Hoi An’s local beach is the place to head when the heat gets too much. From here, take a day trip to the nearby Cham Islands.
Just 4 kilometres north of Hoi An, Cua Dai Beach is perfect for escaping the heat and the hectic pace of the city. Despite the presence of a few different tourist resorts, Cua Dai is surprisingly laid-back and quiet, especially if you visit during the weekend.Find a shady under one of the palm trees that line the beach to escape the heat of the midday sun, or simply cool off in the water. The ocean at Cua Dai is safe for swimming between April and October, but for the rest of the year it can be quite rough. If there are red flags displayed on the beach, the sea should really be avoided as there may be dangerous undercurrents.If you’re a resident in one of the resorts, there are reserved sunbathing areas for resort guests. Don’t worry if you’re not, there are still plenty of great spots up for grabs and there are sun loungers and chairs to hire if you want to relax in comfort.There are eateries in abundance at Cua Dai. Delicious fresh seafood is on offer in the restaurants that line the beach, and if you just want a quick bite to eat without leaving the sand, a number of kiosks sell takeaway food and drinks.If you have the time, it is well worth taking a boat to the Cham Islands located 15 kilometres off Cua Dai. It’s a fantastic spot to go scuba-diving or snorkelling, as it holds Marine Protected status, meaning the water is kept clear and the coral healthy. There are two boats a day that leave Cua Dai for the islands. Cua Dai is easily accessible from Hoi An. It takes ten minutes by taxi, or if you’re feeling fit, is just a short bike ride along the Cua Dai road.
