Family Adventures in Vietnam: Discover Culture, Nature, and Beaches

Family Adventures in Vietnam: Discover Culture, Nature, and Beaches

Whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous trek through the mountains, Vietnam is an excellent choice for families. Whether you’re interested in cruising along the coast or enjoying the thrill of trekking to meet local tribes in the central highlands, Vietnam can provide it all.

Flights to Vietnam are convenient for families. You can choose a direct flight or opt for a short layover in locations like Tokyo, Dubai, Seoul, Hong Kong, Bangkok, or Singapore.

Once in Vietnam, getting around is easy. With over 20 years of experience welcoming international visitors, transportation is straightforward and accessible. You can take regular domestic flights from Hanoi in the north to Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City in the south.

I recommend starting your journey in the north and finishing in the south, where you’ll find more beach options to relax after experiencing the cultural highlights of the northern region.

Hanoi and Northern Vietnam

Hanoi is a fantastic starting point for your family trip in Vietnam. It serves as a central hub for exploring the northern region, with other attractions only a few hours away by car.

In contrast to the fast-paced environment of Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi offers a more authentic Vietnamese experience. The Old Quarter’s narrow streets and alleys are delightful to explore.

In the evenings, the Old Quarter comes alive with a vibrant atmosphere, filled with locals and street food, making it a perfect introduction to Vietnam.

A city tour will help you appreciate Hanoi’s culture and history as you discover its colonial architecture and visit significant sites like Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum.

The Capella Hanoi hotel is ideally located in the Old Quarter and offers excellent value along with modern amenities.

From Hanoi, you can easily venture to attractions like Halong Bay and the surrounding countryside.

Discovering Halong Bay with the Family

Renowned for its stunning limestone islets, Halong Bay is about a four-hour drive from Hanoi. A private junk boat tour is a great way to experience this beautiful bay.

While a typical cruise is one night and two days, I recommend opting for a two-night stay. This extended time allows you to explore lesser-known fishing villages and beaches after most tourists have left for the day.

With more time, you can swim, kayak, or hike around the islands.

Exploring Halong Bay Off the Beaten Path

Most islands in Halong Bay are inaccessible, but Cat Ba Island is a popular destination where you can hike to a viewpoint for breathtaking views of the bay.

I particularly enjoy the quieter Bai Tu Long Bay on the second day when you can visit fishing villages. The scenery is similar to Halong Bay but less crowded, allowing for a more authentic interaction with the local residents. When I kayaked in the evenings, the local children joyfully welcomed us, performing flips into the water.

Although some traditional villages are fading away, you can still find authentic experiences with a little extra effort. The local people remain connected to their fishing trade, unaffected by heavy tourism.

Exploring Rural Life in Northern Vietnam

One of my favorite spots in Vietnam is Mai Chau, a quaint farming community that lies about four hours from Hanoi, nestled among rice fields and mountains. It’s an adventurous yet relaxing destination for families.

Thanks to the favorable climate, local farmers can harvest rice twice a year, keeping the landscape lush throughout the seasons.

With a guide, you can visit nearby villages inhabited by the H’mong, Black Thai, and White Thai tribes. Cycling through the villages at sunset, you’ll see farmers returning home after a day in the fields.

Though Mai Chau has gained popularity in recent years, it remains relatively untouched compared to many tourist destinations, making it perfect for families. You can base yourselves here for several nights and explore at your leisure — whether trekking, bamboo rafting, or kayaking on local lakes, or with a guide for deeper exploration.

Stay at Mai Chau Ecolodge

The Mai Chau Ecolodge offers families comfortable accommodations with meal options. You can borrow bicycles and take a short walk to Ban Lac village, home to the lodge’s owner, who is eager to introduce you to her friends and neighbors.

One memorable evening, I enjoyed the stunning view from my balcony, overlooking rice paddies that glowed as the sun dipped behind the mountains. I found myself captivated by the scenery for 20 minutes, wishing to capture the moment but unable to look away.

Hoi An in Central Vietnam

An hour’s flight to Danang in central Vietnam leads you to Hoi An, one of the country’s must-see attractions.

Hoi An is a historic fishing port that dates back approximately 500 years and has seen trade from the French, Dutch, Portuguese, and Chinese, all of whom have influenced its architecture over time.

