Travel to Sam Son like a local - Detailed A-Z Guide 2025

1. Overview of Sam Son Tourism 2025 – A Vibrant Northern Coastal Destination

1.1 Geographical Location and Tourism Development Overview

Located in Thanh Hoa Province – a land rich in cultural traditions of the North Central Coast – Sam Son beach is situated about 170–180 km from Hanoi and takes only about 30 minutes to travel from the center of Thanh Hoa City. Thanks to its proximity to the capital and continuously upgraded transportation infrastructure, it has become a familiar “gathering spot” for tens of thousands of visitors from the North on weekends or holidays.

Sam Son beach boasts a gentle, crescent-shaped coastline, stretching from the foot of Truong Le Mountain to Quang Cu commune, characterized by fine, sloping golden sand that is safe for the whole family. Not only is its landscape beautiful, but the seawater here also has a suitable salinity and temperature, praised by French scholar Le Breton as an “ideal beach for health recovery” – a factor often mentioned in the Sam Son travel experience of many tourists.

1.2 Sam Son 2025: From a “Traditional Beach” to a Modern Resort Destination

Once known as a budget-friendly beach, Sam Son has now undergone a spectacular transformation. In 2025, the coastal city sports a new look with 4–5 star beachfront hotels, modern entertainment areas like Sun World Sam Son Water Park, and a vast beach square dedicated to organizing cultural events and festivals. The combination of pristine natural beauty and high-class resort amenities has elevated Sam Son from a traditional beach to one of the most modern resort destinations in the North.

Opening of the Sam Son Sea Tourism Festival 2025 (Source: Collected photos)

1.3 Why is Sam Son always “fully booked” every summer and holiday?

According to statistics from the People's Committee of Thanh Hoa province, during the 30/4 – 1/5 holiday in 2024 alone, Sam Son welcomed over 916,000 visitors in 5 days, demonstrating the outstanding appeal of this coastal city. The reasons lie in its convenient location, only about a 3–4 hour drive from Hanoi, its beautiful coastal scenery with fine sand, gentle waves safe for the whole family, and pleasant climate throughout the summer.

Moreover, modern tourism infrastructure with a chain of beachfront resorts, Sun World Sam Son water park, and a vibrant night food street has transformed this place into a perfect destination for short getaways. The combination of pristine natural beauty and high-class amenities has made Sam Son a top choice for holidays, weekends, or summer breaks for tourists from the North, and it is gradually becoming a most prominent coastal tourist destination in the region. This is also why many blogs and news sites providing Sam Son travel experience tips always list this coastal area among the must-visit destinations in the North.

2. Sam Son – A four-season destination with diverse experiences

While summer is considered the “golden season” for swimming in Sam Son, other seasons of the year offer equally interesting cultural, culinary, and nature exploration experiences. Thanks to its mild climate and proximity to heritage sites, Sam Son has become an attractive year-round choice for both leisure tourists and those who love to explore.

Sam Son Beach always attracts tourists every summer (Source: Collected photos)

2.1 Beach Tourism: Vibrant from April to the end of September

The period from April to September is the peak season for beach tourism in Sam Son. At this time, the golden sun is brilliant, the sky is clear blue, and the sea waves are gentle, making it very suitable for swimming activities, water sports, or participating in lively beach tourism festivals. This is also the season when the night seafood street is most bustling, as tourists enjoy fresh seafood while immersing themselves in the vibrant atmosphere by the sea.

2.2 Exploration, Cultural and Culinary Experience Tourism: Attractive Year-Round

Not only famous for its beach, according to the Sam Son travel experience of tourists, Sam Son and its surrounding areas are also home to many unique cultural and historical values of Thanh Hoa. From relics like Doc Cuoc Temple, Hon Trong Mai (Rooster and Hen Islet), Truong Le Mountain to traditional festivals held at the beginning of the year, all offer a different perspective on this land. Besides, local cuisine with specialty dishes such as eel salad (goi ca nhech), nem chua (fermented pork roll), or banh rang bieu (a type of rice cake) are also must-tries for those who want to savor the distinctive flavors of the coastal region.

