What is An Bang Beach like?
An Bang Beach has a long stretch of soft sand, clear water, and plenty of beach chairs and loungers set up by local cafés and restaurants. It’s located about 5 km from Hoi An Ancient Town, making it easy to reach by bike, taxi, or Grab.
Compared to Cua Dai, An Bang has a more casual, social vibe — it’s a mix of laid-back and trendy, with a growing community of expats, digital nomads, and creative travelers. You’ll find beachfront bars, live music venues, chilled cafés, and places to hang out from day into night.
The area around the beach feels more like its own little village than just a beach suburb of Hoi An. Accommodations here range from boutique hotels and villas to guesthouses, often tucked into leafy streets just a short walk from the water. There are no large resorts like at Cua Dai, which gives An Bang a more local and independent feel.
Erosion & beach conditions
Like much of Hoi An’s coast, An Bang Beach is affected by erosion, especially during the rainy season. Some areas may narrow or lose sand after heavy weather, but overall, it’s in better condition than Cua Dai and is often restored quickly before the main travel season.
The dry season (February to August) usually brings calm seas, wider beach areas, and better swimming conditions. From September to January, the sea can get rougher and parts of the beach may be under maintenance — something to keep in mind if your trip is during the wet season.
Beaches of Hoi An
Hoi An has two main beaches: An Bang and Cua Dai. Both are just a short ride from the Ancient Town and offer very different atmospheres — one lively and social, the other more relaxed and resort-style.
Besides these two, there are a few smaller or less-visited beaches nearby:
- Hidden Beach sits between An Bang and Cua Dai. Apart from a beachfront restaurant, there’s not much here — a quiet spot, but limited facilities.
- Non Nuoc Beach, to the north in Da Nang, has a wide, well-kept coastline and is lined with luxury resorts. It’s great for a beach holiday but far from Hoi An’s center.
- South of the Thu Bon River, you’ll find long, mostly empty beaches near small fishing villages. Some have guesthouses or homestays, but they’re far from both Hoi An and Da Nang, and the beaches aren’t necessarily better — just quieter.
→ See our full guide to the best beaches in Hoi An
An Bang vs Cua Dai Beach
An Bang Beach is the more lively and social of the two. It has a local village feel, with independent cafés, bars, and small boutique accommodations. It’s a popular area for travelers who want a mix of beach time, food, and atmosphere — and it’s especially appealing for those staying longer or wanting something more personal.
Cua Dai Beach, on the other hand, is quieter and more spaced out. Most of the beachfront is occupied by larger resorts with private or semi-private beach areas. It’s a better choice if you’re looking for a more relaxed stay with direct beach access and resort-style services.
→ Read our full guide to Cua Dai Beach
Things to do at An Bang Beach
There are plenty of things to do at An Bang Beach, whether you’re here for the day or staying longer. The area has a relaxed village feel, with a mix of beach activities, small restaurants, boutique shops, and local life. It’s not about big attractions — it’s about slowing down, enjoying the atmosphere, and choosing how you want to spend your time.
1. Relaxing & swimming
This is the most obvious reason to come to An Bang Beach — to relax on the sand and swim in the sea. The beach is long, clean, and easygoing. The sea is usually calm during the dry season, with plenty of space to spread out.
There are no big resorts here, so most loungers and umbrellas are offered by beachside cafés and restaurants. You can usually use them for free if you buy a drink, or pay a small rental fee (around 20,000–50,000 VND).
If you’re visiting with children, the beach is safe and open, and many small shops nearby sell buckets, shovels, balls, and other toys for a simple beach day.
From the shore, you can often spot the Cham Islands in the distance — a nice view while you relax or swim.
2. Watersports
An Bang offers a small but growing range of water sports — especially during the dry season when the sea is calm and winds are favorable.
Options include:
- Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)
- Kayaking
- Parasailing (less common, but available through beach clubs)
- Windsurfing and small sailing boats
- Surfing — not huge waves, but enough for beginners and lessons
There are surf schools and rental spots around the main beach area, often run by expats or locals who also teach basic technique. You can book a quick session or just rent gear and go at your own pace.
