Lang Co Beach in Central Vietnam is famous for its long stretch of white sandy beach, crystal-clear waters, and verdant mountains. It is also one of the most beautiful bays in the world, with fresh seafood and stunning ocean views.
Introduction To Lang Co Beach
Lang Co Beach, located in Phu Loc District between the ancient capital of Hue and the vibrant city of Da Nang, is a beautiful part of Central Vietnam, and travelers from all over the world fall in love with it. Lang Co is shaped like a crescent with fine white sand, turquoise waters, and the green backdrop of the Bach Ma mountain range, where sea meets sky meets forest.
Lang Co was recognized as one of the “World’s Most Beautiful Bays” in 2009. Situated conveniently along National Highway 1A, Lang Co beach makes for a great stopover on travels between Hue, Da Nang, and Hoi An, allowing visitors to experience both beautiful nature and the local culture in one scenic place.
History Of Lang Co Beach
Lang Co Beach is a remarkable natural area located in Lang Co Town, Phu Loc District, Thua Thien Hue Province, where mountains, forests, and the sea meet. This stunning area, located at the foot of Hai Van Pass, is advertised for its beautiful scenery that Emperor Khai Dinh called a “heavenly paradise” in the early 1900s. The name “Lang Co” is likely derived from the large number of storks that used to roam here before the name slowly transformed over time.
Legend has it that in the summer of 1916, in his first year as emperor, Khai Dinh and his court were the first to lay claim to the area. After being entranced by the pristine natural setting while traveling from Hue to Hai Van Pass, he decided to build a summer residence called “Tinh Viem Palace.” To preserve his memories, Khai Dinh wrote an inscription to the palace that was engraved in stone and placed in Lang Co.
Top 4 Iconic Attractions In Lang Co Beach
Located in addition to its pristine coastline, Lang Co Beach is surrounded by cultural monuments and natural wonders that provide 4 unforgettable experiences for travelers.
Lap An Lagoon
Lap An Lagoon is a breathtaking expanse of brackish water over 800 hectares in surface area, located to the west of Lang Co Bay, extending from the foot of Phu Gia Pass to the mouth of Hai Van Pass. The lagoon is renowned for its still body of water and picturesque mountainous scenery.
Besides its scenic presentation, Lap An Lagoon features an abundance of ecosystems, particularly the oyster population, which is reputed as a local delicacy and highly nutritious. The local population is famous for oyster farming, and visitors can enjoy the fresh oysters harvested from the shores of Lap An Lagoon while admiring the sunset.
Hai Van Pass
Located along the Hai Van mountain range, which rises more than 500 meters above sea level, Hai Van Pass serves as the natural divide between Hue and Da Nang. The beauty and majesty of the area were recognized by Emperor Le Thanh Tong, who called it “The Most Majestic Gate Under Heaven”.
Whether you choose to drive along the Hai Van Pass or take a motorbike ride, the experience is exhilarating and definitely one to remember. The hairpin turns, misty peaks, and bursts of sun illuminate an ever-changing landscape that germinates visual beauty for both adventurers and photographers.
Bach Ma National Park
Bach Ma National Park is an ecological wonder known for its stunning scenery and biodiversity. This expanse of untouched rainforest is the natural corridor in Vietnam that runs from the East Sea to the Vietnam-Laos border, creating a microhabitat for numerous plant and animal species. Fresh mountain air, soaring mountain peaks, and tumbling waterfalls are a lovely break from the coastal heat.
Visitors to Bach Ma can navigate a series of hiking trails that range from the slight to the intense, with trails leading to incredible viewpoints, pristine river estuaries, and secluded swimming holes. The park is also a birdwatching paradise, with over 350 previously recorded species of birds.
Cau Vom Don Ca (Don Ca Arch Bridge)
Hidden at the foot of the stunning Hai Van Pass, Cau Vom Don Ca – also known as the “fairy-tale arch bridge” – captures visitors’ attention with its unique and pristine charm. It is surrounded by green trees and mountains, welcoming tourists seeking a laid-back place to escape the chaotic pursuits of other sightseeing tourists.
Built in the early 20th century, the bridge is predominantly of French construction. The bridge has a unique arch type of style that has endured for over 100 years. Visitors can traverse the bridge, breathing the fresh and cool mountain air, and perhaps taking some scenic photos reflecting the backdrop of nature.
4 Cultural Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss
From lying on the beautiful sand that stretches out before you, to discovering hidden natural objects, here are four things you should try.
Swimming And Relaxing On The Sandy Beach
With crystal clear water and soft white sand for kilometers, Lang Co Beach is a beach-goer’s paradise. The soft waves make for a great swimming experience, and the calm vibe invites you to simply relax under the sun with a good book or drink in hand.
When you do go to the beach, you can go as early in the morning as you can or just as the sun is beginning to set. At these times, you will get the best views for photos, and you can enjoy pastel clouds on the horizon. This was a nice way to relax before jumping into potentially bigger adventures.
