What is Binh Minh Beach like?
Binh Minh Beach lies in Thang Binh District, Quang Nam Province, roughly halfway between Hoi An and Tam Ky. The name means “sunrise,” which fits perfectly for this long, east-facing stretch of coast. It takes about 30 to 40 minutes to get here from Hoi An, far enough to feel away from the crowds but still close enough for a half-day visit.
The beach itself is wide and sandy, with gentle waves and shallow water that make it pleasant for swimming or quiet walks. Parts of the coast remain undeveloped, while others are slowly changing as new resorts and roads appear. Early in the morning, you’ll see local fishermen setting out or returning with their catch, sometimes using round basket boats typical of central Vietnam. The mix of simple fishing life and light development gives the place a raw but authentic charm—calm, real, and very different from the polished beach scene closer to Hoi An.
Highlights of visiting Binh Minh Beach
Binh Minh Beach isn’t a place packed with attractions — it’s more about slow moments, the sea, and glimpses of coastal life. You don’t need a full day here, but spending one to three hours is ideal, especially if you come for sunrise or combine it with other stops along the coast. Here are the main things to see and do.
1. Sunrise on an east-facing coast
True to its name, “Binh Minh” (sunrise) offers beautiful early-morning light. The beach faces directly east, so you can watch the sun rise over the water while local fishing boats head out or return to shore. It’s calm, quiet, and at its most photogenic just after dawn.
2. Swimming & easy beach time
The water here is generally shallow and calm, with a gentle slope that makes it comfortable for swimming or wading. Outside the resort zones, there’s little shade or facilities, so bring water, a hat, and sunscreen if you plan to stay a while.
3. Binh Minh Fish Market (early morning)
Before 7 a.m., the beach becomes lively as basket boats bring in fresh seafood from the larger boats anchored offshore. You can watch locals sort fish and squid right on the sand — a great chance for photography and to see coastal life up close. Bring some cash if you want to buy a small snack or drink nearby.
4. Fishermen & basket boats
Beyond the market hours, fishermen can often be seen repairing nets or drying fish in the sun. It’s simple, everyday life that shows how much the sea shapes this area. Always ask before taking close-up photos, as people here are working, not performing for visitors.
5. Seafood shacks by the beach
A few small seafood stalls near the main entrance serve grilled fish, squid, or clams. Prices are low, and the experience is local rather than polished. Quality can vary, so look for places that are busy with Vietnamese guests and use fresh ingredients.
6. Whale God shrine (Ca Ong)
In nearby fishing villages, you may notice a small shrine dedicated to Ca Ong, the Whale God, believed to protect those at sea. It’s not a major attraction, but worth a short look if you’re interested in local traditions tied to the ocean.
7. Coastal walks & beachcombing
The beach is long enough for peaceful walks, especially early in the morning or toward sunset when the light is soft. You’ll likely find whole stretches to yourself beyond the resort fronts — just the sound of the waves and footprints in the sand.
8. Family add-on: VinWonders Nam Hoi An
Next to the main resort area is VinWonders Nam Hoi An, a large amusement and water park with a river safari and family activities. It’s mainly designed for domestic visitors but can be a fun add-on if you’re traveling with children in Hoi An or want a full day out.
Staying at Binh Minh Beach
Worth staying at Binh Minh Beach?
For most travelers visiting Hoi An, staying at Binh Minh Beach doesn’t make much sense. It’s nearly 40 minutes away from the Ancient Town, which means long drives back and forth if you plan to explore the town, the countryside, or do any sightseeing. There’s little around apart from the two main resorts, so dining and evening options are very limited once you’re there.
That said, if your goal is simply to rest by the sea and you don’t mind being far from everything, it can work for a night or two. The sunrise is beautiful, the atmosphere is calm, and the resorts provide everything you might need. But for anyone wanting the typical Hoi An experience, it’s far more practical to stay in An Bang or Cua Dai and visit Binh Minh as a short side trip
Accommodation
There are only a few places to stay right on the beach. Vinpearl Nam Hoi An Resort is a large, full-service property connected to the VinWonders theme park, suited for families who want everything on-site. Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness offers a quieter atmosphere with direct beach access and a focus on relaxation.
If you’re not staying overnight, note that some parts of the beach in front of resorts may have restricted access or paid day-use areas. Always confirm before entering if you just want to visit the beach for a few hours.
Location & Getting there
Where is Binh Minh Beach?
