12 Most Beautiful Spots in Vietnam for Your Upcoming Summer Vacation

Taking a summer vacation in Vietnam is probably the best thing you will ever do. This Southeast Asian gem boasts mesmerizing destinations that shine during warmer months. From sun-drenched beaches to vibrant cities and misty mountains, Vietnam promises unforgettable wonders. In this article, we unveil the top 12 most beautiful spots in Vietnam for summer vacations. Get ready to be swept off your feet by natural scenery and cultural treasures.

Vietnam’s Weather In Summer

Summer in Vietnam, spanning from late April to late August, is a peak tourism season marked by public holidays and school vacations. The country’s diverse landscapes result in distinct weather patterns across its three main regions.

Northern Vietnam

In Northern Vietnam, the months of June and July bring soaring temperatures, averaging around 34°C during the day and 27°C at night.  However, be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms, often accompanied by heavy rains and flash floods.

Central Vietnam

Stretching from Da Nang south to Nha Trang, central Vietnam sees hot and humid summer weather with less rainfall than the north. Coastal cities average highs of 31-33°C accompanied by humidity over 80%. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, while inland areas see more sporadic rainfall. Da Lat in the Central Highlands enjoys a more temperate climate, typically ranging 23-28°C during the day, thanks to its elevation.

Southern Vietnam

The southernmost region has the hottest summer weather nationwide. Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta average highs of 33-35°C with stifling humidity near 90% daily. Coastal areas receive less rainfall than inland, but tropical downpours still occur on most afternoons. The wettest months are July to September when some southern towns experience over 300mm of rain.

Despite the hot and rainy weather, summer is still a worthwhile time to visit Vietnam. Fewer tourists mean unique experiences can be had, from visiting beaches in between downpours to exploring cultural sites without massive crowds. Local summer festivals also make for memorable experiences. With the right clothing and activities, travelers can enjoy learning about Vietnam during this distinctive wet season.

12 Most Beautiful Spots in Vietnam for Summer Vacations

Vietnam offers a diverse array of breathtaking destinations, from charming ancient towns to idyllic beaches and the lush Mekong Delta. These places truly come alive during the summer months. We have compiled a list of the 12 most amazing places in Vietnam, each offering incredible experiences for you, your friends, and family.

Sapa 

Spend your summer in Sapa to escape the sweltering heat

• Location: Northwest Vietnam

Nestled in Vietnam’s northwest mountains, Sapa is a picturesque town surrounded by terraced rice fields blanketing lush valleys in emerald hues. Vibrant hill tribe villages dot the surroundings, offering a glimpse into ethnic minority cultures. Its trekking trails wind through breathtaking landscapes of towering peaks and cascading waterfalls. 

The cool mountain climate provides the perfect respite for outdoor adventures like hiking and cultural encounters with friendly locals.

Our Suggestions For Your Summer

• Visit Hill Tribe Villages: Spend time learning about the traditional cultures and lifestyles of the ethnic minority groups like the H’mong, Dao, and Giay people who inhabit the Sapa region. You can visit their villages, see their handicrafts, and sometimes even stay overnight.
• Enjoy the Sapa Market: The main market in Sapa town is a lively place to wander, shop for local handicrafts and textiles, and observe the daily lives of the local people.
• See the Rice Terraces: The iconic terraced rice fields surrounding Sapa are stunning, especially when the rice is green in the summer months. Good spots to view them include Muong Hoa Valley, Ta Van Village, and Lao Chai Village.
• Relax at a Waterfall: Beat the summer heat by visiting one of the area’s beautiful waterfalls like Silver Waterfall, Thac Bac Waterfall, or Tien Sa Waterfall.
• Take the Cable Car to Fansipan Summit: For a less strenuous way to reach the top of Vietnam’s highest mountain, you can ride the Fansipan cable car up to the 3,143m summit.
• Trekking and Hiking: Sapa is renowned for its scenic hiking trails that wind through lush green mountains, rice terraces, and ethnic minority villages. Popular hikes include the trek to Fansipan (Vietnam’s tallest mountain), the Cat Cat Village trek, and the Muong Hoa Valley trek.

