Hồ Tràm is a serene beach destination located in Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu Province, Southern Vietnam, approximately 120 km southeast of Ho Chi Minh City. With its stretches of golden sand, warm turquoise waters, and minimal development compared to other coastal areas, Hồ Tràm offers tranquility, nature, and accessibility. It is emerging as a beach escapes, especially for weekenders and families looking for peace away from the city.

Hồ Tràm is a coastal strip between the towns of Lộc An and Bình Châu, under the administration of Xuyên Mộc District. Hồ Tràm maintains a relaxed and upmarket atmosphere, attracting travelers who value natural beauty, privacy, and low-density tourism.

The local economy is a mix of tourism, fishing, and agriculture. Hồ Tràm is being recognized for its sustainable potential, with resorts and villas built around preserving the surrounding hills, casuarina forests, and pristine beaches.

Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.

Prepare insect repellent when exploring forests or wetlands.

Weather is best from December to April (dry season).

There are few ATMs – bring cash.

Wi-Fi is available in most villas and resorts.

By car or motorbike: Hồ Tràm is roughly a 2.5-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City. The most direct route is via QL51 and then DT44B through Bà Rịa town. Well-maintained highways make it suitable for private cars and ride-hailing services.

By bus: Several private shuttle services and limousine vans operate daily from District 1 and Tan Son Nhat Airport to Hồ Tràm.

By boat and car combo: A more scenic option includes taking the Greenlines hydrofoil from HCMC to Vũng Tàu and then a taxi transfer to Hồ Tràm (around 60 km further east).

Motorbikes are available for rent through resorts or local vendors. Taxis and private car hires are recommended for groups or families. Roads are quiet and easy to navigate, especially along the scenic coastal route DT994.

• Hồ Tràm Beach – untouched, expansive, and less crowded than most other Vietnamese beaches. Its soft sand, gentle waves, and long, palm-lined stretches make it a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and photography.

• The Hamptons Pier – This pedestrian-only pier extends 270 meters into the sea and is popular for sunset views, seaside strolls, and drone shots. Around the pier, you'll find cafes, art installations, and seafood restaurants.
• Bình Châu Hot Springs (Suối nước nóng Bình Châu) –

Located 20 km northeast of Hồ Tràm, this natural geothermal area includes over 70 open-air hot springs, mud baths, and a healing mineral spa complex. Perfect for a day of wellness and nature immersion. Families can enjoy activities like egg-boiling in hot spring water and crocodile feeding.

• Phước Bửu Nature Reserve (Khu bảo tồn thiên nhiên Bình Châu – Phước Bửu) – This little-known forest reserve offers trails through tropical woodlands, rare flora and fauna, and freshwater lakes. Great for birdwatching and eco-hiking.
• Minh Đạm Resistance Base – A historical site tucked in the mountains near Long Hải (40 km away), it offers insights into Vietnam’s resistance during the wars, with underground tunnels and panoramic views.
• Lộc An Lagoon – A peaceful, rural backwater dotted with lotus ponds and fishing villages. Visitors can rent small boats and witness traditional net fishing at sunrise.

• Sunset beach walks along Hồ Tràm's wide, wind-swept sands.
• BBQ and bonfire nights at private villas.
• Mud therapy & hot soaking at Bình Châu.
• Picnic under the casuarina trees near Phước Bửu forest trails.
• Fishing with locals or join a half-day boat trip.
• Cycling along the DT994 coastal road, with hill, forest, and ocean views.

• Fresh seafood from Hồ Tràm fish market (early mornings)
• Handmade sea salt and dried squid
• Local herbal oils and mineral products from Bình Châu Spa shops

Seafood dominates the scene, often grilled to order. Notable dishes include:

• Grilled scallops with green onion oil
• Steamed crab with lemongrass
• Mực một nắng (semi-dried squid)

Try Làng Bè Hồ Tràm, a floating seafood restaurant with sea views. For more refined dining, head to the restaurants at Melia or InterContinental.

Accommodation in Hồ Tràm ranges from luxury resorts to stylish boutique villas and nature-inspired retreats. Most are beachfront or surrounded by forested hills.

• The Cottage Hồ Tràm Hills, ☏ +84 90336 5555. A private villa estate, 5 minutes from the beach and 10 minutes from Hamptons Pier. This 6-bedroom villa accommodates 12–16 guests and features: two outdoor Jacuzzi tubs, an outdoor BBQ area, a fully equipped kitchen, open-concept living/dining area with hill views, hammock garden & outdoor lounge zones. (updated Jul 2025)
• Melia Hồ Tràm – 5-star beachfront luxury
• InterContinental Grand Hồ Tràm – Casino, golf, and entertainment hub
• Sanctuary Hồ Tràm Villas – Pool villas with private access

• Long Hải – 45 km southwest: peaceful beaches, fresh markets, local life.
• Vũng Tàu – 60 km away: livelier with urban amenities, seafood streets, and the Christ of * Vũng Tàu statue.
• La Gi or Phan Thiết – further up the coast, great for extended beach hopping trips.