Ho Tram Beach is a newly developed coastal area that offers a welcome respite from Vietnam’s more well-known and busy beach areas. Located in the Ba Ria-Vung Tau province, just a few hours from Ho Chi Minh City, the beach features unspoiled beauty, peace, and laid-back appeal. With its long expanse of fine sand, transparent water, and growing range of accommodation options, Vietnam Ho Tram Beach is growing ever more popular among local and international travelers.
Why visit Ho Tram Beach? Top highlights
Ho Tram Beach is a serene seaside resort in the Ba Ria-Vung Tau province that offers a tranquil respite from city life. Its massive stretch of pale white beach and tranquil emerald sea make it an ideal spot for sunbathing and swimming. Unlike the more developed beaches of nearby Vung Tau City, Ho Tram Beach Vung Tau is less developed and offers a peaceful retreat for tourists looking for serenity.
The beach is lined with green coastal dunes and hilly forests, which offer a scenic natural environment perfect for photography and relaxation. The coast is scattered with luxury resorts such as the InterContinental Grand Ho Tram and Melia Ho Tram Beach Resort, which offer better amenities, a spa, and ocean-view dining facilities.
Seafood enthusiasts can treat themselves to fresh seafood at beach clubs and local eateries, relishing barbecued lobster, prawns, and bite-sized savory pancakes renowned in the area (locally known as banh khot). Sports fans will appreciate world-class golf at The Bluffs Grand Ho Tram Strip, a Greg Norman-designed course amidst beautiful coastal scenery.
In addition, the area boasts cultural activities like Whale Worship Festival (previously Nghinh Ong Festival) in Thang Tam Temple, which exposes visitors to the culture of locals and vibrant festivals.
Best things to do at Ho Tram Beach
Visitors to Vietnam Ho Tram Beach have a myriad of activities to enjoy on the beach. Sunbathing and swimming are the most popular activities, and the calm waters along the shore are ideal for all ages. There are classes provided by the Vietnam Kiteboarding School for beginners and advanced riders, so Ho Tram Beach Vung Tau is also a destination for water sports enthusiasts.
To relax, Yhi Spa provides beachfront massage and wellness therapies using locally sourced products, perfect after a day at the beach. Golfers will appreciate The Bluffs Grand Ho Tram Strip, one of Asia’s best links courses, where ocean breezes add challenge and beauty to every round.
Eco-adventures through the nearby Binh Chau – Phuoc Buu Nature Reserve bring guided hikes over mangrove stands and hot springs, coupling excitement with a nature experience. Dining directly on beaches in restaurants like Hamptons Seafood & Grill offers freshly caught seafood expertly prepared, or beachside cocktail bars offer evening cocktails under breezes.
Families can enjoy activities at resorts like Melia Ho Tram, which offers a Kids Club (formerly Kidsdom) and Willow’s Farm for children. Those interested in cultural activities can observe local food and crafts being showcased in an energetic environment by visiting the Ho Tram Night Market.
Best time to visit Ho Tram Beach
The Ho Tram Beach weather follows a tropical monsoon climate, with a dry season lasting from November to April, with sunshine, low humidity, and temperatures between 28°C and 32°C. This is the most predictable period for the beach, with minimal rain and calm seas ideal for swimming and aquatic sports. Peak season is December to February, when hotels tend to fill up and rates go up, so it’s best to book in advance. The rainy season runs from May to October, with frequent showers and thunderstorms, which make the sea choppier and outdoor activities on Ho Tram Beach Vung Tau limited. Shoulder months like March, April, and October provide a trade-off of fewer tourists and tolerable weather, making them attractive to travelers on a budget who desire comfort and affordability.
How to get to Ho Tram Beach from Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Tram Beach is located approximately 120 km southeast of Ho Chi Minh City, offering various transportation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best mode of travel:
1. Private car or taxi
A private car or taxi is the most convenient and shortest ride to Ho Tram Beach. The journey normally takes 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic. Several services provide transfers from Ho Chi Minh City to Ho Tram, including:
- Hai Tuan Travel: Offers private car, limousine, or van transfers with professional drivers.
