Popularized by the American TV series, China Beach is a stunning, untouched stretch of sand near Danang. With 3,260 kilometers of coastline, longer than the U.S. West Coast, Vietnam is truly a beach lover’s paradise. Once a quiet R&R spot during the Vietnam War, Bac My An better known as China Beach has become one of the country’s most famous seaside destinations.
The Rise of the Furama Resort
Until the Furama Resort opened, China Beach remained a sleepy area filled with small local hotels. Locals enjoyed the cool early mornings and late evenings by the sea. Today, the red-tiled roofs of the Furama peek above palms and pines, offering luxury on this pristine shoreline. The resort alone gives travelers a reason to holiday here.
Easy Access from Major Cities
Danang lies just a 90-minute flight from Hong Kong. Dragonair now runs direct charters, and Thai Airways plans to start flights from Bangkok. Vietnam Airlines is also considering regular service between Hong Kong and Danang. The city’s airport, a legacy of its military past, easily handles large aircraft. From there, guests can ride to the resort in an air-conditioned minibus or take a restored U.S. Army jeep for a breezy 15-minute trip.
Comfort, Style, and Adventure
The resort’s colonial-style buildings sit within landscaped gardens, creating calm away from Danang’s busy streets. Rooms and suites open to private terraces with views of the sea or lagoon. Restaurants and bars face the ocean, welcoming cool breezes.
Adventure seekers can explore the Diana Diving Base, run by European professionals. It offers cave and wreck diving, night dives, and beginner training certified by CMAS or PADI. Guests can also enjoy tennis, mountain biking, or water sports.
Relaxation and Wellness
Those looking to unwind can relax beside the Furama’s terraced freshwater pools and waterfalls. The health club includes a gym, sauna, and steam rooms with expert masseurs. Tai chi sessions, painting classes, and even fortune-telling sessions provide unique ways to unwind.
Exploring Danang and Beyond
In Danang, the Cham Museum displays the world’s finest Cham sculptures carved sandstone pieces worth multiple visits. Don’t miss the colorful Cao Dai Temple, either.
Nearby, four major cultural centers make Danang an ideal base for day trips. Drive 45 minutes southeast to Hoi An, a charming ancient port lined with temples, cafés, art galleries, and markets. Along the way, stop at Marble Mountain, where caves and sanctuaries await atop steep steps.
To the north, the imperial city of Hue lies two hours away, filled with pagodas and temples nestled under leafy hills. Another perfect excursion is to My Son Valley, home to temples of the ancient Champa Kingdom Vietnam’s answer to Angkor Wat.
A Journey Worth Taking
From sunrise over My Son’s ruins to sunset on China Beach, Danang offers a rare mix of culture, history, and relaxation. Whether diving in clear waters or exploring ancient temples, visitors find themselves surrounded by Vietnam’s beauty and spirit.
