Đồ Sơn Beach: Your Ultimate Guide to Hai Phong’s Getaway

If you’re mapping out a trip to northern Vietnam, chances are Hai Phong is on your list. I love the energy of the port city, and while you’re in the area, there are many other great sights to see. We have a full guide on all the best things to do in Hai Phong. But have you thought about where to go to escape the city buzz for a bit? Let me introduce you to Đồ Sơn Beach.

Đồ Sơn offers a really interesting mix of things. You get the classic beach relaxation and beautiful scenery, but there’s also a deep layer of culture and history here. Vietnam is blessed with a stunning coastline, and if you’d like to explore more, check out our guide to the best beaches in Vietnam.

Đồ Sơn was a well-known resort destination in the early 20th century, which gives it a certain charm you don’t find everywhere. It’s the kind of place you can visit for a simple swim or a deeper dive into local life.

An Overview of Đồ Sơn Beach

Location & How to Get There

First up, where exactly is it? Đồ Sơn Beach is located in the Đồ Sơn district of Hai Phong. It sits on a small peninsula that juts out into the sea. It’s about 22 kilometers southeast of Hai Phong’s city center, making it a very manageable trip.

Getting there from Hanoi is pretty straightforward. You have a few good options depending on your travel style. Have you ever taken the train in Vietnam? It’s one of my favorite ways to see the countryside.

• By Car/Motorbike: The drive is about two hours via the modern Hanoi – Hai Phong Expressway. Having your own vehicle offers great flexibility for exploring.
  
• By Bus: This is a budget-friendly choice, taking about three hours from Hanoi to Hai Phong city. From there, a short local bus or taxi ride will get you to the beach.
  
• By Train: A scenic 2.5 to 3-hour trip from Hanoi to Hai Phong Station. You’ll see the countryside transform. Finish the journey with a quick taxi or local bus.

Best Time to Visit Đồ Sơn Beach

Timing your visit can shape your whole experience. Đồ Sơn has a couple of ideal seasons, depending on what you’re looking for.

• April to October: This is the peak summer season, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The weather is sunny and warm, creating a lively, fun atmosphere.
  
• Beginning of the Year: If you visit during the spring, you’ll find a different kind of energy. The weather is pleasant, and the area is buzzing with local festivals. This is a fantastic time to see local traditions up close.

Top Things to Do at Đồ Sơn Beach

Once you’ve arrived, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy. Whether you want to relax, get active, or just eat well, Đồ Sơn has you covered.

Swimming and Sunbathing

The main draw for many visitors is, of course, the beach itself. Đồ Sơn is divided into a few different zones, and for the best sand and water, you’ll want to head to Zone 2. This area features a long stretch of sandy beach with the calmest waters, making it the perfect spot for a swim.

You can rent a beach chair and umbrella for the day and just relax with a good book. The vibe here is very laid-back. It’s a great place to people-watch and soak up the sun. I’ve spent many afternoons just enjoying the sea breeze here.

Engaging in Water Sports

If you’re feeling more adventurous, there are opportunities for water sports. You can often find vendors offering activities like jet skiing or kayaking, especially during the peak season.

Getting out on the water gives you a completely different perspective of the coastline. It’s a fun way to break up a day of lounging on the sand.

Enjoying Fresh, Local Seafood

You can’t come to a Vietnamese beach town and not eat seafood. Đồ Sơn has a reputation for some of the freshest seafood around. There are numerous restaurants and food stalls lining the beachfront, especially near Zone 1.

I always make it a point to try the catch of the day. You can get everything from grilled squid to steamed clams, all prepared with local flavors. Have you ever had seafood that was caught just hours before you ate it? It’s an incredible experience.

Đồ Sơn Buffalo Fighting Festival

This is something truly special and unique to the region. The Đồ Sơn Buffalo Fighting Festival is a historic event that is deeply woven into the local culture. It’s even recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage.

The festival represents the martial spirit of the local people and is connected to the worship of the Water God. It’s held every year on the 9th day of the 8th lunar month. If your trip aligns with this date, you are in for a memorable cultural experience.

Nearby Attractions

Beyond the main beach, the Đồ Sơn peninsula is home to several historical and natural sites that are well worth a visit. Renting a motorbike for a day is a great way to see these places at your own pace.

Bảo Đại Villa

This was the summer palace of Vietnam’s last emperor, Bảo Đại. The villa is perched on a hilltop, offering great views of the surrounding area. The architecture has a distinct French influence, which tells a story of a different era.

Walking through the rooms gives you a glimpse into the life of Vietnamese royalty. It’s a quiet and fascinating spot that provides a nice contrast to the busy beach below.

Tường Long Tower

For one of the best views in Đồ Sơn, head to Tường Long Tower. This reconstructed Vietnam’s pagoda sits on top of Ngọc Sơn mountain. In the past, the original tower dates back to the Lý Dynasty, so it has a long and important history.

The climb up is worth it for the panoramic views of the entire peninsula and the sea. It’s a peaceful place, perfect for a bit of reflection. I recommend going in the late afternoon to watch the light change over the landscape.

K15 Pier (The Pier of No-Number Ship)

This site holds a significant place in modern Vietnamese history. The K15 Pier is a national monument that marks the starting point of the historic “Hồ Chí Minh Trail at Sea” from the Vietnam War.

It was from this spot that secret, numberless ships departed with supplies for the north. It’s a simple, solemn place that carries a powerful story of resilience and determination.

Hòn Dáu Island

Just a short boat ride from the mainland is Hòn Dáu Island. This small island is a world away from the busy beach. It is known for its untouched nature and tranquil atmosphere.

The island is covered in a lush, ancient forest, and you can hike on trails that wind through the trees. The main attraction is a historic lighthouse. The quiet beauty of places like this makes Vietnam a wonderful destination for couples. If you’re planning a romantic getaway, our Honeymoon Bliss in Vietnam 16 days tour might be the perfect fit.

A Destination with Depth

Đồ Sơn Beach is a wonderful place that offers something for many kinds of travelers. You can come for a simple seaside holiday filled with sun and good food. Or you can dig a little deeper to find a place rich with cultural traditions and important historical landmarks. Every traveler has their own unique style and interests. If this guide has inspired you, we can help you build the perfect itinerary with our Personalized Your Trip option.

Its combination of leisure and history makes it a really compelling stop for anyone traveling in northern Vietnam. I hope you’ll consider adding it to your itinerary.

FAQs about Đồ Sơn Beach