May Newsletter – Southeast Asia’s Coastal Collection

Explore the coastal sides of Southeast Asia: Southeast Asia’s Coastal Collection

Southeast Asia’s coastline is home to some of the world’s most rewarding and underexplored beach destinations, and this season brings a wealth of discoveries across Vietnam and Cambodia.

In Vietnam, Quy Nhon (Binh Dinh Province, Central Vietnam) is quietly emerging as the region’s most compelling coastal alternative. Unlike the well-trodden shores of Nha Trang or Mui Ne, Quy Nhon rewards visitors with dramatic cliffs at Eo Gio, crystalline turquoise waters at Ky Co Beach, and an unhurried pace shaped by generations of fishing culture. The best time to visit is March to September, when skies are clear and the sea is calm. Luxury travelers can stay at Zannier Hotels Bai San Ho or arrive in style aboard the Vietage train by Anantara — a scenic coastal rail journey connecting Da Nang, Quy Nhon, and Nha Trang.

Further south off the coast of Kien Giang Province, Phu Quoc Island deepens its credentials as Vietnam’s leading eco-luxury island destination. Green Bay Phu Quoc Resort & Spa, tucked along the quiet northern coastline 30 minutes from Duong Dong, is built from 50% recycled wood with 81 rustic-luxury bungalows and villas. Fine dining is anchored by Ocean Club Restaurant at Regent Phu Quoc — a four-star Mediterranean and seafood venue with sweeping views over the Gulf of Thailand.

Across the border in southwestern Cambodia, Koh Kong and Koh Russey (Bamboo Island) near Sihanoukville offer two distinct coastal escapes. Koh Kong sits where the Cardamom Mountains meet the Gulf of Thailand, best explored by private boat through one of Southeast Asia’s largest mangrove forests — ideally October to February. Meanwhile, JATI Koh Russey, is a sleek 5-star island retreat where tropical forest meets white-sand beaches and rare marine life.