Visit The Beautiful Lap An Lagoon
Located not far from Lang Co Beach, Lap An Lagoon is stunning in its peaceful scenery of which is brimming with marine life. Surrounded by mountains and part of the pristine environment, the lagoon reflects the many colors of the sky, almost like you have actually stepped into a painting!
Visitors get to explore the sandy banks, engage with local oyster farmers, and even eat freshly prepared seafood in front of the lagoon. When you do get a meal, there’s nothing better than eating fresh oysters grilled with scallion oil whilst enjoying the raging lagoon winds, the sun setting to the west, and the calm of the lagoon around you.
Explore Bach Ma National Park
If you love nature, then Bach Ma National Park is a must-see when you are near Lang Co. It is a beautiful, lush park that is filled with wildlife, waterfalls, and stunning views of the ocean and mountains.
Whether you go on a simple hike or one of the harder treks, you will be rewarded with colorful exotic birds, trickling streams, and the nice sound of nature. It is truly a place for you to escape into the untouched jungles of Vietnam.
Enjoy Snorkeling And Underwater Adventure
Lang Co boasts a diverse marine environment, which is why it is a great destination for snorkeling. The shallow reefs contain amazing corals and seas full of vibrant fish, all of which make for a marvelous excursion below the ocean waves.
Most companies that offer snorkeling provide the gear and local insight to ensure a safe adventure into the underwater environment. It is one of those fun activities that combines adventure, beauty, and an enhanced understanding of the coastal environment.
Entrance Fee
You don’t have to pay a fee to swim at Lang Co Beach. Every visitor can lie back on the sand and swim in the pristine waters for free. You can rent floats if you want to or participate in other water activities and services provided by the local vendors along the beach at an additional charge.
Best Time To Visit Lang Co Beach
The best time to visit Lang Co Beach is from April to July, when the weather is typically dry, sunny, and warm, and the waters of Lang Co are calm and turquoise. This time of year is ideal for beach activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and water sports…
From August to November, the region is prone to more rain, rougher seas, and murkier waters, and swimming at the beach is not as favorable. However, the opportunity for more cultural and nature-based activities still exists, including going to Lap An Lagoon, trekking in Bach Ma National Park, and tasting some of the well-known seafood of Lang Co.
Between December and March, temperatures tend to be cooler, which is not great for swimming, but the tranquillity of the beach and the beauty of the landscape are inviting to cautiously explore and taste the menu items.
How To Get To Lang Co Beach
Lang Co Beach is roughly 60 km from Hue City and just 25 km from Da Nang City, easily making it a destination on your journey between these two well-known locations.
By Air
If you are on longer travels from major cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, then your best and most comfortable option will likely be to fly. Phu Bai International Airport (HUI) in Hue is approximately 75 km from Lang Co, then you have the option of taking a taxi, shuttle bus, or hotel transfer.
- Estimated Fare: approximately 500,000 – 2,000,000 VND/one way (depending on flight carrier, date of purchase, and seat class)
- Travel Time: approximately 1 hour flight and 1.5-2 hours driving time to Lang Co.
By Train
If you are traveling by train, you will have a scenic and romantic journey, particularly if your route takes you through the famous and beautiful Hai Van Pass. The main train station is Hue Railway Station, and then you can either take a taxi or a bus to Lang Co.
- Estimated Fare: approximately 350,000 – 1,200,000 VND/one way (depending on type of train and seating class)
- Travel Time: 2 – 3 hours from Hue to Lang Co.
By Bus
If you’re traveling on a budget, buses are going to be the cheapest way to go. From the Hue city center, take Bus Route 07 directly to Lang Co.
- Estimated Fare: 7,000 VND/one way
- Travel time: Around 1.5 – 2 hours
- Hours of operation: 05:30 AM – 05:00 PM daily
Things To Know Before Traveling to Lang Co Beach
To get the best out of your Lang Co Bay trip and to have a lasting memory, the best way to prepare is to plan and keep in mind a few simple tips.
- Distance from the city center: Lang Co Bay is located at least 1 hour away from some major cities, so ensure you plan your transportation and be aware that limited nightlife activities will be available!
- Book the right accommodation: Since there will be limited nighttime entertainment available, you could look at resorts or hotels in Hue and simply use the extra facilities and activities you have paid for.
- Stay safe when in the water: The bay has a dangerous and complicated seabed with rocks and reefs, and there can also be strong currents, so make sure that when swimming, you do it in an area meant for swimming – with warning signs and lifeguards.
- Look after yourself: Be sure to protect yourself from the sun and bring sunscreen, hats/caps, and sunglasses; it can get hot and sunny!
- Help keep the environment clean: Do not litter and help take care of the bay’s natural beauty for others to enjoy.
Final Thoughts: Is Lang Co Beach Worth Visiting?
Lang Co Beach is a stunning beach, with its white sand, clear turquoise water, and green mountains in the backdrop, confidently earning it a spot as one of the World’s Most Beautiful Bays! From tranquil moments at the beach, enjoying fresh seafood, and proximity to attractions such as Hai Van Pass and Bach Ma National Park, it is a destination to check off your Vietnam list! If you choose to visit Lang Co Beach, be sure to book your arrangements with Seni World and see the beautiful beach for yourself!
