Surfing in Vietnam
Including Back Beach (Bai Sau), Hon Chong, and Mui Ne. On the map.
The vibe
Riding the waves here feels like tapping into an easygoing regional circuit where empty breaks and friendly local crews define the daily routine. The northeast monsoon months bring the most dependable swell and offshore winds to the central coasts. The vibe is decidedly DIY and unpretentious, requiring you to rent boards from casual beach shacks and figure out the peaks on your own.
Back Beach (Bai Sau), Vung Tau
Ho Chi Minh City
Prenn / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
The primary surf destination for travelers from Ho Chi Minh City, offering a long stretch of sandy beach break. The waves are generally friendly and ideal for those learning to surf or practicing turns.
Access. Accessible by a two-hour drive or ferry from Ho Chi Minh City; multiple surf schools provide board rentals and lessons on the sand.
Notes. Best conditions occur during the winter months when the swell is more consistent.
Hon Chong, Nha Trang
Khánh Hòa Province
Vinhtantran / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
This spot offers a unique point-break style wave near the iconic rock formations of Nha Trang. It is favored by local and visiting surfers looking for a more technical ride compared to the city's beach breaks.
Access. Easily accessible by scooter or taxi from central Nha Trang; surf rentals are available through local surf clubs in the city.
Notes. Crowds can be an issue on weekends; watch for submerged rocks at low tide.
Mui Ne, Binh Thuan
Lâm Đồng Province
zabaluev / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Mui Ne is the premier destination for wind-powered sports in Vietnam, featuring consistent cross-onshore winds throughout the season. The wide sandy beach and reliable thermal winds make it a world-class hub for both kiteboarding and wingfoiling.
Access. Accessible by bus or private car from Ho Chi Minh City; numerous kite schools and rental shops line the main strip.
Notes. Best wind season is from November to April; watch for heavy shore break during high tide.
My Khe, Da Nang
An Hải Ward
Mustang Joe / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)
Known as 'China Beach' historically, My Khe offers a long stretch of sand with consistent, mellow beach breaks perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers. It is the most accessible surf spot in central Vietnam with a growing local surf community.
Access. Located within Da Nang city limits, easily reached by taxi or motorbike; several surf schools provide board rentals directly on the sand.
Notes. Best surf season is from September to March when the northeast monsoon brings consistent swells.
Quy Nhon Beach
Gia Lai Province
Khanh Mac / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
An emerging destination for wind-sports, Quy Nhon offers wide, open bays that are increasingly popular for kiteboarding and wingfoiling. The reliable coastal winds provide excellent conditions for intermediate riders.
Access. Accessible via flight to Phu Cat Airport; kite schools and rental centers are beginning to establish a presence along the main beach strip.
Notes. Best wind season is typically from spring through early summer.