Tra Co Beach: The Complete Guide
With the extensive beach of smooth white sand and blue transparent water, Tra Co Beach is the border of a natural island which is created by the impact of waves and sea stream onto the shore.
Location
Situated near the Chinese border and approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) from the border town of Mong Cai, Tra Co Beach is a stunning destination known for its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters, ensuring a memorable visit for everyone.
Distance to Tra Co Beach:
| City |
Distance |
Travel time |
|---|---|---|
| Hanoi |
320 km (200 miles) |
5 hours 30 minutes |
| Hai Phong City |
215 km (134 miles) |
4 hours |
| Ha Long City |
170 km (106 miles) |
3 hours 30 minutes |
| Cat Ba Island |
213 km (132 miles) |
4 hours 30 minutes |
| Mong Cai |
10 km (6 miles) |
15 minutes |
How to get there
As of 2025, Tra Co Beach remains a beautiful destination located at the northeastern tip of Quang Ninh Province, near the Chinese border. It is approximately 106 miles (170 kilometers) from Ha Long Bay and can also be accessed from Hai Phong, which is about 133 miles (215 kilometers) away. The most convenient methods for travel to Tra Co Beach are by bus or private car.
Bus from Hanoi to Mong Cai
| Operator | Depart | Arrive | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cửa Ông Limousine (9-seater) | 07:00 (Royal City Hanoi) | 13:00 (Mong Cai, Quang Ninh) | 450,000 VND |
| An Bình Tour VIP (9-seater) | 19:15 (Noi Bai Domestic Terminal T1) | 02:43 (Mong Cai Bus Station) | 490,000 VND |
| Hoàng Công Bus (9-seater) | 12:00 (261 Tran Khat Chan, Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi) | 17:45 (Mong Cai Bus Station) | 450,000 VND |
How to book: Tickets can be purchased through Vexere.com
The beach
The beach stretches approximately 10 miles (17 kilometers) from Ngoc Tip in the south to Got Tip in the north. Positioned far from urban centers and industrial zones, Tra Co offers a level of tranquility that is unmatched by other nearby beaches. Its expansive shoreline can accommodate numerous visitors, allowing guests to find spots of privacy and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere away from bustling crowds.
Tra Co Beach during summer (Photo: Mongcai.gov.vn)
Weather & when to go
The Weather
The average temperature in the region hovers around 23°C, with lows of 16°C from December to March and highs reaching 29°C during the summer months. This climate offers ideal conditions for beach outings, providing a comfortable experience that is neither too hot nor too cold.
Best Time to Visit
In our view, any time can be a delightful period to enjoy the stunning beach. However, summer tends to present the most favorable temperatures for beach enthusiasts, making it the preferred season for visits.
Summer also hosts the Tra Co Festival, which typically occurs from July 20th to July 26th. Please check local schedules for specific dates each year, as they may vary. The festival honors the protective spirits of the community, celebrated at a historic pagoda built in 1511 during the Le Dynasty.
Notable events during the festival include a vibrant procession to the beach, a pig competition where the winning pig is sacrificed in honor of ancestors, traditional games, cooking workshops, and a chess tournament.
In addition to enjoying the beach, visiting during the summer offers a unique opportunity to engage with the local culture.
