What is My Khe Beach & Where is it?
My Khe Beach is the most popular beach in Da Nang, stretching along the city’s eastern coast with soft sand and a lively atmosphere. It’s actually part of one long, continuous beach that runs all the way to Hoi An, though different sections have different names and vibes.
The beach first gained attention during the Vietnam War, when it became a rest and relaxation spot for U.S. soldiers. Today, it’s a modern and vibrant beachfront lined with palm trees, beach bars, cafés, and high-rise hotels. Locals, expats, and tourists all share the space, giving it a relaxed but active energy.
Further south, you’ll find more resort-style accommodations, while the northern end near Son Tra Peninsula keeps more of a local, traditional feel. My Khe is frequently included in lists of the most beautiful beaches in the world—and it’s easy to see why once you arrive.
My Khe Beach sections – Understanding the different areas
While it’s all technically one long stretch of sand from Da Nang to Hoi An, My Khe Beach is often referred to in smaller sections—each with its own feel. There are even more local names and subsections, but these are the three main areas to keep things simple and help you decide where to stay or spend time.
1. Son Tra Beach (Northernmost section)
Located near the base of Son Tra Peninsula, this is the most local and traditional part of the beach. It’s known for its fishing community—you’ll see round basket boats lined up on the sand and fishermen hauling in nets in the early morning. It’s not touristy, and you won’t find beach bars or big hotels here, but it offers a very authentic and peaceful vibe.
2. My An Beach / An Thuong Area (Central section)
This is the heart of My Khe for tourists, expats, and digital nomads. The An Thuong area, just behind the beach, is full of international restaurants, cafés, bars, and everything from luxury hotels to budget apartments. It’s also where you’ll find most beach activities and a relaxed, international atmosphere. The beach here is well-kept, great for swimming, and often considered the most beautiful and convenient part of the coastline.
3. Non Nuoc Beach (Southern end)
Located further from the city center, Non Nuoc is lined with high-end beachfront resorts. It’s much quieter and more isolated, making it ideal for couples or families looking to relax. There aren’t many restaurants or shops outside the resorts, so most people staying here spend their time within the resort or take taxis to the city. The beach is wide, clean, and peaceful—perfect if you want a private beach feel.
Best time to visit My Khe Beach
If you’re coming to enjoy the beach, it’s important to pick the right time of year. My Khe Beach is beautiful year-round, but the experience can vary a lot depending on the season. From calm seas and clear skies to wind and rain, here’s what to expect:
Dry season (March to August)
This is the best time to visit My Khe Beach, especially if you’re planning to swim, sunbathe, or try water sports.
- The weather is hot, mostly sunny, and rain is rare
- The sea is usually warm and calm, perfect for swimming
- Great time for parasailing, surfing lessons (early season), and beach bars
- Peak tourist season, especially from June to August, so it’s smart to book hotels early
Rainy season (October to January)
During these months, the weather is more unpredictable.
- Expect windier conditions, especially in December and January
- The sea becomes rougher, and the beach can get narrower at high tide
- Still, you can often enjoy dry mornings or short sunny breaks between showers
- This is the low season, which means fewer crowds and lower hotel prices, but beach activities are more limited
Things to do on My Khe Beach
There’s plenty to do along My Khe Beach, but what you’ll find really depends on which section you’re in. The My An / An Thuong area is where most of the action happens, while the northern and southern ends are more local or resort-focused. Whether you’re here to relax, explore, or get active, here are some of the best things to do:
1. Relax & swim on the beach
This is what most people come for. The sand is soft, the sea is warm (especially in summer), and you can spend the day just soaking it all in. Bring your own towel or rent a sun lounger—they’re usually cheap or even free if you order a drink from a nearby vendor or bar. The beach is generally clean and well-maintained, and there are often lifeguards on duty, especially around the My An section. It’s also very family-friendly.
2. Watch local fishermen in action
For something more authentic, head to the Son Tra section of the beach early in the morning. Here, you can see local fishermen pulling in nets, working together in groups right on the sand. You’ll also see traditional basket boats, either resting on the beach or floating just offshore. It’s a quieter, more local scene—and great for photography or just watching daily life unfold.
3. Enjoy a beach Bar
There are plenty of casual beach bars scattered along My Khe, ranging from simple setups with plastic chairs to more stylish spots with music and cocktails. They’re perfect for cooling off with a coconut, a cold beer, or a smoothie with your feet in the sand. For the best ones, check out best beach bars on My Khe Beach, but don’t be afraid to stop at one of the smaller local places along the way—they often have cheaper prices and a relaxed vibe.
4. Walk along the beach promenade
Running along much of the beach is a paved, palm-lined promenade—great for a morning jog, sunset walk, or casual stroll. It’s wide and mostly shaded, with occasional benches and access points to the sand. In the early morning and late afternoon, you’ll see locals out running, stretching, or socializing. It’s a peaceful way to enjoy the beach atmosphere without getting sandy.
5. Surfing
While Da Nang isn’t known for huge waves, My Khe Beach does have a small surf scene, especially during the right season. The best time for surfing is from January to March, when the waves are more consistent. There are a few surf schools and rental shops near the My An area offering lessons and gear. It’s beginner-friendly and a fun way to try something new, even if the waves are small.
6. Jet skiing & parasailing
During the dry season (roughly April to August), you’ll find jet skis and parasailing available along parts of the beach—mainly near the more central sections. There’s no need to book in advance. Just walk along the beach and you’ll see where it’s happening. These activities are usually only available in calm weather, so look for clear mornings and light winds.
7. Paragliding from Son Tra Peninsula
For something more adventurous, you can go paragliding from the top of Son Tra Peninsula. This is a tandem flight with a professional guide, launching from high above and flying over My Khe Beach for stunning views of the coastline. It’s not something you see every day, and if you’re up for it, it’s one of the most unforgettable experiences in the area.
