Why Ho Tram Keeps Making Everyone's Wish List
Tucked away in Xuyen Moc, about a two-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Tram is one of the rare coastal spots that still keeps a slow pace even with five-star resorts popping up nearby. The sea here is clear, the sand stretches on for miles, and just behind it lies a vast stretch of primary forest - a combination you won't find in many places along southern Vietnam's coast. If you're after somewhere to unwind while still having a handful of interesting sights to explore, this list will help you plan your trip faster.
Ho Tram Beach - a rare untouched stretch of coast
Unlike the busier shores of Vung Tau, Ho Tram's beach stays quiet, with clear water and gentle waves perfect for a relaxed swim or simply lying back on the sand watching the surf roll in. Rows of casuarina trees line the coast, and the breezy afternoons make for a great stroll or bike ride. Many resorts here have their own private stretch of beach, though visitors can still reach a few public sections for a free swim.
Ho Coc - a small gem tucked among the pines
Not far from central Ho Tram, Ho Coc is a smaller, wilder beach nestled among coastal forest. People love it for the quiet atmosphere and bare-bones facilities, which make it ideal for an overnight camping trip, a bonfire, and some proper stargazing. Since amenities are still fairly basic, bring your own food, water, and tent if you plan to stay the night. Any entrance fee is usually minimal, but it's worth checking on-site since rates can change.
Binh Chau - Phuoc Buu Nature Reserve
This is one of the best-preserved coastal primary forests left in southern Vietnam, spanning more than 10,000 hectares. Inside, you'll find centuries-old trees and a striking mix of forest and coastal ecosystems. A favorite among visitors is the hike up Tam Bo Peak, which offers a sweeping view over both the forest and the sea below. A shorter 3-kilometer trail is well marked and suitable for a day trip, while the longer routes usually require registering and going with a reserve guide for safety.
Binh Chau Hot Springs
Set right inside the nature reserve, Binh Chau Hot Springs is a must for anyone who enjoys wellness getaways. The area has dozens of natural mineral springs at different temperatures, some hot enough to boil an egg right there on the spot - a quirky little experience that families tend to enjoy. You can soak in the warm mineral pools, try a mud bath, or simply wander through the cool forest surrounding the springs. Since this is a paid attraction with separate charges for each service, it's best to check current prices at the entrance when you arrive.
World-class resorts along the coast
Ho Tram has gained a lot more attention in recent years thanks to a string of high-end resorts along its shoreline, including Melia Ho Tram, InterContinental Grand Ho Tram, Holiday Inn Resort, and The Grand Ho Tram Strip. Even if you're not staying overnight, you can still drop by for a meal, some photos, or a day pass to the spa and pool. A real standout here is The Bluffs Ho Tram Strip golf course, designed by golf legend Greg Norman and repeatedly named one of Vietnam's most beautiful courses - well worth a round for any golf enthusiast.
A few more worthwhile stops
If you have extra time, walk out along one of the seaside piers near the resorts for sunset photos, wander through Binh Chau fishing port early in the morning or late afternoon to watch the boats come in and pick up fresh seafood, or drive a little further to the small coastal temples and shrines in the area, where locals often come to pray for good fortune. None of these stops take long, but each one adds a little more color to your trip.
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