Just 4 to 7 km east of Hoi An’s lantern-lit Ancient Quarter lies a sun-drenched stretch of East Sea coastline. Whether you want a breezy beach club with live music, a quiet palm-fringed shore for family swimming, or fresh seafood with views of the Cham Islands, here is how to choose between An Bang Beach, Cua Dai Beach, and Ha My Beach.
1. An Bang Beach (Bien An Bang) – Boho Vibes & Beachfront Dining
Located only 4.5 km from Hoi An Ancient Town (a 10-minute car ride or 20-minute cycle past Tra Que vegetable fields), An Bang Beach—named one of Asia’s top beaches by CNN—is the vibrant social hub of Hoi An’s coast.
- Atmosphere: Soft white sand, gentle waves in spring/summer, and a charming strip of thatched-roof beach bars, tapas lounges, and seafood restaurants (such as The DeckHouse, Soul Kitchen, and Shore Club).
- Best For: Couples, groups of friends, and families who want sun loungers, smoothies, water sports, and sunset dinners right on the sand.
2. Ha My Beach (Bien Ha My) – Serene, Uncrowded & Family-Friendly
Situated about 3 km north of An Bang along the coastal road toward Da Nang, Ha My Beach (recognized by The Telegraph among Asia’s most beautiful beaches) remains wonderfully peaceful and uncommercialized.
- Atmosphere: Wide, powdery sand shaded by casuarina pines, crystal-clear shallow water, and calm waves without noisy crowds.
- Best For: Families with young children, travelers seeking quiet morning swims, and luxury resort guests.
3. Cua Dai Beach (Bien Cua Dai) – Cham Islands Gateway & Palm Groves
Located 5 km southeast of the Old Town near the estuary where the Thu Bon River meets the sea, Cua Dai Beach has been extensively restored with wide sandy embankments, swaying coconut palms, and fresh seafood restaurants near the Cua Dai speedboat pier (gateway to the Cham Islands).
Best Beach Hours in Hoi An:
Swim in the early morning (06:00 – 08:30) when the water is glassy and clear, or arrive after 15:30 to relax on a sun lounger and watch the sky turn pastel pink over the Cham Islands.