Doc Cuoc Temple and the spiritual story of the sea guardian deity (Source: Collected photos)

The combination of the blue sea, golden sun, and rich cultural and culinary identity has helped Sam Son not only attract summer visitors but also become a four-season destination, always offering something new to experience at any time of the year.

3. Guide on how to travel to Sam Son and transportation within the city

Whether departing from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or southern provinces, reaching Sam Son is now extremely easy thanks to the synchronously invested transportation infrastructure, from highways to railways and airways. With years of Sam Son travel experience, visitors can flexibly choose transportation methods that suit their needs for time, cost, or sightseeing along the way.

3.1 From Hanoi: bus, train, private car

With a distance of about 180 km, traveling from Hanoi to Sam Son takes just over 2 hours by car via the Phap Van – Cau Gie expressway, connecting Ninh Binh – Cao Bo – Mai Son and Mai Son – QL45 sections. This is an ideal choice for those who want to be proactive with their schedule by private car or motorbike.

If not driving yourself, a bus is an economical and convenient option. Routes from Giap Bat or My Dinh bus stations run continuously throughout the day with ticket prices starting from 150,000 VND. Additionally, traveling by train from Hanoi station or Long Bien station is both comfortable and allows you to enjoy the scenery of the Northern Delta. Train tickets range from 125,000 to 320,000 VND depending on the seat class, arriving at Thanh Hoa station and then traveling an additional 16 km to reach Sam Son.

3.2 From Ho Chi Minh City and the South: direct flight to Thanh Hoa

Given the long distance, flying is the fastest option for visitors from Ho Chi Minh City or the South. Direct flights to Tho Xuan Airport (Thanh Hoa) are operated by many airlines, with a flight time of about 2 hours. From the airport, you can take a taxi or book a ride-sharing service, which takes about 1.5 hours to reach the center of Sam Son.

3.3 Transportation in Sam Son: convenient and diverse

The transportation system within the coastal city effectively meets visitors' exploration needs. Electric cars are a popular choice, being an environmentally friendly mode of transport that easily travels along the beach. Ride-sharing taxis operate 24/7, suitable for larger groups or families. Additionally, you can rent bicycles to cycle along the beach or take a cyclo to enjoy the fresh air and take photos. According to many people's Sam Son travel experience, if you want to travel further to visit surrounding attractions of Sam Son, driving your own car or renting a motorbike offers the most autonomy and flexibility.

4. Explore attractive entertainment and check-in spots in Sam Son

4.1 Entertainment and activity spots in central Sam Son

4.1.1 Sam Son Beach – a paradise for swimming and water sports

With its coastline divided into four areas A, B, C, and D, Sam Son Beach offers diverse swimming experiences for all ages. According to Sam Son travel experience from many visitors, each beach has its own characteristics: Beach A, located at the foot of Truong Le mountain, is known for its strong waves and vibrant atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for young people who enjoy thrills. Beach B is gentle with calm waves, suitable for families with elderly members or young children.

Seawater recedes every early morning in Sam Son (Source: Collected photos)

Beach C is spacious, clean, and very suitable for team building and picnic activities. Meanwhile, Beach D is quiet and less crowded, offering a truly relaxing space. Don't miss the opportunity to explore all four areas to fully appreciate the beauty of the sea when traveling to Sam Son.

4.1.2 Sam Son Sea Square – entertainment & water music center

Located on the vibrant Ho Xuan Huong street, Sam Son Sea Square is not only a prominent check-in spot but also the cultural and artistic heart of the coastal city. With a capacity of over 10,000 people, it frequently hosts music festivals, folk performances, and large-scale events.

The space is adorned with a high-tech fountain, a brilliant LED lighting system, and 20 bronze drum columns that embody the essence of Vietnamese culture. According to Sam Son travel tips, the most suitable time to visit the square is in the evening. As night falls, the square lights up with vibrant lights and a lively water music show – a place where you can stroll and immerse yourself in the youthful, bustling rhythm characteristic of Sam Son.