>> Read More: Best Sapa Trekking Routes That Will Show You The Charm of This Land

Halong Bay

A stunning attraction that invites thousands of travelers yearly

• Location: Northeast Vietnam

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Halong Bay is a natural wonder that stuns visitors with its emerald waters and towering limestone islands. These karst formations, draped in greenery, dominate the seascape, creating a jaw-dropping display of rock sculptures. 

Our Suggestions For Your Summer

• Cruise through the Limestone Karsts: Taking a boat cruise through the awe-inspiring limestone islands and emerald green waters of Halong Bay is the quintessential Halong Bay experience. Many cruise options are available, from day trips to multi-day excursions.
• Explore Caves and Grottoes: Halong Bay is home to numerous impressive caves and grottoes that you can visit by boat, including Sung Sot Cave, Thien Cung Cave, and Dau Go Cave.
• Visit Floating Villages: Spend time in the unique floating fishing villages of Halong Bay, like Cua Van and Vung Vieng, where you can interact with the locals and see their daily lives.
• Kayak or Paddleboard: Paddle through the tranquil waters and hidden lagoons of Halong Bay for a more intimate experience. Many cruise operators offer kayaking and paddleboarding excursions.
• Swim and Relax on the Beach: On some of the larger islands in Halong Bay, you can find nice beaches to swim, sunbathe, and simply relax. Titov Island and Soi Sim Island are popular beach spots.
• Hike to Viewpoints: Hiking trails on certain islands allow you to reach panoramic viewpoints over the bay, like the trails on Titov Island and Hang Trai Island.
• Visit Lan Ha Bay: This less-crowded neighboring bay to Halong Bay offers similar stunning karst scenery but with fewer crowds, making it a great alternative option.
• Enjoy Seafood Cuisine: Halong Bay is renowned for its fresh and delicious seafood, which you can enjoy at the floating restaurants or on your cruise.

>> Read More: Top 19 Best Cruises In Halong Bay For A Luxury Holiday

Cao Bang

Tucked away in Cao Bang province with natural wonders

• Location: Northeast Vietnam

Cao Bang is dominated by limestone karst mountains crisscrossed by rivers, with steep cliffs and outcroppings providing stunning vistas. This place is also home to many ethnic minority groups like the Tay, Nung and H’mong peoples. 

Cao Bang’s remote setting provides a welcome summer respite from the crowds found elsewhere in the country. Its unspoiled landscapes make it a true hiking paradise during the warmer months.

Our Suggestions For Your Summer

• Visit Ban Gioc Waterfall: This is the main attraction in Cao Bang. Ban Gioc Waterfall straddles the China-Vietnam border and is one of the widest waterfalls in Southeast Asia. It’s an impressive sight, especially during the summer when water levels are high.
• Explore Nguom Ngao Cave: This vast limestone cave system is filled with impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers. It’s one of the top cave destinations in Cao Bang.
• Hike to the Pac Bo Revolutionary Headquarters: This historic site was the headquarters of Ho Chi Minh and the Viet Minh during the First Indochina War. The scenic hiking trail takes you through beautiful mountain landscapes.
• Visit Phia Oac-Phia Den National Park: This national park contains lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and the highest mountain in Cao Bang, Phin Phin Peak. Popular activities include hiking, trekking, and birdwatching.
• Soak in Natural Hot Springs: The town of Trung Khanh is known for its natural hot springs, which are perfect for relaxing on a summer day.
• Explore the Border Region with China: The border area between Cao Bang and China’s Guangxi province offers scenic roads, remote villages, and the chance to visit the Ban Gioc Waterfall from the Chinese side.

Ninh Binh

The “Halong Bay on land” Ninh Binh

• Location: North-Central Vietnam

Ninh Binh awes visitors with its striking limestone karst formations that rise majestically from the surrounding landscape. 

