What is Cua Dai Beach like?
Cua Dai Beach has a calm, laid-back feel with soft sand, palm trees, and fewer crowds than nearby An Bang. It’s located about 4 to 5 kilometers from Hoi An Ancient Town and is easy to reach by bike or taxi. The area has fewer beach bars and cafés but offers more space, quiet stretches, and several mid-range to luxury resorts with direct beach access. Many resorts here have private or semi-private beach areas, making it a popular spot for couples and families looking for a more peaceful coastal stay.
Erosion problems
Cua Dai Beach has struggled with serious erosion in recent years. During the rainy season (roughly October to January), heavy waves and storms can wash away large parts of the shoreline, and some areas may be blocked off for repair. In the dry season, the beach is usually cleaned and rebuilt, especially near resort sections that invest in maintenance. While it’s still possible to enjoy clean and quiet stretches of beach, conditions can change from year to year — so it’s a good idea to check current photos or ask your accommodation before planning a full beach day.
Beaches of Hoi An
Hoi An has two main beaches — Cua Dai and An Bang — both just a short ride from the Ancient Town. They offer different atmospheres, so which one you choose depends on what kind of beach experience you’re after.
- Cua Dai Beach is quieter and more relaxed, with a long stretch of sand and larger resorts, ideal if you’re looking to unwind.
- An Bang Beach is more social, with beach bars, casual restaurants, and a livelier crowd — good for people who want more activity and nightlife near the sea.
There’s also a small stretch known as Hidden Beach located between the two, with a few low-key spots and a more local feel, though it’s less developed and harder to access.
Cua Dai vs An Bang Beach
An Bang Beach is the trendier option. It’s lined with bars, boutique hotels, and beach clubs that often play music and serve cocktails right on the sand. It’s a good place for travelers looking for a mix of beach time and a social atmosphere.
Cua Dai, on the other hand, feels more peaceful and spread out. Most of the beachfront is taken up by larger resorts, and while there are some seafood restaurants, it’s much less commercial. It’s better suited for quiet beach walks, reading under palm trees, or enjoying private resort access.
→ Read our full guide to An Bang Beach
Non Nuoc Beach alternative
If you’re open to staying a bit farther from Hoi An, Non Nuoc Beach near Da Nang is another option. It’s a wide, clean beach lined with high-end resorts and private beach areas, very similar to the atmosphere at Cua Dai — but even more developed.
It takes around 15–30 minutes by taxi to reach Hoi An Old Town, depending on where along the coast you’re staying. It’s not ideal for cycling, but if you’re looking for a luxury beach stay with better swimming conditions and more stable shoreline, Non Nuoc is worth considering.
→ Read our full guide to Non Nuoc Beach
Things to Do at Cua Dai Beach
Things to do at Cua Dai Beach are mostly about relaxing and enjoying the quiet, natural surroundings. Compared to An Bang, the area is less commercial — you won’t find many independent shops or beach bars here. Most activities are connected to the resorts along the beach, which often offer services like beachfront loungers, spas, and guided tours.
1. Relaxing & swimming
Cua Dai Beach is ideal if you just want to unwind in a peaceful setting. The long sandy shoreline gives you plenty of space, and the vibe is calm throughout the day. Resorts along the beach often provide:
- Sun loungers and umbrellas for guests
- Beach massages or spa services in shaded cabanas
- Swimming pools overlooking the sea
- Some resorts also organize yoga classes, beach volleyball, or small events on the sand
The sea here is usually calm during the dry season (Feb–Aug), making it a good spot for a swim — just be mindful of changing tides and erosion in some areas.
2. Seafood restaurants & beach bars
There aren’t many standalone restaurants right on the beach, but several resorts have their own seafood restaurants or beachside bars open to non-guests.
- Fresh local seafood like grilled fish, squid, and clams are often on the menu
- Great for a sunset drink in a quiet setting
- Prices are higher than in town but the views make up for it
If you’re not staying at a resort, it’s still possible to dine at some of these spots — just walk in and check the menu.
3. Walking along the coast
The wide beach is perfect for a walk, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is lower. You can stroll north toward An Bang Beach or just enjoy the quiet coastline in either direction. Parts of the beach may be under repair depending on the season, but there are usually still open sections to explore on foot.
