Mui Ne – Sand Dunes & Coastal Thrills
Roughly four hours from Ho Chi Minh City, Mui Ne is a vibrant coastal town famed for its sweeping red and white dunes. These striking natural formations provide a perfect playground for quad biking, sandboarding, and photography. Beyond the dunes, visitors can discover Mui Ne’s fishing villages, the fairy stream walk, and kite surfing spots. The coastline has everything from budget-friendly beach shacks to upscale eco-resorts and glamping stays. With its mix of adventure and relaxation, Mui Ne is one of the best places to visit near Ho Chi Minh City for travellers who want to pair beach fun with exploration.
Vung Tau – The Classic Beach Escape
Approximately two hours from Ho Chi Minh City, Vung Tau is the most accessible beach destination for city dwellers. With long, clean beaches and a laid-back vibe, it’s a favorite for families and weekend trippers. Visitors can hike to the iconic Christ the King statue for panoramic views, enjoy motorbike rides along coastal roads, visit Villa Blanche, and explore vibrant seafood markets. Vung Tau offers many accommodations, from luxury beachfront hotels to affordable homestays. Whether you're lounging by the sea or exploring local flavours, Vung Tau remains a timeless escape, ideal for short trips from Ho Chi Minh City.
Da Lat – A Mountain Getaway with French Flair
For those who prefer cool weather and misty hills, Da Lat offers a striking contrast to Vietnam’s coastal heat. Six hours by road (or a quick flight) from Ho Chi Minh City, Da Lat sits 1,500 meters above sea level. Its pine forests, colonial-era architecture, and flower gardens create a romantic, peaceful atmosphere. Popular spots include Datanla Waterfall, the Valley of Love, and Lang Biang Mountain. Visitors can stay in boutique hotels, forest lodges, or traditional homestays. Activities like strawberry picking and cable car rides make this refreshing highland retreat among the best weekend trips from Ho Chi Minh City.
Con Dao – Island Paradise with a Touch of History
A short flight from Ho Chi Minh City or a ferry from Vung Tau transports you to Con Dao, a stunning archipelago known for its secluded beaches, crystal-clear waters, and marine biodiversity. Once home to a prison infamous for its ‘tiger cages’, Con Dao is now a peaceful haven for snorkeling, diving, and sea turtle conservation. You’ll find luxury options like Six Senses Con Dao and modest bungalows near the shore. Whether diving into coral gardens or hiking through jungle trails, Con Dao offers a pristine slice of paradise far from the crowds.
Ben Tre – Gateway to the Mekong Delta
Ben Tre is the perfect escape if your idea of an adventure includes winding rivers and endless greenery. Located two hours away, this Mekong Delta province is rich in coconut palms, tropical orchards, and local life. Explore the floating markets, enjoy slow-paced boat rides, and cycle through peaceful villages. Eco-lodges and riverside homestays let you stay close to nature. Sampling coconut candy and fresh fruits completes the Ben Tre experience, making it a top pick for cultural immersion.
Can Gio – Wildlife and Wetlands near the City
Only 90 minutes from Ho Chi Minh City lies Can Gio, a lesser-known gem with immense ecological value. Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this mangrove-rich area is home to crocodiles, monkeys, migratory birds, and more. Can Gio offers forest hikes, boat rides through winding canals, and a visit to Monkey Island, making it one of the best places for short trips from Ho Chi Minh City. The area is ideal for nature lovers and families looking for a low-key escape into Vietnam’s diverse ecosystems.
Ke Ga – A Hidden Beach and Lighthouse Escape
One of Vietnam's most peaceful and unspoiled beach getaways, Ke Ga is just three hours away from Ho Chi Minh City. Its most iconic feature is the Ke Ga Lighthouse—Vietnam’s oldest—which can be reached by boat during low tide. The true charm of this coastal retreat lies in WoCAL Retreat Ke Ga, an eco-friendly beachfront property that offers comfortable tents, ocean views, and a slow-living experience under the stars. Activities include leisurely beach walks, seafood feasts, and visits to the lighthouse. For those who want luxury and seclusion, WoCAL Retreat Ke Ga is a perfect blend.