3. Spa & Massage
There are several ways to get a massage at An Bang Beach.
You’ll often be approached by women walking along the sand offering basic foot or body massages on a lounger under an umbrella. If you prefer more comfort and privacy, there are also:
- Small spa shops in the village
- Boutique hotels with in-house spa services
- Massage-on-call services where a therapist comes to your hotel
Prices are affordable, and services range from foot reflexology to full body massages and simple facials.
4. Visit the Morning Market
An Bang has a small local market just a few minutes from the beach. It’s active in the early morning and mostly caters to local residents, not tourists — which makes it a good spot for a short, authentic visit.
Expect stalls selling fresh fish, vegetables, fruit, flowers, and cooked dishes, with a classic local feel: vendors in conical hats, narrow aisles, and a bit of chaos. It’s not fancy, but a good way to experience local life away from the beach.
5. Walking, sunsets & photography
The beach is also a great spot for a walk, jog, or just hanging out — especially early or late in the day.
- In the morning, the beach is calm and peaceful, ideal for a run or a quiet start to your day.
- In the late afternoon and evening, it becomes more lively. As the sun loses strength, locals, expats, and tourists all head to the beach. You’ll see families playing, students hanging out, and people gathering for beach volleyball, music, or just a drink.
Sunset is a highlight at An Bang — not dramatic cliffs or islands, but a wide open sky, warm light, and a relaxed crowd. Bring your camera if you enjoy photography, or just sit with a drink and watch the day wind down.
6. Explore the Village by Bike
One of the easiest ways to get around is by bicycle, and An Bang is a great place for a slow ride. While not particularly scenic, the village layout is pleasant — quiet streets, small shops, a few boutique cafés, and local homes all mixed together.
Many accommodations offer free bikes, so you can easily ride around the backroads, stop for a coffee, or find a quiet corner to explore. It’s a simple and relaxed way to take in the surroundings without needing a plan.
Where to eat & drink at An Bang Beach
An Bang Beach has one of the best beach dining scenes in central Vietnam, with a wide range of restaurants and bars along the sand as well as more budget-friendly local options just inland. Most beachfront places offer a mix of fresh seafood, Vietnamese dishes, and Western comfort food, making it easy to find something for everyone.
Along the beach, you’ll find relaxed cafés, cocktail bars, and beach clubs — perfect for lunch, sunset drinks, or a full dinner with ocean views. Keep in mind that these places are a bit more expensive than average. If you head a few streets inland, there are plenty of local eateries, family-run restaurants, and cheaper street food options offering good Vietnamese meals at lower prices.
Below are some of the most popular and well-established spots right along or near the beach:
The Deck House
This bamboo-structured beach bar has a chilled-out vibe and a stylish design with white and blue tones. It serves a mix of local seafood dishes and Western meals like burgers, pasta, and salads. Great for photos, cocktails, and a relaxed lunch on the sand.
Soul Kitchen
A long-time favorite on An Bang Beach, Soul Kitchen blends beach restaurant, bar, and live music venue. During the day, it’s a good spot for sunbeds, food, and drinks. In the evening, it’s known for sunset cocktails and live music, making it a go-to for a social night out by the sea.
Shore Club
Probably the most upscale venue on the beach, Shore Club offers a full restaurant, VIP daybeds, water sports, and a wide international menu including seafood, sushi, pizza, and cocktails. The setting is stylish and ideal for a longer beach day where you want everything in one place.
La Plage
Located along the central beach, La Plage has a French-Vietnamese fusion menu with seafood, salads, grilled meats, and local classics. It’s known for a more peaceful setting and is also family-friendly, with a small play area for kids.
Bikini Bottom Express An Bang Beach
A small spot with a big reputation for Western-style breakfasts, burgers, and comfort food. The menu includes items like eggs benedict, jackfruit burgers, croissants, and coconut coffee. Affordable, welcoming, and popular with both tourists and expats — especially for breakfast and lunch.