The iconic Japanese covered bridge, built in the 1590s, stands proudly just a short distance from colonial-style villas, reminding visitors of the town’s rich history.

Additionally, Hoi An boasts about 15 kilometers of stunning white sandy beaches nearby.

For your stay, I recommend the Boutique Hoi An, known for exceptional service and high-quality accommodations.

The hotel organizes activities for children, allowing families to easily dine out and explore, as the Old Town is just a 10-minute drive away.

The charming, cobbled streets of the Old Town are free of traffic, making exploration enjoyable and manageable. Consider taking a walking tour on your first morning to get oriented, and then rent bicycles in the afternoon to explore the surrounding countryside and villages.

Discovering Tribal Life in Vietnam

In central Vietnam, you can visit the village of Bho Hoong, located about three hours west of Hoi An. This village is home to the Co Tu people, who have only recently begun interacting with outsiders.

An overnight stay allows you to immerse yourself in their time-honored way of life. Although the villagers have started adapting to modern influences, their traditions and hobbies remain largely unchanged. Visitors can engage in activities such as trekking and archery.

Typically, you’ll be welcomed by village elders dressed in traditional attire and taken on a tour around the village, where friendly local children can also be met.

After settling into your lodge on the first afternoon, you’ll have the opportunity to trek the surrounding areas. The lodges may be basic but are clean and comfortable.

You’ll be treated to a tribal dinner that caters to various tastes, ensuring something for everyone, especially kids. Popular options include sticky rice and a variety of cooked meats, complemented by homemade beverages.

In the evening, enjoy a unique experience as the Co Tu perform traditional dances around a fire, an event rarely seen elsewhere in Vietnam. Your guide will share stories of their way of life, which has remained largely unchanged for centuries.

Relaxing in Central Vietnam

While Hoi An is a wonderful place to unwind, the horseshoe-shaped beach at nearby Lang Co offers another relaxing option as you travel through central Vietnam. It’s roughly a two-hour drive from Hoi An.

Staying at the Angsana, you’ll experience some of the finest sand in Vietnam – soft and white, beautifully contrasting with the deep blue waters. The resort features numerous water activities, an expansive golf course, and a 300-meter pool that winds through the property.

Ho Chi Minh City and Southern Vietnam for Families

Your southern adventure would begin in Ho Chi Minh City, where you’ll quickly realize it’s a place bustling with more scooters than people.

Exploring the city on the back of a Vespa is a thrilling option, suitable for children as young as four or five. Your safety is a priority, with guides providing everything needed to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride as you navigate the city. Stops include local eateries and music venues, along with a chance to sample street food.

A visit to the Cu Chi tunnels, an intricate network of underground passages used during the Vietnam War, is also a worthwhile experience and conveniently located on your way to the city from the airport.

Ho Chi Minh City serves as a gateway to the Mekong Delta, where you’ll discover a labyrinth of waterways. One of the best ways to explore is on a two-day cruise aboard a traditional wooden boat from the Bassac fleet.

Going to Market on the Mekong Delta

These boats are relatively small, some accommodating only six cabins, allowing them to easily navigate the smaller tributaries of the Delta.

The backwaters are home to Viet and Khmer minority villages where you can moor to visit. One memorable afternoon, I was invited for tea, and the family’s children, freshly returned from school, delighted in hosting a guest.

In this region, there are typically three harvests a year, keeping local communities active in farming. Many trade their produce at the Cai Rang floating market.

Cai Rang is the largest floating market in the Delta and is located just outside Can Tho, the region’s capital.

On your cruise’s second morning, you can join the many vendors at the market, which is most vibrant at dawn when activity peaks.

You’ll see boats loaded with rice, exotic fruits, and unique Vietnamese foods like fried frog.

Ending your journey in the south gives you ample time to relax on Vietnam’s beautiful southern beaches.

Best Time for a Family Vacation to Vietnam

When planning a family vacation to Vietnam, weather is an important factor to consider. The ideal time to visit is typically from March to June when the conditions are pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. Additionally, the central regions of Vietnam enjoy favorable weather during the summer months, making it an excellent time to explore and enjoy the beautiful landscapes and attractions.