The great beaches near Hanoi are perfect for a break from the city. They’re peaceful and beautiful, with nice resorts, seafood places, and fun things to do. Plus, you can easily walk to nearby villages and historical spots.
Check out our list of 7 beaches near Hanoi below, mostly accessible within a 2- to 4-hour drive from the city centre.
1. Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island is part of the UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay, and lots of tour companies offer boat trips there.
Though it has typical tourist spots like hotels and restaurants, you can also discover some sandy beaches on the east coast of Cat Ba Town. Cat Co One and Cat Co Three beaches are connected by a cliff pathway, great for daytime walks. Meanwhile, Cat Co Two Beach has cozy bungalows and chalets, ideal for romantic retreats.
The whole journey to get there from Hanoi takes about 4 hours and 20 minutes.
Location: Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam
2. Do Son Beach
Do Son Beach is famous among both locals and foreign tourists because it’s one of the nearest beaches to Hanoi. It’s situated in Hai Phong Province and includes both a district and a beach. With sandy shores, beautiful scenery, and refreshing breezes, Do Son Beach was once a resort destination for the French during colonial times. Additionally, the town is renowned for its annual ritual buffalo fights held in late September or October.
It takes about 1 hour and 55 minutes to get to the beach from Hanoi by automobile.
Location: Hai Phong Province, Vietnam
3. Bai Chay Beach
Halong Bay is a top tourist spot in Vietnam, offering lots of beachside fun, sightseeing, and activities. The closest beach is Bai Chay Beach, where you’ll find everything from resorts to seafood restaurants. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for casual dining or upscale experiences. Visitors often pair a trip to Bai Chay Beach with exploring Ha Long Bay, including attractions like Hoang Gia Park, Royal Water Park, Vietnam Cultural Theater, and the Ha Long night market.
It’s about 3 hours from Hanoi by car.
Location: Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam
4. Tuan Chau Beach
Tuan Chau Beach, situated on Tuan Chau Island, offers modern villas, trendy upscale restaurants, and recreational amenities for travelers seeking a luxurious getaway near Hanoi. This developed resort area features one of Southeast Asia’s largest entertainment complexes, offering laser light shows and movie screenings for visitors to enjoy.
In addition to its beachfront attractions, Tuan Chau Beach boasts a sprawling botanical garden. Tour companies also provide day trips to the renowned Ha Long Bay, allowing visitors to explore its iconic scenery.
It’s about 3 hours from Hanoi by car.
Location: Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam
5. Thinh Long Beach
Thinh Long Beach, situated in Nam Dinh Province, offers an exciting and less crowded destination for beach enthusiasts. While it may not be as popular among tourists, it’s a favorite spot for locals, especially on weekends and holidays. Visitors can enjoy a variety of active holiday activities such as surfing, swimming, and canoeing at this picturesque beach.
The beach is about 2 hours and 55 minutes from Hanoi by automobile.
Location: Nam Dinh Province, Vietnam
6. Dong Chau Beach
Dong Chau Beach may not be well-known to both locals and foreign tourists, but it offers untouched beauty and a peaceful atmosphere. Located far from the city center, there are no concrete buildings or bright lights in sight, allowing visitors to enjoy the tranquility of nature.
While there may be fewer options for beachside activities and tourist attractions, prices are generally lower compared to other beaches. Here, you can enjoy some peaceful time in privacy, immersing yourself in the rustic life of fishermen and feeling the gentle ocean breeze.
It’s 145 kilometers from Hanoi.
Location: Thai Binh Province, Vietnam
7. Sam Son Beach
Sam Son beach, a favorite destination near Hanoi, is renowned for its golden sandy shores, high waves, and crystal-clear blue waters. Visitors can indulge in fresh seafood at incredibly affordable prices or explore nearby seafood markets and fishing villages to witness how locals make their living.
The distance from Hanoi to Sam Son beach in Thanh Hoa province is about 170 km.
Address: Thanh Hoa Province, Vietnam