Ninh Binh’s lush, verdant landscapes come alive during the summer months, offering a perfect escape from the heat by riverside camping or kayaking adventures. Its proximity to Hanoi makes it an ideal summer getaway.

Our Suggestions For Your Summer

• Explore Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex: This UNESCO World Heritage site features serene boat tours through limestone karst mountains, caves, and hidden waterways. It’s a must-do activity in Ninh Binh.
• Hike up Mua Caves Viewpoint: Climb the 500 steps up to the top of this limestone mountain for panoramic views over the Ninh Binh countryside.
• Discover Cuc Phuong National Park: This ancient primary forest is home to diverse wildlife, including endangered species like the Asian black bear and langur monkeys. Enjoy hiking, wildlife spotting, and visiting the primate rescue center.
• Take a Sampan Boat Ride on the Ngo Dong River: These traditional wooden boats glide silently through the dramatic river landscape, allowing you to admire the views.
• Visit the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Tour the ruins and temples of this 10th-century capital, which was the center of Vietnamese civilization before Hanoi.
• Relax at Kenh Ga Hot Springs: Soak in the natural mineral-rich hot springs located just outside of Ninh Binh City.

>> Read More: The Ultimate Guide For Ninh Binh Tour

Da Nang

Da Nang offers various exciting activities for your summer trip 

•  Location: Central Coast

Da Nang is a coastal city that offers sun-kissed beaches and cosmopolitan delights during the summer months. Summer’s clear skies and warm temperatures enhance the city’s charms, making it an ideal time to indulge in fresh seafood and lively beach clubs after dark. 

Da Nang serves as a convenient base for exploring central Vietnam’s other attractions during your summer vacation.

Our Suggestions For Your Summer

• Relax on the Beaches: Da Nang is home to some of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches, like My Khe Beach and Danang Beach. Spend a day soaking up the sun, swimming in the ocean, and enjoying beach activities.
• Explore the Marble Mountains: This cluster of five marble and limestone hills offers caves, pagodas, and great views over Da Nang. Hike up the stairs to the top for panoramic vistas.
• Visit the Linh Ung Pagoda: This impressive Buddhist temple complex features a massive 67m-tall Lady Buddha statue overlooking the ocean.
• Take a tour to Ba Na Hills: Ride the world’s longest non-stop single-track cable car up to the top of Ba Ha Hills, where you can explore the French-inspired architecture, gardens, and mountain scenery.
• Stroll along the Han River Promenade: This scenic riverfront area is great for walking, cycling, and admiring the city skyline, especially at night when the bridges are lit up.
• Check out the Son Tra Peninsula: This lush, mountainous peninsula just outside of Da Nang is home to beautiful beaches, the Linh Ung Pagoda, and the endangered red-shanked douc langur monkeys.
• Enjoy the Cuisine: Da Nang is known for its delicious local seafood dishes, like cau lau noodles and banh mi sandwiches. Explore the city’s street food scene and restaurants.

>> Read More: 15 Da Nang Tourist Attractions That Will Make You Fall In Love With This City

Hoi An

The peaceful vibes in tranquil Hoi An

• Location: Central Coast

Hoi An is a charming ancient town that beautifully preserves its rich cultural heritage. Summer brings festivals and vibrant markets to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it an ideal time to immerse yourself in Hoi An’s captivating atmosphere and traditions.

Our Suggestions For Your Summer

• Explore the Historic Old Town: Stroll through the charming, well-preserved streets of Hoi An Ancient Town, filled with old merchant houses, temples, and traditional architecture.
• Go Beach Hopping: Hoi An is situated near several beautiful beaches, including An Bang Beach, Cua Dai Beach, and Hidden Beach. Spend a day swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the coastal scenery.
• Take a Cooking Class: Hoi An is renowned for its distinctive local cuisine. Sign up for a cooking class to learn how to prepare classic Vietnamese dishes like banh mi, cao lau noodles, and more.
• Ride a Bicycle Around the Countryside: Rent a bike and cycle through the rice fields, past water buffalo, and through charming rural villages surrounding Hoi An.
• Cruise the Thu Bon River: Take a boat tour along the Thu Bon River to see the riverside landscape and visit islands like Cam Kim where traditional handicrafts are produced.
• Visit the Lantern Workshop: Watch skilled artisans create the famous silk lanterns that are a signature of Hoi An. You can even try your hand at making your own lantern.
• Admire the Japanese Covered Bridge: This iconic 400-year-old bridge, with its beautiful pagoda roof, is one of Hoi An’s most famous landmarks.
• Attend a Lantern Festival: During the full moon, the Hoi An Ancient Town comes alive with glowing lanterns floating on the river and decorating the streets.