Binh Minh Beach is located in Binh Minh Commune, Thang Binh District, Quang Nam Province. It lies about 30–40 minutes south of Hoi An, between Hoi An and Tam Ky, along Vietnam’s central coast. The closest main base for visitors is Hoi An, which is well connected to Da Nang by car or transfer. If you’re flying or taking the train, Da Nang is the nearest major hub — from there, it’s about 1.5 hours by road to reach the beach via Hoi An.
Taxi or ride-hailing
Taking a taxi from Hoi An is the simplest option. The drive is straightforward, and most hotels can arrange a one-way or round-trip fare. Because taxis and ride-hailing services are scarce around the beach, it’s best to ask your driver to wait or arrange a pickup time in advance. Grab and other apps sometimes work in the area but can be unreliable due to weak coverage or low availability.
Car with driver
Hiring a private car with a driver is the easiest option if you plan to combine Binh Minh with other stops such as VinWonders Nam Hoi An, Tam Thanh Mural Village, or Ky Ha Beach. It’s a fixed-price service, more comfortable than a taxi, and the driver will wait while you visit the beach or have lunch. This is also the most convenient choice for small groups or families.
Renting a motorbike
If you prefer flexibility, renting a motorbike in Hoi An is easy and affordable. The route is straightforward: cross Cua Dai Bridge, follow Vo Chi Cong coastal road south, then turn toward the beach via DT613 or Thanh Nien Road. The roads are generally smooth and flat but can be windy and exposed to the sun. Helmets are required, and while rental shops rarely check licenses, you technically need a valid motorbike license and an International Driving Permit for insurance coverage.
Practical visiting information & Travel tips
Binh Minh Beach is easy to visit on a short trip from Hoi An, but facilities are limited, and conditions vary depending on the season. These tips will help you plan a smoother visit and know what to expect.
Best time to visit
The beach is at its most beautiful at sunrise, when the light is soft and fishermen return with their catch. This is also when you can see the small beach market in action. Late afternoon is another good time for a walk or a quiet swim, as the heat eases and the sea often turns calm again.
The dry months from February to August are ideal, bringing warm, sunny weather and gentle waves. From September to January, the coast can get windy, with rougher seas and occasional storms — especially between October and December.
Facilities & services
Access to the beach is public and free. You’ll find parking near the main entrance and a few simple rinse areas or toilets, sometimes within resort zones where guests have priority. Bring small cash for parking or drinks at local stalls, as card payments are rarely accepted.
What to bring
Pack sun protection, plenty of water, and a towel. A light cover-up is useful when passing through nearby villages or eating at local spots. Bring small cash for seafood or drinks, and consider a waterproof case or dry bag for your phone and valuables.
Safety & health
The sea is usually calm, but conditions can change quickly. Always check the weather forecast or flag warnings before swimming, and keep an eye on children as lifeguards are rarely present. Pick seafood stalls that look clean and busy to ensure freshness. Shade is limited, so drink plenty of water and avoid staying out during the hottest hours.
Time needed
If you’re just stopping by for a look, 45–60 minutes is enough. For sunrise photography, the fish market, and a swim, plan 2–3 hours. Families visiting the nearby VinWonders park can easily turn it into a relaxed half-day outing.
Things to be aware of
Cleanliness can vary — some stretches are spotless, while others near resorts may collect windblown litter. Vendors near food stalls can be a bit persistent, but a polite “no, thank you” is enough. The beach is open and windy, so expect stronger gusts and sand blowing on certain days.
Photography etiquette
If you’re taking photos of fishermen or the market, always ask first and keep a respectful distance from people working. Avoid standing in the way of boats or blocking the narrow paths used to carry seafood from the water to the shore.
Is Binh Minh Beach worth to visit?
Binh Minh Beach is worth visiting if you’re looking for a quiet, local-feeling beach where life still revolves around fishing rather than tourism. It’s one of the few places near Hoi An where you can watch sunrise over the water, see fishermen at work, and experience the coast without crowds. It’s great for early-morning photography or a short, peaceful break from the busier parts of town.
However, it’s not ideal if you want convenience or atmosphere. The beach is far from Hoi An’s main sights, and there’s little in the way of dining, nightlife, or comfort beyond the resort areas. It’s a simple stop that appeals to travelers who enjoy offbeat places more than polished beach towns.
If you’d rather stay near the sea but still be close to Hoi An’s restaurants and cafés, An Bang or Cua Dai are far more practical. And if you’re traveling with kids and prefer something lively, the VinWonders Nam Hoi An park next to Binh Minh Beach makes a fun half-day option.