4. Surfing & water activities
Cua Dai isn’t known as a top surf destination, but small waves can appear at certain times of year, especially around the shoulder seasons when there is more wind. Some resorts or local rental shops may offer:
- Surfboards and bodyboards
- Kayaks or SUP boards
- Basic beach games like paddleball or volleyball
5. Discover nearby attractions
If you want to combine beach time with exploring, Cua Dai is well-placed for a few local highlights:
- Hoi An Ancient Town – Just 10–15 minutes away by bike or taxi, perfect for visiting in the early morning or evening when it’s cooler.
- Countryside bike rides – The area between Cua Dai and the Ancient Town is great for cycling past rice paddies and small villages.
- Cham Island (Cu Lao Cham) – Accessible by boat from the nearby Cua Dai Port. Good for snorkeling, diving, and day trips during the dry season (March–September).
Accommodations – Staying at Cua Dai Beach
Cua Dai Beach is home to several mid-range to luxury beach resorts, many of which offer direct beach access, spacious pools, and a quiet atmosphere away from the crowds of Hoi An’s Old Town. This area is especially suitable for couples, families, and anyone looking for a more relaxing seaside stay with convenient access to both the beach and town via short shuttle or taxi rides. Below are a few of the main resort options along Cua Dai Beach:
Palm Garden Resort Hoi An
One of the best-known beachfront resorts at Cua Dai. It offers lush gardens, a large outdoor pool, beachfront loungers, a spa, and several dining options. Rooms are spacious, and many have sea views or direct access to the beach. There’s also a free shuttle to the Old Town.
Hoi An Beach Resort
Located between the river and the sea, this resort offers both river view and beachside rooms. It has two pools, a spa, and several on-site dining options. The beach is just across a small road, and the resort offers a free shuttle to the Ancient Town. A good balance of comfort and location.
Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa
A beachfront resort with a charming Indochine-style design and a wide range of services. There’s a large pool, direct beach access, several restaurants, a spa, and free bikes. The resort also runs a shuttle to and from Hoi An. A good choice for those who prefer a peaceful stay with easy access to both town and beach.
Wyndham Garden Hoi An
This hotel is set slightly back from the beach but offers access to the Silk Beach Club just across the road, where guests can use a larger pool and enjoy direct beach access. Rooms are spacious, and the hotel includes free bikes, spa services, and a free shuttle into Hoi An. There are plenty of local restaurants and cafés nearby.
Renaissance Hoi An Resort & Spa
A large, modern beachfront resort a bit further south of central Cua Dai. It features a massive pool, direct beach access, a kids’ area, and various on-site facilities. While it’s a little more remote, it offers a quiet atmosphere and a shuttle to the Old Town. Suitable for families and travelers looking for a peaceful stay with full amenities.
Best time to visit Cua Dai Beach
The best time to visit Cua Dai Beach is during the dry season, from February to August, when the weather is sunny, the sea is calm, and beach conditions are at their best.
April to July is the ideal window for beachgoers — expect warm water, long sunny days, and relatively stable conditions along the coast. This is also the busiest time, especially around weekends and holidays when both local and international tourists visit.
From October to January, the rainy season can bring strong waves, cloudy skies, and beach erosion. While some resorts maintain their beachfronts year-round, swimming and beach lounging are less appealing during this period.
For a quieter experience, consider coming in February, March, or August — the weather is still pleasant, but the beach is generally less crowded.
Getting there & around
Getting to Cua Dai Beach
Most travelers arrive in Da Nang, which has both a domestic and international airport, as well as a major train station. Since Hoi An has no airport or railway station, the final stretch to the beach is by road.
From Da Nang, you can reach Cua Dai Beach in about 40 to 50 minutes by taxi, Grab, or private car transfer. Many hotels in the Cua Dai area can also arrange pickups for a fixed price, which is convenient if you’re arriving with luggage or at night.
From Cua Dai Beach to the Old Town and around
Cua Dai Beach is located about 4–5 km from Hoi An Ancient Town, so getting around is easy:
- Bike: A popular and scenic option — the ride is flat and takes around 15–20 minutes. Many resorts have free bikes.
- Grab (ride-hailing app): Quick and affordable, especially for short trips to the Old Town or nearby restaurants.
- Walking: Possible from some nearby areas, but not ideal during hot or rainy weather.
- Hotel shuttles: Many mid-range and luxury hotels in the area offer free shuttle buses or bicycles for guests.