>> Read More: Essential Things To Do In Hoi An Of Vietnam

Da Lat

Enjoy the cooler mountain climate at Da Lat

• Location: Central Highlands

Situated in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, Da Lat is a cool summer retreat that provides an escape from the humidity that blankets much of the country. 

Explore pine forests, serene waterfalls, and the city’s French colonial architecture that adds to its charm. Summer festivals celebrating wine and flowers bring vibrant cultural flair to the streets. Outdoor adventures like hiking, camping, and mountain biking await in Da Lat’s refreshingly mild climate, making it a perfect destination for those seeking an active yet comfortable summer getaway.

Our Suggestions For Your Summer

• Explore the Valley of Love: This scenic valley is filled with flower gardens, lakes, and photo-worthy landscapes, making it a popular spot for couples and honeymooners.
• Visit Datanla Waterfalls: These cascading waterfalls just outside of Da Lat offer opportunities for hiking, biking, and even an alpine coaster ride.
• Ride the Roller Coaster at Crazy House: This whimsical, architecturally unique guesthouse and attraction features a bizarre, fairytale-like design with twisting, organic shapes.
• See the Tuyen Lam Lake: Surrounded by pine forests, this serene lake is a great place for boating, cycling, or just relaxing and taking in the mountain scenery.
• Wander the Dalat Flower Gardens: Da Lat is known as the “City of Eternal Spring” and its flower gardens are in full bloom during the summer.
• Visit the Linh Phuoc Pagoda: This ornate Buddhist temple complex features intricate mosaics and sculptures created from recycled materials.
• Explore the Ladalat Silk Factory: Learn about the silk-making process and browse the handcrafted silk products at this local factory.
• Take a Cable Car to the Top of Lang Biang Mountain: Ride the cable car up to the summit for panoramic views over Da Lat and the surrounding highlands.
• Go Strawberry Picking: Da Lat is famous for its juicy, sweet strawberries, and many farms allow visitors to pick their own during the summer.

Nha Trang

Nha Trang’s idyllic summer weather makes it a perfect beach getaway

• Location: South-Central Coast

Nha Trang is a vibrant coastal city renowned for its stunning beaches and turquoise waters. Boasting over 20km of golden sandy beaches fronting the East Sea, tourists can find multiple beach options, including popular stretches like Dam Beach. There are lively night markets, bars and restaurants serving local seafood and providing scenic night views.

Our Suggestions For Your Summer

• Relax on the Beaches: Nha Trang is renowned for its beautiful, crescent-shaped beach with soft white sand and clear turquoise waters – perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
• Explore the Islands: Take a boat tour to nearby islands like Mieu Island, Tam Island, and Hon Mun Island to snorkel, scuba dive, and discover secluded beaches.
• Visit Vinpearl Land: This massive resort complex features an amusement park, water park, aquarium, and cable car over the ocean – a full day of family-friendly fun.
• Immerse Yourself in Vietnamese Culture: Tour historic sites like the Po Nagar Cham Towers, Long Son Pagoda, and the Nha Trang Cathedral.
• Go Scuba Diving or Snorkeling: Nha Trang is considered one of the best places in Vietnam for diving and snorkeling, with vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
• Check Out the Mud Baths: Soak in the therapeutic mineral-rich mud baths at sites like Thap Ba Hot Springs.

