Hanoi is full of miracles and wonders of ancient architecture, time-transcending culture, and history. However, if the tropical weather in Hanoi is a little bit unbearable, make your way to these best beaches near Hanoi to cool off.
Tra Co Beach, Quang Ninh
Tra Co Beach has long been known as “the most aesthetic beach in Vietnam.” Its vast and flat seaside, smooth white sandbank beside the crystal blue sea, paints a picturesque scenery throughout the four seasons, making it one of the ideal beach vacations from Hanoi.
Since the location is on the outer edge of a natural alluvial island, dunes reach 3 to 4 meters high from the water surface. Close to the coast are casuarina forests, and an entire mangrove ecosystem is nearby.
Con Mang, about 6km from Tra Co, is a dreamy spot for couples to watch the sunrise or sunset. You can buy freshly caught seafood right from a fisherman’s boat that has just returned from fishing.
Sa Vi Cape in Tra Co Beach is the highest point in the Northeastern part of Vietnam. Standing at the top of the Sa Vi cape, Tra Co beach’s 17 km-long crescent-shaped beauty will be captured in every aspect.
The beach is over 300km from Hanoi, and the journey would typically take a 6-hour drive. Fortunately, the road to Tra Co is accessible for all vehicles, so there isn’t anything to worry about.
Check out more day trips from Hanoi
Hai Tien Beach, Thanh Hoa
In recent years, Hai Tien Beach has become the ideal destination for family travel. It is ideal for a short trip to an entirely peaceful sanctuary without massive crowds.
Hai Tien Beach is 160 km south of Hanoi and 20 km northeast of Thanh Hoa City.
The blue sea, white sandbank, green coconut palms, and casuarina forest give Hai Tien a wild vibe. Previously, and surprisingly, the place used to be quiet and deserted. Thankfully, many luxurious and modern tourism infrastructures have appeared, creating more services for visitors to enjoy. Having your hotels or homestay hosts hold a seafood feast on the seaside is a fantastic way to enjoy all the sea’s refreshing tastes, sights, and sounds.
Cai Chien Island, Quang Ninh
The Beach in Cai Chien Island is a far-off destination compared to other islands in Quang Ninh, such as Co To or Quan Lan. However, while the famous spots often get packed with tourists, Cai Chien Island is a more favorable beach near Hanoi for getting a tan and enjoying complete serenity.
About 330km from Hanoi, Cai Chien Island possesses a scenic landscape of forested hills and azure sea with a 2km long white sand coastline. Many believe that Cai Chien Island does not have “magical scenery” like well-known beaches like Co To, but its smaller reputation helps Cai Chien Island preserve its natural seascape.
The island has three main beaches: Van Ca beach, Cai Chien beach, and Dau Rong beach. Cai Chien and Dau Rong beaches are the most popular because there are homestays, tents, and food services near the seaside, which are incredible for group hangouts or team-building activities.
Cat Ba Beach, Hai Phong
Known as the pearl of the Northern Gulf for its pristine and majestic beauty, Cat Ba Beach in Hai Phong is one of the best places to escape the hectic urban scene of Hanoi.
In Cat Ba, there are three beaches with the most tourists connected by a small path along the mountainside: Cat Co 1, 2, and 3, respectively. In particular, Cat Co 1 beach is the largest, with three sides surrounded by rocky mountains. Cat Co 2 and 3 beaches are smaller but quite peaceful.
Resort services in Cat Ba are quite good, containing various types of hotels, motels ranging from affordable to luxury and a variety of seafood.
Look for five-star accommodations in Cat Ba:
You can rent a cruise ship around Lan Ha Bay to visit beautiful beaches like Cat Co Beach, Ben Beo Beach, and Co Tien Beach or explore impressive caves like Trung Trang, Hoa Cuong, and Thien Long. It’s also an enjoyable experience to have seafood meals with the blue sea surrounding you.
Dong Chau Beach, Thai Binh
Dong Chau Beach Resort is located in Tien Hai District, 35km from Thai Binh city along the main road to Kien Xuong—Tien Hai. Visitors can enjoy the fresh air of the sea and the windy beach.
Dong Chau attracts visitors with its peaceful atmosphere and untouched beauty. Without concrete buildings and gleaming electric lights, here in Dong Chau, you can experience the anglers’ rustic life and enjoy the sea’s fresh breeze.
Located 110km from Hanoi, Dong Chau beach can be reached by car, motorbike, or coach bus. It doesn’t take too long, and the main road is not too dangerous, making it perfect for a weekend getaway from Hanoi.
Read more on A Guide to Getting around in Hanoi.
Summary of the Best Beaches Near Hanoi
Having a getaway weekend is never a bad idea, and a beach trip is even more exciting. There are many beautiful beaches near Hanoi, both famous and unfamiliar, that you can enjoy while traveling away from the bustling city life.