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Go surfing in Vietnam: Top 10 must-try places

Go surfing in Vietnam: Top 10 must-try places

Vietnam conjures images of bustling cities, steaming bowls of pho, and ancient temples. But for the adventurous soul, a different kind of thrill awaits. Forget the tourist traps, because Vietnam boasts a hidden gem – a surfer’s paradise! This coastline unveils a world of crashing waves, pristine beaches, and a burgeoning surf scene. Whether you’re a seasoned wave rider or a curious beginner, Vietnam offers something for everyone. So, ditch the guidebooks and grab your board. We’re diving into the top 10 must-try places to go surfing in Vietnam, ready to unleash your inner surfer and experience the untamed beauty of this Southeast Asian gem.

Mui Ne, Phan Thiet (South Central Coast):

  • Highlights: Perfect for beginners, relaxed beach town with budget-friendly options, beautiful red sand dunes, reliable waves.
  • Lowlights: Can be crowded during peak season, limited nightlife compared to other destinations.
  • Price Range: Budget-friendly. Surf lessons start around $20 USD per person, and surfboard rentals start around $5 USD per day.
  • Providers: Numerous surf schools and camps are available in Mui Ne. Reputable options include Surf Nam Hai, Mui Ne Surf School, and Prana Surf School.
  • Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate. Long Beach offers gentle waves perfect for learning, while more experienced surfers can find challenges at Secret Spot.
  • Season: September to March (dry season). However, even during the dry season, Mui Ne can still get occasional waves.
  • Vibe: Relaxed beach town with a backpacker atmosphere. Plenty of cafes, restaurants, and budget-friendly accommodation options.

Nha Trang (South Central Coast):

  • Highlights: Diverse surf breaks for all skill levels, beautiful beaches, vibrant town with plenty of activities and nightlife.
  • Lowlights: Can be crowded and touristy, especially during peak season. Traffic can be congested in the city center.
  • Price Range: Moderate. Surf lessons start around $25 USD per person, and surfboard rentals start around $7 USD per day.
  • Providers: Many surf schools and camps cater to tourists in Nha Trang. Reputable options include Lele Surfing School, Nha Trang Surf Club, and Viet Windsurf.
  • Skill Level: All Levels. Doc Let Beach offers gentle waves for beginners, while Hon Tre Island boasts challenging breaks for experienced surfers.
  • Season: March to September (wet season). The waves are bigger and more consistent during the wet season.
  • Vibe: Bustling beach town with a mix of local Vietnamese and international tourists. Offers a variety of restaurants, bars, and nightlife options.

Quy Nhon (South Central Coast):

  • Highlights: Up-and-coming surf destination with uncrowded beaches, powerful waves for experienced surfers, beautiful scenery, laid-back atmosphere.
  • Lowlights: Limited amenities and surf schools compared to other destinations. Not ideal for beginners due to the challenging waves.
  • Price Range: Budget-friendly. Surf lessons and surfboard rentals are generally cheaper than Nha Trang or Da Nang.
  • Providers: Surf options are limited in Quy Nhon, but a few operators cater to experienced surfers. One option is Quy Nhon Surf Club.
  • Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced. The waves in Quy Nhon are powerful and consistent, making them ideal for experienced surfers.
  • Season: March to September (wet season). Similar to other central Vietnamese destinations, the wet season offers the best waves.
  • Vibe: Relaxed and undeveloped. Quy Nhon is a great escape from the crowds of other surf spots in Vietnam. Accommodation options are limited but growing.
  1. Da Nang (South Central Coast):
Da Nang (South Central Coast)
Da Nang (South Central Coast)
  • Highlights: Diverse surf breaks for all skill levels, beautiful beaches, major city with plenty of attractions and activities, convenient transportation hub.
  • Lowlights: Beaches can get crowded, especially during peak season. Some areas can be under development.
  • Price Range: Moderate. Surf lessons start around $25 USD per person, and surfboard rentals start around $7 USD per day.
  • Providers: Da Nang has a good selection of surf schools and camps. Reputable options include Danang Surf Center, P’Sea Surf House, and Viet Surfing.
  • Skill Level: All Levels. My Khe Beach offers beginner-friendly waves, China Beach is ideal for intermediate surfers, and Non Nuoc Beach caters to experienced surfers.
  • Season: March to September (wet season). The wet season offers the most consistent waves.
  • Vibe: Da Nang is a major city with a mix of Vietnamese locals and international tourists. It offers a variety of restaurants, bars, shops, and cultural attractions.

Go surfing at Hoi An (South Central Coast):

  • Highlights: Charming UNESCO World Heritage town with beautiful architecture, tailors, restaurants, and cultural attractions, surfing opportunities (with caution).
  • Lowlights: Waves can be inconsistent and challenging due to the Thu Bon River emptying nearby. Not ideal for beginners and requires some surfing experience.
  • Price Range: Moderate. Limited surf schools and rentals compared to other destinations, so prices may be slightly higher.
  • Providers: Only a few operators offer surf lessons and rentals in Hoi An. One option is Hoi An Surf Club.
  • Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate (with caution). Due to the inconsistent waves and potential for currents, only experienced surfers comfortable with crowded conditions should attempt surfing here.
  • Season: March to September (wet season). The waves are generally bigger during the wet season, but still less consistent than other spots.
  • Vibe: Hoi An is a charming town with a unique atmosphere. Explore the historic center, visit tailor shops, and enjoy delicious Vietnamese cuisine. Surfing here is more of a secondary activity for experienced surfers looking for a cultural experience.

Moving further north, here are some additional options for experienced surfers who enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations:

Go surfing at Ha Tien (South Vietnam):

  • Known for big waves and a remote location near the Cambodian border. Not suitable for beginners.
  • Limited amenities and surf infrastructure.
  • Ideal for experienced surfers seeking adventure and uncrowded breaks.

Go surfing at Con Dao Islands (Off the coast of Southern Vietnam):

  • Offers challenging waves and stunning island scenery.
  • Limited surf options and difficult to reach.
  • Ideal for experienced surfers seeking a unique island getaway.

Go surfing at Lang Co (Central Vietnam):

  • An emerging surf destination with potential for development.
  • Powerful waves for experienced surfers.
  • Limited amenities and access.
  • Ideal for adventurous surfers seeking a pioneering experience.

Go surfing at Vung Tau (South Vietnam):

  • Offers some surfable waves, but not as consistent or powerful as other spots.
  • More of a beach town with other water activities like kitesurfing.
  • Can be a good option for surfers looking for a relaxed beach vibe.

Go surfing at Cat Ba Island (North Vietnam):

  • Not a traditional surfing destination, but occasional waves can be found.
  • More suitable for stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking due to calmer waters.
  • Beautiful island scenery with plenty of outdoor activities.

Remember, these are just some of the many spots to go surfing in Vietnam. With its growing surf scene and diverse coastline, Vietnam offers something for surfers of all levels. Do your research, choose the spot that aligns with your skill and preferences, and be prepared for an unforgettable Vietnamese surfing adventure!

See also: A Bite of Fruit in Vietnam: Seasonal Fruits Throughout the Year

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