Overtourism, high hotel prices and crowded tourist sights are still an issue in 2026 like Bali and Phuket as popular beach destinations So many travelers are now beginning to look for beautiful, yet relatively less busy coastal locations which can offer not only luxury, but escape from the chaos of tourism, culture and scenic beauty.
One of the largest gains from this shift in travel has been for Vietnam. Visitors are now exploring the country´s slightly more modest second cities and lesser-known coastal escapes rather than it only being about major tourism centres.
Some of the fastest-growing destinations are Phú Quốc and Vung Tau, these two coastal areas have a total destination but they provide completely different travel experiences.
One of the standing reasons for this trend is its affordability. One thing the travellers realize is the accommodation, seafood, food, and transportation in Vietnam’s second tier beach resorts will probably be quite less expensive in comparison to Bali and Phuket.
The new wayside motorway stemming cross boundary of 2026 with companions is prevented by the warm southern Vietnamese zone. The need for logistics hassle between HCMC and coastal parts of the country is significantly reduced, and upgraded roads and domestic flights have improved connectivity.Ferries are faster, roads are upgraded and furthermore the internal flight connectivity with the coast has been expanded, enabling less logistics hassle between HCMC and the coastal parts of Vietnam.
Those looking for less commercial and commercialized beaches on the coast also have been traveling to smaller coastal cities.
Apart from that, the island of Phú Quốc has become one of the first and most thorough islands to transform and become Southeast Asia’s best island destination in just a short period of time.
Lying in the Gulf of Thailand, Phú Quốc is the beach capital of the region, with a combination of tropical beaches and jungle green scenery while still retaining a more relaxed ambiance than Phuket, it is also an area where the construction of luxury hotels is also extensive.
A lot of visitors remark that the modernity of the southern beaches with the resort development is in contrast with the nature of northern forest areas while visiting Phú Quốc.
Phú Quốc was designated as UNESCO’s Biosphere Reserve, offering trekking, wildlife viewing and jungle adventures.
The southern area of the beach is particularly apt for honeymoons, losers and people who have a more serene lifestyle with the soft white sand shores and beautiful aqua colored waters.
The best thing about Phú Quốc is their visa policy. Right now, all international visitors who travel directly to the island are lucky to be admitted without a visa for a period of 30 days.
The island is also emerging as a luxury tourism hotspot. There are all sorts of wellness resorts, private beach villas and entertainment complexes that follow Mediterranean style that are bringing visitors in who are interested in high-end vacation experiences at a more affordable price than Bali’s high end recedes.
Meanwhile, the peaceful fishing villages, pepper plantations and forest paths of Phú Quốc still remain to maintain its authenticity, even in the face of a tourism boom.
Vung Tau, adjacent to HCMC offers a lively seaside city experience with food, history, and urban energy have always been associated with HCMC, in contrast to the island atmosphere of Phú Quốc.
Vung Tau, just a few hours from Ho Chi Minh City has become the weekend favourite escape route for both locals and international travellers. The long coastline promenade, the mountain rest stops and French settlement architectural styles make you feel entirely different from resort filled beach islands of Vietnam.
They are drawn to the city’s walkability, relaxed energy, and the absence of the chaos and freneticism of larger urban areas, yet it is still lively and has a strong presence of seafood.
Vung Tau is considered to be one of the best seafood markets in the south of Vietnam. Stalls are situated at the waterfront selling fresh seafood, and local eateries offer the popular regional dishes such as crispy mini pancakes (Bánh Khọt), featuring shrimp and herbs.
The city also boasts of its cultural attractions and views of the mountains. Hills overhanging the ocean provide a view for hiking, historic lighthouses are explored, and giant statues atop hills are gigantic views of the coastline.
The hydrofoil service between HCMC and Vung Tau is another popular route on the rise. Road users have the opportunity to travel by river to the coast without waiting in road traffic, enjoying a scenic voyage all the way.
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Phú Quốc is ideal for those seeking island luxury, beach relaxation, and nature and adventure pursuits. Perfect for honeymooners, couples and anyone staying at a resort enjoying more of a tranquil tropical getaway.
Vung Tau, on the other hand, is more ideal for tourists looking for cultural sightseeing, food tours and speedy island tours without flights and exotic transfers.
In 2026, many purchasers are even opting for the best of both worlds, taking the jet-lagged option to explore both places within a longer Vietnam trip.
Overtourism, high hotel rates and tourist-heavy areas in popular beach destinations has spurred many tourists to search for alternatives.
The prices of the accommodations and food on Phu Quoc will also be relatively low when compared with a similar one in Bali.
The international travelers are granted a 30-day visa exemption when arriving directly in Phu Quoc.
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