What is Hidden Beach like?
Hidden Beach offers a quiet and simple escape from the more developed beaches of Hoi An. There are no big resorts, clubs, or loud bars here — just a few family-run restaurants with sun loungers, some shade, and space to relax. It’s a place for reading, swimming, and taking it slow, with a calm atmosphere and mostly local visitors or those deliberately avoiding crowds.
You won’t find a lot of entertainment or services, but if you’re after a low-key day at the beach with a drink in hand and your feet in the sand, Hidden Beach does the job — as long as you come with the right expectations.
Beach conditions vary
While the beach can be clean and peaceful, especially during the dry season, conditions aren’t always consistent. After storms or in the rainy season, trash can wash up, and parts of the sand may erode or disappear completely. Unlike resort beaches, maintenance is basic and depends on the nearby restaurants.
There are still nice spots to swim and sunbathe, particularly in front of better-kept beach cafés — but it’s best to check recent conditions if you’re expecting a perfect beach day.
Location & How to get there
Hidden Beach is located between An Bang and Cua Dai Beach, about 10 to 15 minutes from Hoi An’s Ancient Town by bike or scooter. It’s an easy ride along Lac Long Quan Road, and the beach is clearly marked on Google Maps — just search “Hidden Beach Hoi An.”
There are a few small access roads that lead to the beach. The most common entry points are near Tamarind Cay Me Restaurant or the Sound of Silence Café. Just turn off the main road and follow the narrow lane to the beach.
There’s no big parking lot, but bike and scooter parking is available near the beach. It’s usually free if you eat or drink at one of the beachfront restaurants. Taxis or Grab can also drop you off nearby. It may take a little longer to get a ride back from this quieter area, but it’s usually still manageable.
If you’re staying at An Bang or Cua Dai, it’s also possible to walk to Hidden Beach — expect about 15–20 minutes depending on your starting point.
What to expect
Hidden Beach is simple and low-key — but that’s exactly the appeal. Once you arrive, you’ll find a quiet beach setup with a handful of local restaurants, sun loungers, and a laid-back, local feel. Here’s what you can expect when you get there:
1. Beach Access
Access points are usually small sandy paths leading from the main road (Lac Long Quan) down toward the beach. The easiest entry is via Hidden Beach Restaurant, Sun Beach, or side roads near Tamarind Cay Me or Sound of Silence Café.
Just follow the small signs or check Google Maps. Some paths are narrow but bike and scooter friendly. Most people park right near the restaurants at the end of the lane.
2. Restaurants & loungers
There are a few family-run beach restaurants directly facing the sea. These places typically offer:
- Free use of sun loungers and umbrellas if you buy something (food or drinks).
- If not, you can often rent a lounger for around 30,000–50,000 VND.
- Simple facilities like outdoor showers, toilets, changing areas, and even basic massage tables under umbrellas.
The vibe is relaxed — staff aren’t pushy, and you can spend the day there with minimal fuss.
4. Fewer crowds & bendors
Hidden Beach is noticeably less busy than An Bang or Cua Dai. There are fewer wandering vendors, less traffic noise, and very few package tourists. This makes it a good choice if you’re looking to just read, swim, nap, or enjoy lunch by the sea without constant interruptions.
That said, the beach doesn’t feel deserted — in the late afternoon, you’ll often see locals coming to swim, play football, or relax after work.
5. Changing beach conditions
The beach itself can vary from one day to the next. In the dry season, it’s often clean, swimmable, and peaceful. On other days — especially after storms or strong winds — you may see litter washed up, eroded shorelines, or rougher seas.
Restaurants in front of the beach clean their stretch regularly, but more remote sections might not be maintained. If you’re coming for a beach day, it’s worth checking conditions in advance or sticking to the better-kept central spots near the restaurants.
6. Water activities
While this isn’t a big water sports destination, a few local operators do offer activities like:
- Jet ski rentals (from ~500,000 VND)
- Banana boat rides (group fun, around 1,000,000–1,200,000 VND per group)
- Parasailing (around 1,200,000 VND for 1–2 people)
These are usually arranged through beach restaurants or small signs posted along the sand. Availability may depend on weather and season.
