Cua Lo Beach: A comprehensive guide for first-time travelers

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Cua Lo ranks among famous beaches in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

Cua Lo Beach, located in Cua Lo Town, Nghe An Province, 16 km east of Vinh City, is renowned as one of Vietnam’s most ideal beaches by the World Tourism Organization. Stretching over 10 km, it boasts gently sloping sand, clear blue water, moderate waves, and optimal salinity. These features make Cua Lo a standout destination for visitors seeking natural beauty and relaxation.

1. When is the ideal time to visit Cua Lo Beach?

The ideal time to visit Cua Lo Beach is during the summer months from April to August. This period offers dry, sunny weather, perfect for beach activities and swimming. Visitors can enjoy the warm, clear days and follow their planned itineraries without weather disruptions. The summer season not only enhances the beach experience but also allows tourists to capture beautiful moments in the inviting atmosphere of the beach.

2. What to explore at Cua Lo Beach?

There are numerous things to do at Cua Lo Beach, from enjoying the clear water to exploring the local cuisine. Visitors can also partake in water sports, visit nearby islands, and immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the area.

Cua Lo Beach contends for a spot among the best beaches in Central Vietnam (Source: Collected)

2.1. Pristine beauty of the sea

Cua Lo Beach is renowned as one of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam. Despite its gradual shift towards tourism development, Cua Lo retains much of its pristine charm. The beach stretches for 10 km along Binh Minh Road, featuring gently sloping, fine white sand bordered by lush casuarina groves. These trees not only shield the beach from the wind but also provide a delightful walking area. Separated from Vinh City by serene fields, Cua Lo Beach offers visitors a tranquil escape. Tourists can relish the fresh morning air and the stunning sunrise, when the beach comes alive with local fishermen starting their day.

2.2. Exciting water activities

Cua Lo Beach, with its clear water and moderate salinity, is perfect for swimming and a variety of exciting water activities. Visitors can enjoy pulling fishing nets and night squid fishing with the locals, an authentic cultural experience. For those seeking adventure, water sports like jet skiing and stand-up paddleboarding are available. Additionally, the beach offers opportunities for beach soccer and kite flying, ensuring fun experiences for all ages.

Ranked among the best beaches in Vietnam, Cua Lo allures travelers with its picturesque coastline (Source: Collected)

2.3. Nightlife at Cua Lo Beach

Cua Lo Beach at night transforms into a shimmering seaside city. Visitors can join the local fishermen on a coracle to catch squid, an exciting summer activity made easy by the gentle waves. Alternatively, tourists can relax on the beach, watching the boats return with fresh catches which can be bought at surprisingly low prices. The nightlife here offers a vibrant mix of traditional fishing village charm and modern attractions. As night falls, the sea glows with fishing lights, creating a magical ambiance. Guests can enjoy drinks, chat, stroll along the shore, or relax on the beach while receiving a skillful massage from local vendors, ensuring a memorable evening.

2.4. Famous tourist attractions nearby

Near Cua Lo Beach, there are a variety of famous attractions that offer rich cultural experiences and stunning natural beauty. They provide perfect day-trip opportunities, enhancing the overall appeal of a visit to Cua Lo Beach:

• VinWonders Cua Hoi: VinWonders Cua Hoi promises visitors world-class entertainment experiences year-round, solidifying Nghe An’s position on Vietnam’s tourism map. Spanning 34 hectares and featuring over 2,600 meters of stunning coastline, VinWonders Cua Hoi offers a comprehensive ecosystem of top-tier products and services.

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VinWonders Cua Hoi is the largest entertainment complex in North Central Vietnam

• Song Ngu Island: Located approximately 4 km southeast of Cua Lo Beach, Song Ngu Island is often described as “two fish swimming on the waves.”

• Lan Chau Island: Located approximately 20 km away from the heart of Nghe An Province, Lan Chau Island is often referred to as the “precious gem” of Cua Lo. From afar, the island resembles a giant frog extending toward the sea.

• Nghi Thuy Fishing Village: The seafood at Nghi Thuy Fishing Village is incredibly diverse, featuring a wide variety of species including mackerel, silverback fish, shrimp, and crab.

Additionally, Cua Lo Town boasts numerous spiritual tourist attractions such as Van Loc Temple, Hoang Van Family Church, Mai Bang Temple, Nguyen Trong Dat Shrine, and Yen Luong Temple.

Explore: 13 things to do in Vinh in Nghe An for authentic experiences

3. Where to stay?

As Cua Lo Beach is nestled along the coastal road, an array of hotels and guesthouses are concentrated here. From affordable options to more luxurious choices, visitors can easily find accommodations tailored to their preferences. Family rooms start from just 400,000 VND per night, offering both comfort and value. To secure the ideal retreat, it’s recommended to book in advance, particularly for weekend escapes.

4. What to eat?

A summer escapade to Cua Lo wouldn’t be complete without savoring the tantalizing seafood offerings that grace its shores. While hotel restaurants tend to command higher prices, opting for charming seaside eateries presents a more budget-friendly dining experience. Among the culinary highlights here are the succulent steamed crabs and the renowned seven-course fish feast. Additionally, the culinary journey extends to include other delectable delights such as fresh squid, tangy steamed clams with tamarind sauce, and hearty porridges.

Dining at hotel restaurants often comes with higher price tags, making seaside eateries a preferable choice (Source: Collected)

5. How to get to Cua Lo Beach?

There are several convenient ways to travel from Hanoi to Cua Lo Beach, including sleeper buses, trains, and flights. Each option offers a different balance of comfort, travel time, and cost.

• By sleeper bus: Traveling by sleeper bus from Hanoi to Cua Lo Beach typically takes 5-6 hours. Some well-known bus companies include Van Minh and Sao Nghe, with one-way ticket prices ranging from 380,000 to 450,000 VND.

• By train: Traveling by train from Hanoi to Cua Lo Beach involves a stop at Vinh Railway Station, followed by a 16-km-long taxi ride to the beach. Train rides typically take around 6 hours. Ticket prices start from 280,000 VND for a one-way journey.

• By plane: Traveling by plane from Hanoi to Cua Lo Beach requires flying from Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi to Vinh International Airport. From Vinh, you can take a taxi to Cua Lo Town. One-way ticket prices start from 900,000 VND.

For travelers from other regions in Vietnam, the considerable distance makes flying the best option to save time and energy. You should book your flight tickets 1-2 months in advance as Vietnamese airlines often offer early bird discounts.

Vinh International Airport is conveniently located 5 kilometers away from the city center (Source: Collected)

Cua Lo Beach stands as a pristine gem along Vietnam’s coastline, offering visitors a blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. With its inviting water, diverse seafood, and charming ambiance, it promises an unforgettable experience for beach lovers and adventurers alike.

Furthermore, while exploring Nghe An province, visitors should not miss the opportunity to visit nearby attractions such as Pu Mat National Park, Sen Village, and Kim Lien Relic. These sites offer insights into Vietnam’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes, providing a well-rounded journey for travelers.

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