La Riva An Bang – Italian Restaurant & Bar
If you’re craving Italian, this place stands out with authentic wood-fired pizza, homemade pasta, bruschetta, gnocchi, and desserts like tiramisu. It’s a well-reviewed spot for a relaxed dinner with a glass of wine or limoncello. Prices are a bit higher than inland, but the food quality and setting make it worth it.
Where to stay – Accommodation in An Bang Beach
An Bang Beach has a great mix of homestays, boutique hotels, and small resorts. While very few places are directly on the sand, most are just a short walk from the beach. Compared to Cua Dai’s large beachfront resorts, accommodation here is more personal, casual, and suited to independent travelers, couples, and longer stays. You’ll find everything from basic budget beds to stylish mid-range hotels with pools and extras.
Here are some of the best accommodation options in the An Bang area:
AIRA Boutique Hoi An Hotel & Villa
A well-designed boutique hotel just a short walk from the beach. It offers modern rooms with Vietnamese touches, a clean pool, and a strong focus on service. It’s well located in the heart of An Bang village, close to cafés and restaurants. Good for couples, families, and those who want a quiet stay with extra comfort.
An Bang Beach Villas
A cozy, small hotel just steps from the beach, offering spacious rooms and a relaxed garden-style setting. Features include a pool, balconies, and helpful local staff who assist with everything from bookings to taxis. A peaceful spot with great service and good value for money.
Sol An Bang Beach Resort & Spa
One of the few properties in An Bang directly on the beach. This mid-range resort has beachfront access, tropical-style gardens, and multiple pools. Rooms are comfortable, and there’s a spa on-site. A good choice if you want easy beach access, a bit more privacy, and a quiet location away from the central village.
Under The Coconut Tree Homestay
A friendly and budget-friendly option with a relaxed, hostel-like atmosphere. Offers both dorms and private rooms, close to the beach. Great for backpackers or younger travelers looking for a quiet, social place without the party scene. Free breakfast, bike rental, and a helpful local team.
Best time to visit An Bang Beach
The best time to visit An Bang Beach is during the dry season, from February to August, when the weather is warm, skies are clear, and the sea is calm. This is when beach conditions are at their best — perfect for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying water activities.
The peak beach season runs from April to July, with hot, sunny days and vibrant beach life. This is also the most popular time for both domestic and international visitors, so expect more people and higher demand for accommodations.
If you prefer fewer crowds, the shoulder months of February, March, and August still offer good weather but with a more relaxed atmosphere.
From September to January, the rainy season sets in. During this time, the sea can be rough, some beach facilities close or reduce services, and the weather is more unpredictable — not ideal for a beach-focused trip.
Getting there & around
Getting to An Bang Beach
To reach An Bang Beach, most travelers arrive first in Da Nang, which has both an international airport and a major train station. From there, it’s a 30–40 minute ride to An Bang by Grab, taxi, or private transfer.
Hoi An itself doesn’t have an airport or train station, so most arrivals go through Da Nang. There are direct buses to Hoi An from destinations like Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, Hue and even Ninh Binh and Dalat. If you’re already staying in Hoi An, getting to An Bang is easy.
From Hoi An Old Town to An Bang Beach
- Bike: One of the most popular ways to get to An Bang. The route is flat and scenic, passing rice fields and quiet village roads. Many hotels offer free bicycle rental.
- Grab or Taxi: A quick, convenient option. The ride takes about 10–15 minutes and usually costs under 100,000 VND.
- Walking: Possible, but not ideal due to the heat and distance (around 4–5 km from the Old Town). Fine for short strolls within the An Bang area itself.
- Hotel Shuttle: Some mid-range and boutique hotels offer shuttle services to the beach or into town. Check with your accommodation.
- Scooter: A common choice among travelers. The roads around An Bang and the countryside between the beach and Old Town are quiet and easy to navigate. Rentals are widely available, usually without requiring a license.
However, keep in mind that you are required by law to have a motorbike license and an international driving permit (IDP) to be fully insured. Many rental shops don’t ask for this, but it’s important to understand the risk if an accident happens.