8. Beach sports
There are a few public volleyball nets set up along the beach, especially in the My An area. Don’t worry if you’re traveling solo—locals, expats, and tourists often play together, and it’s easy to join a game if you ask. It’s a friendly scene and a great way to meet people. You can also bring your own ball or beach games for a casual match on the sand.
Where to stay along My Khe Beach
There’s no shortage of places to stay along My Khe Beach, but the vibe and convenience can vary a lot depending on the area. The northern and southern ends are quieter, while the central stretch—especially around An Thuong—is the most popular for tourists.
An Thuong / My An Area – Best for convenience and variety
This is the most popular area to stay if you want to be close to the action. It’s just behind the central stretch of My Khe Beach and filled with restaurants, cafés, bars, and shops. You’ll find a mix of:
- Beachfront high-rise hotels with sea views
- Smaller hotels and boutique stays in the back streets
- Serviced apartments and Airbnbs, great for longer stays
Everything is within walking distance, including the beach, nightlife, and local food. Ideal for solo travelers, couples, and families who want a balanced and social experience.
Southern section (Non Nuoc Beach) – Best for quiet, resort-style stays
Further south, around Non Nuoc Beach, you’ll find large luxury resorts with private beach access, pools, and full-service facilities. This area is quieter and more self-contained, making it a good choice if you:
- Prefer to stay in and relax
- Don’t mind using taxis or ride-hailing apps to go out
- Are traveling as a couple or with kids and want space and comfort
Dining and shopping are limited outside the resorts, so it’s best suited for travelers who want resort-style comfort over easy access to city life.
Best beach bars along My Khe Beach
My Khe Beach is the perfect place to unwind with a drink and a sea view. Whether you’re after a craft beer, a signature cocktail, or just a coconut on a plastic chair in the sand, there’s something here for everyone.
Below are some of the most popular and well-designed beach bars—but keep in mind, there are also plenty of casual local spots in between. Some have just a few plastic chairs and simple drink menus, but the vibe is friendly and the view is just as good.
Maia beach bar
Maia is one of the more stylish beachfront bars along My Khe, with a clean design, laid-back seating, and a slightly upscale but still casual vibe. It’s a great spot to enjoy sunset cocktails, carafes of wine, or a cold beer with your feet in the sand. The bar has a strong cocktail menu, decent wine selection, and light bites—mostly Western finger food. You’ll find DJ sets around sunset, great lighting after dark, and a relaxed but lively atmosphere. While prices are on the higher end, the setting and service more than make up for it.
Esco Beach Bar & Restaurant
Esco is a beachfront all-day hangout that shifts into a lively evening spot, known for its fire shows and beachfront entertainment. The menu combines Vietnamese and Western food, along with a wide range of drinks and cocktails. It also has a small pool, making it a family-friendly choice during the day. Evenings bring a more energetic vibe, with DJs, live music, and crowd interaction. It’s a popular place for groups, couples, and anyone looking for a mix of food, drinks, and beachside atmosphere in one place.
East West Brewing – Beachside
East West offers a craft beer experience right by the beach, with comfortable seating and a chill, upscale setting. Their rotating selection of house-brewed beers—like pale ales, IPAs, and specialty brews—makes it a standout for beer lovers. The food menu mixes Western comfort food (burgers, wings, fries) with a few local touches. Inside, it feels like a modern brewery lounge, but you can also sit outside on couches overlooking the sand. It’s a great place for a casual lunch, a laid-back beer, or sunset drinks with a quieter vibe.
Paradise Beach Bar
Paradise has a bit of everything: beachside seating, bean bags right on the sand, live DJs on weekends, and even a big screen for movies and live sports. It’s one of the more versatile bars on My Khe—casual during the day, livelier at night. The menu includes burgers, BBQ skewers, smoothies, cocktails, and a solid selection of cold beers. It’s also a regular spot for traveler meetups, with a friendly and open vibe. A good choice for both solo visitors and groups looking for a laid-back but social beach bar.
Tips for visiting My Khe Beach
A visit to My Khe Beach is usually easy and low-stress—but a few local tips can help you make the most of it. From timing your beach time right to staying safe in the sun and water, here’s what you should know:
Catch the early morning vibe
If you’re up at sunrise, head to the beach—it’s surprisingly lively. Locals gather in huge numbers to run, swim, stretch, or play sports, especially between 5 AM and 7 AM. It’s a fun, energetic scene that shows a completely different side of beach life.
Late afternoon is the busiest time
From around 4 PM, the beach gets crowded again. Tall hotels cast shade, making it cooler—something Vietnamese beachgoers prefer. Bars start to pick up, and people come for walks, photos, or to cool off. During the day, especially in summer, it can be extremely hot, so this is a more comfortable time to go out.
Bring cash for small purchases
While most beach bars accept cards, many small vendors and loungers only take cash. If you want to grab a drink, snack, or rent a sunbed from a local setup, keep some VND on hand. It’ll make your day a lot easier.
Swim in designated areas
In the city section of My Khe Beach, you can only swim in marked zones where lifeguards are present. It’s well organized but can feel strict. Down south near the resort area (Non Nuoc), swimming is more open, and some resorts have their own lifeguards. Still, especially in summer, the sea is usually calm and shallow, making it safe for most swimmers.
Protect yourself from the sun
The sun here is strong—even on cloudy days. Use high SPF sunscreen, and if you have sensitive skin, it’s best to bring your own from home. Local options are limited and often very basic. A hat, sunglasses, long sleeves, or even a rash guard or swim shirt are smart extras to pack, especially for kids or longer days outside.
