Where is Tam Thanh Beach?
Tam Thanh Beach is located about 10–13 kilometers east of Tam Ky City, along the central coast of Quang Nam Province. It’s roughly a one-hour drive south of Hoi An, making it a convenient detour or day trip. You can reach it easily by motorbike or with a private car and driver.
What makes Tam Thanh Beach unique?
What sets Tam Thanh Beach apart is its raw, uncommercialized charm. You’ll find a long stretch of quiet coastline with soft golden sand, gentle waves, and an authentic fishing village atmosphere. It’s not built up — no high-end resorts, beach bars, or loud crowds. Instead, it’s known for its peaceful setting, local feel, and colorful mural village nearby, making it ideal if you’re looking for something low-key and genuine.
Things to Do at Tam Thanh Beach
If you’re looking for things to do at Tam Thanh Beach, expect a quiet and peaceful experience focused on nature, local life, and a few low-key activities. This isn’t a place for nightlife or organized tours — it’s best for slowing down and enjoying a more authentic side of coastal Vietnam.
1. Enjoy the Beach itself
Tam Thanh Beach is ideal for relaxing. Go for a swim, walk along the wide sandy shore, or just watch the sunrise or sunset over the ocean. The dry season (March to August) offers the calmest water and best weather. During the rainy season, waves are stronger and it can be windier. There are no lifeguards, so always swim with caution.
2. Visit Tam Thanh Mural Village
Just behind the beach is Vietnam’s first mural village, created by local and Korean artists. While some of the paintings have faded, the village still has a quiet charm and is worth a short walk for photos. Don’t expect a polished attraction — this is still a working fishing community, and that’s part of its appeal.
Read more about: Tam Thanh Mural Village.
3. Eat fresh Seafood
A few beachfront restaurants serve fresh local seafood. Try grilled flying fish (a regional specialty), squid, shrimp, or crab. The food is simple, often grilled or stir-fried, and prices are generally lower than in Hoi An or Da Nang.
4. Experience local life
You might come across fish sauce workshops or small harbors with fishing boats coming and going. There’s not much formal tourism, but the village atmosphere gives you a glimpse into daily life by the sea. Great if you enjoy slow travel and local encounters.
When to visit Tam Thanh Beach
The best time to visit Tam Thanh Beach is during the dry season from February to August, with the most ideal months being March to July. Expect sunny days, calmer seas, and a more enjoyable beach atmosphere. If you’re visiting in June, you might catch the Tam Thanh Beach Festival, a local event with cultural activities and food stalls.
The rainy season from October to December brings rougher seas, stronger winds, and sometimes litter washing ashore. It’s still possible to visit, but the experience is less pleasant, and beach swimming is not recommended.
How to Get to Tam Thanh Beach
Tam Thanh Beach is easy to reach whether you’re coming from Hoi An, Da Nang, or Tam Ky.
From Hoi An
If you’re traveling from Hoi An, expect a drive of about 1 hour. The most convenient option is to rent a private car with driver, especially if you want to combine the beach with nearby attractions or take your time exploring the area. Motorbike rental is also possible and gives you more flexibility, but make sure you’re comfortable with local traffic.
From other areas
From Tam Ky, it’s a short trip — about 15 to 20 minutes by car or motorbike. The road is mostly quiet and in good condition, especially if you follow Vo Chi Cong coastal road.
If you’re flying in, the closest airport is Chu Lai Airport, around 30–40 minutes from the beach, but it only handles domestic flights. For international arrivals or more flight options, Da Nang International Airport is the better choice — about 1.5 to 2 hours away, depending on traffic.
For train travel, Tam Ky Railway Station is the most convenient. It’s located on Vietnam’s main North–South Reunification Line, with regular trains from Da Nang, Hue, and further south. From the station, it’s a short ride to the coast by taxi or private transfer.
No matter your entry point, it’s best to plan ahead and arrange transport in advance, especially if you’re coming for a day trip or want to fit in more than just the beach.
Where to stay
Tam Thanh Beach offers a handful of guesthouses, homestays, and small beach resorts—mostly run by local families. Options are scattered around the beachfront and mural village area, giving you a peaceful setting close to the sea.
That said, be prepared: facilities are basic, and the service quality can vary. Don’t expect luxury, modern rooms, or professional hospitality. If you’re after a comfortable beach holiday with reliable amenities, Hoi An or Da Nang are much better choices.
But if you enjoy quiet, local experiences and can handle a bit of rustic charm, staying at Tam Thanh can be rewarding. Just go in with the right expectations — it’s more about atmosphere and authenticity than comfort.
Nearby places to combine
If you’re visiting Tam Thanh Beach, there are a few nearby stops that are easy to add to your day:
- Nguyen Thi Thu Heroic Mother Statue – About 5 km inland. A massive, peaceful war memorial with historical importance.
- Tam Tien Beach – A quieter, more remote stretch of coast. Worth visiting if you’re exploring the area by motorbike.
- Tam Tien Fish Market – Best visited around sunrise. Very local, very early, and seasonal (active mostly in dry season).
- Ky Anh Tunnels – For those interested in war history. Only makes sense if you’re already seeing other nearby sights.
- Tam Hai Island – Combine as part of a coastal loop. More low-key island life and quiet beaches.
- Tam Ky Town – You’ll pass through it anyway. Has a local market and the Quang Nam Museum, but not essential unless you’re staying overnight.
Travel tips for Tam Thanh Beach
- Pack essentials: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. There’s very little shade and no shops nearby selling these items.
- No facilities: Don’t expect lockers, changing rooms, or rental services. It’s a raw, local beach — come prepared.
- Be respectful: This is a working fishing area and a local community space. Keep noise down, dress appropriately, and avoid littering.
- Manage expectations: There’s no tourist infrastructure here — and that’s exactly the appeal for those looking to escape the crowds.
