Things to Do in Cua Dai Beach

Cua Dai Beach stretches along the coast just a few kilometers from Hoi An's ancient town, offering a welcome respite from the UNESCO-listed streets packed with tourists. This long stretch of golden sand has been dealing with some serious erosion issues over the past decade - you'll notice the seawalls and ongoing restoration efforts - but it remains one of central Vietnam's most accessible beach destinations. The proximity to Hoi An means you get the best of both worlds: morning temple visits and afternoon beach lounging, all without the need for lengthy transfers. What makes this beach particularly appealing is its laid-back vibe compared to some of Vietnam's more developed coastal areas. You'll find a mix of budget guesthouses, mid-range resorts, and upscale properties, plus plenty of local seafood shacks alongside more polished restaurants. The water tends to be calmer than some other Vietnamese beaches, making it decent for swimming, though the best conditions are typically in the morning before the afternoon winds pick up.

The dining scene ranges from simple beachside seafood grills to upscale resort restaurants, with plenty of solid middle-ground options. You'll find the best value at the local seafood shacks that line the beach - they're particularly good for grilled fish, prawns, and the local specialty of cao lau noodles. Several family-run restaurants serve excellent Vietnamese home cooking at very reasonable prices, often with English menus and patient staff. The resort restaurants obviously cost more but offer reliable international cuisine and ocean views. For the most authentic experience, try the small eateries in nearby Cam Thanh village, where you'll pay local prices and eat alongside Vietnamese families.

The ideal months are February through April, when you'll get warm, dry weather without the intense heat that comes later in the year. May through August brings higher temperatures and occasional rain, but also fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices. September through January is monsoon season, with heavy rains that can last for days - though when it's not raining, the temperatures are quite pleasant. The beach erosion tends to be more noticeable during and after the rainy season, so the sand conditions are generally better in the dry months. If you're planning to combine beach time with Hoi An sightseeing, the shoulder months of May and September often offer the best balance of decent weather and manageable tourist numbers.