Where to eat at Hidden Beach
There are no big-name restaurants or bars at Hidden Beach — just a few simple, affordable beachfront places serving local food, fresh seafood, fruit smoothies, and a handful of Western options like pizza or sandwiches. Most spots are family-run, and many offer free use of sun loungers if you eat or drink there.
Here are some of the most popular options:
Hidden Beach Restaurant
Located right at the main entrance to the beach. Offers Vietnamese dishes, breakfast options, fresh coconuts, and basic massage services on-site. Loungers and umbrellas are free if you order something, and there’s access to showers and toilets. A good all-round choice for a relaxed day by the sea.
Wild Beach Restaurant
Probably the most stylish spot on the beach, with two seating areas — one set back in the shade, and one directly on the sand. The menu is diverse, with seafood, vegetarian dishes, Vietnamese classics, and even paninis. Service is friendly, and prices are reasonable. Great for a longer lunch or early dinner with a view.
Sun Beach Restaurant
Known for its friendly vibe and welcoming owner, this place offers loungers, hammocks, and a casual atmosphere. Menu highlights include spring rolls, smoothies, and Vietnamese home-style meals. They also offer on-the-beach massages and a few shaded seating options, making it a comfortable spot to linger.
NEO Fisherman’s Restaurant
A family-run place with a relaxed, personal feel. Known for its seafood dishes, cold drinks, and quiet setting. They serve the catch of the day, often cooked simply with local flavors. Service is personal and warm — it feels like dining at a friend’s beach shack.
Prices at these restaurants are generally lower than what you’ll pay at An Bang’s beach bars or resorts, and the vibe is far more casual. Most dishes range from 50,000 to 150,000 VND, with smoothies and local beer available for under 30,000 VND. Perfect for a low-key beach day with a full belly.
How it compares to other Hoi An beaches
Hidden Beach offers a more low-key, local alternative to the better-known beaches in Hoi An — but it’s not for everyone. Here’s how it stacks up:
- Compared to An Bang: Hidden Beach is much quieter and sees fewer tourists, which many people appreciate. However, it also has fewer facilities, no nightlife, and less consistent maintenance. An Bang is better if you want more dining options, boutique hotels, and lively atmosphere — but Hidden is ideal for a laid-back day with minimal crowds. (Read more about: An Bang Beach)
- Compared to Cua Dai: Cua Dai has larger resorts and generally more effort put into beach upkeep, especially in front of hotels. But it’s also struggled with heavy erosion, and certain stretches can be closed or protected by sandbags. Hidden Beach is more natural and unpolished, though still affected by seasonal erosion. (Read more about Cua Dai Beach)
Overall, Hidden Beach sits somewhere in between — a quieter, more local-feeling beach that’s good for a simple swim, seafood lunch, or quiet afternoon. It’s not perfect, but if you’re looking to skip the crowds and don’t need luxury, it may be just right.
See our full guide to the best beaches in Hoi An for a detailed comparison.
Is Hidden Beach worth visiting?
Hidden Beach can be a great spot if you’re looking for something simple, quiet, and away from the usual beach crowds in Hoi An. It’s not a place for big beach clubs or perfectly maintained stretches of sand — but for a peaceful few hours by the sea, it can be just right.
Pros
- Peaceful and less crowded than An Bang or Cua Dai
- Local atmosphere with family-run spots and fewer vendors
- Simple setup with free loungers (if you eat there), beachside meals, and basic massages
- Nice experience on a good day — especially during the dry season
Cons
- No-frills: limited services and no upscale beach clubs or nightlife
- Cleanliness varies — beach can look unkept after storms or in low season
- Erosion visible in places; not every stretch is swimmable year-round
Who it’s best for
- Travelers wanting a quiet beach break
- Those staying in the area or biking from An Bang or Tra Que
- Anyone who enjoys a more local, relaxed atmosphere
Who might want to skip it
- If you prefer a well-maintained, full-service beach day
- If you want bars, sunset music, or luxury facilities
- If you’re visiting during or just after rainy season, when the beach may be less inviting
Hidden Beach is not for everyone — but if you’re after a slower, simpler beach experience, it might just be worth the detour.
