Best Beaches in Vietnam vs Thailand: A Comprehensive Coastal Comparison Guide

Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights and guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys. By Legend Travel Group.

A Tropical Paradise Showdown for Your Next Getaway

Southeast Asia’s coastal gems sparkle with turquoise waters, powdery sands, and vibrant local culture. Vietnam and Thailand, two neighboring powerhouses, boast world-class beaches that cater to every traveler—from serene escapes to lively party scenes. Whether you’re seeking the dramatic limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay in Vietnam or the iconic Phi Phi Islands in Thailand, this guide helps you decide where to unwind. Book your personalized Vietnam Tours or Thailand Tours with Legend Travel Group and enjoy peace of mind with just a 10% deposit—pay the rest up to 30 days before departure.

Legend Travel Group crafts immersive Vietnam Travel and Thailand Travel experiences, blending beach relaxation with cultural discoveries. This guide compares top beaches, activities, and insider tips to inspire your perfect coastal adventure.

Administrative Note

Beach visits in Vietnam and Thailand are visa-dependent based on nationality. Most travelers enjoy visa exemptions (up to 45 days in Vietnam, 60 days in Thailand). Beach entry is generally free, though island ferries cost $10–$50 (250,000–1,750,000 VND or 350–1,750 THB). Guided beach tours range from $30–$150 per person. Verify visa requirements and ferry schedules with Legend Travel Group for a seamless journey.

Vietnam’s Coastal Highlights

• Phu Quoc Island: Vietnam’s largest island features Long Beach with 20 km of white sand and calm waters ideal for sunset strolls. Starfish Beach dazzles with red starfish visible at low tide.

• Da Nang & My Khe Beach: Known as “China Beach,” this 30 km stretch offers soft sands, clear waters, and proximity to the Marble Mountains.

• Nha Trang: A lively bay with powdery beaches, water sports, and nearby Vinpearl Island amusement park.

• Con Dao Islands: Remote and pristine, Six Senses Con Dao offers untouched beaches and turtle hatching sites.

• Quy Nhon: Emerging gem with Ky Co Beach’s turquoise lagoons and coconut-lined shores.

Thailand’s Coastal Highlights

• Phuket & Patong Beach: Thailand’s largest island boasts vibrant nightlife, water sports, and the serene Kata Noi for families.

• Phi Phi Islands: Iconic Maya Bay (from The Beach movie) features dramatic cliffs and emerald waters.

• Krabi & Railay Beach: Accessible only by boat, surrounded by limestone karsts, perfect for rock climbing and kayaking.

• Koh Samui: Chaweng Beach offers lively vibes, while Lipa Noi provides tranquil sunsets.

• Koh Lanta: Laid-back island with Long Beach and eco-friendly bamboo bungalows.

Direct Comparison Table

Respecting Local Coastal Customs

Cultural respect enhances your beach experience. In Vietnam, greet locals with “xin chào” and cover up when leaving the beach for villages. In Thailand, offer a “sawasdee” with a wai and avoid pointing feet at Buddha statues near coastal temples. Remove shoes before entering beachside cafés or homestays in both countries. Legend Travel Group’s Vietnam Tours and Thailand Tours include local guides who ensure respectful interactions.

Tip: Use reusable beach bags and avoid single-use plastics to honor both nations’ coastal conservation efforts.

Legend Travel Group offers curated Vietnam Tours and Thailand Tours tailored for beach lovers. Book with just a 10% deposit and settle the balance up to 30 days before departure—stress-free planning guaranteed.

1. Vietnam Beach Discovery Tour

• Details: 5-day island-hopping from Phu Quoc to Nha Trang; includes snorkeling, sunset cruises, and seafood dinners.

• Schedule: Year-round; peak dry season for clearest waters.

• Cost: From $450/person (includes ferries, guides, and eco-lodges).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Carbon-offset flights and reef-safe sunscreen provided.

• Tip: Ideal for Vietnam Travel seekers craving serenity.

2. Thailand Island Escape Tour

• Details: 7-day journey from Phuket to Phi Phi and Krabi; features kayaking through sea caves and beach BBQs.

• Schedule: Year-round; best visibility during cool season.

• Cost: From $650/person (includes speedboats, guides, and sustainable resorts).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Supports coral restoration projects.

• Tip: Perfect for Thailand Travel adventurers.

3. Vietnam vs Thailand Dual-Country Beach Odyssey

• Details: 10-day combo starting in Da Nang, flying to Phuket, then island-hopping to Koh Samui; includes cultural stops in Hoi An and Bangkok.

• Schedule: Customizable; optimal during overlapping dry seasons.

• Cost: From $1,200/person (includes internal flights, ferries, and boutique stays).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Partners with local communities for beach clean-ups.

• Tip: The ultimate Vietnam Tours and Thailand Tours comparison experience.

4. Luxury Private Beach Retreat

• Details: Tailored 3–7 day escapes to Six Senses Con Dao (Vietnam) or Soneva Kiri (Thailand); private villas and spa treatments.

• Cost: From $2,000/person (all-inclusive).

• Tip: Exclusive Vietnam Travel or Thailand Travel for discerning guests.

• Flexible Payments: Only 10% deposit; balance due 30 days before departure.

• Expert Local Guides: Fluent in English, ensuring authentic cultural insights.

• Sustainable Practices: Eco-lodges, reef-safe activities, and community support.

• 24/7 Support: Dedicated team for seamless Vietnam Tours and Thailand Tours.

Vietnam’s central and southern coasts shine during the dry season, while Thailand’s Andaman side peaks in the cool season. Overlap periods offer the best of both worlds for dual-country trips.

• Modest swimwear cover-ups for cultural respect.

• Reef-safe sunscreen and reusable water bottles.

• Lightweight scarf for temple visits.

• Waterproof phone case for island hopping.

• Small THB/VND notes for local vendors.

• Budget: $30–$80/day (hostels, street food, local ferries).

• Mid-range: $80–$150/day (boutique stays, guided snorkeling).

• Luxury: $150–$500/day (private villas, yacht charters). Tip: Legend Travel Group packages include all essentials—focus on enjoying the sands.

• Book ferries in advance during peak seasons.

• Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral ecosystems.

• Learn basic phrases: “cảm ơn” (Vietnam) and “khob khun” (Thailand).

• Opt for early morning beach visits to avoid crowds.

• Support local fishermen with sustainable seafood dinners.

• Which has clearer water? Thailand’s Phi Phi often edges out with emerald hues; Vietnam’s Con Dao rivals for clarity.

• Best for families? Vietnam’s Phu Quoc (calm waters); Thailand’s Kata Noi (play areas).

• Best for nightlife? Thailand’s Patong; Vietnam’s Nha Trang.

• How to travel between countries? Fly Hanoi/Bangkok or Ho Chi Minh/Phuket; Legend Travel Group handles logistics.

• Are beaches free? Yes, though island access via ferry costs $10–$50.

Secure your slice of paradise with Legend Travel Group’s eco-conscious Vietnam Tours and Thailand Tours. Deposit just 10% today at legendtravelgroup.com and pay the rest up to 30 days before departure. Contact sales@legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp (+84825862222) to customize your coastal escape.

The best beaches in Vietnam vs Thailand offer diverse paradises—Vietnam for serene, emerging gems and Thailand for iconic, adventure-packed shores. Whether you choose the tranquil sands of Phu Quoc with Vietnam Travel or the dramatic cliffs of Railay with Thailand Travel, Legend Travel Group ensures a sustainable, stress-free journey. Book your Vietnam Tours or Thailand Tours today with only a 10% deposit and experience Southeast Asia’s coastal magic. By Legend Travel Group.