4.1.3 Sun World Sam Son Water Park – a premier coastal entertainment complex

More than just a water park, Sun World Sam Son is part of a modern resort and entertainment complex, one of the most advanced in the North Central region, developed by Sun Group. Here, visitors can challenge themselves with over 30 exciting water games such as the giant TornadoWAVE water slide, Flying Saucer, or the massive wave pool, all designed to international standards.

Sun World Sam Son – Entertainment complex suitable for all ages (Source: Collected photos)

The park's space is inspired by the epic "De Dat De Nuoc" (Giving Birth to the Land, Giving Birth to Water) of the Muong people, creating a unique cultural and entertainment experience. Besides the water park, Sun World also has shopping shophouses and a convenient electric car system. Sunworld Sam Son is a must-visit destination for tourists looking for information on Sam Son travel experience.

4.1.4 Seafood Market & Night Seafood Street – where the sea's flavor reigns

As the sun sets, the coastal city gradually transforms, and that's when Sam Son night market enters its "golden hour" of bustling activity. Along the brightly lit streets, visitors can easily find hundreds of stalls selling fresh seafood, souvenirs, and attractive street food.

Grilled oysters with scallions, spicy fermented spring rolls, rich crab noodle soup, or grilled snakehead fish... all converge in a vibrant culinary space, full of the sea's flavors. It's not just a place to eat and drink; the night market is also an ideal spot for a stroll, where you can immerse yourself in the bustling crowds, listen to the gentle sound of the waves, and fully enjoy the night sea atmosphere.

4.1.5 Vinh Son Beach – A rustic fishing village in the heart of the coastal city

Nestled at the foot of Truong Le mountain, Vinh Son beach is a peaceful corner amidst the bustling tourist city. It is not grand with modern entertainment services; instead, it retains the rustic charm of a traditional fishing village – with a curved sandy shore embracing clear blue water, and gentle waves lapping under trees rustling in the wind.

Vinh Son Beach is peaceful and pristine (Source: Collected photos)

A less crowded, clean beach, ideal for finding tranquility. In the early morning, you can see fishermen returning from their trips, with fresh catches of fish reflecting the morning sun. Vinh Son is the perfect choice for those seeking a simple, quiet escape amidst the bustling city.

4.1.6 Nich Beach – A "miniature heaven's gate" with spectacular check-in scenery

Nestled behind Doc Cuoc Temple, Nich Beach is a hidden gem being whispered about by young people as a "superb" destination for selfie enthusiasts. The beach's unique formation – where sheer cliffs meet crashing white waves – creates a majestic yet poetic natural landscape.

According to Sầm Sơn travel experiences from many tourists , the sunrise moments here are breathtaking, with light reflecting off the rocks, making the frames even more romantic. Especially, as it has not been heavily exploited for tourism, Nich Beach still retains its pristine and clean beauty. Getting here is quite easy by electric car or motorbike from the center of Sầm Sơn – just ask the locals, and everyone will enthusiastically guide you.

4.1.7 Sailing with Fishermen – Boat Tour & Fishing in Vinh Son

Vinh Son is not just a place for sightseeing or swimming; it also offers a unique opportunity: a day living like a true fisherman. Tourists can board boats to go out to sea with the locals, pull nets, fish, or participate in clam raking when the tide recedes. These seemingly simple activities bring a sense of closeness and connection with nature and local culture.

After the trip, enjoying seafood "caught by yourself" amidst the rustic fishing village scenery is a worthy reward. This is not just an experiential tour – it is a journey that touches the salty, authentic life of the Thanh region's coast.

4.1.8 Sầm Sơn Beach Tourism Festival – Summer Colors, Joyful Vibrancy

Every summer, Sầm Sơn lights up with its beach tourism festival – an annual event attracting thousands of tourists and local residents. In 2025, with the theme "Sầm Sơn – Aspiring to Shine" , the opening ceremony will take place on the evening of April 26th at the magnificent beach square, featuring an artistic performance combined with fireworks, lights, and modern music.

