Quy Nhon Travel Guide 2026: Beaches Without the Crowds
Complete guide to Quy Nhon, Vietnam's under-the-radar beach town. Discover Cham ruins, quiet beaches, local seafood, and an authentic coastal Vietnam experience.
Quy Nhon Travel Guide 2026: Beaches Without the Crowds
Quy Nhon is what Nha Trang was 20 years ago - a working Vietnamese coastal city with good beaches, excellent seafood, and minimal tourism infrastructure. It's not undiscovered, but it remains refreshingly undeveloped compared to Vietnam's major beach destinations.
Located on the south-central coast, Quy Nhon attracts travelers seeking authenticity over amenities. The beaches are clean, the seafood is fresh and cheap, and you'll be one of few Western tourists. Add nearby Cham ruins and you have a compelling detour.
Quick Facts
- →Location: Binh Dinh Province, South-Central Coast
- →Coordinates: 13.7829°N, 109.2196°E
- →Region: Central Vietnam
- →Best Time to Visit: January to August (dry season)
- →Rainy Season: September to December
- →From Ho Chi Minh City: 650km / 1.5 hours by flight or 12 hours by train
- →From Da Nang: 300km / 5-6 hours by train
Top Attractions
▸Quy Nhon Beach
The main city beach - a crescent of sand along the promenade. Clean, calm, and used by locals rather than tourists. Early morning and sunset are best.
▸Ky Co Beach
The most beautiful beach near Quy Nhon - turquoise water, white sand, limestone backdrop. 25km from the city, accessible by boat or rough road.
- →Boat trip: $15-25 including Eo Gio
- →By road: Motorbike/car + $3 entry
▸Banh It Cham Towers
Four brick towers from the 11th-12th century Champa kingdom. Less famous than My Son but equally atmospheric and far less crowded.
- →Entry: $1
- →Distance: 20km from Quy Nhon
▸Eo Gio (Windy Pass)
Dramatic coastal cliffs and rock formations. Usually combined with Ky Co on day trips. The scenery rivals better-known spots.
Where to Stay
Quy Nhon has limited but growing hotel options.
Budget: $15-25/night - Basic beachfront hotels Mid-range: $40-80 - AVANI Quy Nhon, Casa Marina Luxury: Limited options - this isn't a resort destination yet
Food
Banh Xeo Quy Nhon: Local version of crispy pancakes - smaller and crispier. $1-2
Seafood: Fresh and cheap from the fishing harbor. Grilled squid, fish, and shellfish. $8-15 for a feast.
Bun Ca: Fish noodle soup - a local breakfast specialty. $1.50
Getting There
By Air: Phu Cat Airport is 30km from the city. Flights from HCMC and Hanoi. $50-100
By Train: Dieu Tri station is 10km from town. Scenic coastal route from Da Nang (5-6 hours) or HCMC (12 hours).
Practical Tips
- →Rent a motorbike to reach Ky Co and the towers independently
- →Book accommodation in advance during Vietnamese holidays
- →English is limited - basic Vietnamese phrases help
- →Best combined with Hoi An / Da Nang on a coastal route
▸Nearby Destinations
| Destination | Distance | Travel Time | Direction | |-------------|----------|-------------|----------| | Nha Trang | 220km | 4 hours | South | | Hoi An | 300km | 5-6 hours | North | | Da Nang | 300km | 5-6 hours | North |
FAQ
Is Quy Nhon worth visiting?
Yes, if you want authentic Vietnam without tourist infrastructure. Beautiful beaches, great seafood, and Cham ruins. Skip if you need resort amenities or nightlife.
Quy Nhon vs Nha Trang?
Quy Nhon: Quieter, more local, better value. Nha Trang: More developed, better nightlife, more activities. Choose based on what you want.