can watch the hatchlings emerge and begin their journey to the sea, under careful guidance all the while. This is a fabulous experience - rare, humbling and unforgettable. And watching from a respectful distance, it’s great for guests to know they’re supporting meaningful conservation - nature, up close and personal and with purpose.
Visitors to Con Dao could also…
Tour the island by scooter or vintage bike for a close-up look at its incredible natural beauty: think sandy bays, dramatic cliffs, swaying palms and friendly locals at roadside stalls.
Learn about Con Dao’s complex past, visiting the notorious French colonial prisons (including the infamous Tiger Cages) to understand the island’s role in Vietnam’s turbulent history.
Go island-hopping or diving in the marine park, exploring nearby islets like Hon Bay Canh or Hon Tai where coral reefs thrive. With visibility at its best between February and July (around 70 to 100 feet), guests can expect to spot clownfish, sea turtles and more.
Toast the sunset on a private boat cruise, sailing around the archipelago as the sun sinks below the horizon and Lovers Peak and Shark Cape provide the backdrop to an evening of drinks, canapés and calm.
Spot rare wildlife on a rainforest hike through the national park, where guests can encounter Con Dao's long-tailed macaques, monitor lizards and maybe even the elusive Con Dao black squirrel. The views at the top of House Peak? They’re worth every step.
Where to stay
A flagship for sustainable luxury, the Six Senses Con Dao is a remote island hideaway of barefoot elegance and exceptional experiences. The villas here are inspired by traditional fishing village homes - each one crafted from reclaimed materials, with their own private pools and prime positioning to take in the ocean views in perfect privacy. Here, guests can indulge in expert-led wellness programmes, sea-to-table dining and activities that range from coral reef snorkelling to ethical turtle hatchling releases (more on this below) in what is a stay soaked in conscious luxury and seamless service.
Poulo Condor Boutique Resort - Between lush mountains and the sea, the Poulo Condor blends French-Indochine influences with subtle modern comfort for a touch of quiet charm and colonial romance. Outside, the grounds unfold across tropical gardens and freshwater streams, while the suites and villas are spacious and understated, many offering sea views or direct beach access. With a relaxed spa, open-air restaurant and a warm, low-key atmosphere, this is a great pick for those seeking understated comfort, heritage and tranquility at a gentler price point.
Raw Nature and Rare Luxury in Ninh Thuan
For clients drawn to elemental landscapes and rich cultural texture, Ninh Thuan is one of Vietnam’s most quietly compelling regions. Tucked between the better-known beach hubs of Nha Trang and Mui Ne, it remains blissfully under the radar – a place of sun-bleached salt flats, craggy hills, ancient Cham ruins and extraordinary biodiversity. This south-central province is rooted in heritage and shaped by nature. Days here unfold at a slower pace – visiting farming villages, sipping local wine or watching the sky shift over Nui Chua National Park, a UNESCO-protected biosphere that feels a world away from anywhere.
And while the inland beauty is striking, the coastline is no less extraordinary. Sweeping, uncrowded bays like Vinh Hy curve around turquoise water, hugged by forested mountains and dramatic rock formations. A wild card in the best possible way, it’s one of the few places in Vietnam where you might spend hours on the sand without seeing another soul.
For perfect contrast? Pair it with time in Da Lat or Saigon, or keep it as a luxury full stop.
What to do
Trek to Goga Peak or Ba Tang Waterfall, following forested trails that rise into the Nui Chua mountain range and soaking up panoramic views over the bay on what is a deeply immersive experience in one of Vietnam’s most biodiverse landscapes.
Stargaze after dinner, sipping herbal tea under a dazzling blanket of constellations revealed by the minimal light pollution.
Take a hands-on Cham pottery workshop to discover Ninh Thuan’s cultural roots under the guidance of local artisans.
Tour the traditional salt fields, learning about the age-old methods still used today.
Cycle to Thai An village, pedalling coastal paths to reach a quiet farming community, where guests can taste homemade wine and learn about local agricultural life.
Venture into Nui Chua’s interior and hike to the hidden Hang Lake, then explore the dramatic rock formations of Rock Park before tucking into a perfectly packed lunch prepared by Amanoi’s chefs.
Where to stay
Here Amanoi, perched within the Nui Chua National Park (a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve), is the draw.
This breathtaking wellness retreat is another of the finest resorts in the country – overlooking the serenity of Vinh Hy Bay, this opulent resort is all clean lines and pavilions suspended over cliffs, with its own world-class lakeside spa (featuring hydrotherapy suites, heated stone treatment tables and steam rooms) and private pools that seem to tip into the sea. And of course the accommodations are equally exceptional - scattered across lush forests and around dramatic cliffs, their peerless privacy and awe-inspiring views make this the perfect place to reset, reconnect and rediscover stillness and peace in abundance.
Make it a Journey?
These coastal escapes can be standalone destinations, or they can be a perfect slow finish to a journey through Vietnam’s energetic heart - imagine experiencing Hanoi’s street food and Halong Bay’s limestone karsts, Sapa hikes and Mekong boat rides before moving on to indulge with sea air, soft sheets and the kind of blissful beach stillness that lingers long.
Whether your guests want to explore, reset or do a bit of both, Realistic Asia can create an idyllic itinerary to suit every kind of traveller.
Get in touch today for an introduction to the team, or to find out more.