Opening Ceremony of Sam Son Beach Tourism Festival 2025 (Source: Collected Photos)

The festive atmosphere lasts throughout the summer with a series of vibrant events such as the marathon movement competition, sepak takraw, pickleball, Chung cake – Giay cake competition, fishing festival... This is not only an occasion to kick off the tourist season but also a strong declaration of the new vitality of a modern, civilized coastal city full of aspirations to reach further.

4.2 Attractions around Sam Son

4.2.1 Hon Trong Mai – symbol of love and nature in Thanh Hoa

Nestled on the Trường Lệ mountain slope, Hon Trong Mai is a cluster of natural rocks skillfully arranged by nature, resembling a pair of stone birds embracing each other. Despite hundreds of years of wind and rain, the image of the stone couple remains steadfast, becoming a symbol of unwavering and faithful love.

Hon Trong Mai (Couple Rock) - a symbol of love gifted by nature to Sam Son (Source: Collected photos)

Visitors often come here not only to admire the scenery but also to pray for love, take souvenir photos with the wild, rustic natural background. If you are looking for Sam Son travel tips, or visit here in the early morning or at sunset, the scenery at Hon Trong Mai becomes even more magical, making it unforgettable for anyone who has visited.

4.2.2 Doc Cuoc Temple – a spiritual work associated with the legend of the sea

Not only a stop for tourists who want to learn about local culture, Doc Cuoc Temple also carries a sacred story about a brave hero who cut his body in half to protect the villagers from sea monsters.

Located on Truong Le mountain, the temple has a

Temple of the Fairy and the legend of the fairy descending to earth (Source: Collected photos)

With its high position, the temple offers a panoramic view of Sam Son beach – ideal for romantic sunrises or sunsets. The path to the temple is not too steep, suitable for a gentle journey amidst fresh nature.

4.2.4 Truong Le Mountain – light trekking and panoramic sea views from above

For those who want to escape the crowded beach and find some tranquility, Truong Le Mountain is an ideal place for a short walk, to breathe in the fresh air and admire the beauty of Sam Son from an ideal height.

The trail up the mountain is quite easy to follow, not requiring much physical exertion, making it suitable for both the elderly and young children. From the high points, you can admire the curved coastline, houses peeking out from under coconut groves, and the vast, clear blue sky. This is also an ideal spot for landscape photography or a light picnic amidst the cool pine forest.

5. Sam Son Cuisine: What to eat, what are the outstanding specialties?

5.1 Fresh Seafood & Grilled Dishes by the Sea

Sam Son has long been known as a region rich in seafood, so it's no surprise that it boasts a

Sam Son seafood is famous for its diversity and freshness (Source: Collected photos)

The main attraction is the freshness of the ingredients, caught by fishermen daily and processed on the spot. The aroma of seafood blends with the gentle sound of the waves, creating a dining experience rich in local character, unlike in luxurious restaurants.

5.2 Goi Ca Nhech – a "word-of-mouth specialty"

If you ask locals which dish is the most "Sầm Sơn-flavored", many will surely mention Goi Ca Nhech. This is not just a dish, but a generational culinary culture of the coastal people. The eelfish is cleaned, thinly sliced, and mixed with roasted rice powder, accompanied by fresh herbs, galangal, lime leaves, and a unique sweet and sour dipping sauce made with a secret recipe. The chewy sweetness of the fish, the fragrant richness of the roasted rice powder, and the thick, savory dipping sauce make this dish special and usually reserved for connoisseurs. This is a taste experience not for everyone, but extremely memorable for those who dare to try.

Ngech fish salad - a rustic dish characteristic of the coastal region (Source: Collected photo)

5.3 Thanh Hoa fermented pork roll – famous flavor of the Thanh Hoa region

When mentioning Thanh Hoa specialties, nem chua always tops the list. Although not exclusive to Sam Son, the climate, processing methods, and local ingredients have created a very unique flavor for nem chua here. The small rolls, wrapped in banana or guava leaves, when opened reveal soft, crispy, fragrant fermented pork, eaten with garlic and chili sauce, it's truly "irresistibly delicious". Especially in Sam Son, many families still maintain the traditional handmade method, helping the nem retain its pure sourness and rich flavor – something industrial products can hardly match.

