Used by the US as a port during the Vietnam War, Quy Nhon (also spelled Qui Nhon) was a sleepy town then and remains so today. There isn’t much to the city, but the people are friendly and, unlike folks in some places, they want you to take their picture.
I had stayed at the Seagull Hotel-a very nice place and well-priced at around USD 35. Clean room, complete with a new TV and a balcony. But I waited over 50 minutes for my dinner in the restaurant, watching people who arrived after me begin their meals. I eventually walked out and head to the other high-rise hotel (there are only two) on this strip of the beach, and had some tasty grilled squid that arrived (relatively) promptly.
If you’re looking for a beach in Vietnam, skip Quy Nhon and head down to Nha Trang, about a four-hour drive to the south, and closer to Saigon. There, you’ll find nicer and more numerous hotels and a greater offering of food and drink. But expect to pay a little more, if not double, to stay in Nha Trang at a comparable hotel.
However, if you’re looking for a beach city that is off the beaten path, is generally inexpensive, and has A320 service, then Quy Nhon may be worth checking out. Vietnam Airlines operates daily A320 service between Quy Nhon (UIH) and Saigon (SGN), supplemented by ATR’s three times per week, and five A320 flights weekly to Hanoi (Tuesdays and Saturdays excepted). All Quy Nhon flights are out of Phu Cat airport, built by the USAF during the war, which is a painful 40 km (and $15 outside of the city) given the relative size of the city. Previous called Phu Cat Air Base, it was home to the 37th Tactical Fighter Wing, 12th Tactical Fighter Wing, and the 6259th Air Base Squadron, all part of the 7th Air Force, and is now used by both the Vietnamese Air Force and the national airline, Vietnam Airlines.
Walking around, you’re certain to be offered drinks in this friendly town.
Late evening on the beach.
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