Ky Co Beach Guide: A Dreamy Beach In Quy Nhon Vietnam

Nestled in the pristine embrace of nature, Ky Co Beach is an irresistible charm in the province of Quy Nhon. Often hailed as Vietnam’s answer to the Maldives, this tropical paradise captivates visitors with its magnificent landscapes. Imagine verdant mountains gracefully sloping toward a crescent-shaped beach that meets turquoise waters!

How to travel to Ky Co, what to see and do? Read our Ky Co travel guide to prepare for your trip to this beautiful destination.

Where is Ky Co Beach

Located at the foot of Phuong Mai mountain, Ky Co Beach is situated in Nhon Ly Commune of Quy Nhon, Binh Dinh province, in Vietnam. Around 25-30 kilometers from Quy Nhon city center, this beach offers the perfect getaway from the city’s clamor and provides a tranquil environment for visitors to unwind.

How to get to Ky Co beach from Quy Nhon

a) Getting to Quy Nhon

First, you need to get to Quy Nhon.

If you prefer to fly, you can catch a plane to Quy Nhon via domestic airlines like Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Bamboo Airways. They have frequent flights from Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh to Quy Nhon. 

Upon reaching Phu Cat Airport, which is approximately 30 kilometers away from Quy Nhon, you can either hop into a taxi or bus.

If traveling by train is more your style, you can ride Vietnam Railways to Binh Dinh province, alighting at Dieu Tri station, then continue your journey to Quy Nhon by taxi.

Direct bus routes to Quy Nhon are also available for those starting from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.

b) Getting to Ky Co

Once in Quy Nhon, you can reach Ky Co by car, taxi, or motorbike, or consider taking a guided tour. While motorbiking offers picturesque views, be wary of the harsh summer weather, which may warrant a tour or car travel, especially when accompanied by the elderly or young children.

c) Direction

Here’s a guide to help you navigate your way from Quy Nhon City to Ky Co Beach.

Starting from Quy Nhon City, head straight onto Tran Hung Dao Street. Continue along this road until you reach Thi Nai Bridge. This remarkable bridge spans an impressive 7 kilometers and stands as a symbol of pride for the people of Binh Dinh.

After crossing the bridge, follow route 639 until you reach Nhon Hoi T-junction. At this junction, you’ll encounter a roundabout. Take a left turn and proceed straight.

At the first roundabout, you have the option to veer left, which will lead you along a scenic but bumpy coastal road. While this route offers breathtaking views, be prepared for some challenging slopes and a rougher ride.

Alternatively, you can choose to turn left at the third roundabout, which will lead you onto the highway. This smoother and more straightforward road provides a comfortable journey.

As you continue along the highway, you’ll pass by the impressive Safari Park, easily recognizable by its grand entrance gate. Consider making a stop here for a brief sightseeing experience or continue onward.

Upon reaching the Ky Co gate, you’ll need to purchase entrance tickets and electronic car tickets. You have the option to park either at the entrance or proceed to the electric-car stop at the top of the mountain. Alternatively, you can opt to ascend to the top of the mountain on your motorbike, as you chose to do so during your journey.

We decided to drive on our own to the top of the mountain instead. Although the mountain road offered a breathtaking view, it was zigzag and steep.

Arriving at the car stop, we waited about 5 minutes and got in. 

Ky Co tour

If a DIY trip is not your thing, you can also join the Ky Co tour.

Your tour begins with a pick-up service from your hotel in Quy Nhon City.

Apart from visiting Ky Co, the tour also includes stops at other locations like Eo Gio and Phuong Mai Dune, allowing you to explore additional points of interest during the day.

The tour itself includes a canoe shuttle that transports you to Ky Co beach. Upon arrival, you’ll have over an hour to relax and enjoy the beach.

Afterward, the canoe will take you to Dua Island, located nearby, where you can observe the coral. Once you’ve explored Dua Island, the canoe will return you to the restaurant for lunch.

Where to stay near Ky Co

Quy Nhon City, Ky Co area, and Bai Xep each offer comfortable lodging options, all within a reasonable distance of Ky Co Beach.

Hotels like FLC Luxury Hotel Quy Nhon and Life’s a Beach Ky Co are fantastic if you’re looking for luxurious beachside stays near Ky Co.