Phan Thiet

Phan Thiet is a laid-back beach town that offers a tranquil summer escape

• Location: South-Central Coast

Phan Thiet, located in Binh Thuan Province along Vietnam’s south-central coast, might take around 4 hours from Ho Chi Minh City by road. The area has a history dating back to the Champa kingdom but grew as a seaside resort town in the early 20th century. It retains some colonial influences today.

This is an ideal summer vacation destination with its beautiful beaches, towering sand dunes, and laid-back atmosphere.

Our Suggestions For Your Summer

• Explore the Sand Dunes: Phan Thiet is famous for its vast, golden sand dunes, including the iconic Mui Ne Sand Dunes. Go sandboarding, dune buggy riding, or just wander the dunes.
• Relax on the Beaches: Phan Thiet has several beautiful beaches, including the long, scenic Mui Ne Beach, which is great for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
• Visit the Fishing Village: Take a boat tour of the Mui Ne fishing village to see the traditional way of life and watch the fishermen at work.
• Kitesurfing and Windsurfing: The consistent winds make Phan Thiet a prime destination for kitesurfing and windsurfing, with several schools offering lessons and rentals.
• See the Fairy Stream: This unique natural stream winds its way through colorful limestone caves and red and white sand formations.
• Check Out the Cham Towers: Explore the ancient Cham ruins and towers, which offer insight into the area’s cultural heritage.

Mekong Delta

This verdant region offers a unique summer experience

• Location: Southwest Vietnam

Spanning an area of over 15,000 square miles, the Mekong Delta is a maze of rivers, canals, and rice paddies dotted with floating markets, ancient pagodas, and riverside towns. Visitors can explore the delta by boat, visiting floating markets to browse the colorful wares and sample fresh tropical fruits. The region’s warm, humid climate and ample sunshine make it perfect for swimming, kayaking, and other water-based activities.

Beyond the river, the delta also offers opportunities to hike through mangrove forests, visit traditional villages, and sample delicious regional cuisine. With its unique culture, stunning natural beauty, and abundance of activities, the Mekong Delta is an increasingly popular summer vacation spot for both domestic and international travelers.

Our Suggestions For Your Summer

• Take a Mekong River Cruise: Explore the winding waterways, floating markets, and rural river communities by boat. Popular departure points include Can Tho and Chau Doc.
• Visit the Floating Markets: Experience the lively, vibrant floating markets like the famous Cai Rang Floating Market near Can Tho, where vendors sell fresh produce, street food, and handicrafts from their boats.
• Bicycle Through the Countryside: Rent a bike and cycle through the lush, verdant landscape, passing by rice paddies, fruit orchards, and local villages.
• Sample Tropical Fruits: The Mekong Delta is renowned for its abundance of tropical fruits like rambutan, dragon fruit, mangoes, and lychee – stop by local farms and markets to try them.
• Visit a Bee Farm: See how beekeepers in the Mekong Delta harvest honey and learn about traditional beekeeping practices.
• Hike in the Tra Su Cajuput Forest: This tranquil, ecologically rich wetland forest is home to diverse birdlife and beautiful scenery.

Quy Nhon

Visitors can find a refreshing summer getaway in Quy Nhon

• Location: South-Central Coast

Quy Nhon City is emerging as a premier summer vacation destination. Blessed with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a balmy tropical climate, it offers the perfect setting for a relaxing seaside getaway.

The city’s long, crescent-shaped beach is lined with swaying palm trees and modern resorts, providing ample opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Beyond the coast, Quy Nhon is home to a number of historical and cultural attractions, including ancient Cham ruins, ornate pagodas, and bustling local markets. 

Quy Nhon’s charming blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions makes it a hidden gem worth discovering.

