Bai Dai beach

Bai Dai, translated from Vietnamese as “Long Beach,” ranks among the top twenty beaches in Asia. Its expansive coastline, adorned with delicate golden sand, stretches for nearly seventeen kilometers.

While much of Bai Dai remains untouched and devoid of typical infrastructure, organized areas can be found adjacent to hotels or coastal cafes. Here, visitors can access loungers and umbrellas in exchange for purchasing food and drinks. Amenities such as toilets, showers, and rental centers for surfboards, catamarans, and kayaks are also available.

In the more secluded corners of the beach, where civilization has yet to make its mark, visitors should come prepared with beach mats, umbrellas, broad-brimmed hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Closed-toe shoes are recommended to protect your feet from the hot sand, as flip-flops may not suffice. Additionally, bringing bags for household waste is advisable, as garbage containers are scarce along most of the beach.

The sea surrounding Bai Dai is enchanting, with water that is crystal-clear and pure. The seabed slopes gently, offering shallow waters near the shore, tempting swimmers to venture further out. However, caution is advised due to the presence of reverse currents that can stealthily pull swimmers into the open sea. It is imperative to heed warning signs and swim only in designated areas. Encounters with poisonous tropical jellyfish, while rare, can also pose a risk.

Adhering to safety precautions ensures that Bai Dai is a secure destination for families, even those with very young children, particularly from May to September. Come October, strong winds herald the arrival of surfing aficionados and extreme water sports enthusiasts.

Bai Dai is the quintessential locale for picnics, wedding ceremonies, and romantic photo sessions. Coastal cafes and restaurants offer an array of freshly caught seafood at prices significantly lower than those found in city markets.

When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit Vietnam for a beach vacation largely depends on which part of the country's extensive coastline you plan to visit. Vietnam's climate varies from north to south, with distinct wet and dry seasons that can affect your beach experience.

• North Vietnam: For beaches in the north, such as those near Hanoi, the ideal time is from May to August when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for beach activities.
• Central Vietnam: Destinations like Da Nang, Hoi An, and Nha Trang are best visited from January to August. These months offer clear skies and calm waters, with July and August being peak months for sunshine.
• South Vietnam: In southern areas, including Phu Quoc and Vung Tau, the prime time for a beach holiday is the dry season, from November to April, when rainfall is minimal and the sun is often out.

Overall, for a beach vacation that covers multiple regions in Vietnam, the most favorable months are March to August. During this period, you're likely to encounter the best beach weather, regardless of where you are along the coast.