5.4 Banh rang bua and other rustic coastal dishes

Sam Son's cuisine is not only about seafood but also captivates tourists with its rustic dishes, associated with daily life. One of them is Banh rang bua – a simple yet sophisticated cake with a thin, chewy rice flour crust, a rich pork and wood ear mushroom filling, skillfully wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.

Banh Rang Chua, though simple, has a "unique" flavor (Source: Collected photos)

In addition, visitors can also enjoy Thanh Hoa rolled cakes, eel porridge, lotus leaf sticky rice, or dishes made from sea vegetables such as horseshoe crab, rong cau seaweed… These dishes, though not too elaborate, carry the full flavor of the homeland, especially suitable for breakfast or a light snack during the day.

5.5 Recommended Outstanding Eateries & Restaurants 2025

Arriving in Sam Son 2025, you won't have to search too long for a delicious meal. Some highly rated restaurants for both quality and ambiance include:

Hai San Tuan Nam is famous for its sweet steamed crab and savory salt-roasted mantis shrimp; the seafood is always fresh, processed immediately after being caught. The restaurant has a cool, airy space and serves quickly, suitable for families and groups of friends.

Dai Duong Restaurant is located right by the sea, offering a direct view of the romantic sunset, creating an unforgettable

Van Chai resort - a luxury resort in Sam Son (Source: Collected photos)

6.2 Mid-range homestays and hotels with amenities

If you are looking for affordable accommodation that still ensures comfort, the system of 2-3 star hotels and homestays in Sam Son is a choice not to be missed:

Nghe's Homestay Sam Son offers a cozy and homely atmosphere, just a short distance from the sea, with fully equipped rooms ensuring comfort. The spacious garden area is suitable for organizing BBQ parties or relaxing, along with enthusiastic staff to make the holiday more complete.

Mai Homestay Sam Son is located just a few minutes' walk from the beach, boasting a spacious and airy space and equipped with full amenities such as air conditioning and free wifi. This is a budget-friendly yet quality choice, suitable for groups of friends or families who want to enjoy a seaside holiday in a rustic, simple, and warm atmosphere.

The 194 Home stands out with its beautifully decorated, clean, and well-equipped space. Just a short distance from the sea, the homestay features a modern, cozy style, delicious food, attractive drinks, and friendly hosts, creating a relaxing and memorable holiday for all guests.

Van Xuan Hotel Sam Son is located right at C beach, one of the most vibrant central beaches in the city. The hotel boasts spacious rooms, attractive culinary services, and a professional staff, offering guests a comfortable resort space and many memorable experiences.

Minh Chau Hotel Sam Son is located at C beach, Ho Xuan Huong street, possessing an ideal location to fully enjoy the blue sea, white sand, and golden sunshine of Sam Son. This is a favorite accommodation choice during the summer, where guests can enjoy comfortable rest and easily travel to attractions and entertainment spots.

6.3 Tips for choosing rooms with beautiful sea views & booking early for good prices

To get a

Fresh seafood displayed for sale at Cot Do Market (Source: Collected photos)

7.4 Local regulations & culture to respect

When researching Sam Son travel experience, tourists should note some local regulations to ensure a smooth trip. Avoid littering indiscriminately on the beach and in public areas – the city has many cameras and will issue fines for violations. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing when entering spiritual sites such as Doc Cuoc Temple and Co Tien Pagoda. If using electric vehicle services, remember to ask for the price beforehand to avoid disputes. The people of Sam Son are friendly but also very clear about prices – don't hesitate to bargain at the market, but maintain a cheerful attitude and respect the local culture.

Traveling to Sam Son is not just a journey to explore blue seas and white sand, but also an opportunity to experience the unique culture, cuisine, and nature of Thanh Hoa. With its vibrant beaches, mysterious spiritual destinations, and attractive specialty dishes, Sam Son always knows how to win the hearts of tourists of all ages. In particular, with a diverse and increasingly modern accommodation system, this place is worthy of being an ideal resort destination for the summer vacation of 2025. If you are looking for a trip full of emotions and experiences, don't miss the Sam Son travel experience compiled in this article.