- Transfeero: Provides private transfers from Tan Son Nhat International Airport to Ho Tram Beach Vung Tau, for a hassle-free transit experience.
Private transfers have varying prices between USD 45 and USD 106, based on vehicle and provider.
2. Resort shuttle services
There are several resorts near Vietnam Ho Tram Beach that offer shuttle services to their clients:
- Melia Ho Tram Beach Resort: Provides complimentary round-trip transfer from Ho Chi Minh City to the resort for in-resort guests.
- The Grand Ho Tram: Provides a complimentary shuttle bus daily from the Hai Ha Building, 217 Nguyen Van Thu Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. Advance reservation is required.
3. Public bus and taxi combination
For budget-conscious travelers, the combination of public bus and taxi services is an affordable option:
- Public Bus: Public buses from Mien Dong Bus Station in District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, travel to Vung Tau City. The journey takes around 2 hours.
- Taxi: Upon reaching Vung Tau, travelers can take a taxi to Ho Tram Beach, which is roughly a 45-minute drive.
4. Train and taxi combination
The second option involves taking a train from Ho Chi Minh City to Long Khanh and then taking a taxi to Ho Tram Beach Vietnam. It lasts about 2 hours and 40 minutes and ranges from USD 40 to USD 65. While less straightforward, this path provides the opportunity to journey along Vietnam’s rail system and countryside.
Tips for visiting Ho Tram Beach
Here are some tips that are valuable for your next trip to Ho Tram Beach Vung Tau:
- Book transfers and shuttles in advance: During peak season (December–February), resort shuttles and private vans fill up fast. Prebook your round-trip transfer from your hotel or a reputable provider (e.g., Hai Tuan Travel, Transfeero) at least 1–2 weeks in advance to guarantee availability and better prices.
- Carry enough cash: Although big resorts and eateries accept cards, many local beach clubs, roadside mini savory pancake (banh khot) stalls, and taxi drivers only accept cash. ATMs are few and far between (the next may be 20–30 km away), so take enough Vietnamese dong (VND) for meals, tips, and other small expenses.
- Sun & insect protection: The midday UV index in Ho Tram Beach is extreme. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every two hours, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses, and reapply after a dip. In the early morning and at dusk, coastal vegetation can harbor mosquitoes—pack DEET-based repellent or long-sleeved coverups.
- Check tide and weather forecasts: Plan water sports – swimming, kiteboarding, kayaking – after a good weather check from a known weather source, including wind conditions, tide schedules, and any storm warnings. Afternoon storms can suddenly appear during the rainy season (May–October), so try to schedule beach use for the morning whenever possible.
- Reserve golf tee times in advance: If you’re aiming to play at The Bluffs Grand Ho Tram Strip, book your tee time online at least a week ahead, especially on weekends. Early-morning slots offer cooler temperatures and calmer winds for the best playing conditions.
- Schedule day-trips to local sites: Link your beach holiday with a dawn soak in Binh Chau Hot Springs or an ecotour of Phuoc Buu Nature Reserve. Most organized tours depart prior to 8 AM; arrange with your hotel for collection to maximize daylight and reduce heat during the day.
- Arrive early for sunrise & quiet beach time: To enjoy Ho Tram Beach Vietnam at its most peaceful, aim to be on the sand by 6 AM. You’ll catch an unforgettable sunrise over the East Sea, have the shoreline almost to yourself for photos, and beat both the midday crowds and heat.
- Respect local customs & environment: When attending Thang Tam Temple for the Whale Worship Festival (formerly known as the Nghinh Ong Festival) or any local shrine, dress conservatively (cover knees and shoulders), remove headgear before entering, and keep quiet. Bring all your rubbish back to the resort’s receptacles to assist in safeguarding the dunes and surrounding mangrove forests.
