Forbes lists most beautiful beach destinations in Vietnam

According to Forbes, Con Dao is one of the best beaches in Vietnam. Though typically spoken of as one island, Con Dao is actually an archipelago of 16 islands on the southern coast of Vietnam. Once the site of brutal French prisons, Con Dao is now known for its coral reefs, diverse marine life, and soft sandy beaches.

 Forbes advises travelers that if they're in Hanoi, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a quick, and totally worth-it day trip that takes roughly four hours each way by bus.

Though known primarily for its world-famous limestone outcroppings, Ha Long Bay boasts a number of its own number of beaches, the most obvious being Bai Chay, the artificial setup that lures in most tourists.

 The third place is Phu Quoc. Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand a stone's throw from Cambodia, Phu Quoc is Vietnam's largest and westernmost island.

While over half of the teardrop-shaped island comprises Phu Quoc National Park, a dense tropical jungle draped around scenic mountains, its many beaches remain the main attraction.

 Da Nang has been ranked 4th among most beautiful beach destinations in Vietnam. A one-time French colonial port on the central coast, Vietnam's third-largest city is also home to some of the country's best beaches. And it's got a little something for everyone, from the bustling beaches located a short drive from city to the more secluded spots for those keen on adventure.

 Other places to enjoy Vietnam's surf, sun, and sand including Nha Trang, Doc Let, Ho Coc, Mui Ne, Ly Son, Hoi An.

 Foreign tourist arrivals to Vietnam in the first six months of 2019 are estimated at 8.5 million, up 7.5%, according to the General Statistics Office of Vietnam (GSO).

 The country expects to welcome some 18 million international visitors this year, compared to 15.5 million in 2018.