Quy Nhon Travel Guide: Explore Vietnam’s Underrated Beach Paradise

If you’re seeking a quieter, more authentic coastal escape in Vietnam—without the crowds of Da Nang or Nha Trang—then Quy Nhon is your perfect destination.
 

Nestled along the south-central coast, Quy Nhon is a charming port city with turquoise beaches, Cham-era temples, dramatic cliffs, and a thriving fishing culture. As a professional tour guide, I often recommend Quy Nhon to travelers who want a truly off-the-beaten-path experience in Vietnam.

In this ultimate guide, you’ll discover all the best attractions, local dishes, beaches, and travel tips for an unforgettable Quy Nhon journey.

📍 Where Is Quy Nhon?

Location: Binh Dinh Province, South Central Vietnam

Distance from Da Nang: ~300 km south

Distance from Ho Chi Minh City: ~650 km north

Getting There: Domestic flights, trains, or buses

Quy Nhon is framed by the ocean to the east and lush mountains inland, offering a blend of beachside bliss and cultural exploration.

🌟 Why Visit Quy Nhon?

✅ Underrated, less touristy beaches
✅ Cham temples and centuries-old ruins
✅ Friendly locals and strong fishing traditions
✅ Inexpensive, authentic seafood and local dishes
✅ Breathtaking coastal landscapes and islands

🗺️ How to Get to Quy Nhon

✈️ By Plane

Fly into Phu Cat Airport (UIH), ~30 km from the city

Direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang

🚆 By Train

The Reunification Express stops at Dieu Tri Station, ~10 km from Quy Nhon

Scenic but slower; ideal for budget travelers

🚌 By Bus

Sleeper buses available from most major cities

Comfortable options from HCMC, Da Nang, and Nha Trang

🏖️ Top Attractions in Quy Nhon

1. Ky Co Beach

Often called the “Maldives of Vietnam”

Turquoise waters, white sand, and dramatic cliffs

Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or drone photography

Accessible via boat or motorbike + short walk

2. Eo Gio (Wind Strait)

Rugged coastline with stunning ocean views

Wooden walkways hugging the cliffs

Amazing at sunrise or golden hour

Great for nature lovers and photographers

3. Banh It Towers (Cham Towers)

Well-preserved Cham ruins from the 11th century

Set on a hill with panoramic views of rice fields

Architectural blend of Hindu and local influence

Lesser-known than My Son, but just as impressive

4. Thap Doi Twin Towers

Located in the city center

Twin brick towers built in the 12th century by the Cham people

Easily accessible on foot or by motorbike

5. Quy Hoa Leprosy Hospital & Han Mac Tu Memorial

Home of the famed Vietnamese poet Han Mac Tu

Peaceful seaside location with gardens and colonial buildings

Insight into Vietnam’s medical and literary history

6. Long Khanh Pagoda

300-year-old Buddhist temple in central Quy Nhon

Famous for its large bronze Buddha statue

A peaceful retreat for spiritual travelers

7. Ghenh Rang Tien Sa Beach

Rocky coastline mixed with sandy stretches

Near Queen’s Beach, once favored by Emperor Bao Dai

Ideal for a relaxing walk and scenic photos

🏝️ Nearby Islands & Day Trips

🌴 Hon Kho Island

Crystal-clear water and colorful coral reefs

Great for snorkeling and kayaking

Reachable via boat from Nhon Hai fishing village

🌴 Cu Lao Xanh Island (Green Island)

Known for its lighthouse and marine life

A tranquil island getaway 24 km off the coast

Local homestays available for overnight stays

🍽️ What to Eat in Quy Nhon

Quy Nhon is a seafood paradise with some unique local dishes you won’t find elsewhere in Vietnam.

Must-Try Dishes

Bánh Xèo Tôm Nhảy: Mini sizzling pancakes with “jumping” shrimp

Bún Chả Cá Quy Nhơn: Noodle soup with grilled fish cakes

Bánh Hỏi Cháo Lòng: Thin rice vermicelli with pork offal porridge

Gỏi Cá Mai: Raw fish salad with herbs and toasted rice paper

Nem Nướng: Grilled fermented pork rolls with dipping sauce

Where to Eat

Bánh Xèo Gia Vỹ: Famous local spot for shrimp pancakes

Quán Ốc Thúy Kiều: Try clams, scallops, and snails

Cô Năm Nem Nướng: Authentic and budget-friendly

Seafood stalls at Xuan Dieu Street: Fresh catch every night

🛏️ Where to Stay in Quy Nhon

Luxury Resorts

Anantara Quy Nhon Villas: Secluded beachfront villas with infinity pools

FLC Luxury Hotel Quy Nhon: Ocean-view suites, golf course, and spa

Mid-range Hotels

Seagull Hotel: Classic beachfront hotel with sea-view rooms

Casa Marina Resort: Peaceful, private setting ideal for couples

Budget & Homestays

Life’s a Beach Hostel (Bai Xep): Cozy, social, beachfront vibes

Quy Nhon Center Hotel: Great value in the city center

Nhà Gỗ Homestay: Family-run, near Ky Co and Eo Gio

🗓️ Best Time to Visit Quy Nhon

The ideal time is between March and July, when the seas are calm, skies are clear, and the weather is perfect for island hopping and swimming.

🗓️ Suggested 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: City & Culture

Visit Thap Doi Twin Towers and Long Khanh Pagoda

Lunch at a local bánh xèo spot

Explore Han Mac Tu Memorial

Sunset at Ghenh Rang and Queen’s Beach

Day 2: Beaches & Coastal Views

Early trip to Ky Co Beach

Afternoon walk at Eo Gio

Seafood dinner near Xuan Dieu Beach

Day 3: Island Adventure

Boat tour to Hon Kho Island or Cu Lao Xanh

Snorkeling, swimming, or kayaking

Return for sunset and local street food

📸 Best Photo Spots in Quy Nhon

Cliff walk at Eo Gio

Ky Co Beach from the drone perspective

Banh It Towers at golden hour

Ghenh Rang rocks and Queen’s Beach

Bright boats and nets at Nhon Hai fishing village

🧭 Insider Travel Tips

Avoid weekends and holidays for a quieter experience

Rent a motorbike for coastal exploration

Respect Cham and religious sites—modest dress is appreciated

Ask locals for hidden beaches—many aren't marked on maps

Bring sunscreen, hat, and cash for small villages

🏁 Final Thoughts

Quy Nhon is one of Vietnam’s best-kept secrets. With its stunning coastlines, fascinating Cham ruins, and laid-back vibe, it’s a destination that combines nature, culture, and cuisine in equal measure. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, Quy Nhon offers a more peaceful alternative to Vietnam’s busier beach towns—without sacrificing beauty or charm.