If a city center experience is more your thing, Kila Boutique Hotel in Quy Nhon is the perfect pick. For a truly relaxing getaway, consider staying in Bai Xep, where Life’s A Beach and Anantara offer exceptional service and comforts in a stunning natural setting.

Ky Co entrance fee

The entrance ticket for Ky Co beach is 60,000 VND per person.

The ticket fee for the electric car is 60,000 VND if you start at the gate or 40,000 VND if you start from the top of the mountain. 

Ky Co Beach Weather

The weather in Quy Nhon is characterized by a tropical monsoon climate, with a distinct wet and dry season.

The dry season, from April to September, offers calmer seas and is ideal for outdoor activities and island-hopping tours. October to March, the wet season, often sees speedboats prohibited due to rough seas, making it less favorable for beach and water activities.

When is the best time to visit Ky Co?

The best time to visit Ky Co Beach is during the dry season, which runs from April to September. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the sea conditions are calm, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploration.

How much time to spend at Ky Co beach?

We recommend spending a minimum of a day to fully experience the beauty of Ky Co Beach.

However, if you are a beach lover or a natural beauty enthusiast, spending a couple of days would allow you to immerse in the tranquility and enjoy the beach to the fullest.

This will give you enough time to explore the area, unwind on the beach, and delve into the underwater world of the nearby coral reefs.

Things to do in Ky Co Beach

With its breathtaking natural beauty, Ky Co offers a range of experiences that will leave you in awe.

Enjoy the view

To truly appreciate the stunning vistas, consider riding a motorbike from the mountain’s base to the top.

From this vantage point, you can take in the panoramic view of the entire area. Pristine mountains, the expansive ocean, and the beach glistening in the morning light come together to create a picturesque scene painted by nature itself.

Note that this option is only available if you travel by electric car to Ky Co Beach instead of a speedboat.

Take a dip

Ky Co Beach stretches like a crescent moon, with three sides framed by mountains and the fourth side opening up to the sea. As you approach, the sight of majestic mountains adorned with swaying coconut trees adds to the dreamy ambiance.

The sea breeze carries a hint of saltiness, setting the perfect beach atmosphere. However, what truly captivates visitors is the water’s color. From the coast to the shore, the seawater transitions from deep blue to vibrant blue and finally to a crystal-clear emerald green.

Relax on the beach

After a swim, take some time to leisurely explore the beach. Stroll along the sandy shores, basking in the tranquility of the surroundings. Or relax under the shade of one of the umbrella trees and savor a cold beer while gazing at the mesmerizing view.

Watching corals

A visit to Ky Co wouldn’t be complete without exploring the vibrant coral reefs at Bai Dua. Rent swimwear and diving goggles, and go snorkling in the crystal-clear water to see the colorful coral formations.

What to wear

Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for the tropical climate. Swimsuits, tank tops, shorts, sundresses, and flip-flops are the way to go. Remember to pack a hat, sunglasses, and a cover-up to protect yourself from the sun. And, of course, don’t forget your sunscreen!

What to pack

In your beach bag, remember to pack all the essentials: a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and water. Don’t forget to pack a change of clothes for after swimming.

If you plan to explore the surrounding areas, a sturdy pair of shoes will be handy. As always, a waterproof bag or case for your valuables is a smart idea when spending time by the water.

Nearby Attractions

If you’re keen on exploring the area further, there are several attractions around Ky Co Beach.

For wildlife enthusiasts, a visit to the FLC Safari Park Quy Nhon is a must. Here, you’ll come across numerous exotic animals in a natural habitat.

Pineapple Beach is another nearby spot that offers great views and a more quiet atmosphere. Seafood lovers should visit Eo Gio, a nearby area famous for its seafood restaurants, offering the freshest local catches.

Food & drink

When on Ky Co Beach, indulging in the local seafood is a must! The area is well-known for its fresh catches, including oysters, crabs, shrimp, and lobsters.

If you want to eat at Ky Co, the only option is Ky Co’s restaurant or the beach bar.

Another option is to return to Eo Gio. There are several local eateries and seafood restaurants serving Vietnamese food. We had drinks at the beach bar and then visited Eo Gio for dining. 

Other tips

Before planning your visit, you should be aware of the unpredictable sea conditions. While summer offers calm seas and beautiful weather, unexpected weather changes can still occur. Always check the weather and sea conditions before making your travel plans to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.