Our Suggestions For Your Summer

• Relax on the Beaches: Quy Nhon is home to several beautiful, uncrowded beaches like Ky Co Beach, Bai Xep Beach, and Eo Gio Beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach walks.
• Explore Nhon Hai Fishing Village: Visit this traditional fishing village to see the daily life of local fishermen and try fresh, delicious seafood.
• Hike Ghenh Rang Cliffs: Take in panoramic views over the turquoise waters and rocky coastal landscape along the Ghenh Rang cliffside trail.
• Visit Thap Doi Cham Towers: Admire the ancient Cham ruins and architectural remains at this important historical site.
• Discover Eo Gio Bay: This stunning bay, known as the “tunnel of wind,” features dramatic rock formations, beaches, and hiking trails.
• Soak in Hot Springs: Relax and unwind at the Thi Nai Hot Springs, which are believed to have therapeutic healing properties.
• Visit the Mang Den Ecotourism Area: Hike through the lush forests and waterfalls of this scenic, ecologically rich region just outside of Quy Nhon.

Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc, a tropical paradise waiting to be discovered

• Location: Southwest Vietnam (island)

Renowned for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and lush tropical landscapes, Phu Quoc offers visitors a true tropical island paradise. The island’s long stretches of soft, white sand are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beach strolls, while inland travelers can explore dense jungle interiors, tour pearl farms, and visit centuries-old fishing villages.

Phu Quoc also boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with ample opportunities to savor fresh seafood, local delicacies, and world-famous fish sauce. Beyond the beach, the island is home to several national parks and protected areas that are perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife encounters.

Summer is the perfect time to embrace Phu Quoc’s laid-back island vibe.

Our Suggestions For Your Summer

• Relax on the Beaches: Some of the most popular beaches include Long Beach, Ong Lang Beach, and Ream Beach. Spend your days swimming in the turquoise waters, sunbathing, and enjoying the island’s laid-back coastal vibe.
• Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: The waters surrounding Phu Quoc are teeming with vibrant marine life, making it an excellent destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Take a boat trip to the nearby islands and dive sites to see colorful coral reefs and schools of tropical fish, and perhaps even encounter some larger marine animals like turtles or stingrays.
• Explore the Phu Quoc National Park: This protected national park covers almost half of the island. It’s home to diverse flora and fauna, including monkeys, pythons, and over 200 bird species. You can hike through dense jungle trails, visit the Phu Quoc Bee Farm, and witness bioluminescent plankton in the park’s rivers and streams at night.
• Visit the Pearl Farms: Phu Quoc is known for its high-quality pearls, and visitors can tour the island’s pearl farms to learn about the pearl cultivation process and even purchase some locally-produced jewelry and souvenirs.
• Enjoy Water Sports: With warm, calm waters, Phu Quoc is an excellent destination for a variety of water sports, including kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, water skiing, and jet skiing.
• Catch the Sunset: Phu Quoc is an ideal spot to watch the sun dip below the horizon. Head to one of the island’s many beaches or rooftop bars to witness the stunning, colorful displays.
• Relax at a Spa: After a day of adventure, unwind at one of Phu Quoc’s luxurious spas, offering treatments like massages, facials, and body scrubs using natural, local ingredients.

>> Read More: The Ultimate Phu Quoc Travel Guide

Vietnam – Your Ideal Destination for Summer Vacation

The most beautiful spots in Vietnam for a summer vacation are listed above. However, Vietnam has many other incredible destinations that will guarantee you an unforgettable experience, even if you are not going to these places.

From the misty mountains of Sapa to the sun-drenched beaches of Nha Trang and the meandering waterways of the Mekong Delta, this captivating country offers a kaleidoscope of natural wonders and cultural riches. Immerse yourself in the vibrant hill tribe cultures, cruise through ethereal seascapes dotted with limestone karsts, or lose yourself in the ancient charm of Hoi An. 

With its balmy summer weather and a plethora of outdoor adventures, cultural encounters, and culinary delights to savor, Vietnam truly shines as a top-tier destination for an exhilarating summer escape. 

Elevate your summer with Asia Pioneer Travel’s curated Vietnam vacations. Through our exceptional expertise, our committed travel designers will unveil the most awe-inspiring wonders of Southeast Asia and create a bespoke itinerary for you. Please do not hesitate to Tell Us Your Wish and open your mind and senses to new experiences in Vietnam.