Top 5 Beaches Near Ho Chi Minh City Perfect for a Weekend Escape from the Heat
If you only have a short 2-day break but are craving the salty sea air and the sound of waves, these spots just outside Saigon are the perfect choice. No need to spend money on expensive flights—just 2 to 3 hours by motorbike or car and you can already check in at the beach and enjoy fresh seafood. Save this list of the top 5 must-visit beaches near Ho Chi Minh City for your next weekend trip!
1. 30/4 Beach, Can Gio – The Only Beach in Ho Chi Minh City
If you don’t feel like traveling far outside the city limits, just hop on your bike and head to the coastal district of Can Gio, only about 50 km from District 1. The most distinctive feature of 30/4 Beach is its dark black sand, which creates a unique visual experience. This is a completely natural characteristic caused by sediment from the mangrove forest ecosystem, not pollution.
When visiting 30/4 Beach in Can Gio, make sure to stop by Hang Duong Market to pick out fresh seafood yourself and have the locals cook it on the spot at affordable prices. Don’t miss local specialties such as grilled “nang” snails, raw thòi lòi fish with lime or pepper stew, garlic-fried mantis shrimp, and combine it with a visit to Monkey Island for an even more fun trip.
30/4 Beach in Can Gio with its unique dark black sand shoreline.
2. Back Beach (Bai Sau), Vung Tau – The Livelier and Most Bustling Option
Stretching along the breezy Thuy Van Road, Back Beach (Bai Sau) in Vung Tau is about 5 km long and is always the first name that comes to mind for travel lovers. Only around 100 km from Ho Chi Minh City, it features smooth flat sand and strong waves year-round, making it ideal for beach sports or group swimming.
Back Beach in Vung Tau is always a top choice for travel enthusiasts thanks to its lively atmosphere and abundant services.
After an afternoon of soaking in the cool water, you can stroll leisurely and watch the sunset. In the evening, don’t forget to visit local eateries for a plate of hot, crispy bánh khọt with fresh shrimp and squid.
3. Long Hai Beach (Long Dien District) – Pristine and Peaceful Beauty
If the crowds of Vung Tau put you off, Long Hai Beach in Long Dien District (about 90 km from Ho Chi Minh City) is an excellent alternative. This coastal area still retains its natural, rustic charm with clear water and gentler waves. Along the shore are unique natural rock formations that create simple yet captivating photo spots.
Your Long Hai exploration will be more complete if you wake up early to catch the sunrise on the Nuoc Ngot Pass road and take time to visit the sacred Dinh Co Temple by the sea to pray for peace. Before heading home, treat yourself to a Long Hai bánh xèo filled with rich seafood, served with wild herbs and the signature mắm nêm dipping sauce.
The pristine, peaceful beauty of Long Hai Beach is perfect for those seeking a quiet place to relax.
4. Phuoc Hai Beach (Dat Do District) – A Paradise for Affordable Seafood
Right next to Long Hai, Phuoc Hai Beach in Dat Do District (about 100 km from Saigon) has a rustic, authentic Southern fishing-village feel. On the sand along the clear blue water, you’ll easily spot local fishermen’s coracles and fishing nets. The area hasn’t been heavily commercialized, so the air remains fresh and clean. The highlight that defines Phuoc Hai is the delicious, nutritious, and budget-friendly food spots along the sea embankment.
The most popular experience among young people here is sitting along the Phuoc Hai embankment at sunset, watching the sea while enjoying freshly prepared seafood trays such as rich grilled oysters, steamed squid, or boiled crabs at very reasonable prices.
Sitting on the Phuoc Hai embankment at dusk and enjoying rich grilled oysters is an addictive experience for many young people.
5. Ho Tram & Ho Coc Beaches (Xuyen Moc District) – Blue Sea and Resort Getaways
About 120 km from Saigon in Xuyen Moc District, Ho Tram and Ho Coc open up a completely different natural space full of romance and poetry. This area features a unique geographical combination: on one side, a long stretch of clear blue sea and white sand; on the other, the vast green canopy of the Binh Chau – Phuoc Buu primeval forest, creating a cool and pleasant atmosphere.
With this open space, you can choose to camp overnight with friends right on the pristine beach or treat yourself to a gentle stay at high-end resorts nestled in nature.
The pristine Ho Tram Beach with its smooth white sand next to the primeval forest.
A short trip to the beaches just outside Saigon doesn’t require much cost or preparation, yet the mental value it brings is enormous. Soaking in cool water, listening to the waves, and enjoying seafood with loved ones will help you shake off fatigue and recharge positive energy for the new work week. Invite your family or close friends and plan a “heat-escape” trip this weekend!