- Pack water and light food for trips: When visiting Minh Dam Mountain or the nature reserve inland, food is often limited. Bring refillable bottles of water and snacks such as nuts, fruits, and energy bars to remain hydrated and fueled.
- Ask your resort about on-site facilities: Some of the resorts along Ho Tram Beach, including Melia and InterContinental, offer complimentary yoga classes, kids’ clubs, bike rental, and wellness seminars. Check out the daily program at reception so you don’t miss out on anything complimentary.
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Nearby attractions around Ho Tram Beach
Here are some notable attractions near Ho Tram Beach that offer a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and recreational activities:
1. Hamptons Plaza & Pier
Located adjacent to Vietnam Ho Tram Beach, Hamptons Plaza is a beachfront shopping and dining complex with various restaurants, cafes, and specialty shops. The adjacent Hamptons Pier extends into the sea, providing scenic views and a perfect spot for leisurely strolls or sunset photography sessions.
2. Vietnam Kiteboarding School (VKS)
Located close to Hamptons Pier, VKS provides lessons and rentals of equipment for a range of water sports such as kiteboarding, windsurfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. It is a perfect spot for both newcomers and experienced individuals who want to explore the coastal waters.
3. The Bluffs Grand Ho Tram Strip
Approximately 8 km from Ho Tram Beach, this internationally acclaimed golf course, designed by Greg Norman, boasts a challenging links-style course set amidst stunning coastal dunes. It has been rated by Golf Digest as one of the world’s top 100 golf courses.
4. Cicada Ho Tram
About 2km inland from the beach, this 68-hectare nature reserve is open to hiking, cycling, and camping amid its lush forests and diverse fauna. A great spot for nature lovers seeking tranquility and adventure in the open wilderness.
5. Ray River Boat Tour
Approximately 15 km from Ho Tram Beach Vung Tau, the Ray River offers serene boat rides through picturesque landscapes. Guided boat tours are informative on local ecosystems and a good way to relax while exploring the natural beauty of the region.
6. Binh Chau – Phuoc Buu Nature Reserve
This expansive reserve, which covers over 11,000 hectares, boasts diverse flora and fauna, with some species being endangered. Visitors can go on guided treks through unspoiled forests and spot wildlife in their natural sanctuaries.
7. Ho Coc Beach
A short drive from Ho Tram, Ho Coc Beach has clear waters, yellow sand, and a peaceful atmosphere. It is less developed and, therefore, a secluded retreat for visitors who wish to escape the crowds.
8. Minh Dam Mountain
About 27 km from Ho Tram Beach Vung Tau, Minh Dam Mountain is a historical location with caves and tunnels used as hiding points in times of war. There are also trekking paths here with panoramic vistas of the landscape.
9. Phuoc Hai Fishing Village
Approximately 20 km from there, this fishing village provides a glimpse into the life of local fishermen. You may stroll through the village, have fresh seafood, and learn about traditional fishing techniques.
10. Long Son Raft Village
Approximately 50 km from Ho Tram Beach, Long Son Raft Village offers unique experiences such as floating seafood restaurants and the opportunity to observe aquaculture activities. It is ideal for cultural experience and cuisine exploration.
Secure your spot with Lily’s Travel today! Since 2007, Lily’s Travel has been at the forefront of Northern Vietnam’s tourism scene, earning over 2,000 five-star reviews on Tripadvisor and top rankings among Hanoi’s agencies. With 15 years of expertise, we craft immersive Vietnam–Laos–Cambodia itineraries that celebrate multi-ethnic, multi-religious, and regional cultures. Our young, passionate team uses cutting-edge 4.0 technology to give you a lifelike 3D preview of your trip before you book. Committed to sustainable, community-focused travel, Lily’s ensures every tour uplifts local people and preserves natural beauty.
Ho Tram Beach invites travelers to uncover a side of Vietnam where serenity meets sophistication. With its natural beauty, cultural depth, and increasing accessibility, this rising star on Vietnam’s coastline promises not just a vacation but a complete travel experience. Don’t miss the chance to explore one of the country’s most charming coastal retreats.
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